Avail your ability via availability

Posted on January 6, 2014 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle:  ServantLeaders follow their I.A.M., rather than instructions.

Our Impact is rooted in our Intimacy, not our Intensity or Intelligence

Isaiah 42:1-9 Psalm 29 Acts 10:34-43 Matthew 3:13-17

Avail means to “take advantage of an opportunity, or to help or benefit”.

Ability means to “possess the means, skill or talent to do something”.

Availability means to “be present, ready and capable to assist or serve”.

It is our availability to the King,  that avails our ability for the Kingdom.

ServantLeadership is serving and leading in the steps of Jesus. Each year our fellowship dives deeper into the WHAT, HOW and WHY of ServantLeadership, you can read this in the blog, here and elsewhere. This Sunday (1/12/14) is training on HOW to develop the characteristics and values of those who seek to serve and lead through anointing, listening, resiliency, and humility as Jesus did.   Some people believe they are not able to lead, much less lead the way Jesus did– technically they are correct. On your own strength, will, drive or talent – you are not able, but we will discover together the joy of fulfilling in righteousness the calling set before us.

Below is a table laying a foundation for what ServantLeadership is, Based on the passages this week, the Be-Attitudes of Matt 5, and the foundational teaching of Robert Greenleaf on Servant Leaders.  At its core ServantLeadership is the demonstration of power (under Spirit control) for the purpose of benefiting and blessings all those whom come to experience it.

First- Servant Leaders must know their IAM. That is Identity, Authority, and Motivation.  Matthew 3:17 demonstrates Jesus’s IAM – Identity – God’s Son, Authority – God’s Love, Motivation – To please the Father.  We also see this in Isaiah 42:1 & 8, the servant is upheld, chosen and a delight to the LORD.  The name of the LORD is YAHWEH and that is established to Moses and by Jesus in the gospel of John.

Second, Servantleadership is not simply about doing the right things… it is not simple obedience. (As Covey says: “leadership is about doing the right things, management is about doing things right” – I agree with that, but present that servantleadership is beyond this) It requires submission and obedience. Peter addresses this in Acts 10 as being “one who fears” and “one who does what is right”. This is how power is unified with doing good works, the works alone are not where the power lies.  In this way ServantLeaders are witnesses to Jesus. They are stewards of the almighty power, through their availability; the GREAT IAM fulfills his righteousness in spite of any ability or lack of ability.

Finally, ServantLeaders move in power, but not based on the demonstrations or expectations of the world. There is power in the voice of God, and there is power in the voice of the ServantLeader. ( as seen in the power to bless – last week) But that power is not to control, rather under Spirit control. Servant Leaders are also often Suffering Servants (Isaiah 42:1-9, 49:1-6, 50:4-9, 52:13-53:12) The LORD was enthroned as King over the flood. It was not a lack of power that prevented the LORD from leading his people, it was a long-suffering love that empowered and strengthen the LORD to endure through the pain and loss to see the “cross” set before him.

The table below is great information – but without a manifestation of the Holy Spirit and the application of learning in community – information will not result in identity which will limit impact for the Kingdom.

Matthew 5:1-16 Blessed are those: Character / Values by   Robert Greenleaf Suffering Servant of Isaiah 42:1-9 Jesus’ model of servantleadership in the Gospel of Matthew:
His Disciples Calling Here is my servant (1) I have called (6) 3:13-17
Poor in Spirit Listening The Lord says (5) 20:29-34
Those who mourn Healing Open the eyes of blind (7) 8:1-34
Meek (self-controlled) Empathy Bruised reed not broken or wick snuffed (3) 11:1-15
Hunger & Thirst for Righteousness Awareness Justice – is the mission (1, 3, 5) 19:16-30
Merciful Persuasion Not shout or raise voice (2) 4:18-22, 9:9-13
Pure in Heart Conceptualization Islands put there hope in his teaching(4) 11:20-30
Peacemakers Foresight The former things have taken place (9) 9:14-38
Persecuted for Righteousness Stewardship Not falter or be discouraged (4) 20:1-28, 25:14-30
Insulted, persecute & falsely accused Growth in People Free the captives (7) 13:53-58
Bethe salt of the earth & light of the world Building Community Release those who sit in darkness (7) 18:1-20
Servant Leaders                            Receive & Enjoy Worldly Leaders                            Proclaim & Protect
The Kingdom of Heaven Empire of Independence & Pride
Comfort Casting Blame and Complaints
Inherit the earth Judgment and labeling of others
Filled (with righteousness) Power, Prestige and Pleasure
Shown Mercy Titles and Positions
They will see God Disguised motives and manipulation tactics
They will be called sons of God Control, Indulgence & Lies
Posted in Epiphany, Year A | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 18 Comments

Not so; Know-it-all

Posted on January 2, 2014 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle:  Manifestations must Precede Movements to be Missional

Jeremiah 31:7-14 Psalm 147:12-20 Ephesians 1:3-14 John 1:(1-9), 10-18

When you know, that you know, you just know it’s right. If you don’t know, then know that knowing is not really about knowing, it is about being known and there is no way to know this without it being made known to you.  There are many great attempts made by the church today to be missional, however unless a movement is the result of a manifestation of the Spirit, its foundation is far from missional. The call here is to be on mission as Christ was on mission and the church is mission.  This begins in you as you discover your mission is divine.

For divinity to enter humanity – death must precede life, obedience must precede celebration. (see last week)  This is both the action of Jesus coming to the earth to become the ransom for the sins of humanity, as well as for Jesus to enter our personal lives to rescue & redeem us from the hands of the enemy and the power of death.  There are many who know this truth, but never experience its liberation, for they do not embrace the grace that is required for this to manifest in their life. This grace is the gift of forgiveness and love that is lavished on us by God and is the means by which humanity enters divinity.  For Humanity to enter Divinity – it quite another movement. (2 Peter 1:4, 1 John 4:15, Col.1:27, 3:3-4, 1Peter 1:23) In fact it is not a movement we take at all, rather it is manifestation that moves within us. This is the journey of Epiphany(def.) –  the revelation, illumination, and manifestation that you either recognize or you don’t, and if you don’t there is no movement to the divine.

Let me approach that again – Jesus has been born as a child in the world – Hence Divinity has become Humanity. In this Jesus lived out Philippians 2 and in obedience surrendered his life to become life for us.  But this did not result in the whole world being saved. Rather it made possible for Humanity to become Divinity – but this is not a movement we take, rather it is a manifestation that we are taken by.

This act of being taken, (is not our physical death – as so often is spoken – as in “God takes someone home”, rather being taken is the first act of life) is for those who received the grace and truth of Jesus and believe in his name.  They experience Epiphany – and they shall be given the right to become children of God. This is a Spiritual Blessing which Paul sings of in Ephesians 1. All this is not so that we become “gods” (review that even loki –is a puny god), rather this is so that in the revelation of the great mystery made know to us in the riches of God’s grace – we become the praise of HIS glory.

Let’s bring this back down to earth – WHY? If you know that you are marked with a seal, the very promise of the Holy Spirit and your redemption is complete in Christ – why would you want to be a earth walker rather than a heaven dweller.  (Consider also the analogy of soaring like and eagle or scavenging like a turkey) The blessings that you & I are to receive in Christ are in the heavenly realms  – this is a spiritual blessing.  Don’t look to financial, relational, material, physical, even emotional blessings of this world to be called blessed– look to the deliverance by God from sorrow, turns mourning into dancing and being filled with joy and comfort – This is the bounty of the LORD. (This is different than favor, flow, gratitude and anointing blessings which do take place in this world.)

What do you think the wisemen (magi) saw when they arrived with gifts for the baby Jesus? Do you think they say a “baby”? Did they arrive with disgust that Mary and Joseph had cared so poorly for the new born King? (Remember they went to the palace first)  Did they scoff and consider their investment and travel a waste as they made their way to Bethlehem, thinking nothing  can be a worthy culmination of their travel here? If not, Why not? It was not about their movement, for the manifestation preceded the movement. This manifestation allowed them to experience the movement of humanity to divinity in their own lives. (This is open to debate and speculation…  but somehow this great mystery had been revealed to them.) They disregarded both common sense and wisdom according to the world, and moved into the heavenly blessings of the divine. They had resolved to worship this King prior to ever seeing him! (Matt. 2:2)

What are you looking for? What do you see when you look around?

Where are you trying to make sense of your movements? (Some even consider trying to make sense of the movements of others.) STOP!  This is not your mission.  So often we go through life trying to make sense of things.  Sometimes with 20/20 hindsight we make our best guesses, but life is not lived in the rearview mirror – LOOK UP! Follow the Star of David.  Believe that you are blessed, chosen, predestined and adopted for redemption through the blood of Jesus – for only there shall the great mystery be known by you or I according to God’s good pleasure which he purposed in Christ.

Therefore – without bringing it down – how might this practically look in our lives?

1. Begin to see the image of Christ in all humanity.  Divinity is not in all humanity, yet it is the very likeness of Christ that God has given to all humanity – there is redeemable worth in all humanity. SEE IT first! See with hope, rather than disgust  as the actions, choices and decisions of the  world may be held in contempt.  To see this is to choose to ask for more manifestation –God, open my eyes to see others as you see others- in love. Further it is to believe that when God fully reveals Himself to them, they too may know may grace and truth and you will play a role in the process.

2. Begin to see the image of Christ in you. May this be divinity in humanity.  When you accept and believe in Jesus Christ as your LORD and Savior. You are a partaker of the divine nature, this is your true identity. For it is no longer you who live, but Christ in you. (Gal. 2:20) Look for this, search for this, trust in this…. And now move by this. Stop looking for blessings in this world to verify God is pleased with you – search the heavens and enjoy the blessings he has already bestowed over you.

3. Count your Blessings! Make a List and Check it twice….

Now Compare your Blessings list to Matt. 5:3-12 – compare the difference between heavenly blessings or worldly blessings. This will lead us to next Sunday’s (1/12) training – ServantLeadership – serving and leading in the steps of Jesus.

ServantLeaders know how to live into the Heavenly Blessings, such that they are made manifest in this world and reap fully the blessings of  favor, flow, anointing and gratitude.   Training 8:00 – 3:00 301 E. Arrow Hwy. # 100 San Dimas CA 91773.

This table is a work in process… but thought it was interesting to put it here:  A future post will hopefully pick it up.

Spiritual Blessings Earthly Blessings Spiritual Curses Earthly Curses
Peace       

(Anointing- Chosen/Predestined)

 Protection/Life

(Flow- Timing, alignment, success)

 Idolatry

(greed,pride, forsaken)

 Evil Declarations

(fear,destruction, death)
Presence

(Holiness –up-rightness)

 Provision/Prosperity

(Favor – Abundance, opportunity, authority)

 Immorality

(wicked, impurity, lust)

 Foolish Actions

(pain, sicknesses, disease)
Grace & Truth (Righteousness by Faith) Be-Attitudes

(Gratitude)

 Enmity

(Strife,hatred, despised)

 Law

(punishment)
Divine Power

 

 Renewed Mind Strongholds Dis-Obedience

 

God can and does bless –  (often in response to our obedience)

Leviticus 26:1-13, Deut. 28:1-14, Jer. 17:5-10, 2 Cor. 9:8, Romans 4:1-10, Gal. 3:6-14, Matt. 5:1-13 Numbers 6:24-26:

His face to shine upon you, gracious to you, lift up countenance upon you, give you peace   (Presence)                         (Protection)                (Provision)                       (Peace)

God can and does curse as well as bless

Gen. 4:1-16, Gen. 12: 1-3, Deuteronomy 28:15-68, Malachi 1:9-2:6, Deuteronomy 27:15, Lev. 26: 14-46

What life looks like blessed verses cursed:

Col. 3:1-25

Deuteronomy – 30:11-20  it is not up do God if you are blessed or cursed – he has left it up to you….

 

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Christmas Hangovers & Organ Donors

Posted on December 27, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle:  Death precedes Life, Obedience precedes Celebration

Isaiah 63:7-9 Psalm 148 Hebrews 2:10-18 Matthew 2:13-23

To be hung over is to take in too much and to suffer the effects of a major let down.  Are you in a Christmas Hangover, waiting for the New Year or simply  caught in the middle of wondering what is next and how to manage the buzz and rush of the season?  “Pause this thought”

I wonder how many people spent this Christmas praying for someone else to die? It may seem odd, but I know it’s real; many people are on the “list” waiting of an organ transplant (around 100,000)– and their Christmas prayer was that God would grant them the gift of life by receiving the organ which they are desperate for to live. Yet – for this gift to be given – another must die.    “Gather both thoughts”  Organ donors are at the crux of both a Celebration and Mourning, Hangovers look back at the celebration and measure if it was worth it.

It was Jesus that hung, so that we need not suffer a hangover for he took the cross and grants us life.  With Organ donors – the match must be perfect and the timing divine.  Again in Christ all this has been met in “thee tonight.” But let us not forget, Jesus promises us eternal life, but he does not promote an easy life.

I often dread the traffic at Christmas and the tension of the extend family.  Yet Joseph & Mary– After weeks of travel, the family “inn” where they hoped to stay, hasn’t saved them a bed. I know how frustrated I would be if upon arrival for Christmas dinner, if there was  not enough seats at the table, much less, if I was told I have to go outside and beg while the rest of the family enjoys a home cooked meal.  For, Joseph in less than one year – he went from being a man known for his righteousness, with a young maiden betrothed to be his bride; to becoming an outlaw on the run with a shunned woman and a child whom was not of his own. Yet in this the rush of the season; the Angels proclaiming the birth of the Messiah, the Wise men bring great gifts (I believe they came at the birth not later…)   And yet the heels of the good news of great joy,  in less than “4 hours” Joseph will need to transplant his son or he will die at the hands of Herod.  (A heart or lung transplant must take place with in 4-6 hours.) What is more is that others died because Jesus was born. This is much like the donor list… it is hard to think about – but it is there.  This is not the typical This is not what we thinking how as an evangelical message of hope And yet we see in Joseph acts of obedience – action of submission regardless of your own personal awareness or willingness. Imagine if Joseph knew other baby boys would be killed,  he would have been torn with how to warn them before he left town…  We are often caught in the aftermath of a bad hangover when it comes to comprehending all that it meant for Jesus to come to earth. Yet at the same time we are flooded with the joy and praise of being called up to be a donor recipient for new life has been given.

If you think this has been a bit raw – take a second look at the the context of the Isaiah passage, and wrestle with the fact that Jesus has to suffer and be tempted so that his sacrifice would be perfect. (He was perfect and sinless – but  for atonement to be complete, suffering was essential.) In all this  – Jesus broke the power of the devil who holds the power of death.  And He did so to make us Holy, so that we might sing his praises and live a life of obedience as a faithful servant.

So – How do you cure a hangover – in regards to alcohol – scripture is clear – do not be drunk on wine but rather of the Spirit. (Eph. 5:18) The cure is in understanding the root of the problem.  Find a greater power source to lift you beyond all trouble, worry and strife, and you will be the cure.  How do you overcome the dilemma of praying for another person’s death? Again it is a matter of perspective and understanding. You are called to have no fear of death and you overcome the enemy’s wrath in service and faith. What does all this mean for you and me this week?

You are called to give your life to Christ, and in doing so you are put you on the donor list of the Kingdom. We are to pray Thy will be done and this means you & I must die daily, but it also means that you will be born again in the same light. Since it’s better to give than receive, how much greater shall it be to be on both ends of the exchange.  This is how to overcome the crashing blow of a hangover – remain caught up in the Spirit. For you have been made Holy, by the one who is Holy.

Obedience precedes Celebration – (and Easter precedes Christmas) If you do not submit your name to be a “organ donor” prior to your death, chances are not likely that your organs will result in someone else’s Celebration. This is a personal choice, but let’s be real – someone ought to be celebrating your death other than Satan.  This is not a soapbox to become a donor –for I, myself am being convicted and needing to update my records, this is a call to see that obedience preceded the celebration of the life of Christ. This is a call to embrace suffering and a way in the wilderness as the means by which God produces and promotes his servants. This is a call to listen to the leading of the Spirit and to be filled with power from on high to do the unexpected and to embrace a new course of life this next year.

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Strange but not Stranger

Posted on December 16, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: Know the power of your “God-given” name.

Does God call you by another name?

Isaiah 7:10-16 Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 Romans 1:1-7 Matthew 1:18-25

Is it me or are people’s names getting stranger…? I’m all about creativity and personal expression, but sometimes I have to wonder is that a name, a description or an exclamation.  But maybe when God calls us it is all three.  The question is are the “strange” names really strange or are they simply a parent’s expression of their desire or call for their children’s lives.  Without wanting to judge anyone for how they named their child – a question for our reflection today is; might a parent’s name for their child be strange only if it is not the name that God has also set forth for that child. For my wife and I, naming our children was very powerful and important. We did not name any of our boys prior to seeing them, praying over them and asking God his plan for their lives – That may make us totally set-apart from most people – but that is of course what it means to walk on the way of Holiness. The interesting thing was that we always knew exactly what the name of our little girl would be – but never did we know the boys name until described as above – no surprise we had 3 boys…. (clearly our “confusion” did not impact the gender… rather because the child was a boy, we could not know the name until God gave it to us which was never until the child was born. My wife will attest she knew out eldest child’s name clearly before he was born – I wasn’t listening so well…)

What is your name? The power of your Last Name connects you to the generations that have gone before you. The power of your first Name both set you apart from those around you, but also sets forth your calling. For some of you this is a proud connection, other would be very happy to re-define their blood-line altogether. This is the very promise of Jesus – that you are to become adopted into his Family Bloodline. But beware if this sounds good to you – in Matthew 1:1-17 Jesus’ blood-line is established and it includes those who are associated with Incest, Prostitution, Racial Outcast, Adultery, and Social Outcast. (Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, & Mary) It is not our past that defines our future – it is our faith and obedience in the call to action.  We shall call him Jesus – and his calling is Immanuel. What is yours?

Jesus is the King and His name means God is Salvation and he is called Immanuel which means God is with us –therefore Salvation has come to be with us!  Paul takes great pains to establish who he is in the greeting to the letter of Romans. You might even say this greeting is pregnant with meaning and power.  Paul is a servant/slave and at the same an apostle who is set apart for the gospel of God… then he continues to further explain the Gospel in a sentence or two with more clarity and depth than most seminary books today.  To this the conclusion  of Paul and the purpose of the Principle this week:  Obedience comes from faith in the Name.  Faith is in the name of Jesus – by whom our salvation is secure and we are rescued and redeemed. This is first and foremost the Name of Jesus – but your name is just as important.

Have you asked God what your name is? Did your parents get it right? – or Does God have  a new name for you? Abram became Abraham…  Isaac –kept his name… Jacob became Israel Saul became Paul….. John- kept his name…. A false name is like a curse, and God’s name for you is a blessing unto freedom. Mary is one of the most interesting names to follow – its meaning is rebellious or bitter. We can see Biblically where Mary’s can rebel in the ways of the world (Mary Magdalene) or they can rebel from what the world has to offer (Mary Mother of Jesus) reflect on  Lecrae’s song Rebel.

In my own life – my name – Casey – predominately means Brave but it also means Proclaimer of Peace…  my call into ministry (being born of the Spirit)  gave me a new appreciation for the name and David. It is of no small significance that I identity my ministry calling as in the line of David – and might I mention that my earthly father’s name is David.  And while I am my father’s first born son – I do not bear his name.  I wonder if my parents got it right. This does not mean I must change my name, rather I must learn to hear how God calls me – for he does call me by name – and for me –  His call  has more to do with being a shepherd/king in the line of David than it sounds anything like Casey…. but he tells me often that my courage and bravery must come from being a shepherd not a king.

Have you ever been in a room with many people and heard your name called, only to realize they were talking to someone else? We respond to our name…. How does the King call you?  What if God is calling you by another name.  Have you simply not heard him, because you are listening for something else? Spend some time with God…. Ask Him, What is my name?  Listen to what the King says.  Ask Him, Where in the Scriptures can I find my name?  Listen without judgment to where the Spirit of God leads you in Scripture. (What story, what text, what reference does He lead you too?)  There is nothing wrong with a strange name as long as that name does not keep you as a stranger to God.

I can’t stress enough for you to know that there is only one Name on Heaven and Earth by which every knee shall bow. There is only one Name by which your prayers shall reach the Father’s ears – It is the name of Jesus…. If you are praying and no one is answering…. If you are praying and no power if flowing – Are you praying in Jesus Name?  There is something about the Name!

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Adultery is Easy, Marriage is Hard

Posted on December 9, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: It requires more power to “Stand” in Adversity, then to “Advance” in Shalom.

Isaiah 35:1-10 Luke 1:46b-55 James 5:7-10 Matthew 11:2-11

It is by God’s design that a couple is to “court” or date prior to being engaged, then in the process of being betrothed to wed, the maturity of the relationship is reached at their union. There is not to be union or intercourse prior to the wedding for the result of the union is to result in bearing a child. In this same way, God has designed the process of life for there to be strengthening prior to enduring suffering.  (This is why the power of the Spirit was so manifest in Mary & Joseph’s life for it did not follow the natural progression, as well as why so many have increased suffering in relationships for they do not move according to God planned process) As the relationship naturally progresses; single, dating, engaged, married, parents, so does the Joy progress as does the potential for suffering.  Our faith does not remove suffering; rather it redeems and rescues us such that an everlasting joy overcomes all sorrow.

The latest book by Malcom Galdwell redefines how we look at the principles behind the story of “David and Goliath”.  Jesus is certainly of the line of David – not Goliath. Meaning the servant boy David and those in his line do not play by the rules of those who are endowed with the power of this world. He trusts in the Spirit of the LORD and the power which flows alone from Heaven. I presume that John the Baptist did not consider it odd to eat locust and honey, nor did Mary did not consider it odd to bear the Savior of the world – rather they considered it odd that others did not see and hear what they did. They were strengthened and made steady by the Power of the Spirit, but this filling was not so that they could do the amazing, rather it was so that they could withstand all adversity.  So much of what we (the church today) are looking for is the amazing, when what we truly need most is to call upon the Lord for strength to stand in the face of adversity. We need to look at Goliath’s and not get weak knees.  James calls this patience. This is perseverance and endurance anchored in the hope of God. (Romans 5:1-5) We looked last week at the advancement of the Kingdom as requiring the Power of the Spirit. It has also been presented that the outermost edge of the advancement of the Kingdom is marked by Humility and Hospitality. This is forged only in the face of adversity. For it is easy to love those who love you, but can you host those who spit in your face and will you give your jacket to the person who stole your car? (Matt 5:38-48 – these are the words the disciples of John the Baptist had heard from Jesus to report)

The call this 3rd week of Advent is to embrace that the Power of the Holy Spirit is not solely to be used to do great things, for it alone is greater than all things, this filling and endowment of the Spirit need only guide one in the way of Holiness. Once you are in the position of Holiness, be ready to stand, and stand firm (Eph. 6:11,13,14) for now the Enemy shall seek to devour you. Job strengthened the feeble hands and steadied the knees of those who were weak by walking in Holiness– all this prior to the Enemy’s assault on his life.  (Job 4:1-5) The book of Hebrews calls to be disciplined, endure hardship and to submit unto our Heavenly Father for thus our hands will be strengthened and our knees steadied. (Hebrews 12:1-13) Clearly by James we are being called to be patient. However – patience is a fruit of the Spirit – which means to have patience; the roots must first be present – which in the end means it was not you who produced Patience. Therefore take notice that if you are not patience –it means you are grieving the Spirit and for that you will be judged. Further in 5:12 of James it says we must have clear understanding of the truth and articulate it clearly (both roots of the Spirit) and if our “Yes” and “No” are compromised we stand condemned.  This is the power that we are addressing this week to stand up – under oppression and in the face of adversity. It is not about doing something amazing,  nor demonstrating your Holiness so that other marvel at you, it is as simply as stand for what is good and doing what one ought to do and no more. (James 4:17) It often takes more strength to do only what you are called to do that to go beyond God’s call in your life. Because when we go beyond or over than what we are called to do – we receive the credit, we receive the glory and we by the call of James are in sin.

Each one of us is an Outlier (another great book by M. Gladwell) in the Kingdom of Heaven. You are being called to enter the Kingdom of Heaven – NOW! You are being called to move in Power – NOW! And if you do, you are to be considered greater than the greatest man who walked the planet prior to the Kingdom Veil being torn. We are birthed into this time and place for a specific purpose. It will require the power of Holy Spirit both to Advance in that role as well as to Stand Secure in the face of Adversity.

But that might look different that what you previously had thought.  Having the strength and clarity to say No! to someone who is asking for help takes more power than you think. Holding your tongue when you are attacked rather than speaking the Truth when your actions where righteous may not seem to makes sense but often is a call given to those who advance the Kingdom. It might simply mean to “carry your cross” when everyone is calling to you “save yourself”. These actions require the ultimate power of the Spirit, yet are often not categorized as manifestations of the Spirit, nor are they considered glorious. In my personal opinion to truly listen to someone else for their benefit and blessing is one of the most Spirit-powered actions on the face of the planet, yet most never learn to move in such power.

John the Baptist does not abandon his Hope that Jesus is the Messiah – the anointed one of God – but he must confirm what he knows to be true. (John expected more demonstrable actions of power, to over through the current system of power (a Goliath concept) but rather he saw demonstrations of power that; lifted the weak,  healed the sick and gave life to the dead.  John must be strengthened and therefore he seeks to align himself with Jesus, rather than to react in anger, grumbling about what Jesus is not doing.

Do you have weak knees or feeble hands? If so – seek the Power of the Holy Spirit. Seek a mature believer to pray over you, walk with you and to intercede on your behalf.

Are you in the midst of Suffering? Look back at all that God has done (as Mary did); Look forward to all that God will do (as James did); and look at your present circumstance and ensure that you are aligned with the will of God (as John did). And consider yourself in the company of Saints!

Do you have strong knees and able hands, and are you free from suffering? Sing and Shout for Joy is upon you! Now do not fear suffering that may come, rather come near to God  and seek if there may be more for you to do to advance the Kingdom. In this request you are bound to encounter  a wilderness as a promotion opportunity. That is if you want to be promoted?

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Power Per-mission

Posted on December 3, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: Be Filled, Endowed, Rested upon, and Baptized in the Spirit of God so that you might move in power to advance the Kingdom.

Isaiah 11:1-10 Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 Romans 15:4-13 Matthew 3:1-12

Baptize, Endow, Rest, Fill, Give – these are the acts of the Sprit of God.

Receive, Express, Renew, Overflow, Accept – these are the acknowledgments of Spirit-filled followers.

This post is one that is on a “difficult or dangerous” topic… especially for a recently ordained, but long time reformed pastor. I have not filled it with numerous scripture references to “prove” my point, nor am I writing to challenge another’s understanding. I am merely responding to the Scripture as the Spirit leads me and attempting to articulate the truth as I understand it. I found a most resourceful ebook, that in 50 pages gives all the Scriptures resources and further explains my thoughts and I have also been influenced by his… download the free short e-book “The Promise of the Spirit: A Reformed View” by Peter Garner. This is available to download now.  The post below will highlight the difference between the act of being born of the Spirit and baptized in the Spirit.

Born of the Holy Spirit as Regeneration & Salvation

Being “Born again” is a work of the Spirit to lead us to Jesus

This act is completely dependent on God alone – We respond in faith to the grace of Christ which is moved on us by the power of the Holy Spirit.

We are Born Again – Washed and Redeemed – and therefore we are justified in Christ. This washing is absolutely necessary to live our life identified with Christ and is expressed in the waters of baptism.  The cleansing of our conscience and being made alive of our spirit sets in motion the work of sanctification throughout the rest of our lives on earth. This process is worked out in faith as we seek the Righteousness of Christ  and we are clothed and covered with His Holiness. Thus in Christ alone are we made righteous and holy. In this process the” Roots of the Holy Spirit” begin to grow as the Seed of Christ takes root in us.

The Roots of Holy Spirit – Counsel in Truth (John 14:26, 16:13), Conviction of Sin, Righteousness & Judgment (John 16:8, 1Thess. 1:5), Comfort in Weakness (Romans 8:26, 2 Cor. 1:5, Phil 2:1-2), Clarity of Speech (Luke 12:12,1Cor. 2:13), & Confident Humility (Eph. 4:1-3, Phil 3:3, 2 Cor. 1:12), Commitment for Future (2 Cor 1:22, Eph 1:14, 2 Tim 1:14)

If you confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior, it is only because you have the Holy Spirit in your life. This act of the Holy Spirit is the greatest gift anyone of us can ever experience. We are saved by grace through faith. The “Roots of the Holy Spirit” increase and grow as we abide with the Father through the mediation of the Son, thus the Fruit of the Holy Spirit is produced in us. While it is possible to grieve and quench the Spirit, the natural process of growth shall lead us to bear the fruit of the Spirit.

The Fruit of Holy Spirit – Gal 5:22-25 is to walk in step with the Spirit. Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control.

Baptism in the Holy Spirit as Filling of Gifts & Power

Being “baptized in the Spirit” is a work of Jesus leading us into the power of the Holy Spirit.

This act is not simply a natural growth process, but it is a normal and expected process (established in the Old & New Testaments) which results as a collaborative experience between God and His people. Jesus came to earth to proclaim the Kingdom of God, and through his Life, Death & Resurrection tore the veil opening up the heavens unto earth.  Pentecost is celebrated as the anointing moment for the church to be birthed in the Spirit. The Kingdom of God is deeper, richer, more mysterious, and is truly beyond our comprehension.  While we must be born of the Spirit to see the Kingdom, we must be baptized in the Spirit to move power and service of the Kingdom. (This means many people who have not considered themselves “baptized in the Spirit” have actually received such experience, but their lack of clarity on the subject is preventing a further work and greater power from being administered.) This baptism is not unto one’s own glory, rather for the glory of the Almighty King and for the works of service to equip and edify the body. Further this baptism is not a one-time event as is being born of the Spirit, rather it is the filling of power for the work and witness of service for the Kingdom. It is imparted most often to the servants of the Kingdom through the laying on of hands and prayer in Jesus Name. (Thus it is a work of Jesus and not human effort or by merit)

The Gifts and Power of Holy Spirit can be organized in three categories. (A future post on the division of these, Motivation – Romans 12;  Manifestation – 1 Cor. 12 &14; Mobilization – Ephesians 4… anointing lays the foundation for the giving of all gifts and power) These are given in order for the church to move forward and advance the kingdom in power.

What does all this have to do with the Advent Season – The Bride (church) is not to be waiting in vain or fear or frustration for the Bridegroom to appear. We are to forcefully advance the Kingdom unto the second coming of Christ. This is only possible in the Power and Works of the Holy Spirit. The Disciples were with the Resurrected Jesus and he told them to wait until Power from on High was poured out on them…. Then they were to go.  We must also receive this same power if we are to go in the ways of the Kingdom as the disciples did.

  • Let us seek and ask for all that God has desired to give to us, as His Children.
  • Let us not move in vain, fear or frustration, for the King does not move in this way.
  • May we move in peace and prosperity.
  • May we move to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.
  • May we move in strength, power and endurance the race that is set before us.
  • May we move like the rain to saturate the earth.
Posted in Advent, Year A | Tagged , , , , , | 24 Comments

Incomplete Perfection

Posted on November 30, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: To walk in the Light, is to no longer fear the darkness and unknown

Isaiah 2:1-5 Psalm 122 Romans 13:11-14 Matthew 24:36-44

Discipleship is about followership.  Followership precedes leadership. We are called to leadership in the Kingdom of God.  Therefore, we must learn to be disciples of the King, before we can be leaders in the Kingdom. In the post linked above – it was outlined how we must be in movement with the King in order to discover our purpose, through followership, which leads to discovering kingdom servant leadership.  There the concepts of Authority & Power were demonstrated by the King and granted to those who are in submission unto His Covenant & Kingdom. This post is not about the end results, rather it is about the participation in the process and the anticipation of the advancement.

We have entered Advent – and the texts of Advent this year  (A) are not warm and fuzzy about the birth of a baby in a manger, nor are they the powerful testimonies of the prophets. Rather as you will see they are filled with the tension and desires of those who long for a new reality, yet live in the present moment and must press on without disappointment.  This is how we must approach our own journey of discipleship every day. Once I have been washed and redeemed in the blood of Jesus, salvation has come unto me. My identity is secured and complete in the work of the Cross and I have been set free from sin. Yet, this is only the very beginning, a mere first step with Jesus as a disciple has truly no idea what is about to come, they submit their lives to following Jesus expecting to be taught the ways in which they shall go.  Here is the tension here found in the text – Never Give Up! & Live as if you have Arrived! This is the tension of Phil 2:12 because of the desires of Phil. 2:13… 12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

What does it mean for us to be a disciple?  I have spoken elsewhere on the discipline of the body.  Here I am refereeing to the same concept, but rather the discipleship of one’s whole being –  heart, mind, soul and strength… so that love is made complete.  How complete of a disciple of Jesus are you? We must learn to walk in the light, by putting on the armor of light. We are the light of the world, but does the world know it? If so, then the world will seek you to lead them. We have power in our prayers, but do you know it? If so the world will seek your prayers for peace and prosperity.  We have hope in this dark  and dying world, but do you share it, or do you gratify your own desires ? The world will want you to gratify your desires and even consider it foolish that you don’t , for in this the world can minimize the difference between you and them. Discipleship is to set you apart, (lead you to holiness) but this is the very reason that many fail to enter the process. They fear the outcome. Have you considered the outcome of fully committing to walking the road of discipleship?

What if your authority increases in the Kingdom such that you see and discern all lies? How might your work and family relationships change? What if your power increases in the kingdom such that you speak a word and it becomes reality. How might the words of your mouth become guarded and useful?  What if the movement of the Holy Spirit becomes so vibrant in your life that all that you once considered secure is now fluid? (cross reference these questions with the post on followership)

What are you afraid of?   Where there is fear… there is a need for healing…. Healing is a matter of authority rather than power and walking in the light brings to light your authority.  Authority is relationally based, and this is where the discipleship process becomes authentic . To be a disciple requires you to have a “discipler”. This relationship need not be with someone who is an expert, only that they have experience in being discipled. God promises to disciple His People so that we may walk in His paths. God is the only true discipler, for it is he alone through the power of the Spirit who works to change one’s heart and life. Therefore the light reveals the truth and overcomes all fear in love.

What does all this have to do with Advent? Discipleship is a process we never complete. YET – because we have the complete gift of salvation we walk in perfection.  Advent is a season that we celebrate each year anticipating the coming of the King (we cling to the inauguration of the Kingdom) yet our conviction is in the Hope that the final Advent (second coming) will come in much the same manner as the first. (The completion of the Kingdom that is not possible without  it.) To further understand this process read this Kingdom Poem –

Do you desire to be Discipled to walk in the Light? If so – have you asked God to teach you to walk in His ways?  Often God will bring one of his Kingdom ServantLeaders into your life to increase their discipleship as well. There is no perfect discipleship process,  so embrace the incomplete perfection knowing  that both the “disciple” and the “disciple” are mutually discipled, because it is God who is doing the transformation.   Therefore there is no need to fear your role in the discipleship process regardless of which side of the discipleship process you are on.  So  – be prepared to become a discipler, and to be discipled in this Kingdom journey.

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A Title is not entitlement

Posted on November 19, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle: The Kingdom has one King, his name is Jesus.

Jeremiah 23:1-6 Luke 1:68-79 Colossians 1:11-20 Luke 23:33-43

The final Sunday of Lectionary Year C – takes us back to the opening of the year at Advent. There we encountered how: Hope –anchors our Faith, which leads us to Righteousness & Holiness, which produces in us Peace & Joy.  While these same themes are found in the scriptures today, this Sunday is not about us – rather it is about the King who is ruling and reigning over us.   There is a great blog on these Scriptures  and how they establish Jesus as the King of Kings– and I encourage you to read it now… “Journey with Jesus”.

There is one King, but there are two Kingdoms, and all those who enter into the King’s Kingdom have been rescued from the domain (kingdom) of darkness. In the light we discover our purpose and calling given to us by the King. My purpose and calling is fulfilled in the word of Reconciliation and it is my hope to increase the likelihood that Christ followers to Listen, Live and Love as Jesus does. I will give my life as a Coach, Catalyst and Chaplain for the Kingdom of God. It is in this process that we discover together:

Listening intimately in the Presence of the King forms my Identity – and it is discovered by being in the right posture.

Living identified by the Principles of the Kingdom grants me Authority – and it is discovered by being with the right people.

Loving inspired for the Purposes of Kingship anchors my Motivation – and it is discovered by being in the right place.

All of the above is centered on the King. This Sunday will culminate a journey for me with the Reformed Church in America. This is the denomination in which I have been raised, learned from, and discovered how to lead God’s people to exalt the King of Kings. God has called me to finish the process of ordination for He longs for me to learn more about submission and authority so that I might fulfill his calling in my life. I pray this yields the very fruit he has put on my heart.

This Sunday – should you be interested – will be a time of discovery. @ 10:00am we will celebrate Communion in Exaltation of the King – then I will be sharing my journey and understanding of the purposes of Kingship in my life. This will begin and be guided by questions given by you. Please  leave questions in the comments below.

Then at 4:45 pm the denomination will celebrate the culmination of this process and I will be officially be Reverend.

Posted in After Pentecost, Year C | Tagged , , , | 3 Comments

Busybodies are divisive to the Body

Posted on November 14, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle:   God will give you the words & wisdom, you are to give him your work.

Work as if your Worth depends on it, Live in Freedom because it doesn’t

Isaiah 12 Isaiah 65:17-25 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 Luke 21:5-19

Every minute of my day has purpose, unfortunately – I do not always claim it or live into its full meaning and purpose. When this is true more often than not – I become a busybody. However, when I hear the Lord’s leading and claim the fullness of every moment of my life – I can also become very busy. This however does not make me a busy body…. In fact – there are times of rest and abiding with God that I must claim in my life which can actually make me busier at other times.  If I choose to set aside time to “be” with God (spirit directing), or to exercise and work out (body discipline), or to  talk with a person who can not benefit me or serve me (soul development)… then the other times of my day must be more productive. I often feel this as busy. This becomes a discipline of listening and being led by God and rather than the impulses and demands of this world.  (Romans 12:1-3)

The summary text this week is simple, “never tire of doing what is good” (2 Thess. 3:13) but this comes as an admonishment not to become busybodies. The concepts behind and supporting this lectionary text are not so simple; the timing for the return of Christ and the creation of the new heavens and earth, Judgment &  Discipleship, Choosing Life vs. Rebellion and the overall understanding of how we share the Gospel in our lives.

What makes a good work good? This has been answered in a previous post, and in there it also captures how we can measure what is  enough work to do.  The question becomes not do I have enough  $$$ to no longer work yet still live a good life, but rather it is if my life open to God enough  for him to flow through me? We have addressed the saying “Idle hands are the devil’s playhouse” demonstrating this in  King David’s idle hands – which lead to great disaster. Concluding that work is not about accumulating more or staying busy rather it is an act of worship. There are many people who become busybodies in their pursuit to avoid having  idle hands, which leads them to idols strongholds.  For this is not a call to work so hard becoming a slave to your labor, rather we are slaves to righteousness (Romans 6:18) with and our  life-work is as a servant unto the Lord.

Let’s keep this Simple – Work is a calling… and you are called to work until God returns. This does not mean God is anti-retirement, nor is God anti-welfare.  In fact the church has very specific callings as a separate matter for both of these – but that is not the focus here. Here the call is to persevere and to labor, not in vain, but as a privilege to contribute to the coming of the Kingdom of God.  (This idea is unpacked in the previous posts linked above)  The King shall come in all His Glory, and we are neither to be idle nor to be “busybodies” because our faith says that God is in control.  If the only reason to go to work is to pay the bills, then some muse – “God will provide”. This is an act of idleness – where we are foolishly making God our genie to provide for us in an act of arrogance. If we conclude that we don’t need to go to work because the King is going to return any day, and there is no reason to invest in this life or this world. This is an act of busybodies – for we will fill out time with acts of busy-ness without purpose or calling.

All of this is couched this week in a concept of Paul’s that is found in Jesus – it says “Follow me”,  “Imitate me”, and “I have set an example for you”.  The very call to imitate and follow is not to mimic or lose one’s identity – it is actually to find one’s identity in Christ. In this discover of life and purpose identity of self is embraced not as I see myself, but as God sees me, resulting in the truth setting me free.  freedom.  I don’t know a single pastoral leader or mentor of mine that has ever said the words… Follow my example and meant – stop living your life and start living mine. And yet there are many who I have admired and thought – If I could only live like them….   Therefore Paul s is simply articulating in freedom, that we are all to be free in the fullness of life of Christ. So I say to you – follow my example in

Be fully aware of the salvation which has been granted to me – and rescued me from a life of separation from God.

Be full of the Holy Spirit and to move in the full measure of the gifts and faith as I have been faithful to purse.

Be fully responsible for how you live your life as a Kingdom Witness as am I.  I continually seek to more fully walk in the Grace and Truth of Jesus – seeking repentance and offering forgiveness in full.

We are all to be in full –time ministry… regardless of vocation…. This can be both pulpit ministry (within the church) and/or market place ministry. (These terms are from “Transformation” by Ed Silvoso –I have held both market place as well as church jobs, but my vocation and calling is pulpit ministry. )  Regardless of where your vocation places you, the real question is “How” that experience leads us to opportunities for Discipleship. May we imitate Paul and follow Jesus in such a way as to teach and encourage others to do the same….

This leads us back to the original issue avoiding idle and descriptiveness which has nothing to do with the Kingdom of God, and where our labor is in vain which means it is outside the will of God. We wrap of this lectionary year, never tiring of doing a good work.  No matter who, what, or why; we continually press on to invest in the Kingdom of Heavens which is of this age and the age to come. For this we shall win life.

Posted in After Pentecost, Year C | Tagged , , , , , , , | 7 Comments

My Marriage will end by Death

Posted on November 6, 2013 by chaplaincasey

Kingdom Principle:  The Kingdom is the measure by which time is tested and made true.

Haggai 1:15b-2:9 Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17 Luke 20:27-38

I’m not talking about murder, but my vows were until death do us part.  Marriage was not designed to work in heaven, as it does on earth. And when something does not work and it has no worth, it is time to get rid of it. We will return to the concept of marriage below, but it is as simple as a watch or clock that does not keep time correctly, it is truly of no use. Earlier this year I threw away my favorite G-shock watch I had for over 12 years….  It was solar powered and set by the global time-line…. And because I could not get it to sync, it became a very heavy bracelet and was trashed…. Also the clock in my truck always seems to run fast… I will set it, then in a matter of 6 months, it is about 5-7 minutes fast… so I reset it 2 times a year – While I can learn to adjust the time, it is truly the time that is adjusting me….  However overall – I have learned not to keep time according to the sun, rather (forgive the pun) but by following the Son.

The Kingdom is the true measure of time and sets the standard of time.  2 Peter 3:8 tells us that with the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. You can set your life according to the time of the Kingdom and you will always be on time. There is both chronos and karios aspects of time in “this age” – you can review that if you wish – but here the aspect is not about how time moves in “this age”, but rather how you move into the times of “the age to come”.  Another angle on this concept is how control, keeps your focus on time in this age, for in the age to come there is no such concept.   Many go through life with God in their pocket. This is a reference to your watch or phone which can control your day and set your schedule. If we get fixed on time as it is set in this age, then we will struggle to have freedom in or abide by time that is beyond this age. In the Kingdom we must come to flow with time, living in both this age and the eagerly anticipating and participating in age to come at the same time.  Imagine trying to control every aspect of your marriage. Exhausting! And a true waste of time, energy or effort. Once you are in control, intimacy is no longer possible, for the relationship is not longer one of love, rather it is based in fear.

A Quick example of time, control & fear can be twisted by the enemy as a good thing…  I used to plan out all the “sermon series” a entire year at a time.  I would pray, seek the Lord, discern the needs of the congregation then walk forward in faith. I wanted to control where I was going, (unto the Glory of God) and for me not to have a plan caused a sense of fear about what if I did not do a good job. (A worth issue of performance anxiety) Then God showed me to flow with him and I eventually discovered the lectionary as a tool by which I can move freely. A testimony in light of this, two weeks ago the “sermon insights” lead a friend of mine to a deeply profound revelation that altered a major event that took place in her life. Those scriptures were not picked out by my for her, or in any way because of the events we can see in this world, rather God moved in “this age” with a power from “the age to come”. Yet on that day, at that time, it all coincided to change her life, three days prior to an event that will continue to have a kingdom impact for generations to follow. God’s flow of time is set to move you in this age, so that you encounter the age to come. When you are in the Kingdom of God – which is everlasting – your experience of time is altered to meet God not the other way around. This week we encounter 4 passages that are all about time, both in “this age”, and the “age to come”.  But first I want us to be on the same page with the concepts of “this age”, “age to come”, and “resurrection”

“This age” (Mark 10:29-30, Eph. 1:21, Matt 12:32) is the time prior to the return of the Lord. This age is also clearly under the siege of the enemy of God. (1 Cor. 2:6-8, 3:18, 2 Cor. 4:4, Gal. 1:4) “The age to come” is that which follows Christ’s return. (Matt. 13:24-30, 37-43)The “End Times” or focus on events that separate this age and those to take place in the age to come – create controversy  and questions for many.  I am of the perspective that Christ will return, his Return will not be known ahead of time, His return will only take place once, (which means no rapture, prior to a second coming) and there is not literal 1000 year reign after this return. (Persecution and the signs of the times will intensify until His return) Much more can be said – look here.

Further, I believe in a physical resurrection, meaning our bodies will be raised. I cannot and will not attempt to explain this mystery here – but resurrection is certainly not mere a spiritual experience. (1 Cor. 15:20, 51-54, 2 Cor. 5:1-5, Phil. 3:20-21) What is more is that after the return of Christ, and the resurrection (Acts 24:15, 1 Thess. 4:15-17) there will be a final judgment. (Matt. 24: 3-31; John 5:21-30, 6:39-54, 12:47-48)This judgment will be the final act of all that was in “this age” including the power and thwarting efforts of Satan  and those who followed his ways will be cast into the lake of fire. (Rev. 20:10-15) And one final note – that Eternal life beings in this age, not in the age to come. (Luke 17:21, John 17:3)

So – back to the texts this week….

To live in the Kingdom is to have your identity rooted and established in the love of Christ. (Eph 3:14-21)We have seen this over the last few weeks in our Worth. When our worth is redeemed, and salvation is granted unto us… our identity is found in intimacy with Jesus. This intimacy “in this age” is represented through the marriage bed relationship between a husband and wife. (Ephesians 5:8-10, 17-21, 22-33) But “in the age to come” there will be even greater glory in intimacy with God such that the former will no longer even be practiced. This is why those who choose celibacy and not marriage are choosing what is better for they have their focus on the intimacy of the “age to come”. (1 Cor. 7:1-9, Matt. 19:10-12) This same concept holds true throughout all of Scriptures. (Read the book of Hebrews…and track the concept of better/greater) However regardless of where you find yourself, you are at the right time NOW! For now is the moment of engagement for you, and the LORD hears your cry and will save you. This is true now and forever more, for the Kingdom is from Everlasting to Everlasting.  All this is because of the Truth that set’s us Free and it is the Spirit of Truth (John 1:14, 8:36,14:15-17) who brings about this work in our lives such that we can stand firm and hold fast.

Therefore:

Your Identity is the Key to your Freedom.  The trick of the Sadducees question was that they linked the woman’s identity to her dead husbands, and “if” there was a resurrection (which the Sadducees did not believe in) then how can her identity be given to her from all 7 (number of perfection) husbands.  Is your identity formed by this of this age or of the age to come? Steven Covey, in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective people– suggests that your center or Identity comes from where you derive your Wisdom, Power, Guidance and Security.

Freedom is found in Self-Control. This means that nothing outside of you – controls you. Since you have been washed and redeemed, buy the Blood of the Lamb (John 1:29)sin no longer is your master. (Romans 6:12-14) Rather the Spirit of God is in you producing the fruit of Self-control. (Gal. 5:22-23)This Control is not to avoid doing bad, rather self-control is choose to believe what God says about us, rather than believing or acting on the lies of the enemy. (John 8:42-47, 2 Timothy 1:7, Eph. 2:1-10)

Self-Control moves toward Intimacy by Faith.  (Titus 2:11-14) As I abide with Christ and choose (where I choose – I exercise self-control) to be with Him, rather than to be tempted by the addictions of this world, I continue to grow in my trust and faith in Him. This exchange of time with the King, rather than to give into temptations of the world yields an intimacy that moves beyond this age into the next.

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