Strangers

Spent some time last night talking to students about the importance and power of sharing our faith with others.  Over the course of the discussion the realization came to them, that not sharing their faith was a pretty selfish decision.  Christ has given us an amazing gift; the gift of salvation.  It is a gift not to be hoarded but rather shared.

Jesus makes it clear that we are to be engaged in sharing our faith.  The amazing part of it all is how God uses that.  We may think that our only impact is on those we spend time with, but the truth is, it goes much further than that.  That stranger sitting next to you in the coffee shop may be following Jesus, because of you!

 

Be With Jesus

One of the coolest things about following Christ is the fact that He uses ordinary people for His extraordinary purposes. I have engaged in numerous conversations over the years, with people who because of a lack of Biblical training or knowledge, assumed they didn't have what it took to do anything big or noteworthy for the Kingdom. Nothing could be further from the truth!

At Rock Harbor we are currently engaged in a great study of Hebrews 11. A New Testament chapter filled with amazing examples of people who because of their faith were used of God in amazing ways. I would encourage you read it.

In my reading of Acts 4 the other day I was struck anew by the lives of Peter and John. In this particular chapter we read of these two teaching and proclaiming the good news of Jesus, and seeing thousands believe and give their lives to Him.

As the religious leaders of their day stood by watching they grew increasingly annoyed with these two untrained, ordinary guys, and the results of their teaching. Their indignation finally culminated in the bringing of these two before them to ask, "By what power, or by what name did you do this?" In a bold move Peter clearly told them that it was through Jesus Christ that they spoke. What the rulers, elders, and teachers of the law said next is what it all comes down to.

In verse 13 we read, "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." Love it!

It's not schooling that one needs. It's not even experience that one needs. All that is needed to have a tremendous impact for the Kingdom of God is to be with Jesus.

Have you been with Jesus today?

Perspective on Election Outcome

John Piper nails it with his thoughts on having a proper perspective on the election outcome. I could not agree more.



May we remember where our citizenship lies.

If "our candidate" does not get elected, may our perspective and response be Kingdom centered. May we remember that God has placed our leaders in their positions of authority (Romans 13:1). And may we live out the gospel of love, grace, and peace, and pray that God would use us, and our leaders, to bring about the Kingdom peace we all desire.

If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. 2 Chronicles 7:14