√ Reality Check

Philippians Chapter 3

Scripture: Philippians chapter 3:9-10-11 (N.K.J.V.)
“The righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to the His death, if from any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.”

Observation: Righteousness is a gift from God that I receive by faith. It is not something I bring to the table it is all God! I receive righteousness because of my faith in Christ and all that HE is and all that HE has done. I must know Him, which means:
· To be one with Him
· To have intimacy with Him
· To be crucified with Him
· To have my life’s reputation be totally connected to Him.
· To die and have life only through His resurrected life.
· To surrender everything including the surrendering of my rights.
· To know that the power and will in me must be from Christ and His Spirit within me!

Application: We have to walk a life of faith. We need to surrender to the power of the resurrected life of Jesus every day. We must find our life in Him every day. We need to desire intimacy and give preference and opportunity in our schedules to cultivate it! I need to remember:
Not my will which = death, but your will which= life, be done!

Prayer: Lord, I want to walk in covenant with you!! To acknowledge and give you first place, to ask and seek your will and your ways. I want to listen to your Holy Spirit and be directed to do the Father’s will. I want to surrender to you Heavenly Father and be yours just like Jesus. Jesus, I want to know you, to walk with you, to be like you, to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit leading and obey him!

Posted by Reality Check at 4:57 PM | Permalink | Comments

Philippians Chapter 2

Scripture = Philippians chapter 2:1-2 (N.K.J.V.)
“Therefore if there is any consolation (encouragement) in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and mercy, fulfill my joy by being like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”

Observation = From these verses in Philippians chapter 2 it seems like the way Christians are to treat each other is with both an understanding and a appreciation of what Jesus has done for them! Whatever we have received from Christ we are in turn to give to others. These acts will bring the body together. Two of the phrases in these verses that caught my attention were the phrases, “comfort of love” and “Fellowship of the Spirit.”

The phrase “Comfort of love” is from the Greek word parakesis, which means “a coming along side to help or to comfort.” In this verse parakesis means to help or comfort with love. Christ’s love surrounds us, in fact his love envelopes us and is there present with us giving us strength; the strength of His love.

The phrase “Fellowship of the Spirit” is from the Greek word koinonia which means sharing, unity, close association, partner ship, participation, a unity brought about by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God creates for us believers an intimate bond of fellowship with the Godhead and other children of God. We feel like we are a part of a family.

Application = Our relationship with Christ, which is supplied by the Holy Spirit, surrounds us with the Love of Jesus and makes us feel his strength and know that we belong to Him. The fellowship that we have with God in Christ creates in us a closeness with God, a deep sense of intimacy, a feeling of being held and built up. The Holy Spirit brings us a steadying influence and a security of relationship that no matter the storms of life we are facing, God is with us and we are eternally his! The comfort of love that God’s presence brings to us, is to enable us to love each other because we are secure that we belong to God.

Prayer = Lord, I want to walk in this comfort every day. Show me that I can walk through anything, in your love and in abiding fellowship with you! Help me in the security of our relationship to love others and live in unity with them.

Posted by Reality Check at 7:46 PM | Permalink | Comments

Philippians Chapter 1

Scripture: Philippians 1:20-21 (New Living Translation)
For I live in eager expectation and hope that I will never do anything that causes me shame, but that I will always be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past, and that my life will always honor Christ, whether I live or I die. For to me, living is for Christ, and dying is even better.
Observation: As you read Philippians chapter 1 you realize that Paul is writing this letter from a prison cell. He does not complain about his condition but instead rejoices that his imprisonment has enabled him to witness to the palace guard and has emboldened the church to openly preach the ‘gospel’. At a time when many people would be complaining about their condition, Paul is in fact saying that he will gladly stay imprisoned and even die if it helps the message of Christ go forth. It is rather incredible that this man who suffers for Christ everywhere he goes is so concerned that he will embarrass the Lord by his behavior. Paul’s words are an example for all of us to follow when it comes to humbly loving and serving Christ with all your heart, soul, strength and might! His sold out attitude is not just a prideful boast of bravado but a proven way to live each day. These words are spoken by a man who has the scars to show that he has walked the talk!

Application: How do we react to circumstances that come against us? Do we care more for our comfort than being an instrument that proclaims the gospel? Do we see how our suffering can be used by God to strengthen others and spread the gospel? We have to live totally dependant on the sovereignty of our God. What an attitude of commitment that states, “I will live a life sold out to Jesus because living for him is the best way to live and dying for him ushers me into his presence for eternity!”

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am not there yet. I am not sure how I would respond to such adversity? I too like Paul want to be bold. I don’t ever want to cause you shame. Help me to trust in you. May I yield my will and my plan to you Jesus. May I trust in you to receive whatever you bring into my life’s path.

Posted by Reality Check at 10:06 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 21

Scripture: John chapter 21:18-19 (N.I.V.)
Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go." Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!"

Observation: At first glance these verses might seem odd. Jesus had just told Peter in verse 18 how he was going to die. To some people this might seem to be a really bad thing to know but I believe it was like music to Peter’s ears. Earlier in this chapter Peter was asked by Jesus three times if he truly loved Jesus. This was in some way directly proportionate to Peter’s three denials. There are numerous thoughts on why Jesus did this and exactly what it means but there is no doubt about the correlation of the two events. Peter is restored by Jesus and then we have verses 18-19. I believe that verse 18 was a huge boost of confidence for Peter because of what verse 19 states, “Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God.” Peter knew that he would stay faithful in the end. To a former denier that was GREAT NEWS! Peter knew that he would be different; he would not deny Jesus again. No more lingering doubts, no more fear of death, he would finish strong! Now that is good news! John writes that Peter knew that he would glorify Jesus as his last act on earth. Wow; that is such an incredible relief, that news was awesome to know. Peter could live out his days in confidence serving his Lord without shame hanging over his head.

Application: What an incredible God we serve. How compassionate is he! Jesus told Peter that he had prayed for him and that he would eventually overcome and encourage his brothers and now Jesus had set him up for just such an opportunity. If we cry out to God he hears our fears and he is there to meet our needs. Our Lord believes in us more than we believe in ourselves. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us and he promised that he would complete in us the work that he has started in us.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for believing in me when I don’t even believe in my self. Thank you that I can rely on you for strength and help. For you are my rock and my salvation.

Posted by Reality Check at 1:59 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 20
Scripture: John chapter 20:29 (N.I.V.)
Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Observation: There is nothing wrong with wanting to see things for yourself. You can take the word of others but when you are able to verify something personally it is even better. Thomas wanted to see Jesus for himself and for that desire he has been labeled ‘doubting Thomas’. Would Thomas have believed if he had never seen Jesus and been able to put his hands into the wounds of Jesus? How many times are we skeptical when we hear about God moving in a way that is different than what we are accustomed to? I have often asked God to show me things I have never seen. I mean it would be so cool to see an angel but I never have. It is even worse when you know others who have seen one. Every time I have asked for something like this the answer I have received is, “blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

Application: By faith we enter into the Kingdom of God and by faith we live every day. Whether I have had the same experience as someone else is not a valid criteria to judge their experience. God knows what I need in my life and what he reveals to me or chooses not to reveal to me is under his sovereign plan for my life. The same is true if someone tries to discredit what has happened in my life. They cannot discredit my experience due to the fact that they have not had the same experience. Whatever we have seen or haven’t seen does not define who we are but I must be careful that my skepticism does not rob me of receiving all that God has for me. Just remember: The one with the experience is never at the mercy of the one with the argument. But the one without the experience can still be blessed through their belief.

Prayer: Lord, I want to see but it is even more important for me to believe. Let your Word dwell in me and may I be led by your Holy Spirit. I want to receive everything that you have for me. Help me to not criticize or judge what I do not know or have never experienced. Help me to not base my walk simply on the sensational but know that I am in covenant with a Sensational God.

Posted by Reality Check at 11:06 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 19
Scripture: John chapter 19: 4, 6, 10-12, 16
4 Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews, "Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him."

6 As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, "Crucify!Crucify!" But Pilate answered, "You take him and crucify him. As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him."

10 "Do you refuse to speak to me?" Pilate said. "Don't you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?" 11 Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin." 12 From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jews kept shouting, "If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar."

16 Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified.

Observation: Pilate HAD a choice! He knew that Jesus was innocent. At every turn of these events Pilate had the chance to do the right thing. He could have let Jesus go free. We know that Jesus was required to die to be the Savior of the world but Pilate had a choice to make. Pilate did not know that God's eternal plan for Jesus was to die, all Pilot knew was that he was having an encounter with someone who claimed to be "the Son of God" and that made him even more afraid. (see verse 7-8) I cannot believe that this encounter with Jesus was much different than any other encounter people had when they met Jesus. When you met Jesus you had a decision to make. Did you believe that he was who he claimed to be? Pilate faced the peer pressure from the Jews and he had to decide for Jesus or for himself! Pilot at first tried to appease the mob and hand them Barabbas to cover for himself and to not be forced to make a decision about Jesus. Next, Pilot tried to appease the mob and again cover himself by having Jesus whipped. These attempts all had failed to relieve him of his responsibility. Pilot was still forced to make a decision; would he choose what he knew was right and let Jesus go or would he chose for his own safety and hand Jesus to the Jews? Would he condemn an innocent man to cover his own reputation? Would he risk losing favor with the Jews by not bowing to their demands? Pilot knew what he should do. He knew which decision was the right one to make but Pilot chose to NOT allow Jesus to go free. Pilot handed Jesus over to the Jews to be crucified and even sent his guard to do it!

Application: How often do I like Pilot, knowing what to do, willingly allow something or someone to talk me out of making the right decision! Pilot had a choice and so do we. We can listen to the mob (the world and its culture) and bow down to their pressure or we can do what we know we should do. Are we more concerned about what people say about us (our reputation) than we are about doing what we know is right? How many times do we try to offer some compromised ploy as a way to escape responsibility? Like Pilot, we often try to please every body instead of just doing what we KNOW that we are supposed to do! We must learn to trust God to help us overcome the temptation to compromise and protect our self interest. We must call on the Lord for strength and: WE MUST DO WHAT WE KNOW IS THE RIGHT THING TO DO NO MATTER the CONSEQUENCES!

Prayer: Lord Jesus you have placed your Holy Spirit in me to help me KNOW what to do. I want to obey and follow you. Help me to not compromise to peer pressure but instead stay true to my convictions and do what I KNOW that you are telling me to do!

Posted by Reality Check at 5:20 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 18
Scripture: John chapter 18: 4 – 6 (English Standard Version)
4Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.” Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6When Jesus said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground.

Observation: Today I chose the English Standard Version of the Bible because it is supposed to be a very literal translation. I wanted to make sure that my main thought of the day from John chapter 18, is from the true context and content of the original text. Comparing the English versions of the Bible from http://www.biblegateway.com/, with the exception of the Message, all of the versions state that when Jesus said, “I am he” in verse 5, everyone fell to the ground. They all fell down! The question to ask is, “What happened to them?” I believe they were all struck by the glory of the Lord. Philippians Chapter 2:10 states, “that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” In John chapter 18, the people are not bowing but falling at the name of Jesus and at his authority. This mob mentioned in John chapter 18 could NOT take Jesus’ life! He gave himself to them (see verses 7 – 12). They were able to recover only when Jesus asked them, “Who is it that you are looking for?” (Verse 7, New International Version). Sometimes it is hard to believe that people can be “slain in the Spirit.” I totally understand why people are skeptical, people fake it! Here we see a vivid demonstration of God’s power through a simple acknowledgement from Jesus! The power of the glory of Jesus caused this mob to fall down! Jesus was in control; after all, he is the Son of God. The power of God hit those people (verse 6) and they could NOT stand!

Application: We need to see that God is in control. Nothing can happen to the people of God without God’s permission. Your life on this earth is already measured in length. God knows how long we will live! This fact does not invite a nihilistic attitude. We don’t recklessly throw away our life because that would be tempting God. Destructive behavior reveals a lack of understanding concerning the Love that God has for us. Disregarding God’s sovereignty also reveals that we have a rebellious heart! Reading these verses in John chapter 18 should also reveal to us that the power of God is REAL! Don’t let the fakers of the world steal the truth from the word. When the glory of God is present (in the presence of God) it is sometimes hard to remain on your feet.

Read 1 Kings 8:10-11 (English Standard Version, again because it is a literal translation, see also the A.S.V),
10And when the priests came out of the Holy Place, a cloud filled the house of the LORD, 11so that the priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you that my life is in your hands. Help me by your Holy Spirit to submit to you my life and my plans for today. Thank you Lord, that your glory is both visible and tangible. Thank you for making us able to experience your presence.

Posted by Reality Check at 4:47 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 17
Scripture: John chapter 17: 20 – 23
20) "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21) that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22) I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: 23) I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.

Observation: When you read this passage of John’s gospel do you realize that Jesus is praying for all of us believers who have given our lives to Christ because of the disciples? If you study your spiritual genealogy you can trace your faith back those eleven men. They were our spiritual forefathers! When Jesus is praying in John 17 verses 20 – 26, he is praying that we would come together as one and be in complete unity. Jesus’ prayer is directed toward us, toward you and me! He is praying that we will live in such unity with each other that the world will believe who Jesus really is and why he would come and die for mankind. Unity is a powerful tool of evangelism. Unity will draw unbelievers to the body of Christ. Our selfless acts of love for one another validate all that Christ accomplished! Genuine Christianity is more caught than taught. Our action toward each another speaks louder than our words!

Application: Jesus said that the world would know that we are his disciples by our love for one another (see John 13:34 – 35). We are always so worried that we will communicate the gospel in the wrong way. We hold witnessing classes to teach each other what to say and when to say it. I am not saying that speaking the gospel with your mouth is wrong. What I am saying is; living the truth of the gospel in our relationships with other Christians is even more powerful than what we say. You can’t refute what you hear when it is demonstrated by what you see! St. Francis of Assisi stated, “Preach the Gospel at all times and sometimes use words.” When the church comes together in unity we see great harvests’. What are we doing to live in unity? How can you help bring “the body of Christ together?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to promote unity by my behavior toward other brothers and sisters in Christ. Help me to not judge others but instead, learn to serve them in love. May I in love, do whatever you show me to foster unity in Your Church and bring forth the harvest! Jesus, may my acts of love show others why you came to this earth.

Posted by Reality Check at 11:00 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 16
Scripture: John chapter 16: 2, 4, 33 (Contemporary English Version)
2) You will be chased out of the Jewish meeting places. And the time will come when people will kill you and think they are doing God a favor.

4) I am saying this to you now, so that when the time comes, you will remember what I have said.
I was with you at the first, and so I didn't tell you these things.

33) I have told you this, so that you might have peace in your hearts because of me. While you are in the world, you will have to suffer. But cheer up! I have defeated the world.

Observation: As I read John chapter 16, verse 2 jumped off the page at me. I immediately thought of the Apostle Paul who, as Saul, in the book of Acts Chapter 9 is doing what John chapter 16 verse 2 is describing.

Acts 9:1-2 (New International Version)
1) Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2) and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.

Paul writes in the book of Philippians chapter 3 verse 6, that he was zealously persecuting the church and then states that he always followed the law.

Philippians 3:6 (Contemporary English Version)
6) And I was so eager that I even made trouble for the church. I did everything the Law demands in order to please God.

It wasn’t very long after Jesus spoke to the disciples that this persecution started. I am sure that in some way the followers of Jesus were surprised that it was their fellow countrymen who were trying to imprison them and take their lives. The early church was not trying to start a new religion; they had no choice but to flee Judaism. This separation from Judaism was forced upon the church and just as Jesus had stated, his followers were persecuted as he was. Still amidst all the persecution the church was able to have peace because they could recall what Jesus had told them. In fact, in a seemingly strange way the persecution would actually have reassured the church, because an attack would have revealed that they were actually doing everything that Jesus expected them to do. They could also remember that they had seen with their eyes that the works of mankind could not prevent the triumph of Jesus. Jesus had overcome the world and they too could overcome all that was thrown at them.

Application: If an event is predicted there is an element of recognition even if you are surprised. In fact, if what you are experiencing is a predicted outcome based upon your behavior then the encounter can actually measure your progress. If I am living a life sold out to Christ I will encounter resistance and even persecution. Attacks against me might come through people and earthly circumstances and they might also come through the impetus of hell itself. Despite these attacks, I can be encouraged and remain in God’s peace, for all of these forces gathered to destroy my Savior and he through the power of his Heavenly Father defeated them all. If God is for us then what can stand against us (see Romans 8:28-39)? Persecution may simply indicate your graduation day. Attacks might be telling you that everything is right, you are growing and God is actually using your life as an instrument for victory! (See Romans 5:1-5 and James 1:1-4).

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank you for your work in my life. I see you in struggles and attacks, you are making me mature. I rejoice Lord that you are growing me up. May I be a testimony to those around me that you are always faithful and know what is best for me. I want to give you glory through whatever I may encounter. Your Grace is sufficient Jesus, please help me to not whine or complain but trust in you!

Posted by Reality Check at 6:56 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 15

Scripture: John chapter 15:5, 7, 16 (Amplified Bible)
5 I am the Vine; you are the branches. Whoever lives in Me and I in him bears much (abundant) fruit. However, apart from Me [cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing.
7 If you live in Me [abide vitally united to Me] and My words remain in you and continue to live in your hearts, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you.
16 You have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you and I have appointed you [I have planted you], that you might go and bear fruit and keep on bearing, and that your fruit may be lasting [that it may remain, abide], so that whatever you ask the Father in My Name [as presenting all that I AM], He may give it to you.

Observation: I love this Chapter, in fact, John chapters 13 – 17 are some of my favorite chapters in the whole Bible. These Chapters take us from the upper room to the Garden of Gethsemane. I chose these verses because of how they fit together. Most versions use the words ‘abide in me’ but the Amplified uses the words ‘lives in me’. Jesus says that if we live in him we will bear much fruit. If we are apart from him we cannot bear anything. He also states that if we continue this relationship with him that he will give us everything that we need to be fruitful. At first glance verse 16, seems to be an interesting contrast of verses 5 and 7; It tells us that Jesus is the one who chose us to bear fruit and he will give us lasting fruit. The focus of this verse is Jesus choosing us. In verses 5 and seven the focus seems rather, to be on us choosing to live with Jesus. One is Jesus’ choice and the other is our own choice. It seems according to theses verses that bearing fruit is a natural byproduct of living in Christ. Bearing fruit seems like the natural thing to do. Everything we need to be fruitful is found in a growing relationship with Christ. Our walk with Jesus will be productive to us as well as those who are around us. Jesus will touch other’s lives from them just being around us. Being fruitful will not just randomly happen it is what happens when we live in Christ and he lives in us.

Application: I want to choose above all to really know Jesus. I want to live with him as my source; all that I need for life. I need to make sure that intimacy with Jesus is the greatest priority in my life. I need to spend time with him and read his word, not to earn anything or prove anything, but to be able to reproduce. Reproduction was created by God to be a function and result of intimacy. Cultivate intimacy with Jesus and you will reproduce fruit in your life and in the life of others!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to bear fruit that will last! I want to go deeper in my walk with you. I want to trust you for all of life. With you, my life has a purpose and the power to accomplish it. As I walk in you today may I see lasting fruit in my life and in the lives of others?

Posted by Reality Check at 5:25 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 14
Scripture: John Chapter 14:15,21,23-24 (New International Version)
15"If you love me, you will obey what I command.
21Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."
23Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

Observation: These verses seem to scream out to the reader, “If you love me you will obey me!” It is like hearing your mother say, “Clean your room’ or your dad yelling, “Son, I’ve told you a thousand times, put the tools back where you found them.” There is the imperative clause right there in the middle of it all, “You better do this or else…!” You have to prove something, do something or be something! What is interesting is that verse 15 is not written in the imperative (see the note in the Spirit Filled Life Study Bible). Now there is no denying that obedience is to be seen in the life of the believer. There is no other way we can live and be fulfilled, as a follower of Christ, except to obey Jesus’ commands. What I believe is too often missed in these verses about obedience is what prompts our behavior. To me the greatest motivation is LOVE! Your obedience is prompted out of the relationship that we have with our Savior. The Holy Spirit has been given to help us know the will of Jesus; what he is asking us to do. Jesus will always make sure that we know his will (see 16, 17, 26). We respond to this call of obedience because we our his sheep who hear his voice and follow him (see John 10:27).

Application: One of the greatest changes in my life occurred when I received a revelation of how much God loved me. My motivation to obey the Word of the Lord changed from fear to love. I began to understand that I was in covenant with an All Mighty God who loved me and gave Himself for me, FOR ME! I don’t know what motivates you but for me love saved the day. The greatest practical illustration that the Holy Spirit has given me to explain this motivation and its power is this: What keeps a man or woman faithful in their marriage or maybe I should say, “What should keep a man or woman faithful in their marriage?” Is it the fear that if they stray their spouse will leave them? That their life will be ruined? Is it simply the consequences of their cheating behavior? You might respond, “Well yes, all those would motivate someone to behave themself.” I would agree with you but I have seen this over and over again cause someone to begin to calculate and rationalize away their fidelity until they are willing to take the risk. But let me ask you this, “If you are in love with your spouse and busy doing the works of love and growing in your relationship with each other why would you ever throw your marriage away?” It is much more motivating for me to stay faithful to my wife because I LOVE HER than it is because I am afraid she will leave me. If you are only motivated because of fear you will begin to resent your relationship with your spouse and intimacy of any kind would severely be diminished! On the other hand if our relationship is motivated out of love your faithfulness is actually a work of intimacy and the fact that you are faithful will only build the love that you have for each other! The fact that Jesus loves me blows my mind and I want to know Him and love Him. This responsive love that I have for Him drives my relationship with Him and because of our relationship, I WANT to obey Him! Because of love, I don’t want to break relationship or severe our intimacy! I obey Him because I Love Him. Do I fail yes, but when we make up the relationship is strong once again.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I love you and desire above all things to grow in my intimacy with you. Reveal your love to me again to day and help me to respond with my obedience. “Oh Love that will not let me go, Oh Love, that covers a multitude of sins, Oh Love that that makes me seek your face, wash through my soul and renew me today!

Posted by Reality Check at 9:55 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 13:12-17, 34-35 (The Message)
Scripture:
12-17 Then he said, "Do you understand what I have done to you? You address me as 'Teacher' and 'Master,' and rightly so. That is what I am. So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other's feet. I've laid down a pattern for you. What I've done, you do. I'm only pointing out the obvious. A servant is not ranked above his master; an employee doesn't give orders to the employer. If you understand what I'm telling you, act like it—and live a blessed life.
34-35 "Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples—when they see the love you have for each other."

Observation:
A servant is by definition: The American Heritage® Dictionary
Servant:(n.) One who is privately employed to perform domestic services.
Servant:(n.) One who is publicly employed to perform services, as for a government.
Servant:(n.) One who expresses submission, recognizance, or debt to another: your obedient servant.

Jesus displayed the heart and the actions of a servant by washing the disciple’s feet. What is intriguing to me is that he said he was laying down a pattern for us to follow. What Jesus has done we are to also do. Jesus also said that we are to love each other in the same way that he has loved us. What does this mean? Are we to have foot washing services or is there something more beyond the act of washing each others feet? It seems to me that what Jesus is really teaching us is to accept the role of a servant. Think about this, in those days, who would wash the feet of those visiting your house? It is hard for us to relate to this story for we have all grown up in the age of the automobile but perhaps you can remember as a child, playing outside and then tracking dirt or mud into the house? Can you recall your mother’s reaction to seeing the soiled floor? “Get outside and take those shoes and socks off!” “Then you march into the bathroom and wash your feet!” I can hear my mom now like it was yesterday. These disciples of Jesus were walking every where they traveled and we all know what sweaty, stinky feet are like? If you had a servant wouldn’t you have your servant wash those feet? This story we read in John chapter 13 is incredible, Jesus is their Lord, their Messiah, he is the master of the universe and he is the one who washes their feet! I believe that Jesus is saying to us that the role of a servant is the expected response of his disciples! Even more than a response, we are to be servants. A servant is not asked to wash feet, it is presumed, anticipated and expected! That is what a servant does! In the same way disciples are to serve one another, it is also presumed, anticipated and expected! Taking on the responsibilities of a servant is expected of a disciple of Christ because we are to love one another. Our acts of service are to mimic a servant who has no choice but to serve. Serving is who they are, and they are doing what is required of them. Out of love we also have no choice; this is what Jesus’ disciples do! A servant = serves! A disciple = loves! Love = serving! It is not what we do it is who we are! WE SERVE IN LOVE!

Application: My life should resemble Jesus and how he served others. I too am a servant of my Heavenly Father and should follow the example of my Lord. When I serve others I am demonstrating God’s love. I am a servant, I am not just fulfilling a role I am a servant. I need to know how am I to wash someone’s feet today, and when I am told, in love I am to do it!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Thank you for your example of being a servant, show me today how I am to demonstrate your love by washing another’s feet? Help me to serve you faithfully by my obedience. Thank you Jesus, for your ultimate example of washing my feet: Thank you for dying in my place, suffering for my sin and giving me new life.

Posted by Reality Check at 9:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 12
Scripture: John 12: 10 – 11 (New International Version)
So the chief priest made plans to kill Lazarus as well, for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him.

Observation: How could he hide, Lazarus was a celebrity? Every where he went people would talk, whisper, point and even touch him. The questions always came from the bold ones, “What was it like? Was there a bright light? Did you see anybody? Did you know that you were dead? So many questions and then the most important one of them all, “Do you really believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Christ?” Lazarus had become a living, walking billboard advertising Jesus as the Messiah. You couldn’t debate this, there was no argument. Lazarus had been dead for at least four whole days. It was no coma, no swoon, the man was dead! Now he was alive and everybody knew it and they knew that Jesus had raised him from the dead. The news was spreading and even more people were believing in Jesus. In chapter 12 verse19, the Pharisees said, “See how the whole world has gone after him!” Something drastic had to be done Jesus must die and the Pharisees decided that they needed to kill Lazarus as well. After all, if Lazarus was gone, the people would eventually forget, they would be confused. As the leaders of the people, they could argue away the whole episode if only the indisputable evidence had disappeared. Yes, Lazarus had to die his testimony was just too hard to fight!

Application: What an incredible story a person raised from the dead by the Messiah. Nobody could argue the results. The evidence was too staggering to deny. He was dead and was now alive! Wow, if only we could have the same story to tell? If only we could see this for ourselves? But wait a second, hold on there, think about it? Our testimony is really the same as Lazarus. II Corinthians 5:17, tells us that if anyone comes to Christ they are a new creation. In this twelfth chapter of John verses 23 – 26, Jesus is very clear, to live you must die, there is no other way. The one who hates his life (loses it) in this world will keep it for eternal life. Without dying we cannot live, we cannot reproduce ourselves; in dying we give God glory. This is powerful, people will see how God gives us new life, and they will see the evidence. You won’t be able to dispute it, when someone truly surrenders their life to Jesus, you can tell, you can’t debate it, they are different! People will talk; whisper, and point and some will even want to touch them. Even the bold will ask, “You used to do what, you were like that? Then the most important questions of all will come, “Will Jesus do for me what he did for you?” “Will you tell me what I need to do?” You see, no one can deny the evidence and debate your testimony, you were dead and now you are alive and Jesus can be seen in you!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, may I show others your life today? May my life today, reveal your incredible love, your power to raise the dead and prove to all who see me, how you give new life. May the evidence of you in my life be indisputable!

Posted by Reality Check at 8:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 11

Scripture: John chapter 11:3, 4, 6 (New International Version)
So the sisters sent word to Jesus, "Lord the one you love is sick."
When he heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it."
Yet when he heard that Lazarus was sick, he stayed there two more days.

Observation: The fact readily observed in verse 4, is that Lazarus did die! Jesus most likely was referring to a spiritual death or the fact that Lazarus’ death would not be a permanent condition at this time. But Lazarus did die and Jesus purposely waited two more days before he even started to move toward Bethany. This whole chain of events seems strange but looks at what Jesus says in verse 4, after he states that Lazarus will not die. Jesus says, "No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it." Lazarus’ death served a greater purpose than we at first understand. Mary and Martha caught in the immediacy of their brother’s sickness and then the grief of his death could not possibly understand the greater purpose of these events. In verse 15, Jesus tells the disciples that that Lazarus’ death was so that they may believe. In verse 40 through 43, Jesus says, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?" At the end of verse 42, Jesus is praying to his Father and states that what he is saying is so the people will believe that the Father has sent him. We would probably look at this whole story in the same way as Mary and Martha did; Jesus come and save our brother and yet there was something greater going on, this was "for God’s glory."

Application: Sometimes what we see is not really a clear picture of what is actually going on. We too would want Lazarus healed now! In this chapter we can see however, that God’s ways are not always our ways. There is often something happening that is more important and more real than what we know and see. Verses 9 – 10, bring this truth out. When we are obeying our Heavenly Father according to what He knows and sees, then we are walking in the light and will not stumble. When we are following our own thoughts and operating simply by what we see, we could actually be stumbling in the darkness. After taking a closer look at John 11 we can see that Jesus is following the orders of his Father in heaven. Jesus was aware of what was happening in Bethany and he knew that he could not die in Judea until it was time for him to lay down his life. Jesus trusted his Father’s plan and had "true" sight and direction and his obedience gave God glory.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to remember to ask and know the will and plan of my Heavenly Father first before I ever act on my own natural impulses. Oh Lord, with spiritual eyes, may I really see what you are doing and not trust in my natural sight. And Lord, when I don’t see with spiritual eyes, may I be obedient to your leading anyway.

Posted by Reality Check at 3:50 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 10

Scripture: John 10: 24b, 25 – 26, 31 - 33 (New International Version)
…If you are the Christ, tell us plainly. 25 Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father’s name speak for me, 26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep.”
31 Again the Jews picked up stones to stone him, 32 but Jesus said to them “I have shown you many miracles from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?” 33 “We are not stoning you for any of these, replied the Jews, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man claim to be God.”

Observation: Wait a minute…didn’t they say, “If you are the Christ, tell us plainly?” Jesus tells them and he shows them, and still they want to kill him? The key to understanding this, is found in verse 26, they were not Jesus’ sheep! In their heart they did not believe enough to surrender their heart. They didn’t want to miss out on all the hype and activity but they never were willing to give their hearts, to commit their lives to him. Sure, in their minds they wanted to join in the discovery of the Christ but he had to be what they wanted him to be. In John chapter 10 verse 7, Jesus says, “…I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.” In verse 14, he declares, “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.” These inquiring minds never really believed enough to submit to Jesus’ authority. They are like those mentioned in Matthew 7: 15 – 23, who say, “Lord, Lord” and Jesus will say, “I never knew you.” To follow Jesus and to understand who he is requires a surrendered heart. Unless the Holy Spirit draws you to Jesus you would never know him any way. When the Holy Spirit reveals who the Savior is, and shows you yourself, you must surrender your life and lay down your will to be a “true disciple.” A sheep is dependent upon the life of the shepherd (see Psalm 23). ‘For in Him we live and move and have our being,…’(Acts 17:28). Belief requires a commitment to surrender to and to follow Jesus. Without this commitment we are simply there for the show; for what Jesus can do for us, for what he can show us. Jesus simply becomes a genie in a bottle or a circus performer. Without belief, after awhile, even the miracles won’t be enough to change our hearts and lives!

Application: Are you a follower or a believer? Are you there for what Jesus can do for you or are you there to surrender? Does Jesus have to prove Himself to you or do you KNOW who he is? He is LORD! Our lives reveal that we are His sheep for His sheep hear His voice and follow Him; they obey what he says and they follow where he goes.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I surrender my life to you again today. You are my Shepherd and I want to follow you. You are my Lord! May I obey your voice today!

Posted by Reality Check at 8:53 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 9
Scripture: John 9: 39, 41 (New International Version)
39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”
41 Jesus said, “If you were blind you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.”

Observation: John chapter 9 continues the same type of dialog with the Jews that Jesus had with them in chapter 8. In chapter 9 we see a man blind from birth miraculously healed by Jesus. The Pharisees cannot even rejoice over such a miracle but are incensed that Jesus healed him on the Sabbath. They are even more distraught because they hear the people talking about Jesus and even some in their own group are starting to question whether Jesus might be more than just a man. The Pharisees try to prove that the blind man was a phony and was never blind. They bring in his parents and try to uncover some conspiracy but it just isn’t there. The blind man had been healed, end of discussion! Now the truth is totally exposed in verses 24 – 34. The blind man himself exposes the jealousy behind their actions. The evidence was clear, who but God could do such a miracle? The conspiracy came not from the blind man but from the Pharisees themselves. The Pharisees were trying to discredit Jesus because they did not want to lose control of the people. They did not want to give up their power and position, this was more important to them then even helping the people. They had lost sight of what a spiritual guide was supposed to do and in doing so had become more blind than the people ever were! They had become blind guides. In Matthew 15:14 Jesus said about the Pharisees, “Leave them; they are blind guides. If a blind man leads a blind man, both will fall into a pit.”

Application: There is nothing wrong with one blind man trying to help another blind man if they both know that neither one of them can see. It is when one of them tries to cover up his blindness that trouble is immanent. If both admit their state they can help each other but if one acts as if he can see than unknowingly the honest man is in serious peril. The one who is blind and covers up his condition is not only sightless but a fool as well. We are all spiritually blind and none of us is capable of truly helping anyone. In His mercy God gives us sight and we are able to assist others but we cannot ever claim that we were never blind. It is the belief in recovered sight that gives the blind hope. When we lose sight of what God has done for us we have lost the power, God gave us, to help others to see. What an instrument of hope the blind man could have been to the Pharisees. He could have helped them receive their spiritual sight but they would not let him guide them instead they insisted that they knew the way! Am I above the help of others? Do I also insist that I know the way? I don’t ever want to lose sight of my condition; “I was blind but now I see!”

Prayer: Lord, I thank you that you are the God who restores sight. I thank you for healing my spiritual eyes. May I never forget what it was to be blind. May I live to tell others who healed my eyes. Help me to be a “true” spiritual guide to those whose eyes have not yet been opened. Help me to bring your light into someone else’s world today.

Posted by Reality Check at 9:32 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John
John Chapter 8

Scripture: John 8:42-43; 45-47 (New Living Translation)
42Jesus told them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me. 43Why can't you understand what I am saying? It is because you are unable to do so!
45So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don't believe me! 46Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don't you believe me? 47Anyone whose Father is God listens gladly to the words of God. Since you don't, it proves you aren't God's children."

Observation: In John chapter 8:32 (N.K.J.V.), Jesus states, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” The problem with this verse is that you have to know the truth in order to be free. In order to know the truth you have to be willing to hear the truth. To hear the truth you have to love the truth. To really love the truth you have to be willing to receive the truth even though the truth might hurt. It is like they say about weight lifting, “no pain, no gain!” The truth has to penetrate into our very souls and for it to truly make an impact we have to be honest with what the truth reveals. I mean that really does make sense, doesn’t honesty and truth really fit together? The Jews that were contending with Jesus were in a dilemma with the truth. Would they admit what was really going on in their lives or would they continue to save face by living in hypocrisy? The choice was there: truth and freedom versus hypocrisy and bondage. Freedom must come through the acceptance of the way things truthfully are! Without acceptance of the truth no matter its reality we are not ready to be set free! Sin is like any other addiction, (it actually is an addiction for someone who doesn’t know Christ.) you must first admit you have a problem in order to be able to address the problem. Denial will only entrench your bondage and solidify your hard heart! Jesus offered freedom through love. Notice the contrast of Jesus approach to the woman caught in adultery as opposed to these men who were hiding their sin. It wasn’t just the sin that Jesus was calling out but their unwillingness to admit their true condition.

Application: Jesus came to save sinners but he cannot help those who though blind claim to be able to see. Why do we run from the truth? If we would simply be honest with our true condition we would be able to receive healing? When the Holy Spirit confronts us with our lies we need to be willing to be “exposed.” It is not like God doesn’t already know the truth about us, this exposure is for us. It is an opportunity given to us to extend an invitation to Jesus to work in our lives. It is inviting the Holy Spirit to do surgery in us and remove the lies that we have been living in. Is surgery painless? No, but through the love of God we have the best anesthesia available to mankind. Today, when confronted with the truth of your condition will you sign the consent form? Remember the “truth will set you free.”

Prayer: Oh Lord Jesus, may I receive the truth today. May I agree with what you see and say? I am your child and you can see the pain in my life and desire for me to be free. Help me to embrace the truth, to not be afraid to be exposed by you Holy Spirit but allow you to set me free. I know Lord that your love covers a multitude of sins, help me to surrender to this great love and allow your grace to work in my life. I surrender Lord, I am yours!

Posted by Reality Check at 10:06 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 7

Scripture: John Chapter 7:40-42, 52 (Contemporary English Version)

40When the crowd heard Jesus say this, some of them said, "He must be the Prophet!"41Others said, "He is the Messiah!" Others even said, "Can the Messiah come from Galilee? 42The Scriptures say that the Messiah will come from the family of King David. Doesn't this mean that he will be born in David's hometown of Bethlehem?"
52Then they said, "Nicodemus, you must be from Galilee! Read the Scriptures, and you will find that no prophet is to come from Galilee."

52They replied, "Are you from Galilee, too? Search the Scriptures and see for yourself--no prophet ever comes from Galilee!" (New Living Translation)

Observation: These verses are fascinating when you see the dynamics of what is taking place in John chapter 7. Everyone is trying to decide who Jesus is and what he should do. Even his own brothers are trying to tell him what he should do with his ministry. If he is the Messiah he should… It is interesting that it comes down to his pedigree, his birthplace and his family tree. There is a debate that since he is from Nazareth in Galilee he just cannot be “the one.” I wonder what his brothers were thinking when this debate was going on? None of them stepped up and said, “Well to tell you the truth, Jesus was actually born in Bethlehem, we are the ones born in Galilee and actually both our father and our mother are from the lineage of David.” This just didn’t happen and it is amazing to me that nobody bothered to even ask Jesus or check out the circumstances of his lineage and birth. Perhaps his brothers really didn’t know but why didn’t anybody bother to check the facts? I also noted verse 52 in this chapter because here we see Nicodemus challenged to look into the scriptures himself. Evidently he did check things out because he is there in John 19:39, helping to bury Jesus. Nicodemus is there, loyal to the end. His life was changed because he bothered to look into the facts for himself (John 3:1-21; 7:50-52).

Application: Do we believe because of others persuasive words or because we have searched out the facts for ourselves (see Acts 17:11-12)? Have I gone to Jesus myself with my questions or settled for the opinions of men (see James 1:5-8; Hebrews 8:10-11)? We have the Holy Spirit who will teach us the truth (see John 14:26) but we have to ask for ourselves. Don’t be afraid to ask for your answer might be just one question away (see Luke 11:9-13; I John 5:14-15)!

Prayer: Oh Light of the World, may I seek your face each day. Show me your glory, teach me your truth. Lord Jesus, I want to sit at your feet and learn from you. I know that your Word contains all life and wisdom. May I search daily to know you. May I not settle for second hand opinions when true intimacy has been so graciously offered to me.

Posted by Reality Check at 8:53 AM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

Chapter 6

Scripture: John 6:20-21 (New Living Translation)
They were terrified, 20but he called out to them, "I am here! Don't be afraid." 21Then they were eager to let him in, and immediately the boat arrived at their destination!

Observation: This chapter is 71 verses long and it is full of great verses to choose from. The verses about eating the flesh of Jesus and drinking his blood are great to talk about in their significance as our provision of new life. I chose verses 20 and 21 however, because they immediately grabbed my thoughts. Here we find the disciples after an incredible time of ministry basically driving home, okay rowing home, they are I’m sure talking about all that had happened and all of a sudden they are in the middle of a storm. Now some of these men had spent their lives rowing on this lake and I am sure that they had encountered other storms, so for them to be afraid it must have been pretty bad. (“They were terrified.”) Without any warning Jesus is there walking on the water and calling out to them. I wonder if seeing and hearing Jesus didn’t at first scare them even more? He speaks to their fears and enters the boat with them and the storm is over and they are at their destination. It was like this was all pretty normal to Jesus, just a fitting ending to his day.

Application: This is so relevant to our lives. Think about it with me. How many times in our lives have we concluded an incredible growing time with God and suddenly we find ourselves under an incredible attack? We might have been here before but still we are terrified. It seems like everything is being hurled against us and we feel like Jesus isn’t even there. Suddenly the Holy Spirit brings “The Word” to us. At first we are taken back and we might even think, “Why didn’t I think of that sooner?” But Jesus is there, his presence is with us and we can eagerly invite him into our situation or foolishly continue to battle the storm on our own. If we invite Him into our boat (our situation, our battle) His presence will bring us peace. Jesus is the only one that knows the destination that the storm was intended to steer us toward. Now with him in our boat we arrive at the destination right on time.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, again I am praying for trust. I want to see you in every storm. I want to know that you are always walking toward the obstacles that come against me to destroy me. You are there to be with me in the storm to get me through to my destination. Help me to trust where the storm is taking me and to accept that my route has been chosen by Heavenly Father.

Posted by Reality Check at 9:16 PM | Permalink | Comments

Observation: How easy it is to miss some of the most important things in life even when they are right in front of us? Somehow what is in our minds is often more real to us than what is actually true. It reminds me of the side mirrors of a car that have a sticker on them that states, Objects in mirror are closer than they appear. In the same way our minds can give us a distorted view of reality and we can miss what is actually right in front of us. Here is Jesus, “the Messiah,” the Redeemer of Israel right in front of the Jews and they can’t see him! He healed someone on the Sabbath and this act kept them from seeing who he was. He claimed to be one with God, which the Messiah would do, and they wanted to kill him. Somehow all their study of the scriptures did not help them accurately spot who was in their mirror (midst). Jesus was about relationships not the traditions of religion. Jesus was about following the will of His Father not the whims of the crowd. He was closer than they could ever imagine and still their preconceived ideas caused them to miss the most important encounter of their life!

Application: How many times do I miss what God is trying to do in my life? How often do I miss an encounter with the divine because it does not fit my point of view or my perspective on the activities of God? I don’t want my traditions to close in on me. I want to always be open for new sight. I want to be willing to see something new. I want to remain teachable and flexible. I don’t want to worship the scriptures and miss seeing the “Living Word.”

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you are the giver of life. I want to stay yielded to you. I want to be open to your ways today. May I not try to reshape your actions and desires to fit my perspectives but instead, humbly receive, in wonder and awe, everything that you have for me today.

Posted by Reality Check at 5:10 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 4
Scripture: John 4:50-51 (The Message) 50-51
Jesus simply replied, "Go home. Your son lives." The man believed the bare word Jesus spoke and headed home. On his way back, his servants intercepted him and announced, "Your son lives!"

Observation: Can I believe the word of God, “the bare word”? Do I need a sign or a visitation or can I stand on the word and the word alone? Jesus just spoke to the man and said, “go home your son lives.” The man left. He didn’t ask for assurances. He didn’t ask how he would know it was true. He didn’t ask anyone what they thought about the word he was given. He just went home! He stepped out in faith literally and went home. The word WAS good enough and he walked in it! This was a huge risk, his son was dieing! He acted on “the bare word Jesus spoke and headed home!”

Application: What is it that you need? What does the Word of God say about it? Are you ready and willing to stand on the “Word?” Are you ready to head home? I must know what the Word says about my need or situation and then I need to stand on “the Word” without a sign or a demonstration! The Word became flesh and lived among us (1:14) and I can trust in and full rely on the Word. I can believe the words of Jesus. Standing on the Word I can head home!

Prayer: Lord Jesus I want to stand on your Word. Help me to trust on what you say and consider it done. May my actions be like this Father may I simply believe and hang on. Help me make the journey home.

Posted by Reality Check at 4:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John Chapter 3

Scripture: John 3:16-21 (Contemporary English Version)
God did not send his Son into the world to condemn its people. He sent him to save them! No one who has faith in God's Son will be condemned. But everyone who doesn't have faith in him has already been condemned for not having faith in God's only Son.

Observation: What can you do to punish an already condemned man or woman? Add another death sentence to their life? That would be a bit redundant wouldn't it? Why would you condemn again someone who already stands condemned? John chapter three, verse sixteen is probably one of the most popular verses in the Bible. You can even see this verse displayed at secular sporting events. Many people know this verse and even understand what it means but when it comes to verse seventeen, well that is another story. Verse seventeen states that God didn't send Jesus to earth to condemn us. That makes sense because we were already living out a death sentence. Why would Jesus come to earth to condemn the condemned? The only two reasons for Jesus to come to earth that would make any sense would be to carry out the death sentence or pardon the condemned. I mean if you look at things from this perspective it really is quite awesome because that is exactly what Jesus did. Really, think about it, Jesus allowed His Father to execute our death sentence but the incredible part is that he himself died in our place paying the price for our sins. The death sentence was completed and we were pardoned from paying the price of death ourselves. Jesus did not come to condemn us he condemned himself. What a Savior!

Application: Why do we even tolerate any insinuations that Jesus condemns people? Jesus paid the price to remove our condemnation but we must individually choose to accept his substitutionary death and the pardon that is offered to mankind (see verse 16). God is Not angry with mankind but through Jesus has made provision for the condemned so they can now have peace with God (see Romans 5:1). I have the responsibility to convey the message of reconciliation not condemnation (see II Corinthians 5:18-21)!

Prayer: Lord, help me today to be your ambassador and represent not my own interest but your intent for your creation. May I do whatever you ask me to do to proclaim your words of hope, that you are reconciling mankind to your heart oh merciful God.

This song played on my iPod today as I took my walk and its words echoed in my mind as I wrote this blog. How appropriate to remind me of the reconciliation I need every day. What truth to motivate me to proclareconciliationion to others.

Posted by Reality Check at 3:06 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John Chapter 2

Scripture: John 2:5 (New International Version)
His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you."

Observation: Mary, the mother of Jesus, understood who Jesus was. She might not have known all that would happen to him but she knew that He was from God! She understood that Jesus had power and authority to do things that other men or women could not do. She also knew that there was an expectation of obedience that went along with His authority. She told the servants directly, “do whatever he tells you.” There is no margin for disagreement here. It is not the time to take a vote or consider other options. “Do whatever;” it is clear; just do it. Even if you don’t understand, just do it. Don’t worry about the outcome, just do it! Whatever…just do it! What part of "just do it" don’t you understand?

Application: Oh to live like that; just do it! Do I really know Jesus? Then just do it! Do I trust Jesus? Then just do it! Does He know what is best? Then just do it? Will I be better off? Then just do it! I think I am getting the point; then just do it! Look at the results when I just do it (see verses 9-11). They are better than anything that has happened before.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to obey you and do whatever you ask me to do. I will leave the results in your hands and give you the glory for the outcome.

Posted by Reality Check at 4:41 PM | Permalink | Comments

The Gospel of John

John Chapter 1
Scripture: John 1:14
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Observation: Verse 14 states, “and we beheld His (Jesus) glory.” This does not mean that John is saying that the disciples knew who Jesus was. John was an eyewitness of many of the things that Jesus did but in John chapter one verses 10 &11, John tells us that “the world did not know Him (Jesus)” and “His own did not receive Him.” Even though John witnessed what Jesus was doing he still did not completely understand who Jesus was and why Jesus had come to the earth. Later in the chapter it is inferred that John was one of the disciples of John the Baptist who followed Jesus (verses 35-42). These two disciples of John even called Jesus the Messiah but still they did not really understand what his purpose was on this earth (see verse 29).

Application: How many times do I misread who Jesus is and miss out on what He is doing in my life? Why? Because I create my own paradigms of “who Jesus is” and presume to know what he is doing! John can say, “and we beheld His glory” but John is saying this from the perspective of the past tense; ‘now we know’. I want to receive what Jesus is doing in my life now! I don’t always want to have the perspective of; “now looking back I can see what God was doing.” I want to embrace and receive God’s glory in the here and now. I want to behold my Messiah and embrace with comprehension what He is doing in my life today!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to worship you today with the perspective of the present. I want to behold your glory today for what you are doing in my life, in the lives of others and in this world. I pray like Moses, “Lord, show me your glory.”

Posted by Reality Check at 4:13 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hebrews Chapter 13

Scripture: Hebrews 13:3
“Remember the prisoners as if chained with them – those who are mistreated – since you yourselves are in the body also.”

Observation: There are so many different verses that I could chose from this chapter but this verse just jumped out at me. The beginning of this verse, “Remember…as if chained with them,” is a powerful statement. I believe this verse is not simply telling us to be empathetic but is saying that we must be in some way connected to them. Cain asked God in Genesis 4:9 “Am I my brother’s keeper?” I believe that the answer is YES, YOU ARE YOUR BROTHER’S KEEPER! The author of Hebrews is telling us that we are to pray for them and minister to them as if someone were doing this for us. This is carrying out what we call “the golden rule” where we are to treat others in the way that we want to be treated; only this verse even takes it a step farther. This is sharing in someone’s suffering and I believe even feeling their pain, emotionally and physically through intercession. Asking God to allow you to feel what they are going through so you may intercede (pray) for them. This is powerful because the Holy Spirit allows you to “feel their pain” and he helps you know what to pray.

Application: Do I even care about people to this level? I may not have brothers and sisters in Christ who are in prison. But I know that I have brothers and sisters who are suffering in some way. I know that there are brothers and sisters who are being mistreated that I can intercede for. I need to make sure that I take the time out of my schedule to pray for them. I have to ask the Holy Spirit to intercede through me on their behalf.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you wept over Jerusalem as you interceded for the city. Help me to remember the people that you have called me to serve. Help me to pray for those that are with me and like you. Pray also for those who would seek to harm me. Holy Spirit, today bring to my mind those whom you are calling me to remember.

Posted by Reality Check at 12:08 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hebrews Chapter 12
Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-2 (New Living Translation)
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily hinders our progress. And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, on whom our faith depends from start to finish. He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God's throne in heaven.”

Observation and Application: It might be hard to believe to people who know me now but running has at times in my life been very important to me. Some of the things my first track coach taught me really fit this passage of Scripture.

1. When you are preparing to run in a race you have to know what you are capable of and what your strategy will be. You have to know how you need to start, where you need to conserve your strength and where you can start your kick. Even though you are running against other people you are really only running against yourself. You are running to beat your best time and you need to know how to run your race.

This is just like Chapter 12:1; we are told to run the race that is set before us. It is our own race. We are to run the race that God has chosen for us to run. It is different than anyone else’s race. To put in the first person; I am to run my race, the race that God has laid out before me. He knows what I am capable of and He knows how I need to start out and finish.

2. Another thing I learned was to pick out another runner in front of me and let that runner draw me to them. It was a way to conserve energy almost like drafting them as a race car would do. This technique would take your mind off how you were feeling and you would focus on the other person. They would literally pull you along and if you passed them you would just choose someone new. If there was no one in front of you then you could choose an object in the distance and draw yourself to it.

These verses tell us to look to Jesus like that other runner. He is the author and finisher of our faith. He is the one that draws us forward, that takes our mind off our own condition and literally gives us His strength. We rely on Him to pull us forward and He is there to help us finish our race.

3. My coach also taught me to choose the right clothes and shoes to run in. Light weight material was important for my clothes and my shoes. Heavy clothes would slow me down and the wrong shoes would wear my feet out and cause me to tire more quickly. The wrong clothes would also retain water, become heavy and begin to chafe me. With wet clothes I would slow down and even injure myself. I might not at first notice what was happening but eventually I would become aware of my condition and the pain I was suffering and I might even feel like quitting the race.

The author of Hebrews is telling us that we have to get rid of anything and everything that would slow us down. Sin is like those wet clothes. We might not even be aware of all the ways that sin is affecting us but eventually we wake up and realize how bad we are hurting. We notice the damage that has been done and we might even feel like giving up.

4. One thing I learned about running is that it is always easier when you have people cheering you on. You just seem to be able to find extra strength or another gear. You suddenly feel better and are actually running faster. It is amazing what happens when people are cheering you on. You forget about all that has happened during the race and you want to do better, try harder maybe even pass a few people. You feel like a winner even if you are in last place. But most of all when people are cheering for you the desire to finish well, just takes over. You can’t stop, you have to finish, you have to make it and with encouragement you know you can cross the finish line.

In Hebrews chapter 12:1, it is amazing to discover that we are surrounded by people cheering us on. We are not alone. There are others who have finished their race ahead of us and they want us to cross the finish line too.

5. The last thing that I learned about racing is that the prize is always worth the price. As hard as the race was to run when you finished the race and you received your prize the sense of accomplishment you felt inside far outweighed the pain. You keep saying to yourself, “I did it, I made it, I finished!”

How awesome to see in verse 2, that Jesus endured the pain of the cross for us and when he sees us He feels the joy of accomplishment. We are His prize! We are the ones who made His race worthwhile; that gave His race meaning, purpose and fulfillment.

Prayer: Thank you Jesus for your sacrifice! Help me to not complain about my race but run it with you. Thank you for all the encouragement that you have provided for me. Please show me the sin that is slowing me down and injuring me. Help me to faithfully keep my eyes on you and not look at the race of others, instead help me to obey the strategy that you have laid out for my race.

Posted by Reality Check at 11:44 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hebrews Chapter 11

Scripture: Hebrews 11:8 (Contemporary English Version)
"Abraham had faith and obeyed God. He was told to go to the land that God had said would be his, and he left for a country he had never seen."

Observation: Hebrews chapter 11 is often called “the faith chapter" or “the hall of faith.” There are so many verses that I could have chosen and even verse 8 is a sample of what you can find throughout the whole chapter. Over and over again chapter 11 speaks of people who because of their faith were obedient to God. They did something in response to their faith. Look at verse 8, Abraham literally picked up and moved in obedience to God and he did not even know where he was going. He simply trusted his destination to God. Later in the chapter verse 17 tells us that Abraham offered his son Isaac as a sacrifice to God in obedience to his faith. We see this pattern again and again in the chapter.
In obedience to their faith:
· Isaac blessed Jacob.
· Joseph spoke of the Promised Land.
· Moses’ parents hid him.
· Moses choose affliction.
· Moses forsook Egypt.
· Moses kept the Passover.
· Moses walked through the Red Sea.
· The Children of Israel walked around Jericho.
· Rahab took in the spies and hid them.

Our obedience is the proof of our faith. Hebrews chapter 11:1 (N.I.V.) states, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” Each one of these people had to trust a God they couldn’t see about things they could not control. They stepped out in obedience, and that is FAITH! They did not know the results but acted in trust anyway depending on God for the outcome. Remember James 2: 17-18 (N.K.J.V.), “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works."

Application: My faith will reveal itself by my obedience to God’s direction for my life. How I listen and respond to God’s leadings will expose the level of dependence that I have in God. Will I leave the outcome to him? Will I just obey? I want to have true faith. I want to OBEDIENTLY LIVE BY FAITH!

Prayer: Lord Jesus, please show me my lack of obedience. Let me hear you and by faith obey you. I want to live by faith today!

Posted by Reality Check at 9:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Hebrews Chapter 10
Scripture: Hebrews 10:26-27, 38 (New Living Translation)
26Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received a full knowledge of the truth, there is no other sacrifice that will cover these sins.
27There will be nothing to look forward to but the terrible expectation of God's judgment and the raging fire that will consume his enemies.

38 And a righteous person will live by faith. But I will have no pleasure in anyone who turns away."

Observation: Have you ever been to dinner with someone and they had talked to the waiter without you knowing it and when you ask for the bill you are told, it has been taken care of?” Would you continue to insist on paying? If you try to offer money to the waiter and are told, “no it has already been paid for, what would you do? I am sure that you would not keep insisting that you had to pay. Even worse, would you order more food just so you could pay for your own meal? No way, how ridiculous! What would be the point? To pay for the meal twice would mean nothing. In fact what would your insistence do for the person who had already paid for you? Our works can never repay God for what he has given to us. If we continue to sin, what else could ever provide more for us than what Jesus has already provided? Continuing in your sin is like someone who will not accept that the bill has been paid. Even worse it is like a person who refuses to eat unless they can pay for their self. It is demanding that you pay your own way. Like it states in verse 38, I would much rather accept by faith what Jesus has accomplished for me. I need a Savior! I am not willing to face God’s judgment on my own terms. If the cross is not accepted as the way to salvation there is nothing left that would ever be enough!

Application: I must accept the way of the cross. To continue to live in my sin is to deny the love of God, the plan of God and the provision of God. When I continue to live in rebellion to God I am saying that I do not need a savior, that I will take my chances on my own. I am saying that I will live as I want discounting and even denying that my bill was paid in full. How foolish! You will receive exactly what you deserve, God’s wrath. I would much rather accept by faith that Jesus has paid it all. I will live in accordance to the Holy Spirit and the laws of God that He has placed within me. I will in humility express my gratitude that my Savior, with his own life, paid the bill for what I ordered.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, Thank you for saving me and paying my bill in full. Show me Holy Spirit where I try to be my own savior. Reveal to me my sin, where I try to be God myself.

Posted by Reality Check at 9:29 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hebrews Chapter 9

Scripture: Hebrews 9:11-12 (New Living Translation)
So Christ has now become the High Priest over all the good things that have come. He has entered that great, perfect sanctuary in heaven, not made by human hands and not part of this created world. Once for all time he took blood into that Most Holy Place, but not the blood of goats and calves. He took his own blood, and with it he secured our salvation forever.

Scripture: Hebrews 9:16-17 (New Living Translation)
Now when someone dies and leaves a will, no one gets anything until it is proved that the person who wrote the will is dead. The will goes into effect only after the death of the person who wrote it. While the person is still alive, no one can use the will to get any of the things promised to them.

Observation: Have you ever been in lawyer’s office waiting for the lawyer to execute a will? The tension even among close family members can be as thick as fog. What will they get? Are they even in the will? Were their hidden assets that nobody knew about? So many questions and everybody is worried about being left out or not given as much as…
Hebrews chapter 9, verses 16-17, tell us that Jesus has executed the will of our Heavenly Father by paying the price; His own death. After all someone must die in order for a will to go into effect. Verses 11-12 tell us that once Jesus had ratified the will (by his death), he went into the sanctuary in heaven and then into the Holy of Holies and sprinkled his blood on the Mercy Seat (the lid of the Ark of the Covenant) like the high priest did on the Day of Atonement. The power of his blood is what gave our inheritance its significance. Because of the blood of Jesus we are now free from the bondage of sin and death and we are able to receive intimate fellowship with God with all of its benefits. Or inheritance is New Life, Abundant Life and Eternal Life.

Application: I am an heir of salvation. I have been willed New Life, Abundant Life and Eternal Life. I want to live this out here on this earth. What is the point of being a recipient of the will if you cannot use, enjoy or live off your inheritance? Our will was not just full of good intentions and empty promises. It was ratified by the blood of Jesus and contains the fullness of God that has been willed to those who believe. I want to walk in my inheritance! How sad would it be, to be a rightfully entitled heir of the “Promises of God” and to miss out on the blessings of our inheritance? We must receive the willed promises of power and authority to live in the victory that the death of Jesus has insured for his beneficiaries.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I want to receive fully and walk completely in my inheritance. Thank you for dieing for me and giving me new life. Thank you for making me a joint heir with you in the family of God. Help me to live a life to day that will bring glory to my heavenly Father.

Posted by Reality Check at 4:16 PM | Permalink | Comments