It's that time, y'all!!! The parades, the balls, the parties, the beads!!!! Throw me something, mister!!! The music--a genre of its own. It's Mardi Gras, folks. So let the good times roll...
I didn't know a thing about Mardi Gras until I attended the University of Southern Mississippi. All I knew was I was getting two days off. So yeah, roll on good times!!!!
So, friends, enjoy your Mardi Gras. Just remember why you get a Mardi Gras and what it means to you as Christian. What are you giving up since you are "doing what you wanna" today?
Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline. The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ--His suffering and sacrifice, his life, death, burial, and resurrection.
Showing posts with label bible study. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bible study. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Sunday, June 24, 2012
The Vicissitudes of Life
The Weekly Alphabet Bible Study moves on with the letter V. Life surely has its changes--its vicissitudes. The way you handle these vicissitudes defines your attitude. Life will never be fair. The rain falls on the just and the unjust. Now that we know this to be a fact, how can we deal?
Just like the father who son was possessed by demons, ask for help. This father took his son to Jesus and asked Him to remove the demons--if you can. Jesus told the father, "All things are possible to those who believe." If Jesus said it then, He says it now. You just got to believe. If you are still struggling with the concept, then just like that father, ask Him to help you overcome your unbelief.
As a believer, we have a Savior that always has our best interest at heart. You may not understand the test or the trial. Still there is Someone watching out for you and the changes you deal with. Therefore, trust God. Believe in Him. These vicissitudes are nothing compared to the God we serve. So if something comes along that causes you to not believe, ask God for help. He will oblige.
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
Mark 9:22-24 says, "...Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.” “What do you mean, ‘If I can’?” Jesus asked. “Anything is possible if a person believes.”
The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
Just like the father who son was possessed by demons, ask for help. This father took his son to Jesus and asked Him to remove the demons--if you can. Jesus told the father, "All things are possible to those who believe." If Jesus said it then, He says it now. You just got to believe. If you are still struggling with the concept, then just like that father, ask Him to help you overcome your unbelief.
As a believer, we have a Savior that always has our best interest at heart. You may not understand the test or the trial. Still there is Someone watching out for you and the changes you deal with. Therefore, trust God. Believe in Him. These vicissitudes are nothing compared to the God we serve. So if something comes along that causes you to not believe, ask God for help. He will oblige.
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Study for yourself.
The weekly alphabet bible study moves on. This week's letter is S. I would like to encourage everyone to Study this week. Even God asks you to study.
II Timothy 2:15 reads: Study to show yourself approved unto God; a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of God.
Now that seems pretty straight-forward. Study to show yourself approved. I know many people go to church every week to listen to someone else tell them what God says. Yet, they never know the word for themselves. I believe God wants a personal relationship with each one of us and that does not involve your pastor. Three really can be a crowd.
You must give God's Word a place of priority in your everyday life. Practically speaking, this could mean that you confess the Word while getting ready in the mornings. Maybe you could listen to teaching or worship music on the way to work. You may want to use your lunch hour to read the Word or walk outside and pray. Just make sure you pursue His truth on a regular, ongoing basis. Giving His Word a place of top priority will change your life.
I am not trying to discourage anyone from attending church. What I am encouraging is for you to study His Word for yourself. How will you know if your preacher is getting it right if you don't know what is right in the first place? Besides, it says to study to show yourself approved. Not your pastor or minister or preacher or teacher. But YOU and you alone. When the time comes, it will be you standing in judgement. Will you have studied? Will you be approved?
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
II Timothy 2:15 reads: Study to show yourself approved unto God; a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of God.
Now that seems pretty straight-forward. Study to show yourself approved. I know many people go to church every week to listen to someone else tell them what God says. Yet, they never know the word for themselves. I believe God wants a personal relationship with each one of us and that does not involve your pastor. Three really can be a crowd.
You must give God's Word a place of priority in your everyday life. Practically speaking, this could mean that you confess the Word while getting ready in the mornings. Maybe you could listen to teaching or worship music on the way to work. You may want to use your lunch hour to read the Word or walk outside and pray. Just make sure you pursue His truth on a regular, ongoing basis. Giving His Word a place of top priority will change your life.
I am not trying to discourage anyone from attending church. What I am encouraging is for you to study His Word for yourself. How will you know if your preacher is getting it right if you don't know what is right in the first place? Besides, it says to study to show yourself approved. Not your pastor or minister or preacher or teacher. But YOU and you alone. When the time comes, it will be you standing in judgement. Will you have studied? Will you be approved?
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Reasons....
"Reasons--the reasons that we're here..." You might be tempted to belt out the Earth Wind and Fire tune, but today's reading has nothing to do with that song. I know at some point in your life, you've asked, 'Why, Lord? Why am I here? Why is this happening? Why...' You need to stop wondering why and simply do what the bible tells you to do.
Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight."
The bigger question to be asked is why not you. God does not play favorites. His Word tells us that He causes the sun to shine on the evil and the good and sends rain on the just and the unjust. So why not you? What exempts you from the lessons everyone has to learn. There is always a reason things happen. YOU are a reason that happened. Good or bad, there is always a lesson in that reason. It could be a chance to grow or a chance to repent. Either way, the reason is to make you a better person and more Christ-like. You could be sowing a seed of a future action or reaping a consequence of a past one. Your duty is to ask God for revelation but don't be upset if you never get your answer. The goal is to learn to trust God. That's the reason--the reason that we're here.
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us to: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight."
The bigger question to be asked is why not you. God does not play favorites. His Word tells us that He causes the sun to shine on the evil and the good and sends rain on the just and the unjust. So why not you? What exempts you from the lessons everyone has to learn. There is always a reason things happen. YOU are a reason that happened. Good or bad, there is always a lesson in that reason. It could be a chance to grow or a chance to repent. Either way, the reason is to make you a better person and more Christ-like. You could be sowing a seed of a future action or reaping a consequence of a past one. Your duty is to ask God for revelation but don't be upset if you never get your answer. The goal is to learn to trust God. That's the reason--the reason that we're here.
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
Sunday, April 15, 2012
No qualms...
The Weekly Alphabet Bible Study picks up where it left off. Qualms represent the letter Q. I realize I say the following statement: 'I have no qualms with it.' When I say that, I mean that I have no problem with the whatever is in reference.
I've always been told that there will be trials in life to make us better on the other side. God never meant for you to go through something and not get something out of it. He intended for you to be better because you went through what you went through.
I have to borrow from TD Jakes this week as he shares a new spin about the miracle of the two fish and five loaves.
Mark 8: 18-20 reads: "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven."
Jesus feeds five thousand with just two fish and five loaves of bread. Jesus takes a little boy's lunch and blesses it. That's when the miracle occurs. He blesses something that is not enough. Until you can be thankful for not enough, you cannot have access to more than enough. Jesus holds two fish and five loaves but when He breaks them, they multiply. So the blessing is in the breaking. The blessing is allowing God to break you. It really is true; no pain, no gain.
So now, I think I finally understand that parts of my childhood were about my brokenness. My early adult life was a part of my brokenness. Today's trials are all a part of being broken so He can use those times to help me share with others. With that understanding, I come forth to say I no longer have qualms with my past. The good, the bad, and the ugly all make me the person I am today. Well, if God's plan for me has more brokenness, I have no qualms with that.
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
I've always been told that there will be trials in life to make us better on the other side. God never meant for you to go through something and not get something out of it. He intended for you to be better because you went through what you went through.
I have to borrow from TD Jakes this week as he shares a new spin about the miracle of the two fish and five loaves.
Mark 8: 18-20 reads: "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven."
Jesus feeds five thousand with just two fish and five loaves of bread. Jesus takes a little boy's lunch and blesses it. That's when the miracle occurs. He blesses something that is not enough. Until you can be thankful for not enough, you cannot have access to more than enough. Jesus holds two fish and five loaves but when He breaks them, they multiply. So the blessing is in the breaking. The blessing is allowing God to break you. It really is true; no pain, no gain.
So now, I think I finally understand that parts of my childhood were about my brokenness. My early adult life was a part of my brokenness. Today's trials are all a part of being broken so He can use those times to help me share with others. With that understanding, I come forth to say I no longer have qualms with my past. The good, the bad, and the ugly all make me the person I am today. Well, if God's plan for me has more brokenness, I have no qualms with that.
Soli Deo Gloria,
SA Brown
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Service...
The Weekly Alphabet Bible Study took a short break. It's time to get back on track. We left with the letter O needing to teach its lesson. I'd like to focus on Others.
Jesus left His seat from on high and took human form because others needed Him to become a blood sacrifice for all of their sins. His physical ministry lasted three years. During that time, Jesus taught others, saved others, loved others. Jesus was about others.
Jesus tells us to be available to serve others. Our purpose on earth is to help others. You help someone and another someone helps you. That is the way this world should work. Unfortunately, this world does things differently.
But the precedent has been set: John 13: 12-15 reminds us When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
We know what we should do. It's just a matter of doing it. Everyday you make choices and on Judgement Day, God will make decisions.
Just some fat to chew on...
SA Brown
Jesus left His seat from on high and took human form because others needed Him to become a blood sacrifice for all of their sins. His physical ministry lasted three years. During that time, Jesus taught others, saved others, loved others. Jesus was about others.
Jesus tells us to be available to serve others. Our purpose on earth is to help others. You help someone and another someone helps you. That is the way this world should work. Unfortunately, this world does things differently.
But the precedent has been set: John 13: 12-15 reminds us When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
We know what we should do. It's just a matter of doing it. Everyday you make choices and on Judgement Day, God will make decisions.
Just some fat to chew on...
SA Brown
Friday, February 17, 2012
Is it craziness???
The weekly Bible Study carries on and this week, the letter is L. I started to go with Listen. Yet, on my way to work, the word Lunacy came to my mind.
I am coming from a personal space today because I believe God is working on me about something. I realize today that everything really is unfolding as it should. Those times I felt I should be in Atlanta and I missed my chance to be there, now I realize if God needed me to be there, I would be there. It's just that simple.
Remember when Jesus walked the water? Here's the reminder.
Matthew 14: 27-31 reads: But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here! Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
Today, I am feeling like Peter. I am asking God to use me and do great things through me. Yet, when He beckons, I verbally declare I will follow. But at the first sign of any oppression (strong wind) or I sense I MIGHT sink, I jump back in the boat. At least Peter asked the Lord to save him. LOL.
That one passage about Jesus and Peter has so many lessons in it. And the one that grabs me today is that Peter asked God to let him do something crazy. Walk on water? Really? God allowed him to do something crazy but when Peter stopped focusing on God, the oppression (strong wind) almost killed him.
Sometimes, God will ask you to do some radical things for Him if you open your heart to Him. To outsiders, it may seem crazy, an act of lunacy. Quit that job. Open that business. Sell that house. Move to that city. Leave that family. Build that ark. Tell that pharaoh to let my people go. March around that city and the walls will come tumbling down. Build that temple. King that boy. Marry that whore. Birth that baby even though you are a virgin.
To the world, it's craziness. To God, it's just the way He does things.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
I am coming from a personal space today because I believe God is working on me about something. I realize today that everything really is unfolding as it should. Those times I felt I should be in Atlanta and I missed my chance to be there, now I realize if God needed me to be there, I would be there. It's just that simple.
Remember when Jesus walked the water? Here's the reminder.
Matthew 14: 27-31 reads: But Jesus spoke to them at once. “Don’t be afraid,” he said. “Take courage. I am here! Then Peter called to him, “Lord, if it’s really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water.” “Yes, come,” Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. “Save me, Lord!” he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him. “You have so little faith,” Jesus said. “Why did you doubt me?”
Today, I am feeling like Peter. I am asking God to use me and do great things through me. Yet, when He beckons, I verbally declare I will follow. But at the first sign of any oppression (strong wind) or I sense I MIGHT sink, I jump back in the boat. At least Peter asked the Lord to save him. LOL.
That one passage about Jesus and Peter has so many lessons in it. And the one that grabs me today is that Peter asked God to let him do something crazy. Walk on water? Really? God allowed him to do something crazy but when Peter stopped focusing on God, the oppression (strong wind) almost killed him.
Sometimes, God will ask you to do some radical things for Him if you open your heart to Him. To outsiders, it may seem crazy, an act of lunacy. Quit that job. Open that business. Sell that house. Move to that city. Leave that family. Build that ark. Tell that pharaoh to let my people go. March around that city and the walls will come tumbling down. Build that temple. King that boy. Marry that whore. Birth that baby even though you are a virgin.
To the world, it's craziness. To God, it's just the way He does things.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Bonus Material
Remember the miracle of the fishes and the loaves? It's where Jesus fed the multitudes with a small lunch that a mother packed for her little boy. That story proves that there is NOTHING God cannot do.
Mark 6: 35-43 reads: By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.”
But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages[a]! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”
“How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”
Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish.
Often, God may give a vision that is much bigger than our current circumstances, background, or education. This may give anyone pause and cause your delay of creating something that God have given you to create. Sometimes, you don't need more money, more education, or more luck. Sometimes, you just need more faith.
Evaluate yourself and ask God to reveal the resources, connections, knowledge, talents, gifts, and helpers that He has already assigned to you to help you take that all-important first step. It might not be all you need to get to your destination but it will surely be enough to start you off. Start where you are and trust that God will supply all of your needs for a successful journey.
Everything we need to take the first step is already in your hands. Just do it...
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Mark 6: 35-43 reads: By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.”
But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages[a]! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?”
“How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.”
Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to distribute to the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, 43 and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish.
Evaluate yourself and ask God to reveal the resources, connections, knowledge, talents, gifts, and helpers that He has already assigned to you to help you take that all-important first step. It might not be all you need to get to your destination but it will surely be enough to start you off. Start where you are and trust that God will supply all of your needs for a successful journey.
Everything we need to take the first step is already in your hands. Just do it...
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Ride of a Lifetime
The Weekly Alphabet Bible Study rolls on with the letter, J. So this week, I'd like to discuss the Journey.
Scriptures: Matthew 21: 1-5; Mark 11: 1-3; Luke 19: 29-31; John 12: 14-15
Luke 19: 29-31 reads: 'As He came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, He sent two disciplines ahead. "Go into that village over there," He told them. "As you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone should ask you, 'Why are you untying that colt?', just say, The Lord needs it." '
You hear sermons on the triumphant entry many times. Different points of view reveal how every character in that story must have felt. From the disciplines to the worshippers to Jesus Himself, this story of fulfilling prophecy has so many messages. Yet, there is one point-of-view few people consider. What about that little donkey that carries Jesus on his back?
God is methodical. There is no happenstance. Everything is planned out. So it is no accident that Jesus would pick a lowly and insignificant creature to use. A little donkey--a dumb ass if you will--brings the King to His Kingdom. An animal that God knows would just simply obey and do what he was told. That's who gets the privilege of having Jesus on his back.
In addition to that, Jesus tells them 'I need that little donkey so go get him.' That little donkey was minding his own business, not knowing the Lord would ever need him for something. Plus, little donkey was all tied up but Jesus already knew He would have to free the little guy to use him. Jesus also knew little donkey's condition. Because, see, no one had ever ridden him before. So Jesus knew He would have to get little donkey ready for the ride. Jesus knows...
For me, little donkey's story resembles that of a Christian's journey. You see, the Lord knows where you are, your condition, and all the things you have been through. Yet, when He needs you, He will send for you. So maybe being a dumb ass (blind obedience) will make the journey that much easier. You can't go wrong with Jesus on your back. Sure, it may get a little hectic but that is when you think of the One who knows where you are, sends for you, knows exactly what you've been through, unties you from your previous condition and tells the world, 'I have need of him/her.' When you choose to allow Jesus on your back and let Him ride uninhibited, get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
When the journey gets bumpy, just think of the Guy who's got your back.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Scriptures: Matthew 21: 1-5; Mark 11: 1-3; Luke 19: 29-31; John 12: 14-15
Luke 19: 29-31 reads: 'As He came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, He sent two disciplines ahead. "Go into that village over there," He told them. "As you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone should ask you, 'Why are you untying that colt?', just say, The Lord needs it." '
You hear sermons on the triumphant entry many times. Different points of view reveal how every character in that story must have felt. From the disciplines to the worshippers to Jesus Himself, this story of fulfilling prophecy has so many messages. Yet, there is one point-of-view few people consider. What about that little donkey that carries Jesus on his back?
God is methodical. There is no happenstance. Everything is planned out. So it is no accident that Jesus would pick a lowly and insignificant creature to use. A little donkey--a dumb ass if you will--brings the King to His Kingdom. An animal that God knows would just simply obey and do what he was told. That's who gets the privilege of having Jesus on his back.
In addition to that, Jesus tells them 'I need that little donkey so go get him.' That little donkey was minding his own business, not knowing the Lord would ever need him for something. Plus, little donkey was all tied up but Jesus already knew He would have to free the little guy to use him. Jesus also knew little donkey's condition. Because, see, no one had ever ridden him before. So Jesus knew He would have to get little donkey ready for the ride. Jesus knows...
For me, little donkey's story resembles that of a Christian's journey. You see, the Lord knows where you are, your condition, and all the things you have been through. Yet, when He needs you, He will send for you. So maybe being a dumb ass (blind obedience) will make the journey that much easier. You can't go wrong with Jesus on your back. Sure, it may get a little hectic but that is when you think of the One who knows where you are, sends for you, knows exactly what you've been through, unties you from your previous condition and tells the world, 'I have need of him/her.' When you choose to allow Jesus on your back and let Him ride uninhibited, get ready for the ride of a lifetime.
When the journey gets bumpy, just think of the Guy who's got your back.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Imagine This...
This week's Alphabet Bible Study focuses on H.
Matthew 26:39 reads "He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Imagine this: You come into a new place. You are a stranger. People shun you simply because they don't know you or what you are about. Yet, somehow, you win the people over. Your eloquent speeches, charisma, and deeds show them your worth. Now, they welcome you with accepting arms.
With acceptance comes ridicule. With ridicule comes conviction. Suddenly, you are an outsider again. Everyone turns against you, even those closest to you. Accusations run rampant but in your heart, you know you've done nothing wrong. Still you face your accusers, your judge, your jury, and your condemnation. You bear your cross.
Now, imagine you had to endure all of this on someone else's behalf. It's not even about you. You are doing this for people you know will deny you, curse you, and hate you. Imagine that their future depends on your present despite their past. Could you bear it?
Humility saved your life. Humility suffered your death. Humility withstood your punishment. Humility hung on your cross. Humility has done the unthinkable for you.
Imagine what your humility could do for Him. Not that He needs you to be humble but you do. He has so much planned for you. Humble obedience just makes the cross easier to bear.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Matthew 26:39 reads "He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Imagine this: You come into a new place. You are a stranger. People shun you simply because they don't know you or what you are about. Yet, somehow, you win the people over. Your eloquent speeches, charisma, and deeds show them your worth. Now, they welcome you with accepting arms.
With acceptance comes ridicule. With ridicule comes conviction. Suddenly, you are an outsider again. Everyone turns against you, even those closest to you. Accusations run rampant but in your heart, you know you've done nothing wrong. Still you face your accusers, your judge, your jury, and your condemnation. You bear your cross.
Now, imagine you had to endure all of this on someone else's behalf. It's not even about you. You are doing this for people you know will deny you, curse you, and hate you. Imagine that their future depends on your present despite their past. Could you bear it?
Humility saved your life. Humility suffered your death. Humility withstood your punishment. Humility hung on your cross. Humility has done the unthinkable for you.
Imagine what your humility could do for Him. Not that He needs you to be humble but you do. He has so much planned for you. Humble obedience just makes the cross easier to bear.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Thursday, December 29, 2011
The Waiting Game
I had an interesting dream last night. I don't want to bore anyone with the details. Yet, I often wonder if my dreams are stories I should tell. That is for another post...
I woke this morning thinking about Psalm 84:11. That thought reminded me of the story of Hannah. Hannah's story is the classic waiting game story. In addition to that, there's the need vs. want subtext. Let me explain...
Psalm 84:11 reads For the LORD God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the LORD withhold from those who do what is right.
Did you get what you wanted for Christmas or did you get what you needed? What we want and what we need don’t often go hand in hand. There are things that I have wanted for a long time now that apparently the Lord has not seen to be necessities in my life just yet. I know He knows what is best for me, but it is still hard to wait. And it is difficult not to look longingly at what others have received and wonder why I cannot be the recipient of such things as well. This kind of struggle is not new to any of us. And Hannah, who we read about in 1 Samuel, is a great example of how to live when what you want is not yet something God says you need.
For years Hannah had wanted to become a mother. To bear a child. To give her husband, Elkanah, a son—just like his other wife, Peninnah. Being barren was considered a disgrace for a woman in those times, so Hannah most likely felt ashamed and alone and perhaps like a societal outcast. Instead of turning away, though, Hannah took her sorrow and her request for what she wanted to the Lord. We don’t know for sure how long she waited (perhaps years)—and we don’t know the exact purposes of God’s timing in her life—but we can still learn a great deal from Hannah’s example:
1. She was persistent and continually sought the Lord.She did not give up and stop asking the Lord for what she wanted. Like clockwork, Hannah kept bringing her request to God, year after year (v. 7). No doubt her want continued to drive her to the Father and most likely deepened her relationship with Him.
2. She did not give in to ridicule or naysayers. Even when Peninnah, who was fruitful and had children, taunted her because she was barren, Hannah did not add insult to injury (v. 7). She did not retaliate when ridiculed for her condition or her faith.
3. She shared her “want” and was encouraged by others.When the high priest Eli observed Hannah praying in the temple and inquired as to her condition, she shared with him what she was asking of the Lord. Eli encouraged her and asked God to answer her request (vv. 12-17).
4. She gave back to God what he had given to her.When God blessed Hannah with a child, she did not cling tightly to him. She kept her promise, let her son go and dedicated him to the Lord (v. 11, vv.21-28). That is model faith!
Like Hannah, are you waiting on the Lord to give you something you want in your life today? A new job? Reconciliation in your marriage? Blessing in your finances? A cure from illness? To find your soul mate? Victory over an addiction? A baby? Each of us has something we want in our lives. But is up to God to decide if this is something we really need. May we continue to come to Him with joy and thankfulness as we acknowledge that He knows what is best for our lives.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
I woke this morning thinking about Psalm 84:11. That thought reminded me of the story of Hannah. Hannah's story is the classic waiting game story. In addition to that, there's the need vs. want subtext. Let me explain...
Psalm 84:11 reads For the LORD God is our light and protector. He gives us grace and glory. No good thing will the LORD withhold from those who do what is right.
Did you get what you wanted for Christmas or did you get what you needed? What we want and what we need don’t often go hand in hand. There are things that I have wanted for a long time now that apparently the Lord has not seen to be necessities in my life just yet. I know He knows what is best for me, but it is still hard to wait. And it is difficult not to look longingly at what others have received and wonder why I cannot be the recipient of such things as well. This kind of struggle is not new to any of us. And Hannah, who we read about in 1 Samuel, is a great example of how to live when what you want is not yet something God says you need.
For years Hannah had wanted to become a mother. To bear a child. To give her husband, Elkanah, a son—just like his other wife, Peninnah. Being barren was considered a disgrace for a woman in those times, so Hannah most likely felt ashamed and alone and perhaps like a societal outcast. Instead of turning away, though, Hannah took her sorrow and her request for what she wanted to the Lord. We don’t know for sure how long she waited (perhaps years)—and we don’t know the exact purposes of God’s timing in her life—but we can still learn a great deal from Hannah’s example:
1. She was persistent and continually sought the Lord.She did not give up and stop asking the Lord for what she wanted. Like clockwork, Hannah kept bringing her request to God, year after year (v. 7). No doubt her want continued to drive her to the Father and most likely deepened her relationship with Him.
2. She did not give in to ridicule or naysayers. Even when Peninnah, who was fruitful and had children, taunted her because she was barren, Hannah did not add insult to injury (v. 7). She did not retaliate when ridiculed for her condition or her faith.
3. She shared her “want” and was encouraged by others.When the high priest Eli observed Hannah praying in the temple and inquired as to her condition, she shared with him what she was asking of the Lord. Eli encouraged her and asked God to answer her request (vv. 12-17).
4. She gave back to God what he had given to her.When God blessed Hannah with a child, she did not cling tightly to him. She kept her promise, let her son go and dedicated him to the Lord (v. 11, vv.21-28). That is model faith!
Like Hannah, are you waiting on the Lord to give you something you want in your life today? A new job? Reconciliation in your marriage? Blessing in your finances? A cure from illness? To find your soul mate? Victory over an addiction? A baby? Each of us has something we want in our lives. But is up to God to decide if this is something we really need. May we continue to come to Him with joy and thankfulness as we acknowledge that He knows what is best for our lives.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Friends---How many of us have them?
The weekly Alphabet Bible Study rolls on. This week, our letter of focus is F. That reminded me of my favorite song by an 80's rap group. FRIENDS: How many of us have them? FRIENDS: Ones we can depend on? Friends is a word we use everyday but most times we use it in the wrong way...
Yessir, God are times when all you need is a true friend. The key is a TRUE friend. It may take a lifetime to find a true friend but once you got one, you normally got them for life. Today, I am going to go to 1 Samuel 20. In this passage, we find David, the newly anointed king of Israel, fleeing for his life from Saul, the newly rejected king of Israel.
1 Samuel 20: 1-4
1 Then David fled from Naioth at Ramah and went to Jonathan and asked, “What have I done? What is my crime? How have I wronged your father, that he is trying to kill me?” 2 “Never!” Jonathan replied. “You are not going to die! Look, my father doesn’t do anything, great or small, without letting me know. Why would he hide this from me? It isn’t so!” 3 But David took an oath and said, “Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said to himself, ‘Jonathan must not know this or he will be grieved.’ Yet as surely as the LORD lives and as you live, there is only a step between me and death.” 4 Jonathan said to David, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you.”
Now, be honest. How many of you would go against your parent to help your friend? I know you're saying, "If moms is wrong, she is just wrong." Yet, when it all falls down, it's still your mom or dad. It must be hard to go against your parent. Yet, we see Jonathan sacrificing for his friend, David. Jonathan could die behind this decision. Not only that, Jonathan is giving up his right to be king by helping David. Now, I have some true blues in my world but giving up power and riches on their behalf... *thinking*
Hopefully, we will never have to make that sort of choice. Still, it is refreshing to know that friendship are important to one's very existence. It's even more refreshing to know that I have friends in my life that I would count as sisters from different misters. Friends, I believe, would make some difficult choices on my behalf. I thank God that they are in my life. There are indeed blessings from above.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Yessir, God are times when all you need is a true friend. The key is a TRUE friend. It may take a lifetime to find a true friend but once you got one, you normally got them for life. Today, I am going to go to 1 Samuel 20. In this passage, we find David, the newly anointed king of Israel, fleeing for his life from Saul, the newly rejected king of Israel.
1 Samuel 20: 1-4
1 Then David fled from Naioth at Ramah and went to Jonathan and asked, “What have I done? What is my crime? How have I wronged your father, that he is trying to kill me?” 2 “Never!” Jonathan replied. “You are not going to die! Look, my father doesn’t do anything, great or small, without letting me know. Why would he hide this from me? It isn’t so!” 3 But David took an oath and said, “Your father knows very well that I have found favor in your eyes, and he has said to himself, ‘Jonathan must not know this or he will be grieved.’ Yet as surely as the LORD lives and as you live, there is only a step between me and death.” 4 Jonathan said to David, “Whatever you want me to do, I’ll do for you.”
Now, be honest. How many of you would go against your parent to help your friend? I know you're saying, "If moms is wrong, she is just wrong." Yet, when it all falls down, it's still your mom or dad. It must be hard to go against your parent. Yet, we see Jonathan sacrificing for his friend, David. Jonathan could die behind this decision. Not only that, Jonathan is giving up his right to be king by helping David. Now, I have some true blues in my world but giving up power and riches on their behalf... *thinking*
Hopefully, we will never have to make that sort of choice. Still, it is refreshing to know that friendship are important to one's very existence. It's even more refreshing to know that I have friends in my life that I would count as sisters from different misters. Friends, I believe, would make some difficult choices on my behalf. I thank God that they are in my life. There are indeed blessings from above.
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Emotional Creatures
The Alphabet Bible Study goes on. This week, the letter is E. I have chosen Emotions to tackle. Emotions are a touchy subject. We are warned about those deceitful emotions and how closely we should guard our hearts.
Galatians 5:16-17
So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.
It's weird to think of your emotions as your sinful nature. In essence, they are. Emotions are selfish. And selfishness is not selflessness. (Hope I didn't lose you.) When we want something, we want something. Most times, we don't care how we get it, just so we are satisfied. Emotions can be a good thing but they need to be kept in check. That's the key.
I didn't want to fill this post with scriptures. I was hoping you would pick up where I left off. There is a list of emotional desires that we should avoid. Like any good Father, He lists the feelings we should have in our hearts.
It's sad to say that we are fighting a battle within our hearts YET we know who wins. Thus, it should be easy to decide which side to fight for. But those pesky emotions...
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
Galatians 5:16-17
So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.
It's weird to think of your emotions as your sinful nature. In essence, they are. Emotions are selfish. And selfishness is not selflessness. (Hope I didn't lose you.) When we want something, we want something. Most times, we don't care how we get it, just so we are satisfied. Emotions can be a good thing but they need to be kept in check. That's the key.
I didn't want to fill this post with scriptures. I was hoping you would pick up where I left off. There is a list of emotional desires that we should avoid. Like any good Father, He lists the feelings we should have in our hearts.
It's sad to say that we are fighting a battle within our hearts YET we know who wins. Thus, it should be easy to decide which side to fight for. But those pesky emotions...
Soli Deo Gloria,
Step Brown
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