Category: Spiritual Growth

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THE RED SEA RULES STUDY :: WHEN UNSURE, JUST TAKE THE NEXT LOGICAL STEP BY FAITH

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In THE RED SEA RULES series we’re using the wonderful book by Robert J. Morgan as our guideline for a deep study of Exodus 14. Join me on the fourth Friday of each month in 2020 as we apply Morgan’s “10 God-Given Strategies for Difficult Times” to our lives today.

RED SEA RULE 6: When unsure, just take the next logical step by faith. 

The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward.” ~ Exodus 14:15

It’s not for us to know what lies ahead. Whether it’s good things coming or bad, God protects us from knowing too much in our future.

If we knew bad things were coming tomorrow, we might give up on God altogether and go down in a tailspin of anxiety and depression,

If we knew good things were coming tomorrow we would become prideful and we might decide we don’t even need God’s help at all.

“So don’t be anxious about tomorrow. God will take care of your tomorrow too. Live one day at a time.”  ~ Matthew 6:34

God wants us to faithfully depend on Him every minute of every day. Looking for His perfect Light to shine on our path for guidance. Listening for His gentle whisper for direction.

“When you don’t know what to do next, cast out fear and seek light for the next step. Trust God for guidance in small increments; and if you can’t see what lies dimly in the distance, do what lies clearly at hand.” ~  Robert J. Morgan

Contemplate your walk of faith with this beautiful song by Jeremy Camp.

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THE NEW LIFE :: A NEW WARDROBE

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see in the coming months, this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Join me on the third Friday of each month in 2020 for this in-depth Bible study with real world applications.

“Now you’re dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it.” ~ Colossians 3-10 MSG

Many jobs have a particular uniform, a specific wardrobe required to be worn while working that position. Airplane pilots, military personnel, chefs, doctors, nurses and police officers all wear a specific uniform while on duty. It’s much the same in new life position in Christ. We have taken on a new identity which requires new clothing.

A new wardrobe comes with our new life!

We have removed the old ragged clothes that were part of our past lifestyle and have received a new wardrobe made especially for us. A special benefit of our new wardrobe is that it is being renewed each day in the knowledge of its unique Creator. God refreshes our wardrobe everyday!

Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. ~ Colossians 3:10 NLT

It’s up to us to take off the old life and to intentionally put on the new life. We must make a decision to put on our new wardrobe each and every day so we won’t try to walk in this new life unprepared and unprotected.

Let’s lay every piece of our life down before the cross of Christ… Our thoughts, doubts, failures and mistakes; our hopes, dreams, desires and purpose. As we give them to Jesus He will take them and make them all new. He will make them all work into His perfect plan for our life.

Contemplate your new life and your new wardrobe with this beautiful worship song by G12 Worship.

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THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES :: GUIDANCE

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DIFFERENT FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In The Spiritual Disciplines series we’re learning 12 disciplines that will guide us as we grow deeper in our walk with God. These columns post on the second Friday of each month in 2020.

Spiritual Disciplines are not a list of religious duties but rather habits that nurture and mature our spiritual growth. They are inward, spiritual attitudes walked out by behaviors and actions. These habits are critical for lasting spiritual growth and true life transformation.

 

GUIDANCE: Experiencing an interactive friendship with God that gives direction and purpose to daily life. ~ The Life With God Bible

The Spirit shows what is true and will come and guide you into the full truth. ~ John 16:13 CEV

The Spiritual Discipline of Guidance is critically important whether we are giving guidance or following guidance from others. We can receive guidance from God through Scriptures, directly from the Holy Spirit and also from other believers in our community. At all times advice from other people should be checked to make sure it lines up with God’s Word.

If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won’t correct you for asking. ~ James 1:5 CEV

All through Scripture we see examples of the importance of good counsel. These examples show us what to do and what not to do. Old Testament kings repeatedly followed bad advice from their advisors which inevitably cause the nation and people of Israel to suffer painful consequences.  The kings who heeded godly advice from God fearing counselors were less likely to make fatal errors in judgement.

Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. ~ Galatians 5:25 NLT

Whether we are leaders in our community, church, or family, our decisions effect more than just ourselves. It’s critical we have a sensitive spirit that is listening for the gentle whisper from the Holy Spirit,  looking for direction in Scripture faithfully, or when necessary seeking counsel from a trusted godly advisor.

One thing we know for sure is that we can trust Jesus to always lead and guide us into the way of truth!

Take a few minutes to contemplate how you can trust Jesus to guide you at all times with this classic hymn sung by Casting Crowns.

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THE LORD’S PRAYER :: FORGIVE OUR TRESPASSES

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In The Lord’s Prayer Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. He’s not just giving them a prayer to recite, but a model prayer for everyone of us. Join me on the first Friday of each month in 2020 as we study this beloved prayer phrase by phrase and bring fresh application to our lives today.

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. ~ Matthew 6: 9-13

Jesus teaches multiple times on the subject of forgiveness. It’s vital that we turn to God in repentance for forgiveness of the wrongs we’ve done against Him, ourselves and others. Our relationship with God depends on us asking for God’s forgiveness and accepting it from Him.

Though we’re taught here in The Lord’s Prayer to ask for God’s forgiveness, we must never forget that because of the blood of Christ we have already been forgiven. All we have to do is accept it!

Take a few minutes to contemplate how God has forgiven you with this heartfelt song from David Crowder.

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THE RED SEA RULES STUDY :: STAY CALM AND CONFIDENT, AND GIVE GOD TIME TO WORK

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In THE RED SEA RULES series we’re using the wonderful book by Robert J. Morgan as our guideline for a deep study of Exodus 14. Join me on the fourth Friday of each month in 2020 as we apply Morgan’s “10 God-Given Strategies for Difficult Times” to our lives today.

RED SEA RULE 5: Stay calm and confident, and give God time to work. 

Moses said to the people: “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today you shall see again no more forever. The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” ~Exodus 14:13-14

If there was ever a reminder I needed to hear everyday it is this one. With all the unrest in our world, family, financial and health issues… I need to be reminded almost on a daily basis to…

Stay calm, confident and give God time to work!

It’s Not MyJob To Find The Solution

Like most people, I’m always trying to find the solution to my seemingly impossible dilemmas and life dramas. But I must remember God specializes in the impossible.

With men this is impossible, but all things are possible with God. ~ Galatians 6:9

God Sees Our Impossible Situations

Cornered by the Egyptian army at the edge of the Red Sea, the Israelites faced impossible odds. Scripture tells us God doesn’t show favoritism. Meaning that I am just as important to God as the Israelites were. My impossible situation is just as important to God. Just like the Red Sea opened up for the Israelites, my impossible situation can be solved by God. It’s up to me to stay calm, confident in whom I trust, and wait for God to work the solution out in HIS timing.

So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! ~ Hebrews 10:35

Join me in recommitting “Red Sea” situations to God.

Let’s take a few minutes and prayerfully listen to this beautiful song by Hillsong Worship. Trust God to do His work.

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THE NEW LIFE :: SPEAK TRUTH

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see in the coming months, this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Join me on the third Friday of each month in 2020 for this in-depth Bible study with real world applications.

Do not lie to one another, for you have stripped off the old self with its evil practices.~ Colossians 3:9

In this portion of our study the Apostle Paul reminds us that because we’re walking a new life we must strip off our old ways and words.

From Anger and Deception to Peace and Truth

Before Christ made us new creatures we were spiritually dead. Our old self would put on anger and deception to manage ourselves and others. But now with Christ enlivening us we can live in peace and truth.

The Ultimate Voice of Truth

Christ, the ultimate Voice of Truth, speaks into our spirit. It’s up to us to listen and believe; to allow Him to live and speak through us to others.

Live Up to The Higher Standard

As Christ followers we hold to a higher standard–we must intentionally put off our old words and ways to walk in this new life. Others are watching and waiting for us to live up or fall down. Let’s live up to Christ with the Voice of Truth in our mouth!

Listen / watch this classic song by Casting Crowns as you contemplate the Voice of Truth living in and through you today.

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THE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES :: STUDY

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DIFFERENT FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In The Spiritual Disciplines series we’re learning 12 disciplines that will guide us as we grow deeper in our walk with God. These columns post on the second Friday of each month in 2020.

Spiritual Disciplines are not a list of religious duties but rather habits that nurture and mature our spiritual growth. They are inward, spiritual attitudes walked out by behaviors and actions. These habits are critical for lasting spiritual growth and true life transformation.

 

STUDY: the intentional process of engaging the mind with the written / spoken Word of God and with the world God has created; conforming the mind to that on which it concentrates. 

Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. ~ Psalm 119:105

At the foundation of all The Spiritual Disciplines is God’s Word. The best way we can learn more about God and grow closer to Him is to study the Bible. As a young boy Jesus studied the Torah. Scripture records him spending time with the teachers in the Temple. We must follow Jesus’ example and spend time studying Scripture. What we study becomes implanted in us. And the best way to be transformed from the inside out is to not just study but meditate on and even memorize Scripture.

Quality Time With God

When we spend time alone with God in His Word we can learn about God’s love for us and the truth that will bring us salvation. Through our faithful study of God’s Word we will be taught, directed, protected and even healed. God wants a relationship with us and a healthy relationship takes time to build.

Be Intentional About Study

The Spiritual Discipline of Study encompasses more that just learning about God from the Bible. We can spend time in nature and with other valuable books to grow closer with God. What’s most important is that we are intentional about what we study, making sure that where we spend our time and energy, what we focus and meditate on, is what we want to be planted in our heart, mind and soul. We will become like what we meditate on.

Transformation Will Come

God’s Word can speak to our circumstances/pain/heartache in the most mysterious way. However, for that to happen requires that we sacrifice our time to study. When we do, with the help of the Holy Spirit, the Living Word of God will bring about the transformation that’s needed.

Watch/listen to this touching song by MercyMe and allow the Word of God to speak to your heart today.

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THE LORD’S PRAYER :: GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED WEEK OF THE MONTH.

In The Lord’s Prayer Jesus teaches his disciples how to pray. He’s not just giving them a prayer to recite, but a model prayer for everyone of us. Join me on the first Friday of each month in 2020 as we study this beloved prayer phrase by phrase and bring fresh application to our lives today.

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. ~ Matthew 6: 9-13

The Lord’s Prayer is Jesus teaching His disciples the priorities of prayer. Thus far Jesus has addressed the importance of us setting God apart as holy and treating Him with the highest honor. Jesus reminds us that we are called to pray for and work for the continual advancement of God’s kingdom on earth. And most of all, we should pray for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Our Daily Bread

In today’s portion of The Lord’s Prayer Jesus focuses on daily bread, which was a necessity of life for Him and the disciples. When we pray “Give us this day our daily bread” we are acknowledging God as the provider of all we have. We depend on God to provide for our every need not just our food.

Our Daily Life

We can take the analogy of daily bread and use it to address our need for God’s Word daily in our life. God used manna in the wilderness to teach the Israelites their need for God daily. Jesus tells us that we’re not to live by bread alone but by every Word that proceeds from the mouth of God.

“I am the true Bread of Life.Your ancestors ate manna in the desert and died. But standing here before you is the true Bread that comes out of heaven, and when you eat this Bread you will never die. I alone am this living Bread that has come to you from heaven. Eat this Bread and you will live forever. The living Bread I give you is my body, which I will offer as a sacrifice so that all may live.” ~ John 6:48-51 

When we depend solely on God for our physical sustenance, seek His face and Word daily we’re doing what He wants us to do. This will benefit for both today and for eternity. Time spent in prayer and the presence of God will sustain us more than the best meal of food made by any human hands.

As you listen/watch this beautiful classic song by Michael W. Smith contemplate on God being the provider of every thing you need. Even our very breath comes from Him.

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THE RED SEA RULES STUDY :: PRAY!

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DESIGNATED FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In THE RED SEA RULES series we’re using the wonderful book by Robert J. Morgan as our guideline for a deep study of Exodus 14. Join me on the fourth Friday of each month in 2020 as we apply Morgan’s “10 God-Given Strategies for Difficult Times” to our lives today.

RED SEA RULE 4: PRAY!

When Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord. ~ Exodus 14:10

As we’ve seen in our previous lessons, God purposefully put the Israelites in this place of crisis. We don’t know all the reasons why. But we do know that He was working to build their faith and trust back in Him.

After four centuries of slave labor to the Egyptians, not only were the children of Israel not prepared to serve God, they weren’t equipped for any battle that faced them. Finding themselves pinned against the Red Sea by Pharaoh’s soldiers they were filled with great fear. To their credit they did the right thing and cried out to the Lord.

“When we can’t press forward, move sideward, or step backward, it’s time to look upward and to ask God to make a way.” ~ Robert J. Morgan, The Red Sea Rules

PRAY SWIFTLY

Pray in the Spirit at all times. Pray with all kinds of prayers, and ask for everything you need. To do this you must always be ready. Never give up. ~ Ephesians 6:18

Don’t waste a moment! In times of crisis call immediately upon the Lord.

PRAY SINCERELY

The prayer of a person living right with God is something powerful to be reckoned with.~ James 5:16

Be honest with God about your needs. After all, He knows already.

PRAY SURELY

They cry out to the Lord in their trouble, and He brings them out of their distresses. He calms the storm, so that its waves are still. ~ Psalm 107:28-29

Trust that God hears you and will answer in His perfect way and time.

 

As you reflect on your prayer life, take a few minutes to enjoy this awesome song by Tauren Wells!

 

 

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THE NEW LIFE :: NEW TALK / NEW WALK

AT RHW WE PUBLISH A NEW COLUMN EACH FRIDAY. WE’RE GOING THROUGH FOUR SPECIFIC STUDIES WITH EACH SERIES BEING PUBLISHED ON A DIFFERENT FRIDAY OF THE MONTH.

In THE NEW LIFE series we’re studying one of my favorite chapters in the Bible: Colossians 3:1-17. As you will see in the coming months, this is a rich chapter full of valuable life transforming lessons. Join me on the third Friday of each month in 2020 for this in-depth Bible study in Colossians with real world application for today.

In your past evil life you did wrong things. But now you must put these things out of your life: anger, bad temper, doing or saying things to hurt others, and using evil words when you talk. ~ Colossians 3:7-8

This earthly life brings challenges in our daily interactions with other people. These challenges may surface old negative patterns in our inner attitudes and our outer behaviors that were part of our old sinful life. In our new life God wants us to have a new way of talking and walking with others.

NEW TALK

Our attitudes, good or bad, show up in the words we use in difficult situations or with difficult people. When we’re reborn in Christ, God is remaking us from the inside out. This means our attitudes and words should be the first noticeable evidence of our new life to others who know us.

Our old life is dead and we are walking in new life with Christ. We must see our old self, our old attitudes and our old behaviors as dead. Our death to this earthly life must be made real in the way that we live every day.

NEW WALK

We aren’t walking this new life journey alone. Jesus has sent His Holy Spirit to live within us, to strengthen and guide us. We can trust that He is walking with us in our daily battle. He will help us in all areas of our life.

We are being made new in Christ every day. Our creation process is ongoing. It will only be fully completed when we cross over to Heaven one day. Until then, we seek God’s will and God’s ways by reading His Word, praying and listening to His guidance.

God promises He will never leave us or forsake us!

Let’s put on our dancing shoes and celebrate the good news that no matter how we’re talking and walking God will never walk away from us! Enjoy this awesome song by Elevation Rhythm!