Devos

Thankfulness is the healthiest emotion

Posted on by pastordavidturner

Thankfulness is reality

1 thess 5:16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Thankfulness is the healthiest emotion.  It is the most “real” feeling, because thankfulness aligns with the reality that all we are and have is a gift from our Creator and Redeemer–something he has graciously done and given rather than something we have earned or deserve.  Every breath and every gift is from above.  Therefore, when we are grateful, we are in agreement with truth, with reality.  It is truly the only appropriate response from a creature to the Creator, from the redeemed to the Redeemer.

And because it’s the most real emotion, it’s the healthiest.  When a person is full of thankfulness it puts their heart at rest and stimulates joy.  When a person is ungrateful, envious, greedy, prideful, boastful, or complaining it robs people of joy and peace.  From ungratefulness flows depression, anxiety, anger, discouragement, disunity, and such.

Faith thanks God

Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were  thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

People don’t believe in God because they are not thankful.  This, Paul says in romans 1, is fundamentally what is wrong with humanity.  At the core of our disease–our sin, our rebellion, our insanity–is that we are ungrateful.  Idolatry begins with ungratefulness, legalism/religion begins with ungratefulness (and that rooted in a lie about God we have believed). Paul brings the indictment to all humanity: you know there is a Creator but you don’t want to acknowledge your dependance on his sustaining power and grace; you know he is the source but don’t want to give him the credit.  It’s not for a lack of evidence that we struggle to believe; its for a lack of thankfulness.  Our resistance to the humbling effect of worship is what blinds us and causes us to be selective in our honest assessment of the facts staring us in the face.

If we think God owes us or is stingy we try to manipulate him or control him like an idol.  If we think we have to earn something from him, we become legalists seeking to earn favor. If we work for our salvation or blessing, then we are to praise. We have something to boast about.  Eph 2:8

But the reason why life is a gift, and more so salvation, is because it removes all boasting in self. It destroys that pagan, religious effort.  Even unhealthy responses like shame, condemnation, guilt, and such are rooted in this lie of needing to earn from God and produces ungratefulness.  When something is a gift, you simply receive it with thankfulness… like a child–unbridled gratefulness and enjoyment.  The truth is that God is good; that he is all good, all the time; that every good and perfect gifts come from God; that there is no darkness, wickedness, evil, ulterior motives in him.  He created us because he is good, he created everything good, he created everything for our good.  He loves us and wants the best.  And the same motive drove him to the cross.  He redeemed for our good.

If everything comes from God, if all good gifts in life are from God (James 1), then the only logical response is thankfulness.  When we are ungrateful for any aspect of life, for any person or gift, we are being ungrateful to God and dishonoring him.  When we complain or grumble, when we compare or are envious, we are discrediting and dishonoring the one who has given us everything.

How would you feel? 

Numbers14:11 Then the Lord said to Moses: “ How long will these people reject Me? And how long will they not believe Me, with all the signs which I have performed among them?

What if you gave me a gift and I grabbed the gift, held it to my chest and said “thank you gift for giving me yourself.”  Or what if someone asked me who gave me the gift and, while you stood silently by, I explained how I bought it, how I earned it because I’m awesome. How would you feel?

And so, faith is always thankful.  Gratefulness is the manifestation of faith because it’s rooted in truth. We are grateful when we believe that God is and is a rewarder of those who seek him diligently (Hebrews 11), when we believe that he is good and every good and perfect gift comes from him, when we believe that in him we move and breathe and have our being, when we believe that he is for us and not against us….  Faith simply receives the gift with thankfulness and enjoyment.  Faith boasts in God (Ephesians 2:8-9).  Faith is thankful because it embraces the truth that I did not earn this, I cannot deserve this; my life is contingent on another’s choice, work, generosity, mercy, kindness and patience. As my friend Clint says, “you can’t be thankful for something you have done.”

Zero complaining

Philippians 2:14 Do all things without complaining and disputing, 15 that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world….

We have much to be thankful for (a list would stretch across the galaxies) and nothing to be ungrateful for.  Mindsets like envy, complaining, blaming God and others, entitlement (you owe me), and such are rooted in ungratefulness and unbelief.  These stem from faith in our efforts or in another person.  Those responses and emotions are evidence we have idolatry in our hearts (see Psalms 37).  They are unbecoming of a Christ follower.  Those things should not be among us–in our hearts, churches, families, words.  You may think you are a “fairly grateful person” but the presence of emotions and vocabulary rooted in things like envy and complaining are the opposite of gratefulness. Listen to your words, watch your heart; are you truly thankful, fundamentally thankful?  Freedom begins when you realize: no one owes me anything!  God doesn’t, people don’t, your parents don’t, your employer doesn’t, the government doesn’t.  We need to return to the basics of life: everything is a gift from God.  This is Faith 101.   If our expectations or words don’t align with that truth, we have lost our way.

Can you imagine giving someone a gift only to have them ask why you didn’t spend more or why you didn’t give them what the other person got? Can you imagine them complaining about the gift?  Or what if the day before Christmas, after you labored over a special present to give your friend, they bemoan, “you never give me anything, you never think of me.”–how would you feel?

Faith believes God will do what he says and waits patiently with thankfulness to come through.  Faith does not compare or envy or complain.  It gratefully receives from God what HE wills to give.

Thankfulness is attractive

Psalm 22:3 But You are holy, enthroned in the praises of Israel.

God is attracted to a grateful heart.  People are attracted to a grateful heart. When we are grateful we shine like lights in darkness (Philippians 2:15). Not only is thankfulness one of the healthiest emotions but it is one of the most attractive ones–to God and people.  God is drawn to it.  It pleases him because it honors him for who he is and what he has done.  So let praise fill your lips always–Psalms 34.  He is always worthy of our thankfulness, praise, rejoicing, worship.

If you want to always be filled with the Spirit, always saturated in his presence; If you want God to be drawn to you, attracted to you; if you want him to want to be around you; if you long for the presence of the Lord then always praise him.  Aren’t you the same?  Would you rather be around a grateful person or a complainer?  If someone always talks about themselves or always complains, do you feel drained or filled?

Psalms 100:1 Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! 2 Serve the Lord with gladness; Come before His presence with singing.

Ephesians 5:18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be  filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, 20 giving  thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…

And thankfulness attracts people who are far from God, without hope, in disappear.  When they see light shining at the end of their dark tunnel they run to it.  When they hear words of thankfulness, see you filled with joy even in hard times, observe your contentment and peace in a storm, they are experiencing your faith which points to God’s faithfulness and truth.  Your thankfulness is a great witness of Christ, your gratefulness shouts “hope” to them.  So shine!

Thankfulness is the healthiest emotion

And finally, to repeat, thankfulness is the healthiest emotion.  When you are grateful you will break anxiety and control, fear, and anger; you will break depression and hopelessness.  When you align your heart and words with truth by thanking God (out loud with praise) for who he is, what he has done and what he has promised (i.e. In alignment with his Word), you will find the fruits of joy and peace fill your heart, reshape your emotions, renew your mind, and transform your attitude and the quality of your relationships, ministry, work, and life.  Simply begin to say, “Thank you Lord for… (Insert truth from the Word of God)”.  Do this about everything in your life.  Simply begin to speak and sing praise to God throughout your day.  Like a seed planted in the ground, thankfulness begins in the heart and then manifests in our emotions, thoughts, and relationships.  Like a seed, it takes time to germinate, grow and bear fruit.  But if you stick with it, you will experience a harvest of wholeness.  Thankfulness can literally transform your whole life.  It is that powerful!  You will see the desires of your heart fulfilled, greater fruitfulness, confidence, blessing, and such when you are thankful.  And even in the hard times, you will have a joy and peace inside you that the storms of this life can’t touch.  Can you imagine: everything falls apart and everyone else is freaking out, but you are totally at rest, filled with joy, intimately connected to God, filled with praise, confidently waiting on the Lord.  Why?  Because you chose to be thankful.  It is that simple!  It may not be easy, but it is that simple!

Thankfulness changed my life!

Are these just ideas?  Or is this what has transformed my life?  If someone were to ask me what is the one habit that has changed your life? I would simply reply, “Thankfulness!”.  In a time of deep despair, depression, hopelessness, unbelief, and bondage the Lord led me to thank him.  First, for each day.  Then, for life itself.  Then, for the cross.  Then, for every truth about him, every gift from him, and every promise to me.  He coached me to voice reality with a grateful heart.  He taught me to align my words with his Word in praise.  That simple lesson was THE transition point for breakthrough in my life, relationships, ministry; it was that small act that has rippled through the rest of my life releasing joy, confidence, rest, and influence.

Try it: 24-7 thankfulness for years. The let me know the results.  I’m a satisfied costumer.

Sinless Audio Message Series

Posted on by pastordavidturner

Audio message series: Sinless.  You will discover the fullness of what Christ paid for on the cross and be convinced of how fully he has saved you and deeply he loves you.  You will understand the truth proclaimed in Hebrews 10:14 that he has forever PERFECTED those he is sanctifying.  Enjoy!

sinless part 1 …understand how Christ has made us perfect by his sacrifice.

Sinless part 2 …understand how much God delights in you because of Christ’s sacrifice.

Sinless part 3 …understand God’s redemptive strategy to heal and transform us and the world.

Sinless part 4 …understand why you are still in process, how you are BOTH perfected in Christ and being sanctified.

Love God but hate doing devos? 4 simple devo ideas

Posted on by pastordavidturner

The Word of God is essential to knowing Christ and becoming like him and yet many struggle with getting into the Word.  Do you wonder: How do I get into the Word since I don’t like to read or have a hard time focusing or comprehending what I read?  Do you or someone you know struggle with doing “devotions”?  Here are some ideas for those who don’t like reading.

First, let’s establish that devotions are vital for the Christian life.

The bible, God’s Word, is the self-disclosure of God. It’s not like any other book. It’s the authorized biography of God, his message to us. It is truth about him, us, and what he is doing to redeem. It is powerful, carrying his transformative life, to those who believe.

Jesus told us, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.  And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”–John 8:31-32.  Jesus is teaching that following him and being in his Word are inseparable.  To follow Jesus is to listen to and obey his Word.  He is also teaching that it’s in the Word we find truth and its in the truth we find freedom.

And so, for the person who wants to know God deeply, understand who they are and what they are destined for, and walk in his ways the bible is an essential tool, an indispensable gift.  Hunger for and consumption of the Word is vital to growing and developing as a follower of Christ. It is an essential part of our spiritual diet–Acts 20:32.

By listening to the Word, we hear Jesus, we receive him, we get to know him, we observe him. By responding in prayer and worship we engage with him, become vulnerable, let him know us, and transform us. The more time we spend with someone, the better we get to know them. It’s that simple. The more you know someone, the more you become like them. That is discipleship 101. Be with Jesus, become like Jesus. The call to an intimate relationship with Jesus is the most enjoyable and powerful. It’s so attractive.

How can we know God if we don’t listen?  If all we do is talk and never listen how can we get to know him or allow him to influence us?  Many people pray but never turn to the Word of God and the leadership of the Holy Spirit to allow The Lord to reveal himself and his will. That doesn’t work in a human relationship; it would be like having a relationship with yourself. How do you feel if someone only talks about themselves, almost treating you like a microphone or an ornament?  God wants to be known; he wants a real relationship. And you and I need to be influenced by him; we need to hear from him in order to know his will and ways.  We need to know the truth.  More word, more truth, more light, more transformation. It’s that simple.

This is precisely why I constantly encourage people to be in the Word of God daily.

And yet, despite its importance, many are discouraged in some way by the call to read the bible. Some hate to read or find it tedious because of struggles with Dyslexia or focus. Some are confused because of the strangeness of another culture; some don’t know where to begin with such a large book. Some are busy, possibly spending hours commuting or taxiing children.

Whatever the reason, if you struggle with reading the bible but recognize the importance of being in the word, here are some simple ideas I hope will help you:

First, listen to the bible rather than read it. Don’t feel you are “cheating” by not reading. The goal is not to read but to get the word into our hearts through our eyes and ears.  In fact, the bible was written to be heard–you may catch more by listening. There are many commands to hear the Word in the bible (not as many to read it). You can find free audio recordings of the bible online.  Try www.youversion.com.  You can use your computer or smart phone.  You can start a “reading” plan (I recommend the solid lives reading plan) and listen to the bible daily (try the NLT or ESV translations).

You can listen when you are driving, cooking, or working on a project. You can turn off music or talk radio, and spend some time listening to the word and then talking with God about it.

You can also combine reading and listening. For those who struggle to focus, reading the bible while someone else reads it to you or reading out loud yourself may help you to focus and retain more. I also encourage you to read smaller portions (I.e. One New Testament chapter a day).

Second, listen to podcasts. The preaching of the Word is a powerful way to get the word into our hearts. Again, this is not cheating!  Though it’s important to read or listen to the bible ourselves so we understand the context and can own what others are teaching, preaching can greatly aid in understanding the bible and in growing in faith.  Paul emphasizes our need for a preacher in Romans 10: 14 How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent?. There are many good preachers offering free online podcasts or who teach on TV or the radio.  You can download podcasts onto your phone and listen throughout your day.  Check out http://jerrydirmann.com/.  That’s just one of many I listen to weekly to build my faith.

Third, read the Bible with others.  You don’t have to do devos alone to make them “count”.  If you are relational, find others who are like you.  Gather at a coffee shop or living room, read the bible together, talk about it, and pray.  One of my best friends and ministry partners is a business owner.  He begins everyday with a group of people (some employees and some church members) reading the bible and then praying.  He calls it Daily Alignment (DA), inspired by Hebrews 3:13, “but exhort one another DAILY, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.”  Notice God is speaking DAILY and we need the Word DAILY.  And yet, we are not told to read the bible by ourselves daily.  Rather, we are called to exhort (or preach to) to one another DAILY.  This is what the early church did (see Acts 2).

Fourth, engage your heart and mind and engage God in conversation.  How?  By meditating out loud on what you read and by talking to God about it. “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success (Joshua 1:8).  Meditating on the Word is one of the most potent ways to get it into our hearts and build our faith.  In fact, most people are either bored with the Bible or missing the power of the truth because they don’t speak the Word out of their mouth.  Until the Word comes out of your mouth with faith you won’t see God’s power.  This is one of those “think smarter and not harder” principles.  Meditating on God’s Word will not only help you focus more but it will lead to deeper intimacy with God and greater transformation. The goal is not only to read and know a lot of the bible, but to believe and obey the truths of the bible. Instead of trying to consume a lot with little comprehension, try reading less and meditating and praying more.  Become focused, fixated, obsessed with the truths you discover.  Meditate all day–ponder, think about, discuss, share, converse with God, sing…. As we see in Joshua 1:8, it’s when we meditate that our faith is built, we receive strength to obey God, and then blessing is released. 

When you listen to the Word or when hear someone preach the Word, one of the best ways to get it into your heart is to study it yourself, meditate/think about it, and then talk to God about it.  Simply pick verse (or a few) to meditate on all day/week.  I recommend that after listening to a message about the truths of Scripture from a person, read or listen to the passages they expounded on yourself. Then spend time thinking and praying about it with God. The more you respond to the Word, creating dialog, the more you will be able to receive from The Lord and allow him to transform you.

Do you have other ideas or resources that have helped you or others? Please suggest them in the comments feed.

Where to begin with the bible?  Check out this reading/listening plan (you can also find it on youversion.com).

Want to start a friendship with God? Read this post. 

Want to grow in your relationship with God? Check out OSLonline.com. It’s a powerful discipleship process that transformed my life and ministry.

Want to read commentaries that explain the bible or study the Bible?  Check out blueletterbible.org (its free!).

Enjoy God!  He enjoys you!

Why am I going to St. Louis?

Posted on by pastordavidturner

Many have asked me, “Why are you going to St. Louis?”  The simple answer: God told me to.

Let me tell you the story:

I had served at NewCommunity Church for 17 years; I’d been the lead pastor for over 7.  I love the people; I loved the assignment.  The community had been a family to me, a place of healing, a place I grew in the Lord and my calling.   The church was gaining momentum spiritually and numerically.  Vision we had seen and worked in faith towards was beginning to bud.  It was one of the most exhilarating times of ministry.  I wasn’t looking elsewhere; I wasn’t wanting something different.  I only longed to see the vision within me become a reality outside of me.

And then I had a dream (like that kind you have while you are sleeping).  I don’t often dream but one week in Spring 2014 I had three dreams and each were clearly from the Lord.  How did I know?  Because of the content and the presence of the Lord.  In one dream, I was walking through a courtyard with my wife, Michele. We walked out into a grassy area and were standing under the St. Louis arch when I heard Jesus speak to me saying, “This is is your city.”  I sensed the presence of God and the compassion of God exploded in my heart.  I began to pray for God’s unfailing love to be revealed to the city.  Then I woke up.

My first thought was, ” Lord I don’t like the cold.”  As I began to debate with God, he began to speak to me.  He spoke to me (or impressed on me) that we would bring the gospel to St. Louis, planting churches, bringing healing to neighborhoods in the city through serving people.  He even said, “This year.”   That word made my brain go tilt.

I’d love to tell you how full of faith I was; how surrendered I was.  But it would not be true.  I could not fathom what God was calling me to.  I could not comprehend moving my family or leaving my church.  I could not fathom something that was so far outside of my “plans”.  So I asked God for a confirmation.  Sounds noble?  But it was really out of fear. God can confirm his word if he deems it necessary.  But to ask God for a sign when he has already revealed himself is just stubborn unbelief.  I was bordering on phariseeism.  I told God I was willingly but I was not truly surrendered.  In fact, I tried to forget it. I tried to wait it out.  For three months I wrestled.  I could not shake it.  I’d heard God before.  I’d left everything in the past to serve the Lord (and he had blessed me).  I taught my church to do the same: hear God, do what he says.  I was torn between love for my church and obedience to Jesus; between comfortability and blessing and full surrender; between desire to follow Jesus and fear.  How could I teach and lead others and not surrender?  How could I be a man of integrity and not surrender?  How could I follow Jesus and stay in SoCal?  I told Jesus when I was 16 that I would leave all to follow him.  This was a test of that vow.

A few months later, I was listening to the Word at a conference.  One of the speakers prophesied, saying, “You are about to do something you thought you never would.” Instantly, I knew the word was for me (and others).  I began to weep and surrender to the Lord.  I heard Him tell me, “It’s time to surrender.”  And I did.  As I wept before God, I decided in my heart to leave everything and follow him.  I resolved to go to St. Louis.  All fear went away and God’s love filled my heart with faith for what he said he will do.

And so I am going to St. Louis because God told me to.  It was hard to leave my church, but God has blessed that church with a new pastor.  I have grieved deeply.  And yet, I am filled with exhilarating joy for this new assignment.  After all, though I did not know it, this is what I am created for, this is the vision that burns in my heart.  I am excited for what he will do.  Since I surrendered, I have not been afraid (well, I was tempted for a few days).  I am at rest, confident he will lead us, provide for us, and produce much fruit through us.  Following Jesus, losing all for him, is the best place to be!  Its so good to be at the center of his will, walking in the path of his commands.

What’s next?

The Lord led me to 1) transition leadership in my church before 2015 and 2) partner with the Rock Foursquare Church in Anaheim (a partnership that was birthed by God about 6 years ago).  We will serve at the Rock in Anaheim for about a year while we learn and prepare (I am realizing it just takes time to plant churches).  As the Lord leads, we will launch a Rock church in St. Louis.  Yes!  The Rock is going to St. Louis!  Our church will reach tons of people for Christ, disciple them, and empower them to fulfill their destiny.  Our church will love God, walk in His fullness, and serve their neighbors in love.  Our church will multiply leaders and plant other churches.  Our church will be a blessing to St. Louis.  We will bear much fruit to God’s glory.

You can pray for us and our kids as we walk through transition.  You can pray God brings a team around us and you can pray for the people of St. Louis.  Please declare with me over St. Louis that God’s love is unfailing.  He is pursuing that city, loving that city. He has a purpose for that city. He will restore and fulfill the destiny of that city and the people who live in it.  Thanks!

Sinless

Posted on by pastordavidturner

Hebrews 10:14–For by one offering He has PERFECTED forever those who are being sanctified.

Perfected!?  Jesus has made you perfect.  The gospel, clear as day, declares that those who have put their trust in Jesus have been made perfect because of his blood, his sacrifice on the cross.  That’s a big deal.  He does not say, “one day you will be perfect” but rather “he (Jesus) has perfected” you forever. That means it is his work; he did it for you by his grace.  And that means it has already been done; it’s nothing you can earn or work towards.  It’s done, paid for, accomplished, finished.  And–it gets better–It’s forever!

So, what does “perfected” mean?  Is this how God sees us; are we actually perfected? Or is there some hidden meaning in the Greek (original language of the New Testament)? Is it just some exaggeration or figure of speech?  Let’s observe what the author of Hebrews describes “perfect” to mean by backing up and reading the context surrounding verse 14 (by the way you may want to read all of chapter 9-10).

Hebrews 10:1-4–For the law, having a  shadow of the good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with these same sacrifices, which they offer continually year by year, make those who approach PERFECT.  For then would they not have ceased to be offered? For the worshipers, once purified, would have had no more consciousness of sins. But in those sacrifices there is a reminder of sins every year. For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and goats could take away sins.

First, the author explains that the blood of animals can never make us PERFECT (see verse 1).  He then goes on to describe what perfection would look like in verse 2-4: purified, conscious cleared of sin, and sin removed from us.  The law and sacrificial system in the mosaic covenant was intended to expose our sin and show our need for Christ; to remind us (verse 3).  Paul makes this clear when he says, “Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith (Galatians 3:24).”  It’s not the law that was the problem but our inability to save ourselves and walk in God’s ways (you can read more about this in Romans 7-8).

Before Christ, we were not perfect–far from it.  We were filled with sin and dead in it.  Because of sin’s defilement we did not have access to God.  We were separated from him and his eternal life.

But then, Christ came.  The author of Hebrews makes it clear that what Christ did was sufficient, complete, and effective.  What we could not do, God did for us.  Because of the blood of Jesus, we have been made perfect.  And he explains what perfect looks like: sin has been removed, our conscious has been cleared, we have been purified, and we have access into God’s presence.  Observe how he defines perfect in Christ here: ‘”Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” 18 Now where there is remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin. 19 Therefore, brethren, having  boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus… (Hebrews 10:17-19).’

And so, because of Jesus you are perfect: your sin has been forgotten and removed, you have been purified and your conscious has been cleared.  You are sinless in Christ!  This is the truth, this is reality for those who are in Christ. The price has been paid, it is finished.  God has already forgiven you and even removed your sin from you.  You are pure, clean, right with God.  You are holy and without blame in his sight.  You can come to God with a clear conscious and with boldness knowing he loves and accepts you.  And all of this is by his grace, not your works.  In other words, it is somthing God has done for you, paid for with his blood, and not something you did or do for God, not somethig you have or can ever earn.  You only receive it by faith.  Like any gift, we simply say “thank you” and open the present.

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

I am aware of what many think when they hear about this amazingly gracious gift of salvation.  Many feel unworthy to receive or think “if this is true, then why do I still sin and/or struggle with temptation?  And since I do, does that mean I’m not really a christian (I.e. Saved)?”  l will explain this in more depth in another post but, for now, consider this: you struggle with sin because you are born again.  You hate it.  You are a bad sinner.  Paul explains that our flesh and spirit are battling in Galatians 5:16-18.  Though we are perfect in Christ (meaning sinless) we are still in process, still being sanctified.  That is why it says, “He has perfected those he is forever sanctifying” (Hebrews 10:14).  He did the perfecting and he is doing the sanctifying.  It’s his ongoing work in us. And if he began the work in you, he will finish it (Philippians 1:8).  If he perfected you and if he is sanctifying you, you can be sure he is for you and not against you.  He is committed to your development, success, wholeness.  You can trust him, follow him, enjoy him.

Thoughts, questions?  Please comment below or contact me.

Want to know how to start and/or deepen your friendship with God?  Click here.

If you were encouraged, please help me spread the word by sharing this post.  Thanks!

God enjoys you even in the process

Posted on by pastordavidturner

Philippians 2:12-13 “WORK out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who WORKS in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”

Each of us is called to take responsibility for our own relationship with God.  We are not saved by works but there is a work of faith involved in our relationship with God.  We are to partner with the Lord by faith, with a deep desire to please him, in order to grow in Christ-like character.  Our participation is required.

But, for many of us, that call to growth is frightening.  We fear failing. We fear that, if we are not perfect, God or others will be angry, disappointed, or displeased with us.  We fear we will be rejected.  And that fear shuts down our motivation and robs us of courage.  We either strive in our human effort, driven by guilt, to earn his acceptance; or we hide in shame, victimized by bondage; or we try to fake out God or others with religious behavior.  All of these unhealthy responses are rooted in a lie about God, rooted in fear.

In this passage, Paul explains what our motivation to partner with God should be rooted in saying, “FOR it is God who works in you….”  Notice we are called to work with him, but our work is a response to something he has already done and is doing.  The truth is that God loves us and is pleased with us even while we are in process. He is working in us to will and to do FOR his good pleasure!  Our work is a partnering with a work he is already doing.  Like kids helping their dad carry a heavy box, he is bearing the weight and we are simply participating for our development and his enjoyment.  He does not need our help.  We are the ones who need his strength.  He is not sitting while we work, but he is calling us to get up and work with him for our benefit and growth.  This truth frees us from fear, guilt, shame, and hiding. This truth motives us to grow and fills us with courage.  God is already pleased. He enjoys us in the process, he likes working with us and in us.

I say it again: our work is a partnering with a work he has already done and is doing.  Hebrews 10:14 says, “For by one offering He has perfected forever those who are being sanctified.”  First, God has already made us perfect in Christ.  Because of the blood Jesus shed for us we are already perfected, forgiven, righteous, free, accepted, loved, adopted, and more. He has “predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will (Ephesians 1:5).”  According to the pleasure of his will!  That means you are his kid because he wanted you to be.  He made you, he chose you, he saved you, he adopted you.  And the very fact you are his, makes him glad.  He is filled with pleasure simply because you are his. Second, he is the one sanctifying us.  He is making us increasingly like his Son Jesus.  He is healing us, shaping and molding our character, renewing our mind, transforming our lives. It’s his work in us.

The goal: conformed to the likeness of Christ (Romans 8:29)  Yes!  When God is all done with his work, we will look just like Jesus.  We will want what he wants, love how he loves, think how he thinks, be holy as he is holy.  This is the work he is committed to.  It’s already paid for and he is already doing it in us by his Spirit.

The process: he is working in us to will and to do.  He covers the whole process.  The willingness is given to us and the doing.  He gives us what we do not have–that’s grace.  Where we lack in motivation or willingness, he gives us that.  Where we lack the courage or ability or wisdom to do he gives us that too.  He is the author and finisher; it’s his work, strength, righteousness, power, grace in us from beginning to end.  The work he began he will finish, he will not fail.

And so He already enjoys us in Christ, he enjoys the process of making us like Jesus and he will enjoy when we are complete.  We can’t lose, we can’t fail.  He won’t reject us.  He is the one bearing the weight of the work.

So get up, come out of hiding.  Let God enjoy you.  Let him transform you.  It’s worth it.  You will not become like Christ by staying stuck in fear, shame or guilt.  You won’t become like Christ by hiding from God and trying to get “better” on your own before coming to God.  You will only become like Christ by being with Christ.  It’s his work in you and the only power for transformation is through yielding to him.  It’s by knowing him that we become like him.  So enjoy God, enjoy the process, enjoy life.

In the house

Posted on by pastordavidturner

Luke 12:42-44
And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has.”

As in all the parables, Jesus is giving us a paradigm to understand life in his Kingdom. Because we’ve been born again into a new world, the Kingdom of God, we must have our minds renewed in order to understand God’s ways and our response.

Jesus often taught that his church is the family of God, a household, where he is Lord and master and where we are all children and servants of God.

In explaining what is expected of us, he taught that every believer, every follower of Jesus, is given an assignment and the authority to fulfil that assignment. In Mark 13:34, he says the kingdom “is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to EACH his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch.” Jesus is the master, we are his servants. EACH is given a work to do until he returns.

Every believer is a disicple and every disciple is a minister. You have a role, a part to play in God’s redemptive work on earth. You, as a christian, are called to ministry (which simply means serving others). You have a purpose. You have been anointed and empowered by the Holy Spirit. You have been given authority in Jesus’ name to represent his kingdom.

Every believer is in the house: loved and adopted by God and given an assignment to complete. Every believer is under the leadership, headship, Lordship of Jesus Christ. Every believer is of equal value and worth. Every believer is called to love others, practice hospitality, pray for others, minister in the power of the Spirit, share the gospel, care for the poor, comfort the hurting, stand for justice, grow in christ-like character. There are not two callings or levels of christians; as if some are called to holiness and some are not, or as if some are called to ministry and some are not.

And yet, he gave a distinct role to leaders in the church. He has assigned certain servants to RULE in the church, in the house of God. Did you see that in luke 12:43: Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make RULER over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season”? Jesus taught that pastors and elders are given a realm authority in the church.

First, he calls them servants who steward or manage the house. These pastors are not the head of the church, they are not the source, savior, or lord. Jesus is the Head. These pastors are servants of Christ. They are managers of HIS house. They, like all the other servants of God, have been given an assignment. They will be held accountable and they will be rewarded if they serve faithfully. They are saved by grace and are dependent on the Head, Christ, like every other believer.

Second, these leaders of the church are given authority over the other servants in the house of God. They are to rule over the house, stewarding or managing the household for their master. What is their assignment? What is their authority? To feed the other servants! They are servants of God serving the other servants. Their job is to serve; to feed. Everyone is working hard, serving the master, bringing the kingdom to earth as it is in heaven. Everyone has an assignment. But some servants need to ensure that everyone is card for, fed, safe. Some are given a distinct role to ensure everyone is focused and ready for the masters return. Just like we all need the physical nourishment to live and work, so we need the nourishment from the Word of God in order to serve the Lord and the world he loves. This is the calling and assignment of pastors and leaders in the church. A leader’s job is to feed God’s servants so they can do their job. In other words, a pastor’s ministry is to equip others to do their ministry.

Pastors are not suragot christians. They are not the only ministers. They are not the only ones with a calling. In fact, their calling is found in empowering others to fulfill their calling. Therefore, a pastor’s success is found in the successful fulfillment of the household’s (church’s) collective calling and the successful fulfillment of each servant’s individual calling. A pastor’s authority is only to empower, protect, feed, keep every servant focused on the mission, help every servant fullfil their calling and become all they were designed to be.

This is the same thing Paul taught in Ephesians 4:12-13 when he wrote, “And He Himself GAVE SOME to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, FOR the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we ALL come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ….” Notice the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are gifts GIVEN to the church; servants of God serving the saints. In verse 12 he defines their purpose: FOR the equiping of the saints for the work of ministry. One person’s anointing or calling does not diminish another’s, but rather it is given as a grace or gift to bring forth another’s anointing or calling. It’s not just that the leaders do ministry, but do the equipping (which means to heal, mend, restore, repair, resource, empower, release, support) so the rest of the saints can do their ministry to the others in the church and in the world.

This truth about the Kingdom calls EACH of us to do our part. Jesus is calling EVERY believer to seek him, know him, love him, become like him, and partner with him in bringing redemption to this world through the power of the Gospel. And he is calling SOME to be equippers. All the servants of God need to fulfill their assignment for the sake of the world. The church is the hope of the world, salt and light, bringing the life of heaven to earth. And so, the church needs faithful and wise servants, leading them and nourishing them with the Word of God; we need pastors and leaders in the church to mend and empower EVERYONE to fulfill their calling.

Let’s be found faithful!

God does not want to do it for you, but with, in and through you.

Posted on by pastordavidturner

John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.

God does not want to do it for you, but with, in and through you.

The image of the vine and the branch is a powerful and real image of our connection to Jesus.  Vine: He is the source.  Branch: we are the conduit.  In order for fruit to be produced, the plant requires the vine and the branches.

Simple truth: we need Jesus.  Without him we can produce nothing of his Kingdom, of his character, of his power, for his glory.  Without him there is no eternal life.  But without us nothing can be produced either.  His kingdom does not come, his power is not released, his character is not manifested in the world except THROUGH us.  If we do not abide, if we do not surrender to his leadership, trust in his provision, rely and depend on him, then the life that is in him will not flow through us to produce fruit.  In order for the redemptive Kingdom of God to manifest in our lives and in this world we must be connected to the vine.

This is why faith is the essential response to the grace of God.  In Fact, Hebrews 11:6 tells us that without faith it impossible to please God.  Grace is his work; faith is our response.  As Paul says in Ephesians 2:8, “For it is by grace that you have been saved through faith….”  Notice God’s work of healing and redemption (saved) is by grace AND through faith.  Not one or the other, but his grace and our faith cooperating.

What God wants to produce for us in this world must flow in and through us.  God wants us to be fruitful.  He wants to bless us and make us a blessing to the world.  He wants his redemptive kingdom manifested in the world.  He has provided all we need through the finished work of the cross and the ongoing work of his Spirit.  And we are the conduits.   Our participation is essential.  He has decided that he will do nothing on earth except through the willingly participation of human beings.  Why?  Because he gave us this world as our home to manage (see Genesis 1-2).  He gave us dominion over this world.  We are responsible.  And so his work of redemption must flow in and through us.  He will not bypass you or your will.  He won’t produce something without a transformation of your character and an alignment of your will.  He does not want to do something for you but with, in and through you.

This is why our intimate connection of trust and dependence on the Lord is vital.  That is why Jesus calls us to ABIDE.  This is why our character development is vital.  This is why we need our mind renewed, our souls sanctified by the transforming power of the preached Word of God.  This is why submission to his leadership and to healing community is vital.  Everything he produces must done with us and flow in and through us.

Want to start a friendship with God or deepen it?  Next steps.

Got thoughts or questions?  Your turn; comment below.