Category Archives: Bible Study

Bible Study, People in the Bible

Obey, Call Upon, and Confirm Your Relationship with God

[Click the title to view web version from email notifications]

To walk with God, we must love him, obey him, call upon his name, confirm our relationship with him, and know that he loves us. Yes, we all fail when we try to follow God, but his love, constant concern, and abounding love for us is ever present. In Abram, we see a man who loved God, obeyed God, confirmed his love for God through his actions, and allowed God to pour his love out towards him in order to complete the purpose that the Lord had in store for him. It is the same with us. When we obey the Lord, in even the smallest detail, we find ourselves desiring more and more of his presence. It is then and only then, we can find peace knowing that he cares for us and he will prove his love for us through the many ways he confirms his relationship to us.

Abram Obeyed

Some verses in the Bible just strike us when we read them. As I was reading Genesis 12, three words just hit me over the head.  Referring to Abram walking with God, the words simply said,

So Abram went . . . Genesis 12:4

Abraham grew up as a child in the heavily populated city of Ur (Southern Iraq now) and moved with his father to the land of Haran. It was in Haran that the Lord asked Abram to take his family and go to the land he would show him. Abram obeyed. His move was like moving from New York City to the small “ghost town” of Pennington, Texas. It would appear to many people as a pretty risky proposition at least “business-wise.”  But He obeyed and took his wife Sarai, his nephew Lot, his livestock, and all his servants with him.

Abram Calls Upon the Name of the LORD

When Abram journeyed from location to location, he called upon the Lord. We see him calling on God in Schechem and again near Bethel.

Then the Lord appeared to Abram in Genesis 12:7-8 and said,

To your offspring I will give this land. So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him.  From there he moved to the hill country on the east of Bethel and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east. And there he built an altar to the Lord and called upon the name of the Lord.

Abram had a habit of calling upon God. We see this again in Genesis 13:4b 

And he journeyed on from the Negeb as far as Bethel to the place where his tent had been at the beginning, between Bethel and Ai, to the place where he had made an altar at the first. And there Abram called upon the name of the Lord.

We call upon God in times of peace and in times of desperation.  We do that because we need him. But he also wants us to call on him. It is through our dependence on God, we gain more faith, trust, and love towards him and our fellow man.

When we call upon the Lord . . .

  • We should seek him with all our heart, soul, and mind and with all our strength. Mark 12:30
  • We should call upon the Lord with a pure heart. 2 Timothy 2:22
  • We should call upon the Lord for as long as we live. Psalm 116:2
  • We must admit that we need Him. Acts 17:27

Abram Confirms his Relationship with the LORD

As Abram continues his journey, he goes down to Egypt to sojourn there. In Egypt, life goes on. During this time, Abram doesn’t appear to be the shining star that we like to think he was. He didn’t trust God fully and when he was about to enter Egypt, he told Sarai to lie about their relationship. He said,

Say you are my sister, that it may go well with me because of you, and that my life may be spared for your sake.

Abram was caught in his deceit, but life went on. He left Egypt and went with Sarai, Lot, and all he owned into Negeb, then into Bethel to where his tent had been at the beginning. It was there that Abram called upon the name of the LORD.

Later, Abram soon realized that his possessions were so great that he and Lot needed to split up. He said to Lot in Genesis 13:8,

Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are kinsmen.

The two went their own ways, and God spoke to Abram and settled him by the oaks of Mamre and there he built an altar to the LORD. Abram’s life continued. He rescued Lot, was blessed by Melchizedek, defeated the King of Sodom, and confirmed his faith in God when the King of Sodom asked him to give back his people but take the goods for himself. Abram verbally confirmed his relationship with God in Genesis 14:22.

I have lifted my hand to the LORD, GOD Most High Possessor of heaven and earth.

While we might not build a physical altar to the Lord, there are ways we can confirm our relationship with the Lord.

To confirm our relationship with God, we need to . . .

  • Ask the Lord to forgive our wrongdoings/sins. Romans 3:23
  • Trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and accept Him as Lord and Savior. Ephesians 2:8-9
  • Understand that our own works and efforts can’t get us into the right relationship with the Lord. Titus 3:5
  • Confirm our relationship with the Lord through our daily prayers and obedience to His holy Word. Philippians 4:6

God Confirms his Relationship to Abram

In Genesis 15:1, shortly after confirming his relationship and speaking publically about his relationship with the Lord, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision:

Fear not Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.

The reward God was talking about was the covenant God made to Abram that his “offspring would inherit the land from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river Euphrates, the land of the Kenites, the Kenizzites, the Kadmonites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Rephaim, the Amorites, the Canaanites, the Girgashites and the Jebusites.” Genesis 15:19.

Life continued and Abram aged. The Lord soon changed his name to Abraham. But, even before that, Abraham trusted and believed wholeheartedly that the Lord God Almighty was blessing him with an amazing inheritance.

God confirms his relationship with us by . . .

Abraham walked with God as we do – through ups and downs, trials and blessings!  Just as he grew, we also grow and mature. He is always by our side, calling us to obey him because He knows the right plan for our lives. He wants to show that to us so we can live a Godly fulfilling life. And as we continue on in our Christian life, let’s follow Abram’s example of obedience, calling upon him, and confirming our relationship to him.

Yes, we will fail sometimes, but life goes on. When we do fail, He is there to pick us up. When we honor God by remaining in this cycle of obeying, calling, and confirming, we can receive God’s vision, direction, and blessings upon our life.  He really does want the best for us.

God Bless You.

PATTIGREENE.eps-(1png-300x9

Bible Verses:

Be careful to obey all these words that I command you, that it may go well with you and with your children after you forever, when you do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord your God. Deuteronomy 12:28

I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God; incline your ear to me; hear my words. Psalm 17:6

I have sworn an oath and confirmed it, to keep your righteous rules. Psalm 119:106

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, I love you and I want to obey you with my entire heart. Help me to call upon you in every area of my life. I truly want to uphold the words in your Holy Word. I want to proclaim your truths to others. Thank you for loving me and confirming your love for me in such a caring and special way. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Study, Church and Ministry, People in the Bible

Amos: An Ordinary Man

1 Comment

There are many men and women who feel ordinary! Being ordinary is synonymous with being average. They might go to an average school, live in an average neighborhood, or be uneducated. One of the worse sentiments one might feel about being ordinary is presuming there is no purpose or calling in life. In today’s culture, we are impressed with wealth, beauty, popularity, being accomplished, and fame. But, let’s look at Amos — an ordinary man with a passion for God who was called to proclaim God’s message of judgment to Israel and other nations due to their sin and disobedience.

AMOS

Amos, an Old Testament minor prophet, was considered to be an ordinary man. In Amos 7:14-15, he says, “I’m not one of your professional prophets. I certainly never trained to be one. I’m just a shepherd and I take care of fig trees. But the Lord called me away from my flock and told me, ‘Go prophesy to my people in Israel.’” [NLT]  Amos might have even been a seasonal worker due to the fact that he lived in Tekoa, a town 16 miles from the Dead Sea, where sycamore trees are not cultivated due to the altitude and climate. Thus, implying he might have had to leave Tekoa during certain months of the year to care for and cultivate the sycamore fig trees. Many commentaries believe Amos did not have any formal training, but he was learned in the ways of God. During Amos’ lifetime, Israel was a nation filled with pride, beauty, elegance, and riches. As Amos went about living “the ordinary life” God gave him, he was called by his heavenly Father for a particular task. He lived during the reign of Jeroboam II around 786-746 BC. It was during this time, he recognized his calling from God to proclaim the message the Lord gave him. He did not arrive on the scene to tickle anybody’s ears. He arrived able, prepared, and willing to work passionately on the assignment God gave him. You will find in the Book of Amos that Amos speaks little of himself; he is there to pronounce the judgment God sent him to do. Speaking God’s word throughout the Book of Amos, he became known for his repetitively saying, “Thus says the LORD” before many of his proclamations. He spoke God’s word throughout the Book of Amos.

As I read the Book of Amos, I became aware of some of the characteristics Amos possessed both prior to and during him announcing the destruction of Israel.

CHARACTERISTICS OF AMOS

  • He sought the Lord;
  • He had a deep-rooted faith;
  • He was being prepared by God;
  • He walked with God;
  • He accepted his lot in life;
  • He was wise in the ways of God;
  • He was close enough to God to know what the Lord said;
  • He spoke only what the Lord said;
  • He was confident in what he said;
  • He was not fearful in bringing bad news to others;
  • He was not fearful in talking to others outside of his class;
  • He sought good and not evil;

GOD CAN USE YOU

The Lord used other “ordinary” men throughout history. David, Eliab, Gideon, Peter, James, and John were used mightily. Even Jesus was a simple man that God called to be the most important influence in all civilizations. And, God can use you!

Someday God may ask you to step out of your comfort zone. We carry around barriers in our life. We don’t take the steps needed to be used by God. God is going to use those who are already steeped in His word and those willing to walk His ways. He will choose us and seek us as we prepare ourselves to expand our influence for him. With Amos, it is most likely he was called for a particular assignment at a particular time. Maybe he went back to tending sheep and sycamore trees after this assignment was accomplished – we just don’t know as there is no record. But, we do know that when God wanted to use him, he was available and willing. In our lives, we should remember that God is able to do whatever He wants to and he will equip anyone willing to carry out his plans. You may not be an educated person; you may not have been born into an elite family, but God can use you. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 states, “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things — and the things that are not — to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before Him. God will give you strength to do what He is calling you to do. God desires to use us to our fullest. He knows if we are unprepared and He wants to prepare us. He knows if we are imperfect, but he sees the potential we have to pursue His purposes. You may have a dream or a vision, but feel unable achieve it. Don’t give up. Water and prune your vision, and wait for God’s appointed time. But, while waiting, follow his leadings, as small and/or as insignificant as they might seem, as this is part of his preparation for you. Just trust that His Spirit is working and perfecting you until the time He calls you like he did Amos. Then, when He shows you He is ready, you will be ready to act.

PREPARING FOR MINISTRY

  • Seek the Lord;
  • Develop a deep-rooted faith;
  • Allow God to prepare you;
  • Walk with God;
  • Accept your lot in life;
  • Be wise;
  • Develop a deep closeness to God through Bible study and prayer;
  • Speak only what is Godly;
  • Be confident in God’s words and whispers;
  • Develop a fearless spirit in speaking for God;
  • Understand that God can use you with anyone — regardless of social class, intellect, race, or religion;
  • Seek good, not evil.

Notice that our preparations mirror Amos’ characteristics.

PERSONAL TESTIMONY

FBPG-(1)-Profile-Pic-of-Pat Original

Looking back at my life, I can see how God had been preparing me for my current ministry of writing devotional prayer journals and blogging. When I was around 7 or 8 years old, I loved the Science projects where I had to find leaves, label them, and glue them on cardboard. I call that gathering information and presenting it. As a senior in high school, I had an English assignment where we had to find poems and quotes, put them together in booklet form, and find pictures from newspapers or magazines that related to the poems or quotes. Again, I was gathering information and presenting it. I loved it. Imagine my distress when I received my first college essay back with a big, fat, red F on it. I thought I was an awful writer for years. But, God kept giving me little assignments along the way, i.e. writing Table Talks for Wednesday night church dinners, making educational bulletin boards, becoming a librarian.  One time I was given the assignment by our church planner to research an apartment complex where the church wanted to start a ministry. It was awesome. I used my detective skills; took notes on the bumper stickers in the parking lot; noticed the ages of the children in the complex; spoke to the apartment manager, and of course, put together a booklet with the results. Following God is fun and adventurous. My suggestion is for you to look over your life, see what you have enjoyed, and give your talents to the Lord and ask him to show you how he can use you in the small things. All God’s assignments are profitable, so as we go from one to the next, keep preparing yourself for the next one.

GOD CAN USE THE MOST UNLIKELY PEOPLE

God can use the most unlikely people in life to do a job for him. In God Uses Ordinary People, Mark Hiehle tells the following story of a man God used to meet a woman’s needs and how the recipient viewed it.

I once heard of a woman who had locked her keys in her car at a mall. Not having the funds to call a locksmith, she prayed and asked God to help her. Shortly after, a rough looking man came up to her and asked if she needed any help. She told him that her keys were locked in her car; and in no time, the man used a wire and lifted the lock. The woman thanked him and said that he was an answer to prayer and an angel. The man said, “Oh, I am not an angel, ma’am. I just got out of prison.” The woman looked to heaven and said, “Oh Lord, You are so good! You sent me an expert.” ¹

I love it!

The Lord is consistently calling his children to do His work. We have the choice whether to answer him or not. Our problem is the world in which we live in allows us to questions whether we have enough desire, time, money, and intellect to follow through in His calling(s). We need to make time to listen to the Lord; seek out His will; follow His leading: and let him supply all that is needed to accomplish his purposes through us. Let’s seek out our reasons for not moving forward. Is it because we don’t feel spiritual enough? Then work on that through prayer and Bible study. Is it because you need money to start the ministry God is calling you to? Start with what you have and allow God to find what you need to move on. It is not our strength that gets God’s work done, but our willingness and trust in Him to accomplish the calling and ministries He puts on our hearts.

As the former governor of Arkansas, Mike Huckabee, says,

“It’s when ordinary people rise above the expectations and seize the opportunity that milestones truly are reached.”²

And, we do this by not depending on our abilities and intellect; we do this by depending on God as our source to achieve mighty things for him – even though we might be ordinary.

What does God have in store for you in 2016? Pray, Read, Listen, and then Act.

Blessings and feel free to share this article with your friends and family!

PATTIGREENE.eps-(1png-300x9

Bible Verses:

He that is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much: and he that is unrighteous in a very little is unrighteous also in much. Luke 16:10 NABS

If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. 2 Corinthians 11:30 ESV

Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. Truly, I say to you, he will dress himself for service and have them recline at the table, and he will come and serve them. If he comes in the second watch, or in the third, and finds them awake, blessed are those servants! Luke 12:35-38 ESV

Prayer:

Lord, I want you. I want to be used by you. I am asking you today to make me faithful in all the little things that honor you. I confess my sins to you knowing that you will forgive me. I may feel ordinary in the world’s eyes, but I know I am the apple of your eye. Give me the ability to discern each and every step you have for me in my life. Let me obey you and accomplish your purposes for me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

¹ Hiehle, Mark. “God Uses Ordinary People.” http://atcmag.com. January 2010.  Web. 2 January 2016.

² Huckabee, Mike. www.brainquote.com. n.d. Web. January 2, 2016.

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Study, Prayer

Reading, Reflecting, and Studying the Bible

The Bible – We should all be reading, reflecting, and studying the Bible because it is God’s gift written especially for us. God uses this book, also known as “God’s Word” or “The Scriptures,” to proclaim his deep and abiding love towards us by showing how we can live a Godly and glorious life.

Written by different authors and editors, the Bible is our guidebook for living — our main source for clear guidance on His will for our lives. Many themes are within the pages of the Holy Bible, such as redemption, forgiveness, judgment, Holy Spirit, instruction, and faith. The Scriptures consist of 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. The Old Testament covers the creation of the earth, the lives of Israelites throughout history, many prophecies about the coming of Jesus Christ and more. The New Testament covers the life of Jesus and the writings of his early apostles and disciples through the prophecies regarding the end times in Revelations. Below is an easy breakdown of the 66 books of the Bible.

Old Testament

  • The Pentateuch [The Law]: Genesis – Deuteronomy
  • Historical: Joshua – Esther
  • Poetry and Wisdom: Job – Song of Songs
  • Major Prophets: Isaiah – Daniel
  • Minor Prophets: Hosea – Zephaniah

New Testament

  • The Gospels and Acts: Matthew – Acts
  • Paul’s Letters: Romans – Philemon
  • General Epistles – Hebrews – Jude
  • Revelation

The Bible answers big questions about God, i.e. where do we go when we die, why is there so much evil in this world, how do I know who to marry, what house should I buy. But, it also answers our everyday questions like — how can I pass this test; where should I go to college; and how can I stop sinning. Many people do not think the Bible is relevant in their lives. In 2013, Religion News took a poll and discovered that “more than half of Americans think the Bible has too little influence on a culture they see in moral decline, yet only one in five Americans read the Bible on a regular basis.”¹

Many believe that the reason why the Bible isn’t meaningful to people is because they just don’t read the Word of God. Biblical values and teachings can help us tremendously in our spiritual walk, but they cannot help us if we don’t read the Word and know what it says. And, this is why we need to know how to read it, reflect upon it, and study it.

There are different ways to view the time one spends in God’s Word. And, it is necessary to understand the differences.

Reading the Bible

This is where one reads the Bible for personal enlightenment. Many read the Bible during their daily quiet time or devotional time. When one is reading for their personal edification, reading is usually at a quite leisurely pace. However, it can turn into an intense pleading or calling out to God for answers.

As a rule, sitting around with a bunch of concordances, Bible dictionaries, or Christian theological books is not the preferred reading here. Reading to see what God is saying personally and getting to know God better should be the goal during this reading time. It is an occasion to learn more about God, his precepts, and character, and how He desires to mature you in your faith. This is the reading time that allows God to speak to you personally through His Word.

Tips for your devotional time

  • Try to sit in the same chair/place each sitting;
  • Use a Bible reading plan so you will already know where in the Bible you are going to start reading;
  • Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide your reading;
  • Focus on verses or chapters relating to what is going on in your life or the life of family and/or friends;
  • Have a journal or notebook handy so you are ready to write important verses, thoughts, or promptings down;
  • Have a pen, pencil, and/or highlighter readily available;

On a personal level, I like to use a Bible without all the study notes and footnotes during my quiet time. I have found the notes distract me from just plain old reading God’s Word. I want the Word to speak to me and not feel obligated to read what someone else has said about the verses I am reading; although, I have had to look up a few things along the way. But, that is a personal preference. There is no right or wrong way to have a devotional time – personalize it to fit your likes and personality.

Reflecting on the Bible [Meditating]

Reflecting on God’s Word is the time one spends just contemplating what you have read or heard. Giving time to think about what has been read or presented is powerful. During meditation time, one should remain in a prayerful mode internalizing the Scriptures so it can become ingrained in our life. Don’t allow yourself to be hooked into any special technique or program during this reflective time. These can easily become so legalistic that one could have difficulty absorbing the significance God has for your time here. Remain in a prayerful spirit and as 1 Chronicles 22:19 states, “Now devote your heart and soul to seeking the LORD your God.” In your spirit, listen to the Lord. It is here where we can really internalize God’s Word so it becomes so ingrained in our life that the Bible principles and God’s values and His character become our own. It is quite possible that during this time, one will be prompted to involve themselves in benevolent activities, i.e. calling someone in a nursing home, writing a letter, offering your time or service to someone in need.

Studying the Bible

A comprehensive study of the Scriptures is what is involved here. This can be achieved by spreading out all your commentaries and Bible study tools on the dining room table and studying a person, character trait, or historical event; attending an in-depth Bible study program; participating in a Bible seminar; and many more such things.  Studying the Bible and trying to understand it in the correct context is applicable in this kind of studying. The Bible covers a long period of history and many cultures and ages. During a study such as this, one should plan out their study and decide if a group study or individual study is best for the purpose desired. Being organized is the key to developing a productive study time. Pastors and Sunday school teachers frequently spend hours at a time studying and developing their sermons or classes respectively. Studying God’s Word this way requires a lot of research skills, concentration, and prayer. It is very important that you become familiar with Bible doctrine if you are studying deeply, especially if you are studying to equip others, so you take care not to lead others astray.

Studying the Bible Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Studying the Bible
Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Whitney T. Kuniholm, President of Scripture Union/USA says, “Be careful not to be arrogant in the course of studying. It’s so easy to boast of your findings rather than prayerfully meditate on the. Studying extensively is good. Remember even those who are illiterates can have a deeper understanding of the Word and deeper relationships with God than you because they meditate on it. Simply knowing names and things is not good enough. You must practice and preach what you practice.”²

This information might be overwhelming to you. Being a student of God takes time. Your style develops over time. When I was younger, I never wanted to write because I felt like there were so many good writers out there and that I could never compare to them. It was only through my devotional time and Bible study that I began to realize that God makes us all different and even our writing styles vary. Your Bible study times should be geared to your personality. Maybe you like to sit outside on your back porch and read your Bible; maybe you like to participate in an in-depth Bible study at someone’s home; maybe you like to reflect in the park. Whatever works for you, do it. Don’t put off being taught by the Word of God. Get organized and get going.

As for me, in 2016, my serious Bible study time will take place at my dining room table, but for my quiet and reflective time, you will find me in my upholstered recliner in our downstairs library with my freshly brewed Folger’s Classic coffee placed neatly on the marble table next to my chair. How about you?

Blessings Always,

PATTIGREENE.eps-(1png-300x9

Bible Reading Programs [You may need to sign up]:

Bible Gateway – Reading Plans

Bible Study Tools – Reading Plan

Bible Verses:

God’s Word is profitable to mankind. The Bible . . .

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father. Let me start the New Year with a deep desire to know you more and more. Allow your Holy Spirit to infiltrate my life so that desire stays strong and active all the way from January through December. Help me to organize a plan for reading my Bible every day and give me the stick-to-itiveness to follow through. It is my earnest desire to become more Christ-like as I read your Holy Word and pray this year. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

 

¹ Bell, Caleb. “Poll: Americans love the Bible but don’t read it much”. Religion News. April 4, 2013.

Web. December 27, 2015. www.religionnews.com.

² “How to Study the Bible.” Wikihow. Web. December 27, 2015. http://m/wikihow.com/Study-the-Bible.

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Study, Christian Living

Humility

What humility!

Hudson Taylor was scheduled to speak at a large Presbyterian church in Melbourne, Australia. The moderator of the service introduced the missionary in eloquent and glowing terms. He told the large congregation all that Taylor had accomplished in China, and then presented him as “our illustrious guest.” Taylor stood quietly for a moment, and then opened his message by saying. “Dear friends, I am the little servant of an illustrious Master.”¹

Humility is not a fashionable word to throw around. You don’t hear many people talking about it; it is very rarely spoken about from the pulpit; and if one says they are humble, it usually means they are not.

I knew when I wrote about PRIDE last week that I was obligated to tackle the tough topic of humility next. On a personal level, I desire to be humble, but I fear true humility is way beyond my reach. I feel more comfortable writing about topics I have some degree of knowledge about. But humility can’t be bought or achieved by intellectual means. It can only be obtained as we grow closer and closer to the Lord Jesus Christ. So, because the Bible addresses humility, I will attempt to give some perspective on it.

Michael M. Smith, the author of Becoming more like Jesus, defines humility as a trait that is “indispensable for growth in Christian character – for becoming like Jesus.”² As believers, we are called to be humble people. 2 Chronicles 7:14 states, “If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

To become humble we must be willing for the Lord to peel pride from our character and be totally God-centered like the Lord Jesus. However, we each have areas in our lives that usually hinder our quest for humility. And, we usually do not like sharing this personal information with others lest they glean something into our character that we don’t want them to see. As you read the next few paragraphs, think about some of the triggers that affect you from becoming more Christ-like, i.e. jealousy regarding a friend’s fabulous vacation; pride because your child received a higher SAT score than their peers; or coveting the larger, custom home of a co-worker.

Characteristics of Humility [a humble person]

  • Asks for forgiveness and says, “I’m sorry” quickly;
  • Rejoices and praises others, but not themselves;
  • Follows Christ’s example the best they can;
  • Possesses Authenticity;
  • Listens to God
  • Possesses a grateful/thankful spirit;
  • Gives generously;
  • Shows modesty regarding their achievements;
  • Enjoys serving others;
  • Loves others;
  • Possesses the ‘Fruits of the Spirit’;
  • Enjoys seeing God in everything;
  • Projects sincerity;
  • Holds wisdom close by;
  • Retains control over their tongue;
  • Waits patiently upon God;
  • Admits faults easily;
  • Overlooks the failures of others;
  • Enjoys giving others credit that is due them;
  • Understands that they have so much to learn in the spiritual realm;
  • Accepts personal responsibility;
  • Desires daily encounters with God;
  • Longs for a touch from the Holy Spirit;
  • Agonizes over sin;
  • Compares themselves to the Lord rather than other people;
  • Recognizes their need for continual repentance; and
  • A humble person will NEVER boast of their humility.

Jesus – A Biblical Example of Humility

The Bible has many examples of humble people: Samuel, Esther, David, Daniel, and more. But, the most humble person in the Bible has to be the Lord Jesus Christ. He washed the feet of his disciples. [John 13:12-17] He gave his heavenly father all glory and honor [John 5:19,30,41] But, the biggest act of humility anyone could give, is that he submitted to God so fully that he took the form of a servant, humbled himself, and became obedient to the point of dying on the cross for our sins. His love for God and us was that strong.

It is one thing to talk about how to recognize a humble person, but we need to get to the point where we pursue or desire to pursue that kind of life ourselves with our entire heart and soul. But how?

Pursuing a Life of Humility involves:

  • A willingness and desire to rid ourselves of pride and be humble like Christ;
  • Praying for humility;
  • Faith in God’s ability to humble us;
  • Studying His Word continually;
  • Depending daily on the power of the Holy Spirit;
  • Following His leadings;
  • Living a disciplined life free from sin; and
  • Understand that God expects us to be humble.

Humility does not appear overnight. It is a trait that takes time to develop. We need time to grow into a person who is permeated with wisdom and grace. We will be tested to see if we will follow Him in many different circumstances. We need time to be taught what is right and wrong. We need time for the Word of God to blend into our life and character. But, as we experience more of God, we will find following him much easier as days pass by. With His grace, God’s strength will be perfected in us. As we find ourselves falling more in love with God, His Word, and our time communicating with Him, we will grow in humility. We might not even notice it, but others will. Look for opportunities to practice humility. Pray for those opportunities. Let’s stop tooting our own horn and let God have His way with us because he really is our “Illustrious Master.”

Blessings Always,

Patti

Bible Verses:

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom. Proverbs 11:2

Now he told a parable to those who were invited, when he noticed how they chose the places of honor, saying to them, “When you are invited by someone to a wedding feast, do not sit down in a place of honor, lest someone more distinguished than you be invited by him, and he who invited you both will come and say to you, ‘Give your place to this person,’ and then you will begin with shame to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, ‘Friend, move up higher.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:7-11

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. Romans 12:3

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Romans 12: 10-16

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Colossians 3:12-13

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” James 4:6

Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5

Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

Prayer:

Oh Jesus, I confess my proud spirit to you right now. Please give me the discipline to develop my character to become more like you. I desire your presence in all areas of my life. Make my prayer life and Bible reading be filled with your Holy Spirit’s leading, so I can be the person you designed me to be. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

¹Wiersbe, Warren. Wycliffe Handbook of Preaching and Preachers. 7 Dec. 2015. p. 243.

²Smith, Michael. Becoming More like Jesus. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 1999.

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using our BG² List.

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using our BG² List.

Bible Study

The Bible and Windows 8

The Bible and Windows 8 – I have just spent the last two hours of my valuable life seeking help for my newest problem: That problem is Windows 8. So, how do I handle the frustration and anxiety I am feeling right now? The only way I know how is to be creative by putting my thoughts into words through this post. However, that may be a monumental task as it has taken me four minutes already just to type what I have already typed due to the cursor changing on me, the keyboard keys are not typing, and for some unknown reason things appear that I don’t want to appear. I am so frustrated by even typing this paragraph. Does anyone know why in the middle of typing I can’t type and have to hit the lower left bar to be able to type again? And why when typing does it sometimes not work when I hit the space bar to makeaspace (oops) as it did right here.

Yes, I understand that some of this might be user error because I sit in a chair with my laptop on my lap and type. But, SO DO MILLIONS OF PEOPLE AROUND THE WORLD. Do you hear me Microsoft? The “soft” of what I just typed ended up in first paragraph. I just repositioned it.
I am learning the new basic navigation. But, what was wrong with the old one? If I wanted pictures, I would have bought a Mac. And, I hate going into corners for everything. It is so annoying guys! I really don’t want to learn how to group apps with pics, I just want to put my apps in plain ‘ol alphabetically order. I want to just scroll through my app titles in alphabetical order and with ABC letters. Okay, that might be because I am a former librarian, but please…I hate pictures being forced n – oops, the o didn’t type – being forced on me.
Photoshop-322x322
But, I don’t hate pictures. I have over 10,000+/-  of them. But, I can’t figure out how to click on a picture, and open it into Photoshop.* I know, all you pro Window 8 people are thinking what an idiot, but if you know – oops, a screen just popped up saying, “Close programs to prevent loss.” To finish my previous sentence…if you know how to do it, please let me know. And to the “Close programs….” comment, I would be happy to, but, I will have to go to the help screen to figure out how to do that. Oh shoot, I don’t know where the help button is, but I bet if I go through my 65 page print out, I may be able to read something about it.
windows-8
And here is an interesting thing about my informative print out…I went through it, made a few changes on Windows 8, only to get to the end of the instructions and read, “If you can’t figure something out, updates are available.” Come on folks, updates when I can’t even figure out the simple things, and shouldn’t the updates be mentioned first?  And why did the right side bar just come out and show its face?
Now, I will say that I did learn some things in my two hour self-training. I learned that…
–        Windows X is my new best friend.
–        I can click the space bar tolog (oops) to log in.
–        I can click the home and end keys to see from one end of the tile apps to the end of the tile apps. (I am sure a teenager on drugs would love this feature…back and forth, back and forth, back and forth – in color no less.) See the picture above.
–        The minus sign at the lower left makes the screen zoom in and out, but why does it zoom in and out when I least expect it?
–        Windows Q shows all the apps.
–        Windows I will power off the computer.
–        Windows E opens Explorer.
–        Windows C shows the right side bar.
–        Windows F shows the Search screen.
–        Windows D launches the desktop.
Obviously, you can tell I am not really a shortcut person. But, I will be now. I have survived most of my computer life without shortcuts, but I can learn.
I do apologize to Microsoft for any misjudging of their product…I realize that my new HP might be part of the problem, but the bottom-line is I am still frustrated and anxious!!!
Yes, I did learn a few things today, and I do realize I have to take more hours out of my valuable future Saturday afternoons to do that, but why is it so difficult?
I cringe when I think about my 85 and 87 year old parents. They want a new computer. They need a new computer, but how in the world can I train THEM on Windows 8? Hmmm….Ah, great idea. I will leave that to my brother. Nothing like revenge!
Mom-and-Dad-367x367
But, then that leaves me to something else…
The Bible says not to be frustrated, anxious, or revengeful! If I would have stuck with Windows 7, I wouldn’t be facing these trials – Windows 8 trials.
So the second bottom-line is that I am going to memorize these verses before my next Windows 8 self-training, so maybe it isn’t so bad after all. But, God sure has a funny way to get me to memorize scripture, doesn’t He? So, be prepared for Bible training when you purchase Windows 8! It comes with the territory.
Holy-Bible-3667x367
Verses to Memorize BEFORE learning Windows 8:
Frustrated with this trial: “Consider it pure joy my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.” James 1:2
Anxiety: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6
-a different version! NLT
-a different version! NLT

Revenge: “Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge…” Leviticus 19:18

* By working on this blog, I learned how to put my pics in Photoshop. Actually, it was the same as before, but I was all confused!!!!

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using our BG² List.

www.PattiGreene.com

Bible Study, People in the Bible

Peter: A hot-head

We all have different personalities. Most of our character traits and personality traits develop when we are in childhood or are given to us from the Lord for a purpose we may or may not see right now.Today, let’s take a look at Simon Peter, also known as Peter, in the New Testament. Peter was a fisherman who later became a disciple of Jesus. He is one of the twelve disciples chosen by Jesus.

Peter was a strong personality who, to outsiders and insiders, could appear inconsistent in his Christian walk. He could be a boastful, impetuous, impulsive hot-head at times. Some say he exhibited a lot of the characteristics of a person with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). In John 18:10, we see Peter’s impulsiveness when he quickly drew his sword and struck the high priest and cut off his right ear. In John 21:7 when Jesus appeared to his disciples after His resurrection, Peter heard another disciple say, “It is the Lord,” and immediately he threw off his outer garment stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. In Matthew 26:33, we see an example of his pride when he says to Jesus, “Though they all fall away because of you. I will never fall away.”

Throughout our Christian journey, we will experience ups and downs, passivity or assertiveness, or even denial as Peter did when he denied Jesus three times before the cock crowed. But note what Peter did as soon as he realized he denied his Lord. He wept bitterly and was so sorrowful he had hurt his Lord and discredited Jesus’ name. His sensitivity came out when he thought he had made a shipwreck of his life by dishonoring God. In 1 Timothy 1:10, Paul charges people to wage a good warfare saying “by rejecting this, some have made [a] shipwreck of their faith.”

But Peter changes. After Pentecost, in the Book of Acts, we see Peter becoming more steadfast. He is continuing to develop a Godly character. We find him not so self-centered or proud. We see him growing in his Christian faith. Sin can lead us to doubt God. But Peter is keeping his faith strong and learning from his experiences. He is growing and maturing in the Lord.

How can we follow Peter’s example in this area of faith when it is so easy to get discouraged when we don’t see answers or God’s directions fast enough? Romans 10:17 states, “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” We can put ourselves under the teaching of God’s word through preaching, personal Bible study, and Christian fellowship. Our faith does matter to God. And, even when we are faithless, remember that God does remain faithful [2 Timothy 2:13]. By becoming a life-long learner on the ways of God, our faith and trust in the Lord will grow. We will become more mature believers, and it will show in our lives through a deeper love for God and our fellow man.

Ah, but Peter matures a little more. He is now writing 1 and 2 Peter. It is hard to believe that this hot-headed disciple from the Gospels is now a great leader of love, humility, and respect for authority. He is now imparting wisdom to others teaching them how to:

–          Be born again to a living hope;

–          Be holy;

–          Be Godly husbands and wives;

–          Be stewards of God’s grace;

–          Be discerning of false prophets and teachers; and

–          How to live in the Last Days.
Peter’s life is an example of sanctification. Bible Study Tools says to, “sanctify someone or something is to set that person or thing apart for the use intended by its designer.” Our designer is the Almighty God. As believers, we are all somewhere along a timeline as we are being sanctified in the Lord. We may be in the hot-head stage, the maturing stage, or the imparting wisdom stage. But, wherever we are in our spiritual journey, the Lord desires our faithfulness. As Proverbs 3:3 says, “Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; bind them around your heart, so you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.”

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.

www.PattiGreene.com

Bible Study, Christian Living, People in the Bible

Leadership Part 1: Nehemiah

1 Comment

Many people identify Nehemiah as being a prophet or a priest, but he wasn’t in the ministry at all. He was like most of us—serving the Lord in a layman’s capacity.

The book of Nehemiah opens with Nehemiah serving the Persian king at the palace in Shushan. Shushan is the ancient capital of Susiana or Elam and where the kings of Persia resided in the winter.  Most scholars suggest the book starts around 444-445 BC. Nehemiah’s claim to fame is his re-building the wall around Jerusalem. The temple had ­­­­been rebuilt, but there were no walls to protect or fortify the city. Nehemiah travelled to Israel leading the third journey of Jews back to Israel after being in Babylonian captivity for 70 years. His reputation was that of a humble man with an upright character. He led by example, both as both cup-bearer to King Artaxerxes II of Persia and as civil governor of Jerusalem. He exhibited determination and leadership to fulfil the calling the Lord bestowed upon him.

Each one of us is in some type of leadership role. It might be as a minister, a church member, a boss, a teacher, a parent, a politician, or a business owner.

Today we are going to look at the first five leadership skills using Nehemiah as our model. We can be masterful leaders in the various positions to which God has called us, to whether in the office, ministry, or home. Next week, we will continue with five more leadership skills Nehemiah possessed.

Leadership Skills

  1. Make your voice and presence known to those who count.

When Nehemiah heard that the wall of Jerusalem had been broken down and its gates destroyed, he sat down and wept. He mourned for days and prayed to God. It was the Lord to whom he first made his voice and presence known. Then in the first part of Nehemiah 2, he addresses the King. Notice that when Nehemiah fervently prayed over this need, God put it in his heart to be the person to meet that need.

After praying about a situation or issue, we often find ourselves to be the one or part of a group to help with that matter. As did Nehemiah, we all have projects or goals that the Lord has given us or that we want to accomplish. Let’s accept God’s calling and see if we can utilize some of Nehemiah’s strategies to succeed.

“Let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father’s house have sinned.”

Nehemiah 1:6 ESV.

  1. Spend time planning your project(s).

Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem with a good reputation from his time in Shushan. His reputation followed him, and the people already respected him. He could have immediately told his workers what to do. But, as a leader, we find him taking the time to evaluate the situation, then spending time planning before approaching others.

How often do we involve ourselves in a project without adequate preparation? Probably too often. In this chapter, we see Nehemiah laying out his strategy for meeting the goal of restoring the wall around Jerusalem.

“I went out by night by the Valley Gate to the Dragon Spring and to the Dung Gate, and I inspected the walls of Jerusalem that were broken down and its gates that had been destroyed by fire.”

Nehemiah 2:13 ESV.

  1. Stand up for what is right.

While being a Godly man, Nehemiah became angry when he heard about the injustices in Jerusalem. Nehemiah and his men were called “feeble”. They were being taunted. He personally was ridiculed by Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabians, Ammonites and Ashdodites. They were angry because God had purposed His plan in Nehemiah’s heart to restore the wall. Nehemiah prayed while his enemies were conspiring to go to Jerusalem to persecute, hinder, and try to stop the progress on the wall. But Nehemiah was confident in what God had called him and his men to do. He talked to the nobles, the rulers, and the people and made a plan to prevent the injustice from occurring.

When on the job, do you ever see injustices? When this occurs, we would be well-advised to follow Nehemiah’s example – to pray – then talk to the right people about it.

“And we prayed to our God and set a guard as a protection against them day and night . . . And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”

Nehemiah 4: 9,14 ESV.

  1. Set clear expectations for performance.

Even while men were conniving against Nehemiah, we can deduce that Nehemiah had his game plan in motion. His men knew exactly what to do. How do we know this? We know this because his men finished the project in 52 days. That was an amazing feat! Nehemiah did not leave his men to fend for themselves without direction. He gave them specific and sensible instructions. The men of Jericho, the Levites, the Priests and the other builders knew exactly what part of the wall was assigned for them to build. These workers enjoyed working for someone they respected and who had clear plans and guidelines in place.

As leaders, we also should make our expectations clear to those working with and alongside us.

“The wall was finished on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, in fifty-two days. And when all our enemies heard of it, all the nations around us were afraid and fell greatly in their own esteem, for they perceived that this work had been accomplished with the help of our God.”

Nehemiah 6:15-16 ESV

To Do:

Acknowledge God as your strength;

Correct and admonish when needed;

Obey the company or ministry policies;

Celebrate the achievements of others; and

Define the roles and responsibilities AGAIN.

Bible Verses:

Where there is no guidance the people fall, but in abundance of counselors there is victory. (Proverbs 11:14)

Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. (Galatians 6:9)

So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them with his skillful hands. (Psalms 78:72)

Prayer:

Oh Lord, help us to see opportunities to be servants for You. Let us also see areas where You want us to be leaders. Let us follow Your leading and be the best leaders we can. Give us Your directions, Your wisdom, and Your skills. Let us live our lives seeing life from Your perspective. We love You. In Jesus’ Name.

God bless you.

greenenpastures.org

Spoiler Alert: Check back next week with Green Pastures by Patti: Inspiring Stories about Prayer and Bible Study for the next 5 leadership traits entitled Leadership Part 2: Nehemiah

Works Cited

“Nehemiah: Who wrote the book?” The Bible-Teaching Ministry of Charles R. Swindoll. [21 June 2015.]

Stedman, Ray. “Nehemiah: Rebuilding the walls.” Authentic Christianity. [June 21, 2015.]

Wallace, Wanda T. and David Creelman. Leading people when they know more than you do. Harvard Business Review. 16 June 2015. Web.

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.

Edited by E. Johnson

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.

Bible Study, Christian Living, People in the Bible

Leadership Part 2: Nehemiah

My husband is a manager in the corporate real estate profession. If you were to ask him how difficult it is to get a building project started, he would definitely tell you that it is not the easiest thing to accomplish. There are a lot of factors involved, like in which country are you going to build it; what are the legal laws of the land; how much money is needed; who would be involved; how obstacles should be handled, the leadership of the involved people, and the timeline for completion.

Nehemiah faced similar obstacles as he attempted to fulfil his spiritual calling to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. The entire city, including the wall , was destroyed in 587 BC during the siege led by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon.

Last week, we looked at the first five leadership skills using Nehemiah as a model. We saw how Nehemiah was delving into his project with faith in God, compassion, and a huge goal in mind. As a refresher, the first five leadership skills were:

  1. Make your voice and presence known to those who count.
  2. Spend time planning your project(s).
  3. Stand up for what is right.
  4. Set clear expectations for performance.
  5. Surround yourself with the best talent possible.

To read, Leadership Part 1: Nehemiah,  click here.

Leadership Skills

  1. Be humble and acknowledge that God is your strength.

The books of Nehemiah and Ezra are thought to have originally been one combined book inthe Bible. It is obvious that Ezra, the priest and scribe, and Nehemiah, governor in Jerusalem and re-builder of the city wall, were colleagues. After the completion of the wall, the people needed some reconstruction of their own. We find Ezra and other Israelites gathering by the Water Gate worshipping, reading the Law, teaching the people to acknowledge the Lord, and encouraging them to study and understand the words of divine instruction. Then, on this HOLY DAY, we see Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites rejoicing.

If you are in a ministry role, after a big project (like Vacation Bible School), the workers need to regroup and be encouraged again to stay working for the Lord and seeking again to please Him as they move forward. If in the ministry, do you encourage your employees (or volunteers) to humbly worship, read the Bible, encourage them to study God’s Word, and reiterate that God is their strength?

If in a job situation, when your employees perform remarkably well in completing a difficult project, do you just let their “high” accomplishments go unnoticed, or do you praise them and encourage them to continue on with their good work?

The letdown after a big project can loom for a long time, but as leaders, we can prevent that with a little time spent afterwards looking forward to the next project, the next ministry, or next learning opportunity.

“And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered, ‘Amen, Amen,’ lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshipped the Lord with their faces to the ground. . . And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, ‘This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.’ For all the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. Then he said to them, ‘Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.’ So the Levites calmed all the people, saying, ‘Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.’ And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing because they had understood the words that were declared to them.”

Nehemiah 8: 6, 9-12

  1. Correct and admonish when needed.

The time will come when someone who works for you needs correction and admonishment. It is a tough and sensitive issue that leaders face. Nehemiah was able to lessen the load by pre-handling this, giving his men an example from the book of Deuteronomy which they all understood: Moses’ explaining to the gathered rebellious children of Israel the consequences of their disobedience (namely, arousing God’s ire, and where that may lead). What better way than to pre-warn people of situations which may arise, where correction, admonishment or even firing may result, by talking about it beforehand? How wise!

“But as soon as they were at rest, they again did what was evil in your sight. Then you abandoned them to the hand of their enemies so that they ruled over them. And when they cried out to you again, you heard from heaven, and in your compassion, you delivered them time after time. You warned them in order to turn them back to your law, but they became arrogant and disobeyed your commands. They sinned against your ordinances, of which you said, ‘The person who obeys them will live by them.’ Stubbornly they turned their backs on you, became stiff-necked and refused to listen.”

Nehemiah 9:28-29

  1. Obey the company or ministry policies.

Companies, churches, organizations, and families have policies and/or rules of ethics. They are there to be abided by unless, of course, they are against God’s laws; in that case, decisions and prayerful considerations need to be made on a course of action. If your ministry (individual or group) does not have policies, it may be time to develop them. Many ministries have or are developing boards or foundations to oversee their own activities to be sure they are operating under an authoritative source.

In Nehemiah 10, the purpose was to join and bind the people together with an oath to follow God’s laws, commands, regulations, and decrees. Regulations and codes of behavior are very important in corporate offices, ministries, and even within homes, especially where children are growing up under the instructions of their parents.

“The rest of the people—priests, Levites, gatekeepers, musicians, temple servants and all who separated themselves from the neighboring peoples for the sake of the Law of God, together with their wives and all their sons and daughters who are able to understand— all these now join their fellow Israelites the nobles, and bind themselves with a curse and an oath to follow the Law of God given through Moses the servant of God and to obey carefully all the commands, regulations and decrees of the Lord our Lord.”

Nehemiah 10:28, 31

9. Celebrate the achievements of others.

Nehemiah celebrated the dedication of the wall with gladness. In both businesses and churches, we see achievement awards, 10-year anniversary recognitions, and “Good Job” certificates. All these play an important role among those who have worked with you to achieve the goals the Lord has given you. You may not even be aware that those who are working for you are inwardly proud of their own personal accomplishments through “your” project. If you close a deal at work, how about a party to acknowledge the good and steadfast work of your employees? How about throwing a dinner to thank those who volunteer their time and effort in the ministry? And, what’s wrong with some ice cream for good grades?

“At the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem, the Levites were sought out from where they lived and were brought to Jerusalem to celebrate joyfully the dedication with songs of thanksgiving and with the music of cymbals, harps and lyres.”

Nehemiah 12:27

  1. Define roles and responsibilities AGAIN.

And finally, in Nehemiah 13, we see that Nehemiah had left Jerusalem during the 32 years of King Artaxerxes’ reign. But, when he returned, he found the house of God in disarray. Widespread shenanigans were going on in his absence. Upon arrival in Jerusalem, Nehemiah proceeded to command that the chambers be cleaned. He contended with the officials and asked them why the house of the Lord had been neglected and forsaken. He reproved the nobles and warned them. He cleansed them from everything heathen and he started all over again with defining roles and responsibilities [Nehemiah 7:65]

In ministry and work, defining roles and responsibilities is not a one-time thing. It must be continually taught. Just as in our lives, we must incessantly be in the Word of God and frequently hear God’s expectations continually. It isn’t just going to church on Sundays. It isn’t just going to a conference. It isn’t praying only in our time of need. Our bosses or ministers will not always be around to instruct us as was the case with Nehemiah; when he wasn’t there, the people turned to ungodly activities.

We, as individuals, must remember that is our duty to stay in contact with the Lord. We can’t live in someone else’s shadow. And, as a leader, we need to constantly remind those working with us to be responsible and obedient with or without “the leader or boss” around. This chapter reminds me of the idiom, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play.” Let’s be responsible ourselves and teach those who are under our leadership to always act like the cat is around!

“But while all this was going on, I was not in Jerusalem, for in the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes king of Babylon I had returned to the king. Sometime later I asked his permission and came back to Jerusalem. Here I learned about the evil thing Eliashib had done in providing Tobiah a room in the courts of the house of God.”

Nehemiah 13:6-7

In conclusion, let’s celebrate Nehemiah’s contributions. His administrative skills were outstanding. He completed the work God assigned to Him. He faced obstacles honorably. He acknowledged his strength came from the Lord. If only he were here, I’d throw him a party of grain, legumes, and domesticated beasts to celebrate the legacy he left behind to the family of God!!!

Bible Verses:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. (1 Thessalonians 5:14)

And bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate. (Luke 15:23)

Prayer:

Oh mighty God, thank You for the leadership roles You have placed me in. Let me be an example to others through Your strength. Give me wisdom and humility so I can lead as You want me to. Let me rejoice at the achievements of others. In YOU alone I trust.

God bless you.

greenenpastures.org

Works Cited:

“Nehemiah: Who wrote the book?” The Bible-Teaching Ministry of Charles R. Swindoll. [21 June 2015.]

Stedman, Ray. “Nehemiah: Rebuilding the walls.” Authentic Christianity. [June 21, 2015.] Wallace, Wanda T. and David Creelman. Leading people when they know more than you do. Harvard Business Review. 16 June 2015. Web.

Edited by E. Johnson

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.

Bible Study, Christian Living, Doctrine

Spiritual Gifts: I’m NOT gifted in that!

Have you ever taken a spiritual gifts inventory survey? They are surveys that help define where you are best-suited to serve in the body of Christ. Whenever I take these surveys – and I have taken plenty of them – I find myself scoring consistently high in certain areas and scoring consistently low in other areas. Through my survey results, I have come to understand that God has fashioned and knit me together just how He wants me to be by the gifts He has bestowed upon me.

But, I have also learned that just because I score low in some areas, God may still choose to use me in those areas that I just don’t feel comfortable, capable, or even care to be involved in.

While the main thrust of this blog is not to teach about specific spiritual gifts, I want to show you how we can operate and be used by the Lord outside of our high-scoring spiritual gifts.

But, what are the spiritual gifts? The major spiritual gifts mentioned in the Bible that can be used effectively by believers within the church are:

Leadership
Administration
Teaching
Knowledge
Prophecy
Discernment
Exhortation
Shepherding
Faith
Evangelism
Apostleship
Service/Helps
Mercy
Giving
Hospitality*

If you would like more information about discovering your spiritual gifts; what specific gifts encompass; and take a spiritual gift survey, please click on the link below by Lifeway Christian Resource. There is nothing like knowing what your spiritual gift(s) are. Knowing creates peace: It creates confidence: And it creates the knowledge that God knows exactly what He is doing in our lives.

http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/files/lwcF_PDF_Discover_Your_Spiritual_Gifts.pdf

Sharing the truth about our gifting is tough. We don’t want to sound proud and righteous if we possess certain gifts. On the other hand, we hate to admit that we have a very hard time working within the reins of other gifts. In school, most of us want to score high in every subject, but spiritual gifts don’t work that way. In a true confession, I share that I am consistently low in the gift of the Service/Helps ministry.  Maybe that is because I don’t particularly like to cook. So if you are sick, please be happy I have given you a McDonald’s gift card instead of trying to make you a gourmet meal! Or maybe it is because I live in a state of fatigue and serving requires energy. I just don’t know.

But, even though I score low in this area, I recognize that God still wants me to serve and help my friends, family, and the body of Christ. It is important to understand God can and will use you outside of the realm of your spiritual gifts. You are not required to operate only in your high scoring gifts.

Periodically, we are asked to step out of our comfort zone. I like animals, but I am not a huge animal lover. But one day, I was truly impressed to take a friend to the vet to comfort her as she experienced the tough decision to put her dog down. Not my comfort zone, but God used me. And, I was totally blessed being with her during this sad time in her life.

When God leads you or I on a mission outside of your gifting, think of it as the Lord stretching us through the Holy Spirit. When God sets us apart for a mission, He can use any gift or personality trait to fulfill His purposes. The Lord will walk beside us empowering us to fulfill His goal. I find it so exciting and adventurous to see the new and sometimes bizarre ways God might use me, like the time I witnessed to a Buddhist only to be told they could not except the Lord because their relatives were on the mantle (in a jar)! Let’s approach our life with the attitude that we are ready to be used by the Lord in whatever area He wants to use us.

Sometimes we are on receiving end of gracious acts of service or help from others. Sometimes we aren’t. I have experienced both and benefited from both. I was once in a position where I was ostracized without a real or tangible explanation of why. I went through speculation, hurt feelings, anger, and loneliness. I was particularly hurt because the criticism came from fellow believers. It was a tough time and it stayed with me for a long time. Even today, 20 years later, I think about it. At the time, I remember wishing someone (a real human being, besides my husband) was walking this road with me. However, God allowed me to walk through this experience alone. I was alone with my feelings and emotions – with only God to talk to. I didn’t like going thorough those emotions by myself. None of us like suffering alone. But, that experience has made me more sensitive to the sufferings and ill-treatment of others. It has given me a little more “Discerning Smarts” to recognize someone who is inwardly suffering or needs some help.

We all need encouragement at times in our lives: Some more than others.

While serving and helping is tough for me, I need reminders on how to do it. As I share some tips on how we can help others, think of the people you know. Maybe you are desperately in need of help from others right now. Or maybe it’s time for you to help someone else.

How to Serve and Help Others

  • Be practical.

Ask yourself what you can practically do to help others. Can you bring a meal? Can you take their child to soccer practice? Can you make some calls? Usually, people don’t want to be an imposition on others, but use your judgment and try to put yourself in their shoes to see what you can do or offer. I have found rather than saying, “Call me if you need anything,” it is better to say, “I’m stopping by the grocery store and I can pick up some groceries for you. What do you need?”

  • Be there.

Maybe a person just needs someone to listen to them. It is amazing how we can help by just listening. We don’t even have to respond. I think Job’s friends would have been a lot better off in the “Service/Helps Department” if they just listened to Job instead of feeling they had to point out his failures and inconsistences.

  • Be kind and patient.

Recently my husband broke 6 ribs (in 2 places each) – OUCH! Believe me, there is a reason I am not a nurse. Just being in the hospital made me nauseous a few times. The smells, sounds, and sights in the hospital were not my cup of tea and a few gags occurred in my system!

While recuperating, I had to put my husband socks on his feet. I had to pick up everything he dropped. I had to help him put his arm in his shirt and jacket. But, I didn’t mind, because I love him!

You may encounter similar events like this. If so, give your time, love, kindness, and patience to the needed recipient.

Remember also that it takes time to heal – whether healing is in the area of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing.

  • Be an encouragement.

Encouragement can come in many forms. It can be a timely note or a phone call. It can be giving hope or security. Just ask the Lord how you can encourage those He brings in your path. He will show you. To use an old cliché, “You may be the only Jesus someone sees.” Think about how Jesus would encourage those in need, then as Nike says, “Just do it.”
God may not call you to help in every situation you encounter. But, if God is giving you the ‘holy hunch’ to be involved in a person’s life, take the role with enthusiasm and thankfulness! And see where God leads it.

You may not be called to use your top level gifts in every situation, but go with His leading. Whatever it is, let Him have His way with you. Let’s praise God for whatever He chooses to do with our lives.
Like vocalist Darlene Zschech sings in I give you my Life, let’s give the Lord all of our life without limiting our service to Him and see what He can do.

I give you my Life by Darlene Zschech

This is my desire, to honor You
Lord, with all my heart I worship You
All I have within me, I give You praise
All that I adore is in You

Lord, I give You my heart
I give You my soul, I live for You alone
Every breath that I take, every moment I’m awake
Lord have Your way in me

Lord, I give You my heart

I give You my soul, I live for You alone
Every breath that I take, every moment I’m awake
Lord have Your way in me

Bible Verses:

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!
Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10 ESV

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:  whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:10-11 ESV

Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’
Matthew 25:44-45 ESV

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
Romans 12:6-8 ESV

Prayer:

Thank you Lord for creating me exactly how you wanted me to be. Thank you for using me for Your glory. Lord, show me areas where I can grow. Lead me to people I can help. Let me recognize your leadership in my life. Allow me to always give glory and honor to your Name. Amen.

God Bless You.
Patti Greene

*The gift of tongues is excluded from this blog as we are concentrating on the major gifts used within the church body.

And don’t forget COMMENTS are always welcome!

Books by Patti Londa Greene Awaken Me: a devotional prayer journal and God, It’s Me: 181 Days for Young Adults to Become Passionate about Prayer and Bible Study

Bibliography

Fischer, Sharon. “What to do when you don’t know what to do.” Worldwide Challenge, June 1983.“Spiritual Gifts Survey.” Lifeway Christian Resources. (2003). Web 5 July 2015.

<http://www.lifeway.com/lwc/files/lwcF_PDF_Discover_Your_Spiritual_Gifts.pdf>.

Zscheck, Darlene. “I give you my heart.” <http://www.songlyrics.com/darlene-zschech/i-give-you-my-heart-lyrics. 3 July 2015>.

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.

www.PattiGreene.com

 

Bible Study, Christian Living, How to Guides

A Biblical How-To File

I created a folder on my computer called, “HOW-TO.” This is the most important folder I have. It saves me the most time and alleviates more frustration than any other folder I have made. All articles, tips, and important documents that I don’t want to spend time looking for again are stored in this HOW-TO folder. I refer to this folder almost every day for one thing or another.

Some of the document titles are:

– How to do a Quick Book entry;

– How to get rid of millipedes;

– How to give a wedding toast;

– How to make a Facebook banner;

– How to make a good tradeshow display;

– How to make an adult bib;

– How to mentor;

– How to potty train a toddler;

– How to resize images;

– How to write a book.

But, what if we had a Biblical “HOW-TO” folder? Well, we do. It is the Bible. It is in this book that we can find stories, encouragement, and important words from God on how to live our lives according to His purpose. All through the Bible, people spoke or pondered the HOW-TO’s of life just like we do today.

[Jeremiah] Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” Jeremiah 1:6

[Ezekiel] Show them how to distinguish between the unclean and the clean. Ezekiel 44:23b

[Job] For I do not know how to flatter, else my Maker would soon take me away. Job 32:22

In this blog, I want to just take a minut portion of some of the HOW TO questions that people ask God about and give a short answer through the Word of God. It is my prayer that maybe one or more of these alphabetically listed HOW TO questions will speak to you today.

A – How to deal with ANGER

Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
James 1:19-20

B – How to be your BEST for God

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15

C – How to accept CHRIST

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved.
Romans 10:9-10

D – How to view DEATH

But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:20

E – How to handle EVIL

Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:17, 21

F – How to understand your FUTURE

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11

G – How to deal with GREED

And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Luke 12:15

H – How to understand HOLINESS

For I am the Lord your God. Consecrate yourselves therefore, and be holy, for I am holy. You shall not defile yourselves with any swarming thing that crawls on the ground. For I am the Lord who brought you up out of the land of Egypt to be your God. You shall therefore be holy, for I am holy.”
Leviticus 11:44-45

I – How to be an INTERCESSOR

Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints.
Ephesians 6:18

J – How to deal with JEALOUSY

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3-4

K – How to become KIND

For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.
2 Peter 1:5-7

L – How to handle LONELINESS

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28-30

M – How to view MONEY

Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Hebrews 13:5

N – How to love your NEIGHBOR

If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well.
James 2:8

O – How to be OBEDIENT

But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.
James 1:22-25

P – How to PRAY

But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
Matthew 6:6-8

Q – How to live a QUIET life

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.
1Timothy 2:1-2

R – How to deal with RESENTMENT

Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.
Hebrews 12:14-15

 

S – How to understand SUFFERING

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:2-3, 12

T – How to resist TEMPTATION

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7

U – How to UNDERSTAND God

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
Proverbs 3:5-7

V – How to handle VOWS

It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay.
Ecclesiastes 5:5

W – How to deal with WORRY

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
Philippians 4:6

X – How to be an EXAMPLE to others

Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.
1 Peter 5:2-3

Y – How should we view YEARS from God’s perspective

But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.
2 Peter 3:8

Z – How to be ZEALOUS for God

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.
Titus 2:11-14

Bible Verses: Above

Prayer:

My heavenly Father, I love you. Let me seek you for all the questions I have in life. Assure me that you know what is best for me at all times and in all circumstances. Let your Holy Word be my guide and comfort every day of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

May the Lord our God bless you as you walk with Him. Have a great weekend!

Patti

 

Blogger Badge - White background 100x100

Bible Gateway Blogger Grid (BG²) is an international network of independent bloggers who meaningfully blog—and who are serious—about matters relating to the Bible. Follow the members on Twitter using the BG² List.

www.PattiGreene.com