Jim Elliot as quoted in Platt, Radical:
"So what if the well-fed church in the homeland needs stirring? They have the Scriptures, Moses and the Prophets, and a whole lot more" (177).
Safety is found only His sovereignty; security is found only in His love; satisfaction is found only in His presence (181).
Monday, July 11, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
801
David Platt, Radical
I can stand with the starving or with the overfed.... I can embrace Jesus while I give away my wealth or walk away from Him while I hoard my wealth (140).
"... going is urgent, not optional."
Equality of persons does not equal equality of ideas. Faith is a matter of truth, not of taste.
" soft-drink company in Atlanta has done a better job getting brown sugar-water to these people [who have never heard the Gospel] than the church of Jesus Christ has done in getting the Gospel to them" (159).
"The questions is not, 'Can we find God's will?' The question is, 'Will we obey God's will?'" (160)
"... if we really become like Jesus, the world will hate us... [as they] hated Him....The danger in our lives will always increase in proportion to the depth of our relationship with Christ" (167).
"The purpose of the church is to mobilize a people to accomplish a mission. Yet we seem to have turned... [the] troop carrier... into a luxury liner" (170).
I can stand with the starving or with the overfed.... I can embrace Jesus while I give away my wealth or walk away from Him while I hoard my wealth (140).
"... going is urgent, not optional."
Equality of persons does not equal equality of ideas. Faith is a matter of truth, not of taste.
" soft-drink company in Atlanta has done a better job getting brown sugar-water to these people [who have never heard the Gospel] than the church of Jesus Christ has done in getting the Gospel to them" (159).
"The questions is not, 'Can we find God's will?' The question is, 'Will we obey God's will?'" (160)
"... if we really become like Jesus, the world will hate us... [as they] hated Him....The danger in our lives will always increase in proportion to the depth of our relationship with Christ" (167).
"The purpose of the church is to mobilize a people to accomplish a mission. Yet we seem to have turned... [the] troop carrier... into a luxury liner" (170).
Friday, July 8, 2011
800
David Platt, Radical
"'In light of the fact that you have a God in Heaven who is set on caring for you as a shepherd does his sheep, as a father does his children, and as a king does who is passing on an entire kingdom, don't be anxious. Sell your possessions, give to the poor, and don't worry. Your God--your Shepherd, you Father, your King--has everything under control'" (123).
"'... there is never going to come a day when I stand before God and He looks at me and says, "I wish you'd kept more for yourself"'" (123).
Calvin once said... half... the church's funds should be allotted... for the poor" (compare with church budgets today.) (128-129).
"'What would happen... if we stopped asking how much we could spare and started asking how much it was going to take?" Stop giving scraps; start giving surplus (130).
"Where is the line between responsible saving... and irresponsible hoarding...? (137)
I can stand with the starving or with the overfed.... I can embrace Jesus while I give away my wealth or walk away from Him while I hoard my wealth" (140).
"'In light of the fact that you have a God in Heaven who is set on caring for you as a shepherd does his sheep, as a father does his children, and as a king does who is passing on an entire kingdom, don't be anxious. Sell your possessions, give to the poor, and don't worry. Your God--your Shepherd, you Father, your King--has everything under control'" (123).
"'... there is never going to come a day when I stand before God and He looks at me and says, "I wish you'd kept more for yourself"'" (123).
Calvin once said... half... the church's funds should be allotted... for the poor" (compare with church budgets today.) (128-129).
"'What would happen... if we stopped asking how much we could spare and started asking how much it was going to take?" Stop giving scraps; start giving surplus (130).
"Where is the line between responsible saving... and irresponsible hoarding...? (137)
I can stand with the starving or with the overfed.... I can embrace Jesus while I give away my wealth or walk away from Him while I hoard my wealth" (140).
Thursday, July 7, 2011
799
David Platt, Radical
"... internal transformation... has external implications" (110).
"Regardless of what we say or sing or study on Sunday morning, rich people who neglect the poor are not the people of God" (115)....We... pretend that we are.... We... turn a blind eye to... words in the Bible and go on with our affluent model of Christianity and church" (115-116).
"... possessions are to be spent on building, not a place [church buildings]..., but a people who are taking God's glory to the world" (117).
"... outdated models of religion that wrongfully consume our time and money when God has called us to be a people who spend our lives for the sake of His glory among the needy outside our gates" (118).
Gundry in Platt: "'That Jesus did not command all His followers to sell all their possessions gives comfort only to the kind of people to whom He would issue that command" (120).
The Jesus of the Bible is not "the Jesus we have created and are comfortable with" (120).
"... internal transformation... has external implications" (110).
"Regardless of what we say or sing or study on Sunday morning, rich people who neglect the poor are not the people of God" (115)....We... pretend that we are.... We... turn a blind eye to... words in the Bible and go on with our affluent model of Christianity and church" (115-116).
"... possessions are to be spent on building, not a place [church buildings]..., but a people who are taking God's glory to the world" (117).
"... outdated models of religion that wrongfully consume our time and money when God has called us to be a people who spend our lives for the sake of His glory among the needy outside our gates" (118).
Gundry in Platt: "'That Jesus did not command all His followers to sell all their possessions gives comfort only to the kind of people to whom He would issue that command" (120).
The Jesus of the Bible is not "the Jesus we have created and are comfortable with" (120).
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
798
"... be gospel-living, gospel-speaking people at every moment and in every context where we find ourselves" (94).
"... allow others to get close enough to us to see the life of Christ in action" (99).
Am I a receiver or a reproducer of God's Word? "How can I listen to His Word so that I'm equipped to teach this word to others"? (102).
People of God no longer listen "as if His Word is intended to stop with them. They... [live] as if God's Word is intended to spread through them" (103).
"God's design... involves... sacrificing every facet of [life] to multiply the life of Christ in others" (104).
"(...we may be the only organization in the world defining success by what we don't do.)"
"... discipling... involves propelling Christians into the world to risk their lives for the sake of others....going, baptizing, and teaching in the contexts where [we] live every day" (105). Is anything else... even... church?" (106).
"... allow others to get close enough to us to see the life of Christ in action" (99).
Am I a receiver or a reproducer of God's Word? "How can I listen to His Word so that I'm equipped to teach this word to others"? (102).
People of God no longer listen "as if His Word is intended to stop with them. They... [live] as if God's Word is intended to spread through them" (103).
"God's design... involves... sacrificing every facet of [life] to multiply the life of Christ in others" (104).
"(...we may be the only organization in the world defining success by what we don't do.)"
"... discipling... involves propelling Christians into the world to risk their lives for the sake of others....going, baptizing, and teaching in the contexts where [we] live every day" (105). Is anything else... even... church?" (106).
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
797
David Platt, Radical
"The message of Biblical Christianity is 'God loves me so that I might make Him--His ways, His salvation, His glory, and His greatness--known among all nations'" (70).
"... spend all of our lives for the sake of all of God's glory in all of the world" (83).
All Jesus wanted was "a few men who would think as He did, love as He did, see as He did, teach as He did, and serve as He did.... They were... His life" (88-89).
"The plan of Christ is not dependent on having the right programs or hiring the right professionals but on building and being the right people.... who realize that we are all enabled and equipped to carry out the purpose of God for our lives." People scattered among the church "take ownership for accomplishing the plan of Christ" (92).
"He has given us people, and He has said, 'Live for them. Love them, serve them, and lead them. Lead them to follow me, and lead them to lead others to follow me" (93).
"The message of Biblical Christianity is 'God loves me so that I might make Him--His ways, His salvation, His glory, and His greatness--known among all nations'" (70).
"... spend all of our lives for the sake of all of God's glory in all of the world" (83).
All Jesus wanted was "a few men who would think as He did, love as He did, see as He did, teach as He did, and serve as He did.... They were... His life" (88-89).
"The plan of Christ is not dependent on having the right programs or hiring the right professionals but on building and being the right people.... who realize that we are all enabled and equipped to carry out the purpose of God for our lives." People scattered among the church "take ownership for accomplishing the plan of Christ" (92).
"He has given us people, and He has said, 'Live for them. Love them, serve them, and lead them. Lead them to follow me, and lead them to lead others to follow me" (93).
Monday, July 4, 2011
796
David Platt, Radical
"... we have reduced [Jesus] to a poor, puny Savior who is just begging us to accept Him. ACCEPT Him? Do we really think Jesus needs our acceptance? Don't WE need Him?" Jesus is [not] one to be accepted or invited in but one who is infinitely worthy of our immediate and total surrender (37, 39).
"... cheap caricatures of Christianity that fail to exalt the revelation of God in His Word (39). Maybe we should "just read from the Word.... The Spirit is good to work with that" (40).
"... a heart that is cleansed from sin [and] longs for Him" (41).
"... our utter inability to accomplish anything of value apart from Him" (46).
What are things of value?
God "puts His people in positions where they are desperate for His power, and then He shows His provision in ways that display His greatness" (48).
charade= require little, if any, power from God" (49).
What is strangely lacking is desperation for the power of God" (51).
"... we have reduced [Jesus] to a poor, puny Savior who is just begging us to accept Him. ACCEPT Him? Do we really think Jesus needs our acceptance? Don't WE need Him?" Jesus is [not] one to be accepted or invited in but one who is infinitely worthy of our immediate and total surrender (37, 39).
"... cheap caricatures of Christianity that fail to exalt the revelation of God in His Word (39). Maybe we should "just read from the Word.... The Spirit is good to work with that" (40).
"... a heart that is cleansed from sin [and] longs for Him" (41).
"... our utter inability to accomplish anything of value apart from Him" (46).
What are things of value?
God "puts His people in positions where they are desperate for His power, and then He shows His provision in ways that display His greatness" (48).
charade= require little, if any, power from God" (49).
What is strangely lacking is desperation for the power of God" (51).
Thursday, June 30, 2011
795
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
DVD 6
If I'm stuck, there's something I must unload.
If God has called me into this valley, the strength will be there.
The broken road led me to Jesus.
David Platt, Radical
"We are afraid that if we stop and really look at God in His Word, we might discover that He evokes greater awe and demands deeper worship than we are ready to give Him" (29).
No comforts, no bells and whistles, "Nothing but the people of God and the Word of God. And strangely, that's enough....But is His Word enough for us?" (26)
"... people are spiritually dead,... and only words from God can bring them to spiritual life" (30). "We don't like what we see of ourselves in the gospel, so we shrink back from it" (31).
"God doesn't wait for people to find their way [up the mountain] to Him.... He comes to us..." (35).
"Our attempts to reduce this Gospel to a shrink-wrapped presentation that persuades someone to say or pray the right things... no longer seems appropriate" (37).
DVD 6
If I'm stuck, there's something I must unload.
If God has called me into this valley, the strength will be there.
The broken road led me to Jesus.
David Platt, Radical
"We are afraid that if we stop and really look at God in His Word, we might discover that He evokes greater awe and demands deeper worship than we are ready to give Him" (29).
No comforts, no bells and whistles, "Nothing but the people of God and the Word of God. And strangely, that's enough....But is His Word enough for us?" (26)
"... people are spiritually dead,... and only words from God can bring them to spiritual life" (30). "We don't like what we see of ourselves in the gospel, so we shrink back from it" (31).
"God doesn't wait for people to find their way [up the mountain] to Him.... He comes to us..." (35).
"Our attempts to reduce this Gospel to a shrink-wrapped presentation that persuades someone to say or pray the right things... no longer seems appropriate" (37).
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
794
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"... those of us in Christ are never stuck."
"God wants [me] to take the next step in [my] serving life. Stepping up sometimes means stepping out" (168).
Kidner as quoted in Moore: "... to bless God is to acknowledge gratefully what He is; but to bless men, God must make of him what he is not, and give him what he has not."
... the primary reason He asks us to surrender everything to Him is to make room to receive what He wants to give" (169).
Word Biblical Commentary: Worship at Zion is a doorway that opens out into the power behind the world....Dynamic potential is given to those who sincerely acknowledge God's power. Essentially it is unsought and comes as a gracious byproduct of worship" (170).
"The mud I got on my feet from ditch-dwelling didn't belong there."
"... your God is a person, Jesus Christ...."
"May your eyes be open to snares your enemy sets in your path, and should you tumble into the ditch, may your troubled heart be disallowed to condemn you" (171).
"... those of us in Christ are never stuck."
"God wants [me] to take the next step in [my] serving life. Stepping up sometimes means stepping out" (168).
Kidner as quoted in Moore: "... to bless God is to acknowledge gratefully what He is; but to bless men, God must make of him what he is not, and give him what he has not."
... the primary reason He asks us to surrender everything to Him is to make room to receive what He wants to give" (169).
Word Biblical Commentary: Worship at Zion is a doorway that opens out into the power behind the world....Dynamic potential is given to those who sincerely acknowledge God's power. Essentially it is unsought and comes as a gracious byproduct of worship" (170).
"The mud I got on my feet from ditch-dwelling didn't belong there."
"... your God is a person, Jesus Christ...."
"May your eyes be open to snares your enemy sets in your path, and should you tumble into the ditch, may your troubled heart be disallowed to condemn you" (171).
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
793
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent, DVD 6
Psalmist-worship "rises like incense to the throne of Zion with utmost honesty yet inward hope. And with face-down conviction inviting chip-up redemption" (164).
The psalmist "offers his praise as a sacrifice in the darkest of nights" (165).
"A true psalmist 'praises his way to victory,; knowing it will come because the praise itself renders the first blow to his enemy's brow."
"Worship has endless side effects in [everyday life].... it exalts God to the highest place, thereby relieving the sojourner of the backbreaking burden of ego. It defeats our enemy. It answers grace with gratitude. And it ends in joy.... We don't have to wait until we [get there]... before we enjoy what is at the end of the road.... We who are in Christ are on our way to a wedding of such glorious and expensive proportions that we'll have to change our clothes from mortal to immortal just to survive the thrill" (166).
Psalmist-worship "rises like incense to the throne of Zion with utmost honesty yet inward hope. And with face-down conviction inviting chip-up redemption" (164).
The psalmist "offers his praise as a sacrifice in the darkest of nights" (165).
"A true psalmist 'praises his way to victory,; knowing it will come because the praise itself renders the first blow to his enemy's brow."
"Worship has endless side effects in [everyday life].... it exalts God to the highest place, thereby relieving the sojourner of the backbreaking burden of ego. It defeats our enemy. It answers grace with gratitude. And it ends in joy.... We don't have to wait until we [get there]... before we enjoy what is at the end of the road.... We who are in Christ are on our way to a wedding of such glorious and expensive proportions that we'll have to change our clothes from mortal to immortal just to survive the thrill" (166).
Monday, June 20, 2011
792
Philippians 3:10
For my determined purpose is that I may know Him, that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving/recognizing/ understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and clearly.
Eugene Peterson, as quoted in Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Having arrived at the place of worship, will we now sit around and tell stories about the trip? Having gotten to the big city, will we spend our time here as tourists, visiting the bazaars, window shopping and trading? Having gotten Jerusalem checked off our list of things to do, will we immediately begin looking for another challenge, another holy place to visit? Will the temple be a place to socialize, receive congratulations from others on our achievement, a place to share gossip and trade stories, a place to make business contacts that will improve our prospects back home? But that is not why you made the trip: Bless God. You are here because God blessed you. Now you bless God" (164-165).
For my determined purpose is that I may know Him, that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving/recognizing/ understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and clearly.
Eugene Peterson, as quoted in Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Having arrived at the place of worship, will we now sit around and tell stories about the trip? Having gotten to the big city, will we spend our time here as tourists, visiting the bazaars, window shopping and trading? Having gotten Jerusalem checked off our list of things to do, will we immediately begin looking for another challenge, another holy place to visit? Will the temple be a place to socialize, receive congratulations from others on our achievement, a place to share gossip and trade stories, a place to make business contacts that will improve our prospects back home? But that is not why you made the trip: Bless God. You are here because God blessed you. Now you bless God" (164-165).
Friday, June 17, 2011
791
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"God often uses other people as the chisel to carve true integrity into our rough personalities. A chisel that never scrapes the stone is useless."
The first murder was a religious fight over whom God loved best (interfaith debates) (157).
"... unity does not equal uniformity" (158).
"Jesus' kind of unity doesn't exist until two people stand shoulder to shoulder who before stood sword to sword (161).
My Psalm 133
How pleasant it could be if I chose to be one with my relatives in spite of the hurt I feel
and with my church family in spite of the hurts there.
That unity could set me up for Anointing, consecrating my whole body, my birth family, and church family. Unity brings God's blessing and gives life to all.
"God often uses other people as the chisel to carve true integrity into our rough personalities. A chisel that never scrapes the stone is useless."
The first murder was a religious fight over whom God loved best (interfaith debates) (157).
"... unity does not equal uniformity" (158).
"Jesus' kind of unity doesn't exist until two people stand shoulder to shoulder who before stood sword to sword (161).
My Psalm 133
How pleasant it could be if I chose to be one with my relatives in spite of the hurt I feel
and with my church family in spite of the hurts there.
That unity could set me up for Anointing, consecrating my whole body, my birth family, and church family. Unity brings God's blessing and gives life to all.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
790
My Psalm 132
Father, my humiliations and hardships cannot be remembered to my credit;
I feel I have shown no endurance;
remember me still.
My vows were wishy-washy or made in pride,
yet You allow me into Your Tabernacle--
allow me access to Your Ark--
allow me to worship at the mercy seat.
You have given me salvation clothes and have made me a priest/king.
For Jesus sake You have not rejected me.
Help me keep Your covenant and eat Your Testimony--
bring in my children, their children, and theirs 'til You come.
Thank You for choosing my heart as Your habitation,
for dwelling there forever and not leaving me.
Teach me to be satisfied with Your bread.
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"If we choose to be around only those who require virtually nothing hard from us, what will prompt us (force us) to change?" (155)
Father, my humiliations and hardships cannot be remembered to my credit;
I feel I have shown no endurance;
remember me still.
My vows were wishy-washy or made in pride,
yet You allow me into Your Tabernacle--
allow me access to Your Ark--
allow me to worship at the mercy seat.
You have given me salvation clothes and have made me a priest/king.
For Jesus sake You have not rejected me.
Help me keep Your covenant and eat Your Testimony--
bring in my children, their children, and theirs 'til You come.
Thank You for choosing my heart as Your habitation,
for dwelling there forever and not leaving me.
Teach me to be satisfied with Your bread.
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"If we choose to be around only those who require virtually nothing hard from us, what will prompt us (force us) to change?" (155)
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
789
"When fishermen don't fish, they fight."
We have to learn to fight FOR each other rather than WITH each other.
Zephaniah 3:17, Amp.: "... in His love He will make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]...."
Zephaniah 3:9, Message: "In the end I will turn things around for the people. I'll give them a language undistorted, unpolluted, words to address God in worship and, united, to serve me with their shoulders to the wheel."
God "probably has few bigger frustrations than when our prayerlessness denies Him a chance to do 'immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20)."
He's answered that way "some of the very requests you assumed He answered negatively (149).
I am a priest dressed in salvation clothes (151).
We have to learn to fight FOR each other rather than WITH each other.
Zephaniah 3:17, Amp.: "... in His love He will make no mention [of past sins, or even recall them]...."
Zephaniah 3:9, Message: "In the end I will turn things around for the people. I'll give them a language undistorted, unpolluted, words to address God in worship and, united, to serve me with their shoulders to the wheel."
God "probably has few bigger frustrations than when our prayerlessness denies Him a chance to do 'immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20)."
He's answered that way "some of the very requests you assumed He answered negatively (149).
I am a priest dressed in salvation clothes (151).
Monday, June 13, 2011
788
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
My Psalm 132
O, God, remember me.
Remember all my mistakes;
but remember, too, my brief episodes of pureness of heart and desire for You.
Remember how I desired that nothing that wasn't of You remain in my life.
Help me get to that place with You again.
Teach me to worship at Your footstool.
Make my heart Your footstool and a place of quiet repose for You.
DVD 5: Mary and Joseph set out assuming Christ was with them, but He was not: How many times have I done/do I do the same (143)?
(based upon Jeremiah 41:1-10) I have paid heavy tribute to the enemy. The enemy wins when I don't forgive. Forgive because Christ is worthy.
DISCOURAGEMENT: enemy's success.
I Peter 4:7-8--LOVE COVERS!
I wrongly feel others are not safe to love.
My Psalm 132
O, God, remember me.
Remember all my mistakes;
but remember, too, my brief episodes of pureness of heart and desire for You.
Remember how I desired that nothing that wasn't of You remain in my life.
Help me get to that place with You again.
Teach me to worship at Your footstool.
Make my heart Your footstool and a place of quiet repose for You.
DVD 5: Mary and Joseph set out assuming Christ was with them, but He was not: How many times have I done/do I do the same (143)?
(based upon Jeremiah 41:1-10) I have paid heavy tribute to the enemy. The enemy wins when I don't forgive. Forgive because Christ is worthy.
DISCOURAGEMENT: enemy's success.
I Peter 4:7-8--LOVE COVERS!
I wrongly feel others are not safe to love.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
787
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"The essence of wholeness is God's winning us wholly with His affection, His truth, and His healing Word. Truly, God is our soul-ologist...." Peterson: "'Christian faith is not neurotic dependency but childlike trust" (135).
"We don't cure arrogance by becoming victims'" i.e., a misguided attempt to be humble (136).
A child "surrenders every care in the world: (138).
My Psalm 131
Father, re-create in me a heart that is not haughty and eyes that are not proud, a spirit that is not arrogant, but no neurotic or a "victim." Help me to trust You even when questions go unanswered. Teach me to cease fretting--to be calm in Your lap. I desire to hope in You (138).
"Arise and come," LORD (141).
It's "worth everything I have to do to adjust and alter my life to draw close to You" (143).
"The essence of wholeness is God's winning us wholly with His affection, His truth, and His healing Word. Truly, God is our soul-ologist...." Peterson: "'Christian faith is not neurotic dependency but childlike trust" (135).
"We don't cure arrogance by becoming victims'" i.e., a misguided attempt to be humble (136).
A child "surrenders every care in the world: (138).
My Psalm 131
Father, re-create in me a heart that is not haughty and eyes that are not proud, a spirit that is not arrogant, but no neurotic or a "victim." Help me to trust You even when questions go unanswered. Teach me to cease fretting--to be calm in Your lap. I desire to hope in You (138).
"Arise and come," LORD (141).
It's "worth everything I have to do to adjust and alter my life to draw close to You" (143).
Friday, June 10, 2011
786
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"God cannot bring the Kingdom increase to our harvests that He desires until our egos decrease.... our pride is a strobe-light flashing how ignorant we are about God.... humility is the truest sign of intimacy with God" (132).
"The primary reason we are sometimes at a loss for words is that we should be.... We're in over our heads, and silence is our best option."
"Out of the ashes of the unfathomable, sooner than later our Lazarus-faith must rise from the dead--questions still unanswered--or the enemy has won."
"'I do not seek, O LORD, to penetrate Thy depths. I by no means think my intellect equal to them: but I long to understand in some degree Thy truth, which my heart believes and loves. For I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe, that I may understand'" (Anselm, English monk, eleventh century, as quote in Moore, 134).
"We don't know what will show up on us until God turns up the heat" (135).
"God cannot bring the Kingdom increase to our harvests that He desires until our egos decrease.... our pride is a strobe-light flashing how ignorant we are about God.... humility is the truest sign of intimacy with God" (132).
"The primary reason we are sometimes at a loss for words is that we should be.... We're in over our heads, and silence is our best option."
"Out of the ashes of the unfathomable, sooner than later our Lazarus-faith must rise from the dead--questions still unanswered--or the enemy has won."
"'I do not seek, O LORD, to penetrate Thy depths. I by no means think my intellect equal to them: but I long to understand in some degree Thy truth, which my heart believes and loves. For I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe, that I may understand'" (Anselm, English monk, eleventh century, as quote in Moore, 134).
"We don't know what will show up on us until God turns up the heat" (135).
Monday, June 6, 2011
784
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"The psalmist petitioned God from his tiptoes in a posture ready to receive." What I most need redeemed may have resulted from someone else's sin. God redeems in full, which means I can be pure before Him!
Jeremiah 29:13
"'I will restore you to the place I deported you from.'"
God can restore my identity, my purity, my ability, and my sanity. He not only diffuses my past of all power to harm and haunt me, but He infuses it with power to help others. God won't get the glory, and the enemy won't be defeated in that area until the bad is used for good.
"The psalmist petitioned God from his tiptoes in a posture ready to receive." What I most need redeemed may have resulted from someone else's sin. God redeems in full, which means I can be pure before Him!
Jeremiah 29:13
"'I will restore you to the place I deported you from.'"
God can restore my identity, my purity, my ability, and my sanity. He not only diffuses my past of all power to harm and haunt me, but He infuses it with power to help others. God won't get the glory, and the enemy won't be defeated in that area until the bad is used for good.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
783
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"... God is not the one keeping the record. You are." I am. I keep playing the record over and over. "You may think you are honoring God with misery over your past mistakes, but you're not.... you're walking in unbelief-- not trusting what He promised to do if you'd repent
[I John 1:9] ... Self-condemnation does not honor God" (124).
"... the truth of Scripture trumps every human emotion."
Psalm 130:7 "... put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with Him is full redemption."
The enemy's "native language is deception" (125).
"Though the psalmist was convinced that his own poor decision had aggravated his plight, he placed his hope in what God's Word said about confusion, and forgiveness, sought God and fully expected God to show up in his circumstances" (126).
"... God is not the one keeping the record. You are." I am. I keep playing the record over and over. "You may think you are honoring God with misery over your past mistakes, but you're not.... you're walking in unbelief-- not trusting what He promised to do if you'd repent
[I John 1:9] ... Self-condemnation does not honor God" (124).
"... the truth of Scripture trumps every human emotion."
Psalm 130:7 "... put your hope in the LORD, for with the LORD is unfailing love and with Him is full redemption."
The enemy's "native language is deception" (125).
"Though the psalmist was convinced that his own poor decision had aggravated his plight, he placed his hope in what God's Word said about confusion, and forgiveness, sought God and fully expected God to show up in his circumstances" (126).
Friday, June 3, 2011
782
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Jesus is the author of connection. The enemy is the author of isolation. The more the enemy takes us captive, the further we distance ourselves from healthy people." If we remain in captivity long enough, our circle will get smaller and smaller until we finally begin to resent/despise the few in it with us. Ultimately we feel isolated even from the few until we're left with the feeling we are entirely alone. God is so connected to us that He even shows up where we don't want Him! No matter how ashamed I am for Him to find us in the shape I'm in, acknowledging His Presence in my pit is my first step out (123).
In John 1:9 "all" includes the one thing I keep reliving and grieving....deep in our souls we want to punish ourselves and return to what we think we deserve....Christ took what I deserve" (124).
"Jesus is the author of connection. The enemy is the author of isolation. The more the enemy takes us captive, the further we distance ourselves from healthy people." If we remain in captivity long enough, our circle will get smaller and smaller until we finally begin to resent/despise the few in it with us. Ultimately we feel isolated even from the few until we're left with the feeling we are entirely alone. God is so connected to us that He even shows up where we don't want Him! No matter how ashamed I am for Him to find us in the shape I'm in, acknowledging His Presence in my pit is my first step out (123).
In John 1:9 "all" includes the one thing I keep reliving and grieving....deep in our souls we want to punish ourselves and return to what we think we deserve....Christ took what I deserve" (124).
Thursday, June 2, 2011
781
my Psalm 129
I was mistreated when I was young, but I don't have to let that keep me down. Other people walked long, deep wounds (furrows) over my back, in my mind, in my heart. Father, You ripped to shreds their reins. You planted seeds of unconditional love and healing into those ugly furrows. May they be humiliated. Let them feel how I felt. Then forgive them and heal them, as You daily do for me.
epitome of rejoicing--when the most pious/solemn lead the dancing
I have nothing more contagious than my joy.
All inappropriate celebration is a wigged-out desire to praise.
Psalm 130:4, 7
With You there is forgiveness, faithful love, and redemption in abundance.
In my shame, the silence of the body of Christ leaves me to think no one care/understands. All sin; and without grace, no one could stand.
I was mistreated when I was young, but I don't have to let that keep me down. Other people walked long, deep wounds (furrows) over my back, in my mind, in my heart. Father, You ripped to shreds their reins. You planted seeds of unconditional love and healing into those ugly furrows. May they be humiliated. Let them feel how I felt. Then forgive them and heal them, as You daily do for me.
epitome of rejoicing--when the most pious/solemn lead the dancing
I have nothing more contagious than my joy.
All inappropriate celebration is a wigged-out desire to praise.
Psalm 130:4, 7
With You there is forgiveness, faithful love, and redemption in abundance.
In my shame, the silence of the body of Christ leaves me to think no one care/understands. All sin; and without grace, no one could stand.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
780
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Because God is gracious, His place is spacious" (107). When rebellion is "the great escape," the inevitable result is "another form of oppression wearing a different outfit" (108).
People oppressed from youth grow up to let strong personalities walk all over them"; or they resent them/have difficulty with them (109).
"If we don't allow God to heal our hearts, minds, and habits, we will either continue to allow people to walk all over us or we'll become people who walk all over them....When we begin to see our value in Christ and go to our faces, giving our backs to Him rather than to others, if we'll take Him at His Word, He'll sow His seed into those furrows. In time an oak of righteousness will grow, ' a planting of the LORD for the display of His splendor (Isaiah 61:3). Its branches... give hope to the hurting, shade to the children, and aggravation to the devil" (110).
"Because God is gracious, His place is spacious" (107). When rebellion is "the great escape," the inevitable result is "another form of oppression wearing a different outfit" (108).
People oppressed from youth grow up to let strong personalities walk all over them"; or they resent them/have difficulty with them (109).
"If we don't allow God to heal our hearts, minds, and habits, we will either continue to allow people to walk all over us or we'll become people who walk all over them....When we begin to see our value in Christ and go to our faces, giving our backs to Him rather than to others, if we'll take Him at His Word, He'll sow His seed into those furrows. In time an oak of righteousness will grow, ' a planting of the LORD for the display of His splendor (Isaiah 61:3). Its branches... give hope to the hurting, shade to the children, and aggravation to the devil" (110).
Monday, May 30, 2011
779
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Sometimes the blessing resides in what we avoided, not just in what we gain" (100).
When faced with a relational or social decision, ask "... what respects God most and reflects His ways?"
"God's ways are always right and His commands always have positive effects. They protect not only His supremacy but our humanity" (102).
"Blessing has inherent in it the power to increase" (103).
"Matthew 28:19 is not called The Great Permission" (104).
My Psalm 128
How blessed I am! How happily I can walk on Your smooth, straight road! I can enjoy the blessing and revel in Your goodness. I stand in awe of You. You bless the one who fears You. I can enjoy the good life in Your Jerusalem every day of my life. I pray peace to Israel.
"Sometimes the blessing resides in what we avoided, not just in what we gain" (100).
When faced with a relational or social decision, ask "... what respects God most and reflects His ways?"
"God's ways are always right and His commands always have positive effects. They protect not only His supremacy but our humanity" (102).
"Blessing has inherent in it the power to increase" (103).
"Matthew 28:19 is not called The Great Permission" (104).
My Psalm 128
How blessed I am! How happily I can walk on Your smooth, straight road! I can enjoy the blessing and revel in Your goodness. I stand in awe of You. You bless the one who fears You. I can enjoy the good life in Your Jerusalem every day of my life. I pray peace to Israel.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
778
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
I have been pursued. Help me to slow down and let Christ Jesus apprehend me with His love (84).
"Daniel is a perfect example of a man whose work was blessed even when his workplace is not.... 'The curse of some people's lives is not work, as such, but senseless work, vain work, futile work, work that takes place apart from God'" (Peterson. 86)
"Work where God works; then rest..." (87).
"Once we get grace, we give grace": GET as in receive, but also comprehend/understand.
My Psalm 127
God, be the builder of every aspect of my house.
Guard my city.
Teach me how to work hard but rest well.
My children/grands are Your generous legacy.
I am blessed because of them.
My enemies don't stand a chance against me--
You'll sweep them right off my doorstep.
I have been pursued. Help me to slow down and let Christ Jesus apprehend me with His love (84).
"Daniel is a perfect example of a man whose work was blessed even when his workplace is not.... 'The curse of some people's lives is not work, as such, but senseless work, vain work, futile work, work that takes place apart from God'" (Peterson. 86)
"Work where God works; then rest..." (87).
"Once we get grace, we give grace": GET as in receive, but also comprehend/understand.
My Psalm 127
God, be the builder of every aspect of my house.
Guard my city.
Teach me how to work hard but rest well.
My children/grands are Your generous legacy.
I am blessed because of them.
My enemies don't stand a chance against me--
You'll sweep them right off my doorstep.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
777
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Some... eat the seed and never sow it for a harvest."
"We'll think we accepted the teaching because we were so moved by it. But you see, the seed of God's Word can fill our stomachs and give us immediate satisfaction and still not produce a harvest--that's when we eat it but don't sow it. Many times we apply Biblical truth to our theologies without applying it to the actual practicalities of life (81).... We were meant to eat from the sheaves, not from the seeds" (82).
My Psalm 126
You have done great things for me, Father.
I can be glad no matter what.
Turn to freedom my captivity to food, people-leasing, judgmental/critical spirit, giving up, eating seed rather than sowing it. Teach me to sow and water with tears so that I can reap in joy.
"Some... eat the seed and never sow it for a harvest."
"We'll think we accepted the teaching because we were so moved by it. But you see, the seed of God's Word can fill our stomachs and give us immediate satisfaction and still not produce a harvest--that's when we eat it but don't sow it. Many times we apply Biblical truth to our theologies without applying it to the actual practicalities of life (81).... We were meant to eat from the sheaves, not from the seeds" (82).
My Psalm 126
You have done great things for me, Father.
I can be glad no matter what.
Turn to freedom my captivity to food, people-leasing, judgmental/critical spirit, giving up, eating seed rather than sowing it. Teach me to sow and water with tears so that I can reap in joy.
Monday, May 16, 2011
776
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"... difficulties and sorrows... were not meant to stop us but to form the character required for our great harvest in the coming season."
Changes of seasons in my life can be like living under constant tornado watch. I must be willing to fight. The more the enemy sees something crucial on my next step, the more He will fight. "If yesterday's wimp is going to become tomorrow's warrior, something has to happen today" (79).
"... I'll never endure a season of tears that can't turn into a harvest of joy" (80).
In the poor African villages who are given see, "... they often eat the seed rather than planting it and bringing forth the harvest." We do that with God's Word (81).
"... difficulties and sorrows... were not meant to stop us but to form the character required for our great harvest in the coming season."
Changes of seasons in my life can be like living under constant tornado watch. I must be willing to fight. The more the enemy sees something crucial on my next step, the more He will fight. "If yesterday's wimp is going to become tomorrow's warrior, something has to happen today" (79).
"... I'll never endure a season of tears that can't turn into a harvest of joy" (80).
In the poor African villages who are given see, "... they often eat the seed rather than planting it and bringing forth the harvest." We do that with God's Word (81).
Saturday, May 14, 2011
775
Father, grant me, my children and their children and theirs throughout the generations a psalmists' heart to worship Jesus.
Acts 14:22
"It is necessary to pass through many troubles on our way into the kingdom of God.... God's delivering [me] from every ounce of trial will never develop the relationship that occurs when God shows Himself faithful right in the midst of difficulty, delivering [me] through it."
"God keeps His people safe from the prowling lion by encircling us with a crown of thorns" (73).
"... a stronghold was something I looked for in my hair spray" (75).
"We have not seen the last great work of God in our lives.... We haven't used up our quota of God's mercies for the year" (78).
Acts 14:22
"It is necessary to pass through many troubles on our way into the kingdom of God.... God's delivering [me] from every ounce of trial will never develop the relationship that occurs when God shows Himself faithful right in the midst of difficulty, delivering [me] through it."
"God keeps His people safe from the prowling lion by encircling us with a crown of thorns" (73).
"... a stronghold was something I looked for in my hair spray" (75).
"We have not seen the last great work of God in our lives.... We haven't used up our quota of God's mercies for the year" (78).
774
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
(1) Passover pictures the death of the Messiah.
(2) The Feast of Unleavened Bread pictures the burial of Messiah.
(3) Firstfruits pictures the resurrection.
"When key people in your formative years were supposed to bring you security but brought insecurity instead, you inherit a tremor in your soul that is impossible to still naturally" (68).
--the mistake of placing security in the blessing of God rather than in God Himself
My security cannot be even in passion for His Word.... God's favor and His person are not synonymous. If my trust is in manifestations of His favor rather than in God Himself, I will crumble like dry clay when He calls me to walk a distance of my journey entirely by faith and not by sight (69).
(1) Passover pictures the death of the Messiah.
(2) The Feast of Unleavened Bread pictures the burial of Messiah.
(3) Firstfruits pictures the resurrection.
"When key people in your formative years were supposed to bring you security but brought insecurity instead, you inherit a tremor in your soul that is impossible to still naturally" (68).
--the mistake of placing security in the blessing of God rather than in God Himself
My security cannot be even in passion for His Word.... God's favor and His person are not synonymous. If my trust is in manifestations of His favor rather than in God Himself, I will crumble like dry clay when He calls me to walk a distance of my journey entirely by faith and not by sight (69).
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
772
Zecharaiah 2:8 says "whoever touches one of God's children touches the apple of His eye. God will overlook an attack against you about as readily as He would overlook someone repeatedly poking Him in the eye" (54).
Christ will never take me into a battle I cannot win.
Regardless of how long we've been Christians and how deeply we've studied God, Word, most of us don't really believe down in the marrow of our bones that God is entirely, wholeheartedly, and unwaveringly on our side. We live most of our lives unconvinced that God is really for us.... we believe down in the hidden places of our hearts and minds that God at best tolerates us.... because He's stuck with us" (58).
God "knows when something glorious in the future necessitates something difficult in the present" (60).
Christ will never take me into a battle I cannot win.
Regardless of how long we've been Christians and how deeply we've studied God, Word, most of us don't really believe down in the marrow of our bones that God is entirely, wholeheartedly, and unwaveringly on our side. We live most of our lives unconvinced that God is really for us.... we believe down in the hidden places of our hearts and minds that God at best tolerates us.... because He's stuck with us" (58).
God "knows when something glorious in the future necessitates something difficult in the present" (60).
771
my Psalm 123
I am daily treated with contempt, but I am also guilty of contempt toward others.
I have been treated arrogantly, but I have also been arrogant.
Give me courage in the face of contempt; Forgive my contemptuous attitude toward others.
Show me Your favor, O LORD; and grant Your favor to those I've ridiculed or disrespected.
My battle is not with flesh and blood but with powers of darkness, but Satan successfully enlists human help in his scheme against me.... Satan hates me because I remind him of the position he lost.... He hatefully attacks me because he can't touch God. The closest he can come to hurting God is to hurt me.
I am daily treated with contempt, but I am also guilty of contempt toward others.
I have been treated arrogantly, but I have also been arrogant.
Give me courage in the face of contempt; Forgive my contemptuous attitude toward others.
Show me Your favor, O LORD; and grant Your favor to those I've ridiculed or disrespected.
My battle is not with flesh and blood but with powers of darkness, but Satan successfully enlists human help in his scheme against me.... Satan hates me because I remind him of the position he lost.... He hatefully attacks me because he can't touch God. The closest he can come to hurting God is to hurt me.
Monday, May 9, 2011
770
"You can be a cretin, but if you have the Queen's accent, next thing you know you are on Johnny Carson and he'll laugh at anything you say" (Verghese, CUTTING FOR STONE).
cretin= stupid, vulgar, or insensitive person; clod; lout
Ephesians 1:18: I can have the eyes of my heart enlightened.
Beth Moore: Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
Picture God standing between me and the person mistreating me. Help me have courage to ask whether I'm unknowingly doing anything to cause it" (50).
Transform me into Your treasure; make me receive this divine quality that incorporates us into thy closest family (51).
My Psalm 123: Help me lift my eyes to You as You are enthroned, high and lifted up. Help me accept the truth that I can look to You for favor.
cretin= stupid, vulgar, or insensitive person; clod; lout
Ephesians 1:18: I can have the eyes of my heart enlightened.
Beth Moore: Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
Picture God standing between me and the person mistreating me. Help me have courage to ask whether I'm unknowingly doing anything to cause it" (50).
Transform me into Your treasure; make me receive this divine quality that incorporates us into thy closest family (51).
My Psalm 123: Help me lift my eyes to You as You are enthroned, high and lifted up. Help me accept the truth that I can look to You for favor.
769
"... no money, no church service, no eulogy, no funeral procession no matter how elaborate, can remove the legacy of a mean spirit" (Verghese, CUTTING FOR STONE).
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Bringing m complaint before God is much more effective than dumping it on other people" (20).
"I'm weary of living/working continually around people who thrive on drama" (21).
At no time does God abdicate my guardianship to an angel alone, regardless of how mighty" (25).
"We are not presented with a functional god who will help us out of jams or an entertainment god who will lighten our tedious hours. We are presented with the God of exodus and Easter, the God of Sinai and Calvary.... The moment I look up to God, not over or down at Him, I am in the posture of servitude" (45).
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"Bringing m complaint before God is much more effective than dumping it on other people" (20).
"I'm weary of living/working continually around people who thrive on drama" (21).
At no time does God abdicate my guardianship to an angel alone, regardless of how mighty" (25).
"We are not presented with a functional god who will help us out of jams or an entertainment god who will lighten our tedious hours. We are presented with the God of exodus and Easter, the God of Sinai and Calvary.... The moment I look up to God, not over or down at Him, I am in the posture of servitude" (45).
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
768
Psalms divided into five "books" possibly corresponding to 5 books of Moses:
1--1-41
2--42-72
3--73-89
4--90-106
5--107-150
John Calvin has called Psalms "'An anatomy of all the parts of the soul'."
Holy Spirit has in Psalms, drawn to the life all the griefs, sorrows, fears, doubts, hopes, cares, perplexities, in short, all the distracting emotions with which the minds of men are wont to be agitated.
Honesty is not inconsistent with worship.
Psalm 120, Message, v. 2: Deliver me from lying and from the liars, God.
Sometimes the best motivation we'll ever have for going someplace new is distress over someplace old (15-18).
1--1-41
2--42-72
3--73-89
4--90-106
5--107-150
John Calvin has called Psalms "'An anatomy of all the parts of the soul'."
Holy Spirit has in Psalms, drawn to the life all the griefs, sorrows, fears, doubts, hopes, cares, perplexities, in short, all the distracting emotions with which the minds of men are wont to be agitated.
Honesty is not inconsistent with worship.
Psalm 120, Message, v. 2: Deliver me from lying and from the liars, God.
Sometimes the best motivation we'll ever have for going someplace new is distress over someplace old (15-18).
Monday, May 2, 2011
767
Beth Moore, Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
You are still God upon the throne of all creation. You are holy and mighty beyond comprehension, so worthy of my praise and the outpouring of my life's energies. Today I gladly give myself to You. I am convinced that You are always for me. Obedience to You will always mean Your very best for me. I can come WITHOUT SHAME before Your throne because I pray in Jesus' Name.
Forehead to the floor and floor to the forehead.
I want to learn to take the high road when I am so often tempted to take the low road (13).
If God had already taken me everywhere He intended, I'd be at His feet now. God still has appointments for me here.
You are still God upon the throne of all creation. You are holy and mighty beyond comprehension, so worthy of my praise and the outpouring of my life's energies. Today I gladly give myself to You. I am convinced that You are always for me. Obedience to You will always mean Your very best for me. I can come WITHOUT SHAME before Your throne because I pray in Jesus' Name.
Forehead to the floor and floor to the forehead.
I want to learn to take the high road when I am so often tempted to take the low road (13).
If God had already taken me everywhere He intended, I'd be at His feet now. God still has appointments for me here.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
766
Beth Moore: Stepping Up: A Journey Through the Psalms of Ascent
"The psalms are great poetry and have lasted, not because they appeal to our fantasies and our wishes, but because they are confirmed in the intensities of honest and hazardous living" (5).
"Say it. Work it. Pray it."
Lord= Adonai; lordship; position as Master
LORD= YHWH; covenant maker, keeper
God= Elohim; universal Creator (6-7).
--take my place on my face
The way up is down (9).
"The psalms are great poetry and have lasted, not because they appeal to our fantasies and our wishes, but because they are confirmed in the intensities of honest and hazardous living" (5).
"Say it. Work it. Pray it."
Lord= Adonai; lordship; position as Master
LORD= YHWH; covenant maker, keeper
God= Elohim; universal Creator (6-7).
--take my place on my face
The way up is down (9).
Friday, April 29, 2011
765
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith, "Commission to Faith," (223)
Lord, today I accept my calling
Not to perfection or performance.
My calling is to faith.
I have been chosen for this generation.
I have a place in the heritage of faith.
I'm going to stop wishing and whining
and start believing/receiving.
What Your Word says is mine.
I won't let others steal my hope.
I won't argue with a Pharisee.
I will believe and therefore speak,
for You, my God, are huge.
Nothing is too hard for You.
Our world needs Your wonders.
Rise up, oh Lord!
Please renew Your works in our day.
I confess the unbelief of my generation
and ask You to begin Your revival of faith in my own heart.
For You Are Who You say You are.
You can do what You say You can do.
I am who You say I am.
I can do all things through Christ.
Your Word is alive/active in me.
satan, hear me clearly:
My Father is Maker of Heaven and Earth.
You are under my feet
because today and the rest of my days,
I'M BELIEVING GOD!
Lord, today I accept my calling
Not to perfection or performance.
My calling is to faith.
I have been chosen for this generation.
I have a place in the heritage of faith.
I'm going to stop wishing and whining
and start believing/receiving.
What Your Word says is mine.
I won't let others steal my hope.
I won't argue with a Pharisee.
I will believe and therefore speak,
for You, my God, are huge.
Nothing is too hard for You.
Our world needs Your wonders.
Rise up, oh Lord!
Please renew Your works in our day.
I confess the unbelief of my generation
and ask You to begin Your revival of faith in my own heart.
For You Are Who You say You are.
You can do what You say You can do.
I am who You say I am.
I can do all things through Christ.
Your Word is alive/active in me.
satan, hear me clearly:
My Father is Maker of Heaven and Earth.
You are under my feet
because today and the rest of my days,
I'M BELIEVING GOD!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
764
"Creed" by Rich Mullins, as quoted in Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
I believe in God the Father
Almighty Maker of Heaven and Maker of Earth
And in Jesus Christ His only begotten Son, our Lord
He was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
Born of the virgin Mary,
Suffered under Pontius Pilate,
He was crucified and dead and buried.
I believe that He who suffered
was crucified, buried and dead
He descended into hell and on the third day,
He rose again
He ascended into Heaven
where He sits at God's mighty right hand
I believe that He's returning
To judge the quick and the dead of the sons of men
I believe in the Holy Spirit
One Holy Church
The communion of Saints
The forgiveness of sins
I believe in the resurrection,
I believe in a life that never ends
I believe what I believe is what makes me what I am
I did not make it,
no it is making me
It is the very truth of God
and not the invention of any man (218).
I believe in God the Father
Almighty Maker of Heaven and Maker of Earth
And in Jesus Christ His only begotten Son, our Lord
He was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
Born of the virgin Mary,
Suffered under Pontius Pilate,
He was crucified and dead and buried.
I believe that He who suffered
was crucified, buried and dead
He descended into hell and on the third day,
He rose again
He ascended into Heaven
where He sits at God's mighty right hand
I believe that He's returning
To judge the quick and the dead of the sons of men
I believe in the Holy Spirit
One Holy Church
The communion of Saints
The forgiveness of sins
I believe in the resurrection,
I believe in a life that never ends
I believe what I believe is what makes me what I am
I did not make it,
no it is making me
It is the very truth of God
and not the invention of any man (218).
Friday, April 22, 2011
763
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
I have God's cell number: It's Jeremiah 33:3 (208).
"Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize, have knowledge of and understand)."
To live in victory, I must know not only who I am but also who I am not (209).
You alone know the ultimate objective to which You align every divine act on behalf of Your children (210).
Galatians 5:6: "The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
You have called me to love even when I don't want to; I don't feel like it; they don't deserve it; they're not worth it; they don't even know it; it makes no difference. Loving sacrificially does not equal subjecting myself to abuse; You don't call me to sacrifice sanity but to sacrifice selfishness (214).
Your love equals supernatural enabling for the supreme purpose of making You conspicuous in me (215). When I lose faith to love, I lose energy to love (216).
"I am a recovering pit-dweller" (217).
I have God's cell number: It's Jeremiah 33:3 (208).
"Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things, fenced in and hidden, which you do not know (do not distinguish and recognize, have knowledge of and understand)."
To live in victory, I must know not only who I am but also who I am not (209).
You alone know the ultimate objective to which You align every divine act on behalf of Your children (210).
Galatians 5:6: "The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love."
You have called me to love even when I don't want to; I don't feel like it; they don't deserve it; they're not worth it; they don't even know it; it makes no difference. Loving sacrificially does not equal subjecting myself to abuse; You don't call me to sacrifice sanity but to sacrifice selfishness (214).
Your love equals supernatural enabling for the supreme purpose of making You conspicuous in me (215). When I lose faith to love, I lose energy to love (216).
"I am a recovering pit-dweller" (217).
Thursday, April 21, 2011
762
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
The God to Whom I commit myself and everything that concerns me is huge to me. You are the omnipotent Maker of heaven and earth. You are the one Who sees. You are the One Who knows. You are the One Who acts on my behalf. You are the Mighty Warrior. You are the compassionate Father. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. You are the coming King. You are love. You are light. You are good. You are right. You are my soul's delight. You are whatever I need. You alone are wise. In You alone life makes sense, and apart from You all is chaos. I say to my soul, "Behold and believe!" You are the Magnificent One, full of splendor, beautiful beyond comprehension.... I can take You up on Your goodness" (200).
The God to Whom I commit myself and everything that concerns me is huge to me. You are the omnipotent Maker of heaven and earth. You are the one Who sees. You are the One Who knows. You are the One Who acts on my behalf. You are the Mighty Warrior. You are the compassionate Father. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. You are the coming King. You are love. You are light. You are good. You are right. You are my soul's delight. You are whatever I need. You alone are wise. In You alone life makes sense, and apart from You all is chaos. I say to my soul, "Behold and believe!" You are the Magnificent One, full of splendor, beautiful beyond comprehension.... I can take You up on Your goodness" (200).
Monday, April 18, 2011
761
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
I "cannot have a drive-thru relationship with God and expect to behold His glory. Joshua didn't get a to-go order of God."
"... much of the body of Christ still stands back and watches those they consider truly anointed draw near God's glory. [I am anointed.] Never settle for a second-hand relationship (199).
The more I know God, the more I will believe Him; and the more I choose to believe Him, the more I will get to know Him. This cycle replaces "'believe little, see little; believe less, see less.'"
We birth faith by knowing the One we believe, and we walk faith by believing the One we know" (200).
Too much of the faith-practice seen in the past century has been human-centered (203).
"Hebrews 11:6 says that faith pleases God, not perfection" (204).
I "cannot have a drive-thru relationship with God and expect to behold His glory. Joshua didn't get a to-go order of God."
"... much of the body of Christ still stands back and watches those they consider truly anointed draw near God's glory. [I am anointed.] Never settle for a second-hand relationship (199).
The more I know God, the more I will believe Him; and the more I choose to believe Him, the more I will get to know Him. This cycle replaces "'believe little, see little; believe less, see less.'"
We birth faith by knowing the One we believe, and we walk faith by believing the One we know" (200).
Too much of the faith-practice seen in the past century has been human-centered (203).
"Hebrews 11:6 says that faith pleases God, not perfection" (204).
Friday, April 15, 2011
760
Open my understanding and sharpen my ability to apply what You show me.
Isaiah 43:10
God chose me as His witness/servant, that I may know Him believe Him, and remain steadfast to Him and understand that He Is Who He is." May Father be able to look at His Son on His right and say, She believed Me today.'"
How can a person who is giving a thousand pieces of herself to innumerable demands and desires ever know wholeness?... giving myself wholly to Him, inviting His healing, and trusting Him to apportion my energies, gifts, and talents most effectively. "I want to practice the kind of faith that invites God to act" (196).
"... every leader who is great in God's eyes is a servant" (198).
I need to "learn how to tarry before God and expectantly wait for Him to speak (199).
Isaiah 43:10
God chose me as His witness/servant, that I may know Him believe Him, and remain steadfast to Him and understand that He Is Who He is." May Father be able to look at His Son on His right and say, She believed Me today.'"
How can a person who is giving a thousand pieces of herself to innumerable demands and desires ever know wholeness?... giving myself wholly to Him, inviting His healing, and trusting Him to apportion my energies, gifts, and talents most effectively. "I want to practice the kind of faith that invites God to act" (196).
"... every leader who is great in God's eyes is a servant" (198).
I need to "learn how to tarry before God and expectantly wait for Him to speak (199).
Thursday, April 14, 2011
759
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
I can either humble myself, or God can humble me.
"Faith that grows proud ceases to be faith....satan has a way to counterfeit every genuine attempt to obey God.... God protects what He ordains" (191).
"It's time for faith.... Leaders first" (192).
"Only one thing is impossible with God: It is impossible to believe Him in vain."
GOD HAS ROLLED AWAY MY REPROACH. No mater who or what rises up against me, God's title trumps every other. HE says He's "the Lord MY righteousness."
God's chastisement will never be JUST for the sake of punishment (195).
Be "increasingly intentional about noting and confessing unbelief; asking Christ to help [my] unbelief; receiving the living, active Word of God; believing, and therefore speaking.... Whatever means You may choose to increase my faith today, I commit myself to that glorious end" (196).
I can either humble myself, or God can humble me.
"Faith that grows proud ceases to be faith....satan has a way to counterfeit every genuine attempt to obey God.... God protects what He ordains" (191).
"It's time for faith.... Leaders first" (192).
"Only one thing is impossible with God: It is impossible to believe Him in vain."
GOD HAS ROLLED AWAY MY REPROACH. No mater who or what rises up against me, God's title trumps every other. HE says He's "the Lord MY righteousness."
God's chastisement will never be JUST for the sake of punishment (195).
Be "increasingly intentional about noting and confessing unbelief; asking Christ to help [my] unbelief; receiving the living, active Word of God; believing, and therefore speaking.... Whatever means You may choose to increase my faith today, I commit myself to that glorious end" (196).
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
758
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
Jesus rolled onto HIMSELF my reproach.
London evangelist Henry Varley: "The world has yet to see what God will do with and for and through and in and by the man who is fully and wholly consecrated to him" (171).
Sometimes my heart is right, but my doctrine is wrong.
"We must persevere in our commitment to Christ, not in our commitment to our commitment" (176).
I may be in the right place but the wrong role.
"safe" mediocrity (180)
"God honors public zeal only when it is matched or surpassed by our zeal for Him in private" (183).
"God is attracted to weakness. He can't resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need him. My weakness makes room for His power. God is willing to come anywhere I will have Him--on His terms.
Jesus rolled onto HIMSELF my reproach.
London evangelist Henry Varley: "The world has yet to see what God will do with and for and through and in and by the man who is fully and wholly consecrated to him" (171).
Sometimes my heart is right, but my doctrine is wrong.
"We must persevere in our commitment to Christ, not in our commitment to our commitment" (176).
I may be in the right place but the wrong role.
"safe" mediocrity (180)
"God honors public zeal only when it is matched or surpassed by our zeal for Him in private" (183).
"God is attracted to weakness. He can't resist those who humbly and honestly admit how desperately they need him. My weakness makes room for His power. God is willing to come anywhere I will have Him--on His terms.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
757
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
DVD 8
I can stay enslaved to my own failure and unbelief.
If I don't want to die in my wilderness, I have to be intentional.
Colossians 2:10
I am IN HIM; I am made full; I've come to fullness of life--filled with the Godhead--I reach for full spiritual stature. Christ has spiritually circumcised me by stripping off the corrupt, carnal nature. It's not a matter of being circumcised or keeping a long list of laws.... I'm already in--an insider--not through some secret initiation rite but through what Christ has already gone through for me, destroying the power of sin (Amp. and Message).
"At Gilgal God cut away the sign of their unbelief, and they wore the mark of their new beginning. Often a wounding precedes full reception of God's promises, but healing always follows. Paradoxically, by this wounding, they were healed (Isaiah 53:5).
DVD 8
I can stay enslaved to my own failure and unbelief.
If I don't want to die in my wilderness, I have to be intentional.
Colossians 2:10
I am IN HIM; I am made full; I've come to fullness of life--filled with the Godhead--I reach for full spiritual stature. Christ has spiritually circumcised me by stripping off the corrupt, carnal nature. It's not a matter of being circumcised or keeping a long list of laws.... I'm already in--an insider--not through some secret initiation rite but through what Christ has already gone through for me, destroying the power of sin (Amp. and Message).
"At Gilgal God cut away the sign of their unbelief, and they wore the mark of their new beginning. Often a wounding precedes full reception of God's promises, but healing always follows. Paradoxically, by this wounding, they were healed (Isaiah 53:5).
Monday, April 11, 2011
756
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
DVD 8
I wear layers of reproach: STOP wearing the reproach of the past!
When I cease being teachable, I cease being a disciple.
I don't have to act upon my unbelief or doubt.
"God has made solemn promises to His children and desires that we live in a place where we get to enjoy their fulfillment."
Joshua 5:9
"Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt."
5:12
"That year they ate from the crops of Canaan."
new beginning and entirely new characterization: grant me, LORD GOD!
I don't have to buy into or live under the shame of an old reputation.
After circumcision comes healing.
Reproach=disgrace, stigma, finger-pointing, real or imagined
DVD 8
I wear layers of reproach: STOP wearing the reproach of the past!
When I cease being teachable, I cease being a disciple.
I don't have to act upon my unbelief or doubt.
"God has made solemn promises to His children and desires that we live in a place where we get to enjoy their fulfillment."
Joshua 5:9
"Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt."
5:12
"That year they ate from the crops of Canaan."
new beginning and entirely new characterization: grant me, LORD GOD!
I don't have to buy into or live under the shame of an old reputation.
After circumcision comes healing.
Reproach=disgrace, stigma, finger-pointing, real or imagined
Thursday, April 7, 2011
755
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
We "act on what we most remember."
The "appropriate practice of memory[:]... remembering the vastness of a powerful and sovereign God... in every situation we recall. Remembering God make sup a vital part of believing God."
In situations in which I feel I've been unfaithful to God, I can practice "retroactive faith... that God can do miraculous good even with terrible failure.... I have most effectively learned to walk around the pit because I have such vivid memory of falling into it" (164).
"... the essence of forgetting is allowing God to heal... and no longer [acting upon] behalf of negative, hurtful, or destructive memories... It no longer empowers my behavior" (166).
We "act on what we most remember."
The "appropriate practice of memory[:]... remembering the vastness of a powerful and sovereign God... in every situation we recall. Remembering God make sup a vital part of believing God."
In situations in which I feel I've been unfaithful to God, I can practice "retroactive faith... that God can do miraculous good even with terrible failure.... I have most effectively learned to walk around the pit because I have such vivid memory of falling into it" (164).
"... the essence of forgetting is allowing God to heal... and no longer [acting upon] behalf of negative, hurtful, or destructive memories... It no longer empowers my behavior" (166).
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
754
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"Traumas surface one way or another. If we're unable to bring them to the surface in healthy ways, they will float to the top in a myriad of destructive ways" (142).
I can trust Holy Spirit "to evoke memories that are true, edifying, and steeped in Jesus."
God was faithful even when I was faithless (144).
When I facilitate, I want to "desire nothing more than to wash... feet with the water of God's Word.
"... we act on most what we remember most" (151).
I 'have to get the old pictures [memories] a new frame [of reference/response]. God breaks the strongholds of my negative meditations when I re-frame my old memories with God in the picture. Freedom and faith emerge from deliberate acts of the will to shift my focus (155).
"... responsibility accompanies revelation" (160).
Isaiah 43:25
"I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more."
"Traumas surface one way or another. If we're unable to bring them to the surface in healthy ways, they will float to the top in a myriad of destructive ways" (142).
I can trust Holy Spirit "to evoke memories that are true, edifying, and steeped in Jesus."
God was faithful even when I was faithless (144).
When I facilitate, I want to "desire nothing more than to wash... feet with the water of God's Word.
"... we act on most what we remember most" (151).
I 'have to get the old pictures [memories] a new frame [of reference/response]. God breaks the strongholds of my negative meditations when I re-frame my old memories with God in the picture. Freedom and faith emerge from deliberate acts of the will to shift my focus (155).
"... responsibility accompanies revelation" (160).
Isaiah 43:25
"I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more."
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
753
Nehemiah 4:14
"...[earnestly] remember the LORD and imprint Him [on your mind]... and [take from Him courage to] fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, and your homes."
Isaiah 43:10
God chose me so that I may know Him, believe Him, and remain steadfast to Him.
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
DVD 7
"Obedience puts me in the position to receive blessing."
God says (Joshua 4) "'Because I have cut covenant with you, I will also cut a path through any obstacle that stands between you and the fulfillment of my covenant promises. I will make the path, but you must take the path."
"With the anointing comes the power to obey."
"We are living reminders to the world that Jesus was here" (141).
Our daughters cannot wait to wear makeup and shave their legs: Can we help them be that eager for spiritual maturity?
"...[earnestly] remember the LORD and imprint Him [on your mind]... and [take from Him courage to] fight for your brethren, your sons, your daughters, and your homes."
Isaiah 43:10
God chose me so that I may know Him, believe Him, and remain steadfast to Him.
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
DVD 7
"Obedience puts me in the position to receive blessing."
God says (Joshua 4) "'Because I have cut covenant with you, I will also cut a path through any obstacle that stands between you and the fulfillment of my covenant promises. I will make the path, but you must take the path."
"With the anointing comes the power to obey."
"We are living reminders to the world that Jesus was here" (141).
Our daughters cannot wait to wear makeup and shave their legs: Can we help them be that eager for spiritual maturity?
Monday, March 28, 2011
752
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"Nothing ultimately causes more pain than our idols. [My] pain can become my idol"... I can make "an idol of [my] past pain" (137).
"... we need to address the detriment that has come to us through other mouths, renounce any hold they might retain, forgive their owners, and ask God to heal our hearts and minds of their damages.... 'No one will ever want you now.' ... 'God can't use you now.' 'You're finished'... 'You're just like your mother'" (138).
"The more thoroughly convinced we become that we are who God says we are, the more we will begin to act like who He says we are. Our daily lives demonstrate what we really believe about ourselves."
"... renounce words other have spoken over us that don't line us with the truth of God's Word.... give others the same privilege. They get to be who God says they are, too."
2 Corinthians 5:17
new = "unused.'
reconciliation = "restoration of favour of God to sinners who repent and put trust in expiatory death of Christ" (139).
"Nothing ultimately causes more pain than our idols. [My] pain can become my idol"... I can make "an idol of [my] past pain" (137).
"... we need to address the detriment that has come to us through other mouths, renounce any hold they might retain, forgive their owners, and ask God to heal our hearts and minds of their damages.... 'No one will ever want you now.' ... 'God can't use you now.' 'You're finished'... 'You're just like your mother'" (138).
"The more thoroughly convinced we become that we are who God says we are, the more we will begin to act like who He says we are. Our daily lives demonstrate what we really believe about ourselves."
"... renounce words other have spoken over us that don't line us with the truth of God's Word.... give others the same privilege. They get to be who God says they are, too."
2 Corinthians 5:17
new = "unused.'
reconciliation = "restoration of favour of God to sinners who repent and put trust in expiatory death of Christ" (139).
Thursday, March 24, 2011
751
I want my Bible study classes to be memorable because I want people to apply the spiritual truths. I know that if the Holy Spirit can, through a lesson, change the way people think, it will change the way they live."
Proverbs 14:14
A good man shall be satisfied with holy thoughts and actions which his heart prompts and in which he delights.
v. 30: envy, jealously, and wrath are like rottenness of the bones.
Ephesians 1:3
God has ALREADY blessed me IN CHRIST with every blessing given by Holy Spirit in the heavenly realm.
v. 6: that I might be to the praise of God's grace, His favor and mercy that He freely bestowed on me in Christ.
v. 12: I have been destined and appointed to live for the praise of His glory.
v. 13: I have been stamped with the seal of Holy Spirit.
v. 23: In His church lives Christ's full measure. He make everything complete and fills everything everywhere with Himself.
Proverbs 14:14
A good man shall be satisfied with holy thoughts and actions which his heart prompts and in which he delights.
v. 30: envy, jealously, and wrath are like rottenness of the bones.
Ephesians 1:3
God has ALREADY blessed me IN CHRIST with every blessing given by Holy Spirit in the heavenly realm.
v. 6: that I might be to the praise of God's grace, His favor and mercy that He freely bestowed on me in Christ.
v. 12: I have been destined and appointed to live for the praise of His glory.
v. 13: I have been stamped with the seal of Holy Spirit.
v. 23: In His church lives Christ's full measure. He make everything complete and fills everything everywhere with Himself.
Monday, March 21, 2011
750
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
Psalm 90:14
"O, satisfy me [today] with Your mercy and loving-kindness that I may rejoice and be glad all my days."
Psalm 101:2-3
I will behave myself wisely and give heed to the blameless way... I will walk within my house in integrity and with a blameless heart. I will set no base/wicked thing before my eyes. The wicked work of others shall not grasp hold of me.
Proverbs 30:8
"Remove far from me falsehood and lies; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me."
God looks on the heart of my desire more than upon the desire of my heart....
Give me what I can humbly handle and what will glorify You(135).
Proverbs 14:6
Godly wisdom = comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God (Proverbs 14:8)
"... knowledge is easy to him who [being teachable] understands."
Psalm 90:14
"O, satisfy me [today] with Your mercy and loving-kindness that I may rejoice and be glad all my days."
Psalm 101:2-3
I will behave myself wisely and give heed to the blameless way... I will walk within my house in integrity and with a blameless heart. I will set no base/wicked thing before my eyes. The wicked work of others shall not grasp hold of me.
Proverbs 30:8
"Remove far from me falsehood and lies; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me."
God looks on the heart of my desire more than upon the desire of my heart....
Give me what I can humbly handle and what will glorify You(135).
Proverbs 14:6
Godly wisdom = comprehensive insight into the ways and purposes of God (Proverbs 14:8)
"... knowledge is easy to him who [being teachable] understands."
749
2 Corinthians 1:10-11
"On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers."
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"... God wants to infuse with supernatural power" (131).
Deuteronomy 30:6
"... the LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, to love the LORD your God with all your [mind] and heart and with all your being, that you may live."
"God, You desire nothing more than our love, and You willingly and graciously prepare our hearts to love You. According to Your Word, I ask You to circumcise my heart, Larry's heart, Ashley's heart, David's heart, Anna Kate's heart, Zach's heart, Bethany's heart, Bella's heart, Bessie Kay's heart, Betty's heart, Zayne's heart, and Kyle's heart so that we each will love You will all our hearts and souls and will live the abundant life You chose for us" (134).
"On Him we have set our hope that He will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers."
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"... God wants to infuse with supernatural power" (131).
Deuteronomy 30:6
"... the LORD your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, to love the LORD your God with all your [mind] and heart and with all your being, that you may live."
"God, You desire nothing more than our love, and You willingly and graciously prepare our hearts to love You. According to Your Word, I ask You to circumcise my heart, Larry's heart, Ashley's heart, David's heart, Anna Kate's heart, Zach's heart, Bethany's heart, Bella's heart, Bessie Kay's heart, Betty's heart, Zayne's heart, and Kyle's heart so that we each will love You will all our hearts and souls and will live the abundant life You chose for us" (134).
748
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
God's plans for me are beyond what my senses can conceive/perceive. Hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obey Him, gratefully recognize His benefits.
God wants to make me a blessing to those around me.
I need my mouth sanctified by God so that I can be empowered by God. God wants to make me one who speaks well over others (128).
God's plans for me are beyond what my senses can conceive/perceive. Hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obey Him, gratefully recognize His benefits.
God wants to make me a blessing to those around me.
I need my mouth sanctified by God so that I can be empowered by God. God wants to make me one who speaks well over others (128).
747
Ephesians 2:10
I am God's workmanship, recreated/born anew in Christ Jesus so that I may do those good works which God planned taking paths He prepared for me, that I should live the good life He prearranged and made ready for me.
I am God's workmanship, recreated/born anew in Christ Jesus so that I may do those good works which God planned taking paths He prepared for me, that I should live the good life He prearranged and made ready for me.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
746
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
(1) God has a calling on my life. Romans 8:30: He foreordained. He called. Whom He called, He made righteous. Whom He justified, He glorified. Ephesians 1:18: The eyes of my heart have been flooded with light so that I can know/understand the hope to which He has called me.
(2) He is determined to perform a good work in me. Philippians 1:6: He will continue developing, perfecting, and bring His good work to full completion in me.
(3) He has set aside good works for me to accomplish. Ephesians 2:10: I am re-created in Christ Jesus that I may do the good works God planned for me, that I may live the good life He pre-arranged for me.
(4) It is to God's glory that I bear much fruit (John 15:8), proving myself His true follower (128).
(1) God has a calling on my life. Romans 8:30: He foreordained. He called. Whom He called, He made righteous. Whom He justified, He glorified. Ephesians 1:18: The eyes of my heart have been flooded with light so that I can know/understand the hope to which He has called me.
(2) He is determined to perform a good work in me. Philippians 1:6: He will continue developing, perfecting, and bring His good work to full completion in me.
(3) He has set aside good works for me to accomplish. Ephesians 2:10: I am re-created in Christ Jesus that I may do the good works God planned for me, that I may live the good life He pre-arranged for me.
(4) It is to God's glory that I bear much fruit (John 15:8), proving myself His true follower (128).
Monday, March 7, 2011
745
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
Eulogia means to have God speak a good Word over me. God calls me by name and speaks blessing over me. He has been talking about me behind my back and talking over me, distinguishing me with favor. "His speaking action; God's speech is energy released" (127). God's blessing can also mean "to act in man's life and accomplish His purposes instead of allowing men to have their own way."
Eulogia means to have God speak a good Word over me. God calls me by name and speaks blessing over me. He has been talking about me behind my back and talking over me, distinguishing me with favor. "His speaking action; God's speech is energy released" (127). God's blessing can also mean "to act in man's life and accomplish His purposes instead of allowing men to have their own way."
Thursday, March 3, 2011
744
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
from DVD 6
a crucified life precedes a RESURRECTION!
Maybe He wants me to climb that mountain and see Him transfigured there.
"Consider how we can live off the CPR of God: as we believe, we inhale His words; and as we speak, we exhale His words. Cast the burden upon God and His Word, not upon our abilities to pray."
When I speak it out of my mouth, it sounds like GOD to the devil! (115)
"...one of the most outstandng signs of spiritual maturity is a controlled tongue...", but [the tongue] can also be a tremendous hindrance to power.
misuses of the tongue: gossip, lying, profanity, rudeness/unkindness, inappropriate humor, misuse of God name, harsh criticism; whining, complaining, "I-me-me-I-I-I"--self-centered talk; speaking out fear, dread, doubt to anyone other than God
"A truth-filled heart is so unnatural that we must pursue it to have it" (117).
"Few things destroy our witness like rudeness or unkindness."
"Sins that differ from our always seem worse."
inappropriate humor--humor at someone else's expense (118).
Where's the balance between obedience and paranoia?
from DVD 6
a crucified life precedes a RESURRECTION!
Maybe He wants me to climb that mountain and see Him transfigured there.
"Consider how we can live off the CPR of God: as we believe, we inhale His words; and as we speak, we exhale His words. Cast the burden upon God and His Word, not upon our abilities to pray."
When I speak it out of my mouth, it sounds like GOD to the devil! (115)
"...one of the most outstandng signs of spiritual maturity is a controlled tongue...", but [the tongue] can also be a tremendous hindrance to power.
misuses of the tongue: gossip, lying, profanity, rudeness/unkindness, inappropriate humor, misuse of God name, harsh criticism; whining, complaining, "I-me-me-I-I-I"--self-centered talk; speaking out fear, dread, doubt to anyone other than God
"A truth-filled heart is so unnatural that we must pursue it to have it" (117).
"Few things destroy our witness like rudeness or unkindness."
"Sins that differ from our always seem worse."
inappropriate humor--humor at someone else's expense (118).
Where's the balance between obedience and paranoia?
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
743
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"We've never gone so far that we can't be fetched" (111).
"We've never gone so far that we can't be fetched" (111).
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
742
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
Joshua "was both a warrior and a worshiper...."
If I "try to skip [my] training and jump to the thrill of leveling... Jericho,... [I'll] end up shouting, all right..." -- more likely at others" (107).
"... insecurity tends to overwhelm us on the brink of something big."
"Victory is not about what we deserve. It's about whom we follow" (109).
Joshua "was both a warrior and a worshiper...."
If I "try to skip [my] training and jump to the thrill of leveling... Jericho,... [I'll] end up shouting, all right..." -- more likely at others" (107).
"... insecurity tends to overwhelm us on the brink of something big."
"Victory is not about what we deserve. It's about whom we follow" (109).
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
believe God over what I see and feel (95).
Hebrews 11:21
Jacob "worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff."
"... when God seems to be prompting something out of the ordinary, we don't have to manipulate things to make it happen and cause people to accept it" (96).
Don't "... develop an attitude that would make anyone want to withhold blessing... prayer fully discern whether the cause of withheld blessing is something in them... or in [me]."
"Few things could be more priceless than a generational heritage of worship."
"God's blessing on [me] is one of the most important reasons [I] can do all things in Christ" (97).
believe God over what I see and feel (95).
Hebrews 11:21
Jacob "worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff."
"... when God seems to be prompting something out of the ordinary, we don't have to manipulate things to make it happen and cause people to accept it" (96).
Don't "... develop an attitude that would make anyone want to withhold blessing... prayer fully discern whether the cause of withheld blessing is something in them... or in [me]."
"Few things could be more priceless than a generational heritage of worship."
"God's blessing on [me] is one of the most important reasons [I] can do all things in Christ" (97).
Thursday, February 24, 2011
740
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
My true, God-ordained ministry will not end when I take the time to let God make me healthier and better equipped.
"When the height of a ministry outgrows its depth, it will inevitably come tumbling down. "Focus on depth alone and ... leave the length, breadth, and height to Him" (88).
"... in things pertaining to the sons of earth, abnormal is more normal than normal. That doesn't mean we should surrender to dysfunction. It means we don't have to hang our heads as we surrender and let Him sort out our tangled mess" (89).
Perhaps "God sees fretting faith as faithless fretting."
"Isaac chose to respect God's name and sovereignty even though he had been deceived."
"... a harder dimension of faith: when faith requires us to do nothing at all, while our human nature screams to interfere. In these cases we believe; therefore, we do not act. Wisdom is knowing the difference..." (91).
My true, God-ordained ministry will not end when I take the time to let God make me healthier and better equipped.
"When the height of a ministry outgrows its depth, it will inevitably come tumbling down. "Focus on depth alone and ... leave the length, breadth, and height to Him" (88).
"... in things pertaining to the sons of earth, abnormal is more normal than normal. That doesn't mean we should surrender to dysfunction. It means we don't have to hang our heads as we surrender and let Him sort out our tangled mess" (89).
Perhaps "God sees fretting faith as faithless fretting."
"Isaac chose to respect God's name and sovereignty even though he had been deceived."
"... a harder dimension of faith: when faith requires us to do nothing at all, while our human nature screams to interfere. In these cases we believe; therefore, we do not act. Wisdom is knowing the difference..." (91).
Thursday, February 17, 2011
739
"What does it matter if you arrive only after the hundredth attempt where another arrives at once? You will surely arrive if you do not allow yourself to be discouraged." Confucius
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
738
Paul Tournier, The Strong and the Weak
"If my neighbour is stronger than I, I fear him; if he is weaker, I despise him; if we are equal, I resort to subterfuge. What motive cold I have for obeying him, what reason for loving him?" Dr. Jean de Rougemont
Charles Swindoll, Getting Through the Tough Stuff
"Live is a coat that never fits right" (xii).
Hebrews 4:15-16, Message
"... walk right up to Him and get what He is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help."
"If my neighbour is stronger than I, I fear him; if he is weaker, I despise him; if we are equal, I resort to subterfuge. What motive cold I have for obeying him, what reason for loving him?" Dr. Jean de Rougemont
Charles Swindoll, Getting Through the Tough Stuff
"Live is a coat that never fits right" (xii).
Hebrews 4:15-16, Message
"... walk right up to Him and get what He is so ready to give. Take the mercy, accept the help."
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
737
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"Very few of us took our first leaps of faith without hearing God say with our spiritual ears, 'Get thee out of thy comfort zone.'... if we were already where we are going, for all practical earthly purposes, we'd be dead. We can rest assured what God has for us even in our earthly future is not identical to our present" (86).
"Based on Christ's example, God our Father calls us to make contributions of quality, not just quantity. Time is often where He tempers and tests us so that premature births of ministries don't result in lifelong handicaps.... We alone waste [time] when our impatience to receive our earthly inheritance hinders our preparation to know what to do with it."
"... ask Him to clarify... God does not begrudge our attempts to make sure we're on the right track" (87).
"Very few of us took our first leaps of faith without hearing God say with our spiritual ears, 'Get thee out of thy comfort zone.'... if we were already where we are going, for all practical earthly purposes, we'd be dead. We can rest assured what God has for us even in our earthly future is not identical to our present" (86).
"Based on Christ's example, God our Father calls us to make contributions of quality, not just quantity. Time is often where He tempers and tests us so that premature births of ministries don't result in lifelong handicaps.... We alone waste [time] when our impatience to receive our earthly inheritance hinders our preparation to know what to do with it."
"... ask Him to clarify... God does not begrudge our attempts to make sure we're on the right track" (87).
Monday, February 14, 2011
736
Hebrews 11:5
"For before [Enoch] was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God." (walked in habitual fellowship with God)
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"Thankfully, God can also stroll among us outside the garden."
"We often suffer from spiritual schizophrenia or at least a serious case of ADD. Like the Israelites, who suffered from the potter-clay-reversal syndrome (Is. 29:16), I sometimes forget that I didn't see Jesus in the distance and call Him to follow me" (78).
"less-than land" vs. "Promised land"
"... if Satan can't get to me with destruction, he will try to get to me with distraction."
"... He created us to be most satisfied by apprehending through diligent pursuit" (79). Christ's death and "the crimson flood are enough to bring complete destruction to [my] history of sin" (83).
I have "today to believe God.... Failure isn't terminal....Faithlessness is" (85).
"For before [Enoch] was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God." (walked in habitual fellowship with God)
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"Thankfully, God can also stroll among us outside the garden."
"We often suffer from spiritual schizophrenia or at least a serious case of ADD. Like the Israelites, who suffered from the potter-clay-reversal syndrome (Is. 29:16), I sometimes forget that I didn't see Jesus in the distance and call Him to follow me" (78).
"less-than land" vs. "Promised land"
"... if Satan can't get to me with destruction, he will try to get to me with distraction."
"... He created us to be most satisfied by apprehending through diligent pursuit" (79). Christ's death and "the crimson flood are enough to bring complete destruction to [my] history of sin" (83).
I have "today to believe God.... Failure isn't terminal....Faithlessness is" (85).
Saturday, February 12, 2011
735
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
from DVD Session 4
"... being offended is not terminal or unforgivable."
blamelessness as defined in Psalm 19:13: "no longer in the activity of planning sin; premeditated sin
I am LOVED: blessed, chosen, adopted, accepted in the Beloved, redeemed, and forgiven. I need to behave like someone who believes those truths.
Tozer as quoted in Moore: I can be a theologian and still not be a saint.
I have sinned, but I don't become the sin.
"Freedom is one step away from my taking responsibility for my own sins."
God's joy: "pitifully self- and world-centered humans fighting the daily battle to become God-centered."
"That which is completely obvious and explainable is not faith" (74).
God has a ministry for me, and in Him I am completely competent to receive/fulfill it. Will I believe God? (76)
from DVD Session 4
"... being offended is not terminal or unforgivable."
blamelessness as defined in Psalm 19:13: "no longer in the activity of planning sin; premeditated sin
I am LOVED: blessed, chosen, adopted, accepted in the Beloved, redeemed, and forgiven. I need to behave like someone who believes those truths.
Tozer as quoted in Moore: I can be a theologian and still not be a saint.
I have sinned, but I don't become the sin.
"Freedom is one step away from my taking responsibility for my own sins."
God's joy: "pitifully self- and world-centered humans fighting the daily battle to become God-centered."
"That which is completely obvious and explainable is not faith" (74).
God has a ministry for me, and in Him I am completely competent to receive/fulfill it. Will I believe God? (76)
Friday, February 11, 2011
734
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"We have chosen to believe our own eyes and ears over the Word of God" (49).
Hab. 3:2, NIV
"Lord, I have heard of Your fame; I stand in awe of Your deeds, O Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known."
My "suffering need never be in vain."
"... if I err, let me err on the side of belief."
I "can't lose when [I] earnestly seek God. Even if [I] don't find the answer, [I] find the Author" (57).
"... allow doctors to do what they can do and then invite God to do what only He can do" (61).
Do I fail to ask God anything because I can't have everything? (67)
"... ask, knowing that He is able but trusting that He is good if He doesn't act."
"O God, grant [me] a faith to be healed and a faith to be delivered but, above all, a faith to trust" (70).
"We have chosen to believe our own eyes and ears over the Word of God" (49).
Hab. 3:2, NIV
"Lord, I have heard of Your fame; I stand in awe of Your deeds, O Lord. Renew them in our day, in our time make them known."
My "suffering need never be in vain."
"... if I err, let me err on the side of belief."
I "can't lose when [I] earnestly seek God. Even if [I] don't find the answer, [I] find the Author" (57).
"... allow doctors to do what they can do and then invite God to do what only He can do" (61).
Do I fail to ask God anything because I can't have everything? (67)
"... ask, knowing that He is able but trusting that He is good if He doesn't act."
"O God, grant [me] a faith to be healed and a faith to be delivered but, above all, a faith to trust" (70).
Thursday, February 10, 2011
733
Hab. 3:2
"O Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make [Yourself} known! In wrath [earnestly] remember love, pity, and mercy.
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"... trying to live The Faith without faith"
"... we believe little because we've seen little, and we've seen little because we believe little."
The focus of the New Covenant is the inner man.
Mark 9:24
"constantly help my weakness of faith."
"Don't argue with a Pharisee!" (48)
Faith "... fills the gap between [my] theology and [my] reality."
"God is offended when [my] desire for signs and wonders eclipses [my] desire for Him or becomes a request for God to prove Himself" (49).
"O Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make [Yourself} known! In wrath [earnestly] remember love, pity, and mercy.
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"... trying to live The Faith without faith"
"... we believe little because we've seen little, and we've seen little because we believe little."
The focus of the New Covenant is the inner man.
Mark 9:24
"constantly help my weakness of faith."
"Don't argue with a Pharisee!" (48)
Faith "... fills the gap between [my] theology and [my] reality."
"God is offended when [my] desire for signs and wonders eclipses [my] desire for Him or becomes a request for God to prove Himself" (49).
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Bible Study 1.30.11
LIFE WORDS learner guide, p. 76: the "inestimable value of the intangible asset of the truth of God's Word"
What would you consider the top five things that keep people from spending time alone with God?
What resources do you/believers you know use to meditate upon/study God's Word?
Psalm 119:11-16
--storing up God's instructions so that they might determine behavior
--What can meditation accomplish in a believer's life?
--Share specific verses you memorized that have been especially encouraging to you.
--How can you consistently declare "all the judgments of [God's] mouth (v. 13), "meditate [on God's] precepts," and "respect [God's] ways" (v. 15) without having a Bible in front of you all day long?
--What needs to happen in your life for you to develop the same kind of attitude and commitment the psalmist had toward focusing on God's Word?
--Biblical meditation in the Psalms results in faithful performance or application of the principles learned.
--Why should Christians treasure and value Scriptures?
--reflecting on divine truth makes it increasingly part of my thinking and overall perspective on life...."transformed by the renewing of [our minds]:
--meditate so that we can provide milk/spiritual nourishment for someone else
--Rather than emptying our mind, we are to FILL them with the truth of God.
Mark 1:35-39
--Describe your time alone with God.
--Prayer and meditation will require us to say no even to GOOD things in order to focus upon the BEST thing.
--Identify a place where you do or could begin to spend regular time alone with God in prayer.
Psalm 1:1-3
--Our lives will increasingly take on and reflect God's character.
--ways believers can
(1) delight in God's Law
(2) meditate on God's revealed truth continually
(3) take in spiritual nourishment available to us
--Whom do you know whose life demonstrates the truth of these verses?
--What do you think the psalmist meant by "whatsoever he doeth shall prosper?
--What is the one thing that most often and most effectively distracts you from God's Word?
--Francis Cosgrove of The Navigators: "'Our spiritual development is revealed by how we pray.'"
--If someone discovered for whom and what you pray and upon what verses you meditate, what would he/she learn about you?
--"First I fell in love with my teacher; then I fell in love with my teacher's Bible; then I fell in love with my teacher's Lord."
--Will people fall in love with the LORD and His Word by following your example?
--Say no to good things in order to focus on the best. Develop/maintain important habits.
What would you consider the top five things that keep people from spending time alone with God?
What resources do you/believers you know use to meditate upon/study God's Word?
Psalm 119:11-16
--storing up God's instructions so that they might determine behavior
--What can meditation accomplish in a believer's life?
--Share specific verses you memorized that have been especially encouraging to you.
--How can you consistently declare "all the judgments of [God's] mouth (v. 13), "meditate [on God's] precepts," and "respect [God's] ways" (v. 15) without having a Bible in front of you all day long?
--What needs to happen in your life for you to develop the same kind of attitude and commitment the psalmist had toward focusing on God's Word?
--Biblical meditation in the Psalms results in faithful performance or application of the principles learned.
--Why should Christians treasure and value Scriptures?
--reflecting on divine truth makes it increasingly part of my thinking and overall perspective on life...."transformed by the renewing of [our minds]:
--meditate so that we can provide milk/spiritual nourishment for someone else
--Rather than emptying our mind, we are to FILL them with the truth of God.
Mark 1:35-39
--Describe your time alone with God.
--Prayer and meditation will require us to say no even to GOOD things in order to focus upon the BEST thing.
--Identify a place where you do or could begin to spend regular time alone with God in prayer.
Psalm 1:1-3
--Our lives will increasingly take on and reflect God's character.
--ways believers can
(1) delight in God's Law
(2) meditate on God's revealed truth continually
(3) take in spiritual nourishment available to us
--Whom do you know whose life demonstrates the truth of these verses?
--What do you think the psalmist meant by "whatsoever he doeth shall prosper?
--What is the one thing that most often and most effectively distracts you from God's Word?
--Francis Cosgrove of The Navigators: "'Our spiritual development is revealed by how we pray.'"
--If someone discovered for whom and what you pray and upon what verses you meditate, what would he/she learn about you?
--"First I fell in love with my teacher; then I fell in love with my teacher's Bible; then I fell in love with my teacher's Lord."
--Will people fall in love with the LORD and His Word by following your example?
--Say no to good things in order to focus on the best. Develop/maintain important habits.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
732
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
I received the capacity to exercise action-oriented faith when I received the Holy Spirit (25).
I have all I need--I must step out in what I have (26).
The more I feed upon God's faithfulness, the "fatter of faith" I will become (27).
I am never wise to judge others for a weakness of faith because I have no idea what challenges I have ahead (36).
"Faith is complete engagement with God: holding on to God and His promises because we know He's holding on to us" (41).
"God was willing to get His hands dusty" (42).
"God does not form (yatsar) clean hears in use with the existing materials of our righteous acts or self-disciplines" (43).
Annie Dillard as quoted in Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"'How we live our days is... how we live our lives'" (165).
"'Am I loving my neighbor and my God by living where I live, by driving what I drive, by talking how I talk?'" (166)
Oswald Chambers as quoted in Chan
"'Never make a principle [law] out of your experience; let God be as original with other people as He is with you.'" Chan adds, "' Be careful not to turn others' lives into the mold for your own.' Allow God to be as creative with you as He is with each of us" (167)
20 cheese graters= not helpful for eating soup (168).
How I live my life as a believer is a microcosm of the life of the church (172). Is my life today what I want The Church to be????
I received the capacity to exercise action-oriented faith when I received the Holy Spirit (25).
I have all I need--I must step out in what I have (26).
The more I feed upon God's faithfulness, the "fatter of faith" I will become (27).
I am never wise to judge others for a weakness of faith because I have no idea what challenges I have ahead (36).
"Faith is complete engagement with God: holding on to God and His promises because we know He's holding on to us" (41).
"God was willing to get His hands dusty" (42).
"God does not form (yatsar) clean hears in use with the existing materials of our righteous acts or self-disciplines" (43).
Annie Dillard as quoted in Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"'How we live our days is... how we live our lives'" (165).
"'Am I loving my neighbor and my God by living where I live, by driving what I drive, by talking how I talk?'" (166)
Oswald Chambers as quoted in Chan
"'Never make a principle [law] out of your experience; let God be as original with other people as He is with you.'" Chan adds, "' Be careful not to turn others' lives into the mold for your own.' Allow God to be as creative with you as He is with each of us" (167)
20 cheese graters= not helpful for eating soup (168).
How I live my life as a believer is a microcosm of the life of the church (172). Is my life today what I want The Church to be????
Monday, January 24, 2011
731
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"... if He can raise the dead, He can surely enliven the lazy! We have been called to a present-active-participle walk of faith, not a park 'n' ride" (18).
He says I am forgiven; that I am beautiful to Him; that He has a purpose for my life; that I am a new woman, a virgin, no less; that I no longer have to carry old baggage or turn to old comforts; that Christ Jesus took on my unrighteousness so that I can be the righteousness of God in Him; that His all-surpassing power is within my jar of clay (22).
When I am yielded to Holy Spirit's authority, His personality fills me and eclipses my own. When I'm not yielded, I grieve Him and operate from my carnal nature (25).
"... if He can raise the dead, He can surely enliven the lazy! We have been called to a present-active-participle walk of faith, not a park 'n' ride" (18).
He says I am forgiven; that I am beautiful to Him; that He has a purpose for my life; that I am a new woman, a virgin, no less; that I no longer have to carry old baggage or turn to old comforts; that Christ Jesus took on my unrighteousness so that I can be the righteousness of God in Him; that His all-surpassing power is within my jar of clay (22).
When I am yielded to Holy Spirit's authority, His personality fills me and eclipses my own. When I'm not yielded, I grieve Him and operate from my carnal nature (25).
Saturday, January 22, 2011
730
Romans 4:7-8 (NCV)
"God blesses people whose sins are forgiven and whose evil deeds are forgotten.... whose since are erased from His book."
Message
"Fortunate those whose crimes are carted off, whose sins re wiped clean from the slate. Fortunate the person against whom the LORD does not keep score."
based on Message, Romans 4: It's a "God-story, not an Abraham-story." (It's not a Carol-story.)
"Abraham entered into what God was doing for him...."
"...an act of God Abraham embraced with his whole life...."
contract vs. covenant
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of faith
God willingly interjects strength into the lives of those "caught in the act of believing."
"Pray for a heart and a mind to diligently seek Him. Then immediately begin walking in faith as one who already has what she has asked" (15).
"God blesses people whose sins are forgiven and whose evil deeds are forgotten.... whose since are erased from His book."
Message
"Fortunate those whose crimes are carted off, whose sins re wiped clean from the slate. Fortunate the person against whom the LORD does not keep score."
based on Message, Romans 4: It's a "God-story, not an Abraham-story." (It's not a Carol-story.)
"Abraham entered into what God was doing for him...."
"...an act of God Abraham embraced with his whole life...."
contract vs. covenant
Beth Moore, Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of faith
God willingly interjects strength into the lives of those "caught in the act of believing."
"Pray for a heart and a mind to diligently seek Him. Then immediately begin walking in faith as one who already has what she has asked" (15).
Friday, January 21, 2011
729
Beth Moore: Believing God: Experiencing a Fresh Explosion of Faith
"... we see so little primarily because we believe Him for so little."
Pray that "God will perform a miracle of His choosing in every life during this journey" (7).
from DVD 1: Am I a conqueror? living in defeat? living in mediocrity?
--difference between believing IN God and BELIEVING GOD--
Unbelief is the # 1 hindrance to my entering my promised land: "My Bride is paralyzed by unbelief."
"Stop whinin' and wishin' and start believin' and receivin'."
Make Joshua 3:5 a reality in my life: "... the LORD will do wonders among you."
"This is about hiking."
"God is calling [me] to leave the passive life bred by a past-tense view of faith to participate in 'be believing'" (11).
"... we see so little primarily because we believe Him for so little."
Pray that "God will perform a miracle of His choosing in every life during this journey" (7).
from DVD 1: Am I a conqueror? living in defeat? living in mediocrity?
--difference between believing IN God and BELIEVING GOD--
Unbelief is the # 1 hindrance to my entering my promised land: "My Bride is paralyzed by unbelief."
"Stop whinin' and wishin' and start believin' and receivin'."
Make Joshua 3:5 a reality in my life: "... the LORD will do wonders among you."
"This is about hiking."
"God is calling [me] to leave the passive life bred by a past-tense view of faith to participate in 'be believing'" (11).
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
728
Romans 4:8/Psalm 32:2
"Happy is the person whom the LORD does not consider guilty."
Tozer as quoted in Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"I am ashamed of my lack of desire....I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still.... Begin in mercy a new work of love within me" (99).
Piper as quoted in Chan
Could I be satisfied with Heaven if Christ were not there? (101)
When I am loving, I can't sin.
Most of us feel we have either to buy God's love (pay Him back) or prove it (102).
Think of as Christ each person with whom I come into contact (118).
What am I doing right now that requires faith? "... unafraid to put ourselves in[to] situations where we will be in trouble if He doesn't come through" (124).
"Obsessed people love those who hate them and who can never love them back.... [they] care more about God's Kingdom coming... than [about] their own lives being shielded from pain or distress (132-133).
"Happy is the person whom the LORD does not consider guilty."
Tozer as quoted in Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"I am ashamed of my lack of desire....I want to want Thee; I long to be filled with longing; I thirst to be made more thirsty still.... Begin in mercy a new work of love within me" (99).
Piper as quoted in Chan
Could I be satisfied with Heaven if Christ were not there? (101)
When I am loving, I can't sin.
Most of us feel we have either to buy God's love (pay Him back) or prove it (102).
Think of as Christ each person with whom I come into contact (118).
What am I doing right now that requires faith? "... unafraid to put ourselves in[to] situations where we will be in trouble if He doesn't come through" (124).
"Obsessed people love those who hate them and who can never love them back.... [they] care more about God's Kingdom coming... than [about] their own lives being shielded from pain or distress (132-133).
Monday, January 17, 2011
727
Romans 4:7-8 from Ps. 32:1-2, New Living Translation
"'Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. Yes, what joy for those whose sin is no longer counted against them by the LORD.'"
Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"Do not assume you are good soil."
Chan believes most American churchgoers are thorny soil.
"A relationship with God simply cannot grow when money, sins, activities, favorite sports teams, addictions, or commitments are piled on top of it."
David Goetz, as quoted in Chan: "'Too much of the good life ends up being toxic, deforming us spiritually'" (67).
"... the American church is a difficult place to fit in if you want to live out New Testament Christianity.... Taking the words of Christ literally and seriously is rarely considered" (68).
See "Lukewarm People vs. the Word, 68-81.
C. S. Lewis as quoted in Chan: "'If you read history you will find that Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this'" (75).
The lives of the lukewarm "... wouldn't look much different if they suddenly stopped believing in God" (76).
"... a lukewarm Christian is an oxymoron" (83-84).
Tim Kizziar as quoted in Chan: "'Our greatest fear as individuals and as a church should not be of failure but of succeeding at thing sin life that don't really matter'" (93).
Nothing I do "... in this life will ever matter, unless it is about loving God and loving the people He has made" (97).
"'Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. Yes, what joy for those whose sin is no longer counted against them by the LORD.'"
Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"Do not assume you are good soil."
Chan believes most American churchgoers are thorny soil.
"A relationship with God simply cannot grow when money, sins, activities, favorite sports teams, addictions, or commitments are piled on top of it."
David Goetz, as quoted in Chan: "'Too much of the good life ends up being toxic, deforming us spiritually'" (67).
"... the American church is a difficult place to fit in if you want to live out New Testament Christianity.... Taking the words of Christ literally and seriously is rarely considered" (68).
See "Lukewarm People vs. the Word, 68-81.
C. S. Lewis as quoted in Chan: "'If you read history you will find that Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this'" (75).
The lives of the lukewarm "... wouldn't look much different if they suddenly stopped believing in God" (76).
"... a lukewarm Christian is an oxymoron" (83-84).
Tim Kizziar as quoted in Chan: "'Our greatest fear as individuals and as a church should not be of failure but of succeeding at thing sin life that don't really matter'" (93).
Nothing I do "... in this life will ever matter, unless it is about loving God and loving the people He has made" (97).
Friday, January 14, 2011
726
Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
Stress reeks of arrogance (42).
Psalm 73:17
"... it was oppressive to me til I entered the sanctuary of God."
A. W. Tozer as quoted in Chan: "'A man by his sin may waste himself, which is to waste that which on earth is most like God. This is man's greatest tragedy and God's heaviest grief'" (50).
"I tried hard not to annoy God with my sin or upset Him with my little problems. I had no aspiration of being wanted by God. I was just happy not to be hated or hurt by Him" (54).
"... when we love God, we naturally run to Him--frequently and zealously. Jesus didn't command that we have a regular time with Him each day. Rather, He tells us to 'love the Lord your God with all your heart....' The results are intimate prayer and study of His Word. Our motivation changes from guilt to love" (57).
"God doesn't need us but still wants us[;] we desperately need God but don't really want Him most of the time" (61). "... we wonder, indifferently, how much we have to do for Him to get by" (61).
"Are we in love with God or just His stuff?" (63)
Stress reeks of arrogance (42).
Psalm 73:17
"... it was oppressive to me til I entered the sanctuary of God."
A. W. Tozer as quoted in Chan: "'A man by his sin may waste himself, which is to waste that which on earth is most like God. This is man's greatest tragedy and God's heaviest grief'" (50).
"I tried hard not to annoy God with my sin or upset Him with my little problems. I had no aspiration of being wanted by God. I was just happy not to be hated or hurt by Him" (54).
"... when we love God, we naturally run to Him--frequently and zealously. Jesus didn't command that we have a regular time with Him each day. Rather, He tells us to 'love the Lord your God with all your heart....' The results are intimate prayer and study of His Word. Our motivation changes from guilt to love" (57).
"God doesn't need us but still wants us[;] we desperately need God but don't really want Him most of the time" (61). "... we wonder, indifferently, how much we have to do for Him to get by" (61).
"Are we in love with God or just His stuff?" (63)
Thursday, January 13, 2011
725
Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
"The wise man comes to God without saying a word and stands in awe of Him" (25)
R. C. Sproul as quoted in Chan: "'Men are never duly touched and impressed with a conviction of their insignificance until they have contrasted themselves with the majesty of God" (26).
"spiritual amnesia"
A. W. Tozer as quoted in Chan: "'... the gravest question before the Church is always God Himself, and the most portentous fact about any man is not what he at a given time may say or do, but what he in his deep heart conceives God to be like" (30).
We "worship a God we cannot exaggerate" (31).
I was created for God; I live as though He were created for me (33).
Romans 4:11--parallel between circumcision and baptism?
v. 17, NAS: God "calls into being that which does not exist."
Jesus' resurrection is my justification, v. 25
"The wise man comes to God without saying a word and stands in awe of Him" (25)
R. C. Sproul as quoted in Chan: "'Men are never duly touched and impressed with a conviction of their insignificance until they have contrasted themselves with the majesty of God" (26).
"spiritual amnesia"
A. W. Tozer as quoted in Chan: "'... the gravest question before the Church is always God Himself, and the most portentous fact about any man is not what he at a given time may say or do, but what he in his deep heart conceives God to be like" (30).
We "worship a God we cannot exaggerate" (31).
I was created for God; I live as though He were created for me (33).
Romans 4:11--parallel between circumcision and baptism?
v. 17, NAS: God "calls into being that which does not exist."
Jesus' resurrection is my justification, v. 25
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
724
Francis Chan, Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God
Chan read NT and wondered whether we in church are missing (19). I wonder who has read the NT and not wondered the same.
Think Biblically rather than conventionally (20).
--"those would would rather die before their convictions do"
Jesus never begs us to give Him some small part of ourselves. He commands everything from His followers (22).
Beth Moore, Believing God
"...we see so little primarily because we believe Him for so little."
Join Beth in "praying that God will perform a miracle of His choosing in every life during our journey" through this particular study (7).
"God is calling us to leave the passive life bred by a past-tense view of faith and to participate in present-active-participle believing!"
"Nothing on earth compares to the strength God willingly interjects into lives caught in the act of believing" (11).
"Pray for a heart and a mind to diligently seek Him. Then immediately begin walking in faith as one who already has what she has asked" (15).
"If He can raise the dead, He can surely enliven the lazy? We have been called to a present-active-participle walk of faith, not a park 'n' ride" (18).
FIVE STATEMENT PLEDGE OF FAITH
1. God is Who He says He is.
2. God can do what He says He can do.
3. I am who God says I am.
4. I can do all things through Christ.
5. God's Word is alive and active in me.
Chan read NT and wondered whether we in church are missing (19). I wonder who has read the NT and not wondered the same.
Think Biblically rather than conventionally (20).
--"those would would rather die before their convictions do"
Jesus never begs us to give Him some small part of ourselves. He commands everything from His followers (22).
Beth Moore, Believing God
"...we see so little primarily because we believe Him for so little."
Join Beth in "praying that God will perform a miracle of His choosing in every life during our journey" through this particular study (7).
"God is calling us to leave the passive life bred by a past-tense view of faith and to participate in present-active-participle believing!"
"Nothing on earth compares to the strength God willingly interjects into lives caught in the act of believing" (11).
"Pray for a heart and a mind to diligently seek Him. Then immediately begin walking in faith as one who already has what she has asked" (15).
"If He can raise the dead, He can surely enliven the lazy? We have been called to a present-active-participle walk of faith, not a park 'n' ride" (18).
FIVE STATEMENT PLEDGE OF FAITH
1. God is Who He says He is.
2. God can do what He says He can do.
3. I am who God says I am.
4. I can do all things through Christ.
5. God's Word is alive and active in me.
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