Monday Afternoon...Clothing

Mondays afternoons at work are one of my favorite times of the week. We have a campus team devotional before going into “business” (really – following up with the business the Holy Spirit is already doing). Today, we read Galatians 3 and shared compelling thoughts that stuck out to us. One of mine was verses 26-27:

“You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” –NIV84

I attended Catholic school (grades K-7, 9-12), grew up in a Missionary Baptist Church ‘til college, went “wayward” for a number of years, re-dedicated my life to Christ & was discipled in a Southern Baptist Church, attended a Southern Baptist Seminary, worked at an Independent Christian Church, then a Bible Church, and am now back in an Independent Christian Church.

Look at all those denominations. Believe me when I tell you, each of them had something to say about baptism, most of the things said were, at least a lil’ bit, conflicting, and each of the groups thought they were “right.” With all due respect to all of these groups, I believe God’s Word nails it.

This passage says “…for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”  I won’t go into deep theological detail here, but I believe being “baptized into Christ” involves a lot more than getting soaked. [Remembering hearing for the first time from a wise man, “I’ve seen people go down dry sinners and come up wet sinners.” Oomph! That was tough to hear at first, but good to remember as I grew older.]

Here’s part of why this verse stuck out to me: In my life, I have observed Catholics who have clothed themselves with Christ and some who have not. I’ve observed Missionary Baptists who have clothed themselves with Christ and some who have not. Southern Baptists, Independent Christians, and Bible Church folks who have clothed themselves with Christ and some who have not.

I’ve heard many of the “arguments” on the meaning of baptism and I respect each groups’ beliefs and I certainly have my own. I won’t elaborate on the intricacies of each groups’ say on the matter. I’ll simply say, once again, I’ve observed man’s words leading towards disagreements. God’s Word, however, is clear…and wonderful. Clothe yourselves in Christ. Yes & amen!

Friend, I sincerely hope you have clothed yourselves with Christ. He is the One who matters. Not our words, not our controversies, not even our agreements on theological “issues.” Christ alone. Let’s clothe ourselves in Him.

If I can help ya in any way, holler!

Tips on Reading Through The Whole Bible

"The Bible is a thorough Book but not an endless book. You can complete it!"

I had a social media conversation with a friend today who, like many Christians this time of year, is beginning a read-through-the-Bible plan. After we spoke, I thought I'd share a few notes, as some of you may be able to glean some helpful hints. I must tell you, I approach read-through-the-Bible efforts in an extremely practical way. I don't consider reading "through the Bible" to be my primary source for spiritual growth, rather, I do slower, read-and-journal plans for that (for more information on what I'm doing this year, see my most previous post). That said, I still read through the Bible as often as I can. I figure, of all the "stuff" I can put into my head and heart every day, nothing is better than the Bible. In my advice giving, I do not mean to be irreverent in any way, rather, I seek to give practical "git 'er done" suggestions. I want you to succeed in this task!  

I've read through the Bible several times. I don't know how many times I have, exactly, but more than a few. Reading through the Bible in its entirety is no longer a difficult task for me. My hope and prayer is this post will provide some very helpful tips on making reading-through more simple for you as well:

Read-through the Bible Thoughts

• Read it "In Order" - If you've never read through before, I'd suggest a "Chronological" Reading plan for your first time. Do an Internet search and you should have no problem finding one. When I read through for the first time, I used a book called “Read Through the Bible in a Year” by John R. Kohlenberger III to help. I've read through the Bible using a few different plans. The plan in this book was, by far, the most interesting to me. There is a widget on my blog page if you'd like to order a copy of this book.

• Bust through the Barriers - WHEN (not if) you feel a little "bogged down," switch things up a little. I read the Bible regularly in both the New Living Translation (NLT) and the New American Standard Bible translation (NASB). In more difficult-to-read-through Books of the Bible (Numbers is a tough one for me), I switch to The Message paraphrase and/or an audio Bible. During the switch, instead of "sticking with the plan," I plow through as far as I can go, as fast as I can go, without stopping. When I do this, I oftentimes actually jump ahead in the reading plan. Nothing wrong with being ahead, folks! I'll pray something like, "Lord, if You want me to stop and reflect, I will. Otherwise, I gotta keep it moving!" You know, He has stopped me a few times. But for the most part, it's just about keepin' it movin' for me in the more difficult Books to read. Being a little more free in the reading plan might not work for everyone, but it works for me. If you have tried unsuccessfully to read the whole Bible and have failed due to tougher-to-read Books, this might work for you. Aggressively attack the barriers and, before you know it you may find the tough stuff is completed.

• Believe!  The Bible is a Book about faith, right? I think you should have faith that you can make it through this Book! Ask God to help you every time you read. The Bible is a thorough Book but not an endless book. You can complete it! In my dramatized audio Bible set, there are only about 72 hours of total play time. You might consider adding some audio read-through time to your daily commutes or whenever you are alone and fairly undistracted. It saddens me when people give up on the best Book ever given to mankind. Don't give up! Keep going! You can do it!

If you have any questions about my post or have personal questions about Bible reading or study, I'd be happy to help. Just email me. Until then, Go! Read!

Bible Reading & Prayer in 2013

“Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.  Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.”

~ Ephesians 5:15-17 NIV 1984 ~

"He who fails to plan is planning to fail."

~ Winston Churchill ~

As I prepare for 2013, one of the first areas of consideration for me is my personal spiritual growth. I’ve had a lot of people ask, “What do you do?” to grow spiritually. Bible reading and prayer are two of my most helpful spiritual disciplines. There are others I do as well, but these work really well for me. I have to be intentional in carving out time for these things because - personally -  I find I can end up wasting time if I do not plan it well, and this plan will help me – again, personally – not waste time.

Here’s an inside look on materials I plan to use in 2013. I hope it can help you in some way and, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

2013 Bible Reading & Prayer Planning Guide

Bible Reading

·         Proverbs (1 Chapter per day)

I’ve done this for years at the suggestion of a man who disciple me. I read the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds with the date of the month (i.e. Dec. 25, read Proverbs 25). As there are 31 Chapters in the Book, I’m never left without a Proverb to read daily.

·         Psalms (5 Chapters per day)

I use a little mathematics to work this plan. There are 150 Chapters in the Book of Psalms. On the first day of any given month, I will read Psalm 1, then add the number “30” to each number (i.e. Jan. 1 + 30 = 31) until I get to the end of the Book (1, 31, 61, 91, 121).

One thing that tripped me up a little in my Psalms reading was the fact the longest Chapter in Scripture, Ps. 119 – with its 176 verses – is contained in the Book. I decided to break the Chapter up into smaller portions that I read throughout the month. [This means, on the 29^th day of each month I only have a small amount of chapter 119 to read (29, 59, 89, 119, 149)].

If it works better not to complicate the issue and just read all 176 verses on that day, go for it. But for me, I feel I had to break it down since I have chosen to do a large amount of other daily Bible readings.

·         YouVersion (Life Journal Read Through Plan)

As my Psalms & Proverbs plan is Old-Testament centered and consistently repetitive, this read-through plan helps me get to other parts of scripture and ensures I’m reading all of the Bible.

·         biblegateway.com - Verse of the Day, NLT and/or NASB translations

I subscribe to biblegateway.com and the verse of the day comes into my email. It is usually the first thing I read in the mornings via smartphone device.

Bible Study

·         "Jesus Calling," Sarah Young (Devotional)

My wife purchased this book for me this year. It is a one-page devotional thought.

·         "Time to Get Serious," Tony Evans (Devotional)

I first read this in college and have re-read it as often as I could ever since.

·         Selected Books of the Bible – Padfield

Evangelist David Padfield has posted several different Bible studies for free at the website http://www.padfield.com/. Padfield’s background seems to be Church of Christ, if that matters to you (my background is not Church of Christ, but that certainly doesn’t keep me from enjoying the studies).

·         "Lord I Want to Know You," - Kay Arthur

Part of the book’s description reads: “When you know God more fully by studying His names -- Creator, Healer, Protector, Provider, and many others -- you'll gain power to stand strong. You'll find strength for times of trial, comfort for pain, provision for your soul's deepest needs. And your walk with God will be transformed.” I could use some of that in my life, so I’m going for it.

Prayer

·         "Simple Prayers," Kenneth & Karen Boa

This is a simple, daily prayer guide I’ve used for a while. It takes the reader through Scriptures written in a prayer-filled direction. This is a helpful book for someone who wants to take an intentional daily walk in prayer.

·         Mastermedia International Media Leader Prayer Calendar

This calendar is available in print or by email and provides the name of a media executive and a cultural influencer to pray for each day. Located at http://www.mastermediaintl.org/resources/media-leader-prayer-calendar/, it only takes a minute to pray for all types of media folks. I really enjoy this moment daily.

MUMS Resources

I recently spoke at MUMS (mothers-of-preschoolers group) at Southland Christian Church. After my talk, the ladies sat around tables and discussed resources they believed were good for marriage, parenting, child-rearing, etc. Here's a look at that list:

BIBLE RESOURCES:
The Jesus Storybook Bible
The Comic Strip Bible
The Beginner's Bible App

PARENTING RESOURCES:
Bringing up Girls/Boys by Dr. James Dobson
Have a New Kid by Friday by Kevin Leman
Creative Correction by Lisa Whelchel
The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie O’Martian

MARRIAGE RESOURCES:
Power of a Praying Wife by Stormie O’Maritan
The Love Dare
Love and Respect book and study
This Momentary Marriage: A Parable of Permanence by John Piper
Love & War By John Eldredge
Wild at Heart By John Eldredge
Captivating by John and Staci Eldredge

ONLINE RESOURCES:
North Point Community Church
“Future Family” Series
Andy Stanley

CONFERENCES:
Family Life Today - A Weekend to Remember Conference http://www.familylife.com/events/featured-events/weekend-to-remember

MUMS!

What a blessing to speak at MUMS today!

Topic: How to get your man to lead

A: You don’t. Instead: Rest Easy. Be encouraged & empowered that the Lord can, will and wants to have your man lead. Rest Easy in Him.

I would suggest to you that the key to getting your man to lead has a lot less to do with him, and a lot to do with you and even more to do with the Spirit of God – working through your spouse and through you.

No matter the situation – Rest Easy. God is really in control.

Tips from my heart

Be humble

Consider: “I THINK this is how my husband should lead, but I RECOGNIZE God knows EXACTLY how my husband should lead.”

Jer. 9:24

Ps. 25:9
Ps. 18:27

Prov. 11:2

Be clear

Be clear, get to the root of the issue, do not nag. Communicate.

Prov. 14:12

Prov. 26:24

Prov. 25:24

Be gentle

Prov. 15:1

James 3:17

Be strong in the Lord

In the Lord, not in yourself. Let the Spirit be the Spirit. Be empowered in Him alone.

Joshua 1:9

Is. 41:10

Prov. 14:1

Be in fellowship

Don't be in bad fellowship. Be in fruitful fellowship.

Gal. 5:13

Phil. 4:8

Be obedient.

Gal. 5:6b

For in Christ Jesus…The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.



facts - TRUTH - feelings

     Life comes at 'ya pretty fast. When life is really flying, I sometimes wonder is something true or do I simply feel it's true? It's good for me to pause every now and then, look around, and take inventory on what's going on. One of the more helpful tools in my life lately has been the Myers-Briggs/Jung Typology Indicator (complete an assessment here: http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/jtypes2.asp).

The Myers-Briggs has been very helpful in my navigating what's going on in life. It's helped me personally from "going crazy" at times, and it has helped me help walk others "back off the ledge" in processing their own situations lately.

I am no expert in the Myers-Briggs assessment, so if you have detailed questions, you'll need to ask someone more qualified. However, I do know that my personality "type" is ENFJ. When I read about the portrait of my type, I am impressed that so much of the description is true. I do become a little uncomfortable, however, reading things about my make-up that are true but not...nice? One of those things with which I'm currently trying to deal with is the "Facts vs. Feelings" issue.

It seems, most of my life, people operate almost fully as "Just the Facts" or "...but I Feel..." kind of folks. I've certainly done this. Both ways - JUST facts or "...well I feel!" As I allow wise people to invest in my life I've learned that either side, taken to its extreme, is probably not a good thing. I've sat through seminars and conferences where the "Fact" people have bashed the "Feelings" people and vice versa. I'm sure I've been a basher myself. It seems all of us may be greatly influenced by our biases. I'd like to suggest to you that the "truth," the better way to deal with oneself and those around us, may be somewhere in the middle. This may be uncomfortable to "I see every issue as black and white..." personalities. It is uncomfortable to me! I thought I'd share the discomfort today, or, at least, give something to ponder as we try to go through life and deal with self and others better.

What is your Myers-Briggs personality type?
Are you a "Facts" or "Feelings" person?
What are your initial thoughts about those who are your personality opposites? Is this healthy?
How can you improve?

#TameTheTongue... 5 Thoughts

As my wife and I are speaking to our children about taming the tongue, and as I Tweeted/Facebook Statused several Scriptures regarding the topic, here are a few thoughts on the topic. Please "Comment" if you have thoughts:

- I believe the chances of children taming their tongues increase with the efforts of parents to tame their tongue. See book suggestion on my blog page that I've purchased to try to help me tame the tongue.
- Though our parenting efforts are most always aimed at shepherding our children's hearts, I believe taming the tongue is a pretty important behavioral issue & attempt to nip bad practices swiftly and fully.
- I've observed, there are many poor models of adults who have never tamed their tongues. Our children are watching. Therefore, I believe it's fairly important to choose your friendships wisely.
- I've also found it very effective, upon encountering other children speaking in a manner we don't find acceptable in our home, to pull our children off to the side immediately to debrief what occurred and to help them understand that imitating their peers will not yield good results.
- Writing counts as a voice, and we monitor notes our children write to us and to one another. I try not to allow the kids to "bottle up" their feelings to long. If the kids are having bad thoughts or attitudes, I want to teach them to process those, pray them through and to produce words - even "hard words" in as creative and positive a tone as possible. I want the kids to know they can speak hard words - the truth in love - and still tame their tongues at the same time.

I still feel I'm learning a lot about the topic of taming the tongue. I enjoy learning, and believe it's an important part of my journey as a disciple.

What comes to mind when you think of the topic, #TameTheTongue?