Soli Deo Gloria

Lifejournal: In the Likeness of Your Teacher

2011-01-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

S: A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone when he is fully trained will be like his teacher.

Luke 6:40

O: Clearly discipleship is a must in the kingdom of God. This was in the middle of the parable told by Jesus about the blind leading the blind and not being hypocritical about addressing minute things in others, while having our own issues that are far more alarming.

A disciple should be teachable-respect for our teachers is necessary to learn. Where would we be if we thought we knew everything before we turned to the Word or to our mentors? Humility goes hand in hand with receiving instruction from God or those who are further along in their walk with God.

The last portion of this verse is particularly important and very clear. A disciple of a false teacher will clearly result in the outcome of a disciple that will carry false teachings and disciplines (or lack thereof). However, a faithful teacher who constantly prays and reads the Word will result in disciples that follow suit in the likeness of that particular faithful follower. For teachers, it is especially important to be what we want our students to be.

A: I want my students to be faithful to God. I want them to be centered on Jesus all throughout their lives-I want them to be faithful in prayer...through personal prayer, intercessory prayer, and corporate prayer. I want them to love Scripture as spiritual food to a deeper extent than real food. So, I will be faithful to God. I will be centered on Jesus throughout my life. I must be faithful to pray for myself, others, and with others. I must love Scripture for what is truly is-life sustaining/giving AWESOMENESS. Yay Jesus :]

Lifejournal: Jesus Prayed

2011-01-08T21:31:00.000-08:00

S: But he would withdraw to desolate places and pray.

Luke 5:16

O: Jesus himself would take time to pray-Did he pray by himself? I'm willing to bet he did-despite the overwhelming call of his ministry to preach and heal, he did seem to overrun himself over the "trellis" aspect of his ministry.

Even though there many things that had to be done, even Christ himself found himself with the constant need to be in God(the Father?)'s presence-perhaps to renew himself? To effectuate the change in people's hearts when he went out to work?

For certain, Jesus Christ is the Son of God-God in the flesh. He could have easily done dazzling miracles, one after another to convince even the hardest of hearts of who he really was. He could have done so much more, yet instead-he prayed.

You know, ministry could be going great. There could be so many things to plan, details to take care of, etc etc etc. There could even be lots of visible fruit-maybe there are people coming to a saving knowledge of Christ, people are praying fervently for revival, or some other wonderful thing that we may seek to see in our ministry. Jesus's ministry was exploding-it was on fire; "...great crowds gathered to hear him and to be healed of their infirmities." and yet, this man-the MAN above all men, came into the Lord's presence. For what purpose?

I dunno. Perhaps the human aspect of Christ needed to be refreshed by the Spirit. Maybe in demonstration of the perfect fellowship of the Trinity is present in Jesus praying. If anything, I can only reiterate that despite his awesome ministry going on, Jesus prayed! Big deal in prayer, yo.

A: I will do as Jesus. I will pray-I could not be any more arrogant to think that I can do without more time spent with the Lord in prayer. I must pray, as it is a necessity to meet with the One who gives me life-the very person who sustains me.

Lifejournal: Cross-clinging Fight

2011-01-04T21:13:00.000-08:00

S: And when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from him until an opportune time.

Luke 4:13

O: The devil is relentless. He has no mercy-his audacity has no end. He took it upon himself to disobey and rebel against God, attempt to lure Christ into sin and false worship, and he daily drags people closer and closer to the flames of Hell with candy coated poisons.

Scripture was used on every account of temptation-and though it may have been successful in repelling Satan for that moment, this portion of Scripture clearly describes the persistence of sin and temptation in the life of all people. Satan does not lay down, permanently defeated-as long as we are in the flesh, sin can always quite possibly gain a foothold in our lives and that is the "opportune" time for the devil to strike.

I am reminded of "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." 1 Peter 5:8

If we are not constantly placing our faith in Christ-remembering the work of the cross, our shield is lowered.

"I am poor and weak. Satan is too subtle, too cunning, too powerful; he watches constantly for advantages over my soul. The world presses in upon me with all sorts of pressures, pleas, and pretences. My own corruption is violent, tumultuous, enticing, and entangling. As it conceives sin, it wars within me and against me. Occasions and opportunities for temptation are innumerable. No wonder I do not know how deeply involved I have been with sin. Therefore, on God alone will I rely for my keeping. I will continually look to Him.”

-John Owen

I believe John Owen put it best when he says that Satan is much too powerful for us-When our flesh cries out for gratification, there is no way we can face the world alone and expect to come out unscathed.

A: I must be as vigilant as my enemy-both Satan and my flesh constantly wage war against my soul. There is only one person who is stronger-and should I look to him daily, constantly, meditatively...there can be no defeat. I will place my faith in his defense for my soul-the cross cannot be knocked down or tilted. Should I cling to the cross, the very wrath of God is averted from me. Should I cling to the cross, none of the temptations or attacks of the world can stain my soul. Should I cling to the cross, I would see more clearly the loveliness of my Saviour and the wonderful work he did on my behalf! I will cling to the cross.

Lifejournal: The Sadness of the Lord

2011-01-03T22:31:00.000-08:00

S: The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord was sorry that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart.

Genesis 6:5-6

O: Men are continually evil. The characteristics of people are also unchanging as well as inevitable (without God's intervention!) - People are evil-no questions asked. There is no good in people...rather they are consumed with themselves, their sins, and how to indulge themselves upon it.

Did God have regret? I don't know-but I do see that God was deeply pained. Sin is not just unsightly before God-it is horrifying, worthy of a supernatural flood eradicating every evidence of it. Here, we see God's character-an absolute abhorrence for sin and favor for righteousness (Noah walked with God...Genesis 6:9). In fact, I'm almost certain every person wiped out in the flood went to Hell-it is terrifying to see the Lord's power...but it is immensely more terrifying to know that the same wickedness that caused that very flood resides dormant in my flesh.

It grieved Him. Not that I see God whimpering in pain or in weakness-but the Father's heart would break at the sight of seeing his children grow in complete opposition to his perfection and holiness. It is not something merely to consider-but rather to meditate on. The Lord grieves when we are in sin-it strikes his heart because he only desires that which is good for us (like the GOOD LORD he is, praise him).

A: I will remind myself that I am but a wretch in the sight of the Lord. Only by relying on the precious blood of Jesus may I be clothed in righteousness! Daily, I succumb to sinfulness-but daily I will turn to abundance of the Lord's grace. However, I will fight my flesh-by abiding in his Word, I know the Spirit will be faithful in mortifying my sinful desire-the Sword will cut at the root of my sin. I will meditate on how it grieves my Lord when I fall to my flesh-when I stop to think of how my life may pain his heart, I hope to turn to him in obedience, instead.

Lifejournal: The Coming of The Messiah

2011-01-01T09:15:00.000-08:00

I think to give God the better parts of my day, I need to start waking up earlier. I slept for about 16 hours after coming home from retreat. In most cases, I'm pretty sure it would be an unreasonable amount of sleep due to slothfulness-but, I think I was just extremely tired.

Anyhow, 9 hours into the new year...I would like to do this year, better. If anything, I used to think I was saved when I first came to Hayward Korean Baptist. Then I thought it was when I met Lynn and started actually reading the Word. Now, it's just...work out my own salvation with fear and trembling (Philippians 2:12) -

If anything, I can attribute a great thanks to God for bringing Lynn and Aaron into my life. Lynn came along one retreat (exactly a year before this one) and turned my entire world upside down by teaching me that I should read the Word-a certain way, in a certain manner, with a certain understanding. To merely do a grain reading-but to take it in deeply as spiritual food for the soul.

This last year can easily be said to be the most discouraging and difficult year of my life-but, wouldn't one think that by being given such a treasure of a discipline, my life would improve significantly? I believe it did-sins that ran amok and extreme character issues came to surface. When I would read, I would learn what was wrong, but I did not deal with anything I was told of. I could go so far as to say God ordained terrible circumstance and situations to tear me from these sins. The result is a once self-assured (never a good thing to be self-assured...rather Scripture and fruit-assured) "Christian" that never took the Bible or prayer seriously to a skeptical-of-his-weak-faith person who tries to read the Bible and pray.

Anyhow, it's time to look forward. I may have really screwed up last year-but I'm comforted to know I will only do the same year after year. Perhaps, it will be as such so I may come to greater realizations of my wretchedness and imperative need for a Lord and Saviour.

S: "And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High;

for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways,

to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins,

because of the tender mercy of our God,

whereby the sunrise shall visit us from high

to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace."

Luke 1:77-79

O: A portion of the prophecy about John, the baptist. Why do the people need to be prepared before Jesus is to appear before them? Even in this day and age-in a so-called Christian nation, people need to have a foreknowledge of their sins and the Gospel before even believing and receiving Christ as Lord and Saviour. Anyhow, if anything-it was necessary that people needed to be prepared. Perhaps it would be that the people would be too hardened to Christ if they were not told of his coming.

John was given a specific role to "give knowledge of salvation to his (the Lord) people in the forgiveness of their sins." He was to point towards Christ. That was his job-a big job without a doubt...but he was not the first person to be appointed with the task. Anyhow, all of this roots in the fact that God is MERCIFUL! He sought the lost and sought to save them! He was sending a messenger-rolling out the red carpet and signals.

If I remember correctly-it has been a few hundred years of silence since the prophets were spoken through. I can only imagine that it truly is a time of darkness and sin-(after all, Herod was a cowardly and evil king) amongst this are the few who have remained righteous, such as Elizabeth, our dear mother of John. I wonder if this says anything about whom God chooses to work through-if there was a mother to be proud of her son, it would surely have to be Elizabeth: After all, he was "in the spirit and power of Elijah." Good stuff, yo.

Like the sun rising up on the horizon of a cold and dark land-John was to deliver the very message of the coming Christ to those lost in darkness and sin! This is the time before the coming Messiah-JESUS IS COMING!!!! There is a momentum-a few hundred years of silence and then the prophet who is to bring the message of salvation...without a doubt anyone with an ounce of logic would be able to determine that the Christ could not be far after that. The king of kings-"of his kingdom there will be no end."

A: Of course, we have seen the risen Son by faith-however, I see it necessary to look upon the role that John was given before birth. I believe that a similar calling it given to every person in the faith. We are called to be a light to the world-a person who points to the already risen Christ. I mean, it's not as if we were supposed to stop pointing to him once his work upon the cross was accomplished.

Just as John was a messenger to those who were blind and lost in sin-preparing them to come before Christ, to receive him; We ought to be messengers to those who are still blind and lost in sin-preparing them to come before Christ, to receive him and Lord and Saviour!! How will I prepare anyone? Well, it says right there to "give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins." John was the O.G. evangelist-the veteran preacher of the Gospel. We can learn from all aspects of how he sought to tell others to repent of their sin and to look to Christ as the only means of salvation.

I can only prepare those who are lost by telling/preaching/screaming the Gospel at them until they understand it and pray that it bears fruit. And by all means, I will do just that-it's quite simple to understand our role as evangelists.

P: However, Father-it is no easy task, with that being said. I am too weak in courage and in affection to speak as boldly as John did. However, despite that, I ask that you fill me with your spirit just as you filled John-stir my affection for Jesus and bring my boldness to a flame. I have the tools and situation to preach to young ones-however, I acknowledge that salvation or even a desire for salvation comes by your hand alone. I do pray for that-press me to be faithful in sharing the Gospel and to be faithful in prayer. I cannot always do it in an impassioned speech or with eloquent words-however, I understand that it must be done with the fullness of my heart and that it is a duty never to be forsaken until I have died. May it be so-may I always point to Jesus with my heart consumed with the Father's glory. May I do all these things for Christ and his Kingdom! I ask this in weakness-because I cannot even summon the heart, perform the action or even bring it to fruition. You must awaken my heart to the beauty of your Gospel, give me courage to preach with power (and fill me with the Holy Spirit) and yet again I acknowledge that salvation belongs to you alone. Work in me even more this year-growing me in grace and in my faith! All this I pray in Christ, amen.

Lifejournal: It Sucks for Apostates (12/17/10)

2010-12-19T14:07:00.000-08:00

S: "For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them."

2 Peter 2:20-21

O: A word for apostates. It speaks strongly of how when one is confronted with the righteousness of Christ and how someone may turn from their sin because of it. However, when someone turns their back on Jesus, giving up on pursuing a life of godliness, glorifying God-they have dug themselves into a state that is stated to be worse.

If someone is to live a life of falsehood and one day is confronted and proven to be false, they would naturally (or supernaturally in the case of sinners) turn to the truth and live by the truth (faith in Christ!). But, should someone yet turn from the truth, knowing it to be true-and turns back to their life of lies, it would be an incredible offense to what is good and true...

A: Perseverance is the word-I need to persevere. I know the truth and I can't go any other way. Try as I might to lapse into sinfulness-I know that God will reprimand me to stand up and continue walking in the path of righteousness. So, I will not apostatize-well, God willing may I never walk away from the truth that which is the redemptive work of Jesus Christ.

P:

Lifejournal: Be humble, be dependent, and be watchful (12/16/10)

2010-12-19T13:53:00.000-08:00

S: "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober minded, be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."

1 Peter 5:6-8

O: Who can do anything but to prostrate themselves before God and ask for help? Only the prideful will pause and say "I am not in need of deliverance from my struggle/burden/circumstance/etc." Daily, we must bring ourselves before the throne of God, recognizing that we do not have the power nor strength to carry what we have been given in this life. Here is the promise/application"

A: 1. I must humble myself. Gotta fall flat at the throne and give myself up in surrender-praying, and laying upon God my own anxiety.
2. At the "proper time" he will exalt me-however, the emphasis must be that it is upon God's timing-it is when he sees it is fit to answer prayer.
3. He will not make his children wait long-he loves us and cares for us. We may not always necessarily know what to pray for, but the Spirit intercedes on our behalf. The fact stands, God loves us-as the wonderful Father he is, he truly cares for us like no one else on this earth ever could! I love that small portion of Scripture. God, the maker of the heavens and the earth-creator of the universe, living God...cares for a meager, empty soul such as me!

(O:) However, along with the urge to humble ourselves before God-Scripture warns us that we have a devious, powerful enemy at hand. We must always be mindful or what we think, do, say-sin is waiting at our doorstep, ready to pounce on us the moment we are unguarded.

(A:) How will I fight back? How can I be watchful? It's simple-gotta daily be in the word. Gotta daily find myself in prayer-prayer without ceasing! Mind on Christ and kingdom things. If my heart is filled with the things of eternity, then there is no room for things of the world.

P:

Lifejournal: Assurance of Faith (12/13/10)

2010-12-19T13:44:00.000-08:00

S: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith, we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible."

Hebrews 11:1-3

O: Faith is assured - Something that people are rooted by in their life. To live in faith is to live in a manner that is deeply assured in something we hope in, yet haven't seen. I mean, who among us have been eyewitnesses to the death and resurrection of Christ? Other than the apostles and the others Jesus appeared to-but upon hearing the Gospel, our heart was sparked with the beginnings of faith-"assurance of things hoped for, conviction of things not seen." In addition to the cross, who was present during creation? Only God was, and we have a divinely inspired text to tell us this-to the world, it may be a gamble-but by faith in the word, we believe the word and then live according to the word.

In the OT days, men of old were justified by their faith as well. By looking towards what was to come (Christ), their faith was credited as righteousness. Moses, Abraham, and King David are a few men that come to mind.

A: Faith is simply stated-but how can my faith be strengthened? God, in his own faithfulness, demonstrates how he keeps to his promises. By praying and having prayers answered faithfully by God himself would build up my faith in him. Sure, I may not be seeing fruit in my life immediately-but I cannot doubt that God will remain true to his word.

P:

Lifejournal: Do It

2010-12-15T23:41:00.001-08:00

S: But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

James 1:22

O: I love the book of James-not to be pharisaical by works, but to be reminded that true faith is expressed by action. Not that every action validates our faith, but it is without a doubt that those who hear the word will take one of two routes: to obey or disobey.

We may hear that we ought to love God and others. Perhaps we may even recite to others that we should. We could go so far as to preach it far across the ends of the earth-but unless our life itself expresses an obedience to the word, it would be deception to think our supposed faith is faith at all.

Of course, I would immediately condemn myself and many others if a constant or immediate obedience were necessary-we are, after all, those who have "fallen short of the glory of God" and in many a case, it may be that we are in need of a continuing sanctification or discipline from God to bring forth an obedience to his word.

Anyhow, this is a great verse - we cannot sit still as if the word explicitly states we should do something. To love, preach, pray, sing, whatever-it's there, and we need to be a people of faith accompanied by action.

A: Will I ignore how the Spirit leads the next time I reach the fork in the road? Will the reminder of God's command to love be present and fruitful when I myself am found in bitterness towards my fellows? I hope and pray that I may be a doer of what God commands because I see that his perfect law is lovely.

Lifejournal: Eyes to Jesus

2010-12-14T23:19:00.001-08:00

S: Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Hebrews 12:1-2

O: The writer of Hebrews groups together weight and sin-that our sin is our obstacle. Sin is baggage. It weighs us down in our race (I see that the writer also describes our life as a race just as Paul does) towards Christ. Sin is acknowledged to be clingy-it sticks to us unless we are to pointedly lay it aside (in repentance) and strive for our prize-which is to be with Christ.

This passage further confirms my last statement-that we are to affix our gaze upon Jesus in order to run vigorously. There would not be sufficient reason to cast off sin and "run with endurance" if the end result were merely a place of happiness or an avoidance of Hell.

However, to look upon Christ - and to see how he thought little of the shame, how he lovingly and joyfully accepted his task, and how he carried it to completion-to be with that person ought to be our greatest hope in this life and the life to come.

A: Sin is a weight-it drags me down in so many circumstances. It runs my life at times and I fear that it dulls my heart. But to take in the word and meditate upon it will teach me to hold fast to commands. I must pray because I cannot by my own strength or will overcome myself-knowing that God's will for me is to abide in Christ, he will overcome sin today as much as he did long ago upon the cross. This spiritual life will grow mundane and wearisome if my eyes are not upon Christ-I will seek him through all of these things. In the end, it is not about battling sin or being disciplined-those things will come about if I fix my eyes upon Jesus.

Lifejournal: Faith is Necessary

2010-12-12T20:38:00.000-08:00

S: And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.

Hebrews 11:6

O: I wondered how it would be impossible to please God without faith. I realized that no one (well at this time) has not actually physically seen God. In fact, we haven't seen Jesus Christ or his death on the cross...nor have we seen his resurrection from the grave. However, it is by placing our faith in God and his word/promises to truly see him. Without faith in these things, it would be the equivalent to not believing in God or his promises.

I'm a person who desires concrete evidence of something. In the beginnings of my walk, I would often ask my pastor why I couldn't hear God's audible voice or see him if he was omnipresent. I suppose that things that are unseen cannot be explained or proven by anyone or anything-faith in Jesus in my life is the only evidence I have of God being real in my life.

A: Here is a great promise in this verse-that those who approach God with a real faith and expectancy will be rewarded in their seeking.

I need to come with an expectancy that God honors his people who seek him genuinely and expectantly. When I come with an attitude that lacks faith in Jesus, what right would I have to be in God's presence?

Lifejournal: Marks of a True Christian

2010-12-10T00:12:00.000-08:00

S: "Let love be genuine, abhor what is evil, and hold fast to what is good."

Romans 12:9

O: In regards to this passage in Romans where Paul writes of the marks of a true Christian, I would think it would be very appropriate to see this as wisdom and guidance for the true Christian. Rather than actually being characteristics or traits of a person-it's interesting to see that this is a list of commands-a lot of things that Paul expects a true Christian to do and strive after. At the same time, I can see how much of this may just naturally occur for the one who is regenerate. However, it is also in good wisdom to test ourselves and meditate on these commands, which are without a doubt, good.

"Let love be genuine." When I see this command, I immediately think upon Luke 10:27 where Jesus spoke of the two greatest commands-loving the Lord and others.

The greek word for love (in this context) is agape, which is used extensively in regard to how God loves us and how we should love others.

(A:)For my love for God to be genuine, I know that my devotion for him shows through how I spend my life. If I am seeking him daily, meditating on his word, and actually doing it because I want to, it's clear to see where my heart lies. It's not even the matter of how many times I do it, but rather if my heart really seeks out God that I could not help but to want know him and enjoy him fully-glorifying him.

For my love of people to be genuine, it's yet again the time I spend with others as well as keeping them in my heart-praying for them, lifting up their needs. I know that I lack in showing love for others due to the fact that I'm used to keeping to myself-my selfishness is most apparent when I'm with others or how my attitude is towards others. I need to work on "considering others to be better than myself (Philippians 2:3)," both in my prayer life as well as being mindful of those directly placed in my life. I will also love others in the same consideration of

(O:) "...Abhor what is evil" I knew that abhor meant something along the lines of strongly hate-but I like the merriam webster definition more:

Regard with disgust and hatred.

So regard evil with disgust and hatred. Or, better - Regard sin with disgust and hatred. This is difficult for me because I know much of my ill-spent time or bouts with pornography or whatever else is something that I label as sin, but don't regard as something disgusting or loathsome. However, Scripture calls us to hate sin- the greek word for abhor (apostygeō), goes on to further expand how we should feel: "to have a horror of" sin.

(A:) I must spend more time with God-I think it would only be natural to take in what is good and holy to see a clear distinction of what is not good / what is evil and to thereby react accordingly. For now, I feel as though I am numbed to my own sin at times-but I certainly don't want to continue in this manner. I want to hate sin as God hates sin.

(O:) "...hold fast to what is good." I find it more interesting that the English language really fails me in comparison to how illustrative the original greek is: "kollaō," Which means to glue together, or cement. To fasten or join together firmly. This same word is used with how a man and woman getting married should join together as one. Or how when someone joins with God becomes one spirit with him. There (I thought this was funny) is also an instance where Jesus spoke of dust clinging to feet where the original word is used.

Anyhow, this is incredibly strong imagery-that we should cling to what is good to such a degree that we are one with it-as if we are married to it, one spirit with it, and like how dust naturally clings to our feet; We ought to cling to what is good the moment we know something is good.

What is good? I know that God is good. The same word is used to describe Christ, a person who bears good fruit, and so forth.

(A:) Over and over again I see that God is telling me to cling to him. To love God is to be with him. An abhorrence of evil comes from spending time with God. To cling to what is good is to cling to God.

P: Father, I am glad that upon meditating upon this Scripture-you showed me all the roads to where these commands lie: In loving you, all of these will be fulfilled. I ask that you place in my heart a drive and desire to know and love you all the more. These very commands I cannot accomplish on my own-I cannot purify my heart or motive when it comes to loving you or others. May you search my heart and prod it in the direction where it would be most pleasing to you-do what you will with my time, dreams, and life so that you may be most glorified (I pray that you may occupy my heart with joy so that I may forget how crappy this world is (Ecc 5:20). Let the love of Christ be made alive in my heart so that I may in turn understand how to be devoted to Christ.

I cannot hate evil when my heart is consumed with it-please forgive me of my daily failure to love you and others as well as my failure to take you as the greatest pleasure of my life. Yet again, I ask you to change my heart, Holy Spirit, in the direction where God may be most renowned in my heart and life so that I may truly hate and draw back in horror of what is evil. Lastly, I pray that you give me a heart full of the desire to not only draw close to you God, but full of desire to cling to you and what is good and righteous. In complete honesty-I don't know how to cling to you other than to seek out what you have to say in your word, listen to it, and try my best to seek you in prayer. Please make me diligent in those things and I pray that it may fruitful (good fruit, that is). All these things I pray in Christ, amen.

Lifejournal: Heart's Desire

2010-12-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

S: Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved.

Romans 10:1

O: Paul previously writes in chapter 9 that he desired that his fellow kinsmen to be saved at even the expense of his personal relationship with Christ. This speaks volumes as to how we should also desire to see those around us who are still lost.

Paul genuinely wished to see them saved-his heart's desire, was to see the lost around him, come to a saving knowledge of Christ. His heart's desire translated to prayer to God, which I see as an act of submission to the only one who could make it happen.

Simply, he wished for others to know Christ. So, he prayed to God to ask that others around him would come to know Christ.

Do I even have a desire to see those who are lost in my life, saved? I think that it translates quite well that if you truly want to see someone come to a saving faith, you will present your requests in your prayers to God. Not once, but until the day you or they die, if the heart's desire truly is to see the lost be found, prayers would not cease.

A: I do not pray often. I pray very little-even for those whom I claim I care for. I pray over food, the word, and an occasional prayer request is lifted up here and there. I am too prideful, too lazy and conceited to do such a thing. However, I hope that I may have the heart like Paul-or rather, his Christlikeness which is clearly seen by how he prioritizes contention for souls by praying to God for them.

P: Lord, to even have the desire is to be rooted in you. If I were clinging to Jesus, I know that my heart would conform to his desire-and I know that the desire of Christ is to glorify the Father. Contending for souls is a glorious thing-work that is fit for the kingdom of God. I pray that you may awaken a desire to see others come to before you, professing that Christ is their lord and saviour. I ask that you may give me a true and heartfelt desire, that I may be driven to my knees often, interceding on the behalf of those who really do need to know you, Lord Jesus. In Christ, amen.

Lifejournal: Renounce Everything

2010-12-04T00:03:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big fan of saying I can do something by my own power. But, from this moment I will put myself in a position where there will be no room for argument in how I live. I will do everything I possibly can to live life the way I know it should be lived-from there, may God's will be done.

"I am poor and weak. Satan is too subtle, too cunning, too powerful; he watches constantly for advantages over my soul. The world presses in upon me with all sorts of pressures, pleas, and pretences. My own corruption is violent, tumultuous, enticing, and entangling. As it conceives sin, it wars within me and against me. Occasions and opportunities for temptation are innumerable. No wonder I do not know how deeply involved I have been with sin. Therefore, on God alone will I rely for my keeping. I will continually look to Him.”

-John Owen

For I said in myself, "I am afraid that I shall be lost but I will know the reason why. I am afraid I never shall find Christ but it shall not be for want of looking for him." That fear used to haunt me, but I said, "I will find him if he is to be found. I will read. I will think." There was never a soul that did sincerely seek for Jesus in the word but by-and-by he stumbled on the precious truth that Christ was near at hand and did not want any looking for; that he was really there, only they, poor blind creatures, were in such a maze that they could not just then see him. Oh, cling you to Scripture. Scripture is not Christ, but it is the silken clue which will lead you to him. Follow its leadings faithfully.

-C.H. Spurgeon

S: So therefore, any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple.

Luke 14:33

O: This is not something where someone needs to dig to actually understand. But rather, this is an incredibly difficult truth to accept and process. Jesus spoke of how his true disciples renounce everything in their lives-from their families to their wealth...Christ is above it all. He is rightfully implying that the work for the kingdom-to follow him and to be like him requires that we have no reserve nor attachment for the people or things around us. Christ is saying that those who follow him will give up everything they have.

Christ lists out how we must partake in his suffering (carry our cross daily), go the extremes of even leaving our families, and the rest pretty much follows. A person who desires to follow Christ must not only give up his possessions, but what is most precious to them. Because, quite honestly-I have met very few who would be willing to forsake all for the cause of the kingdom. In fact, I have met few that are willing to give up a portion of their time each day for Christ. I am that very person. Christ calls his disciples renounce all that they have and yet...we, as the church are not fitting the prerequisite to Christ's discipleship at all.

How many days did I fail to give my best time and portion to the Lord? How many times did my material possessions or worldly pleasures take over my heart? Everyday I see that I have but renounced NOTHING for the Lord Jesus. Even now, when I am trying to offer up more time and more things, I understand that there is no worth to them. It really is black and white-all or nothing. Everything for Christ or nothing at all for Christ.

A: Terrifying, to think that there is no gray area. Many Christians are deluded, then-I conclude. It's plain to see if someone has renounced all that they have for Christ. I do think that I want to be that person. I have hope in that it does not repel me to the core to give up certain things now for the kingdom. I can only hope and pray that it is his will that when the time comes, all things will be given up to him joyfully. My comfort and ease, love of the world, and so forth. I will try my hardest to make good use of my time-seeking the Lord and doing his will.

P. I pray that I may renounce all things for the sake of you, Lord Jesus-that it may stem from a true love, a knowing love. One that comes from knowing you tangibly. That time probably is not now, but I pray that it may be eventually-soon, and forever. In Christ, amen.

Lifejournal: Set the mind upon the Spirit

2010-12-02T22:30:00.000-08:00

S: "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law, indeed, it cannot."

Romans 8:5-7

O: I can see that Paul makes a large distinction between the flesh and the Spirit - That those who are in the flesh continue to think of sin, which leads to death, whereas those who are live in the Spirit will think and do things of the Spirit. Paul speaks of how those who are set upon the flesh are unable to submit to God's law-I see that, conversely, those who set their minds upon the Spirit would joyfully and gladly submit to God's law (thanks to the fact that those in Christ Jesus are able to see that the law is is good-Christ's fulfillment of the law actually making it possible for someone to set their mind on the things of the Spirit).

But what are things of the Spirit? In verse 11: "If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you." The Spirit is life - in contrast to sin, which is death. I mean, real life is to live for and like Christ, isn't it? To give us life by effectually working in us to be more conformed to a greater Christlikeness. God, who sent Christ to die, also sent the Spirit to dwell in those who truly belong to Him.

In that, those who truly have the Spirit will without a doubt set their minds to the things of the Spirit. Paul goes on to write that those who are in the latter receive:

1. The Spirit of adoption where children of God are assured by the Spirit of their adoption and heirship with Christ (in His suffering).

2. Help in weakness from the Spirit-intercession from the Spirit himself.

But, I also believe that beyond that which is clearly outlined in the words of Scripture, things of the Spirit is also the discipline of setting our minds upon that which is eternal and heavenward-which provides a great deal of comfort and inspiration to continue living this life joyfully, as we look toward the future glory that is promised-Paul writes "the present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us."

"...to set the mind on the Spirit is life..." and the promise in verse 11, "...he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life..." I find it to be interesting that the Spirit gives life, and that setting our minds upon the Spirit is...well, living. I think this is another example of how someone who lives according to the flesh, unable to submit to Christ's Lordship, can only come into true life by the means of God's choosing and giving.

A: I do not think I can willfully set my mind upon the things of the Spirit, but I understand that by this passage, if the Spirit dwells in me, life will be given to me-a mind that dwells upon Christ will ensue in the one who is given the Spirit, along with the reassurance of adoption as well as comfort in weakness. Also, a submission to the law is also present in the one who sets their mind upon the Spirit. In practical application, I will try my best (and may the Spirit be pleased to help me) to set my mind on that which are life-giving things of the Spirit.

P: Lord, I ask that Spirit be present in me-There are such wonderful promises for those who are given the Spirit...from adoption to comfort as well as a promise to be given life is something I really do want. I know that in me there really isn't anything good-death reigns in me, and I see that my life is often lived according to the flesh. My mind is set on the flesh and I know that that is a path towards destruction. I ask that your Spirit would change my heart and mind towards that which is pleasing to you-I pray to be given life from the very Spirit that raised Christ; To be given an assurance of sonship and heirship; I want to know what it's like to see and taste how good it is to be with Jesus and to long for that all my days. Set my mind to be filled with that which is of your Spirit, if it may please you-so that I may live according to your Spirit.

Lifejournal: Much more, in His life

2010-12-01T20:35:00.000-08:00

S: For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life.

Romans 5:10

O: When I was lost in sin and could do no good and desired no good, Christ saved me. I have come to learn more of His goodness and to turn away from it now poisoned my mind to think that I have become more depraved-but, in reality, I've come to learn that I am just actually this bad: Lazy, unloving, undisicplined and full of lies and lust. However, I also realize now that the cross has not tilted or fallen over-that the blood of Christ is not diluted. Christ continues to live, to this day-and his perfection stands in place of my poor excuse for a life.

I think Paul says it best, later in Romans 7:24-25: Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!

A: I will get it through my mentality that it is not the amount of work I do nor the quantity of time I spend in the Word that saves me. Neither is it that when sin reigns over my life for a spell am I suddenly dropped from God's mind or heart. I will understand that God sent Christ to die once for sins-once, for all my sins.

P: Heavenly Father, it's been awhile since I've even written the words "Father" to address you. I'm sorry that in this life, I've been caught in a terrible snare-not the laziness or even lack of spending time in the Word. But instead, Satan tricked me into believing even for a few moments that I was exempt from your grace. That I did not qualify or even matter to you. I'm so sorry to have even thought that-I know that despite what I've done and what I may do, you love me and the cross serves to remind me that very love every single time I find myself in a ditch. Praise be to you, Lord, the one true saviour! I pray that in this time of struggle, you may grant me perseverance-proven character and a renewed hope in your Son.

I also pray for Aaron - that in his preparation of making a message for his disciples, you may grant him a great wisdom (greater, considering he's already been given a great deal of wisdom :) through a diligent study of your Word and time spent in prayer.

I pray for Lynn and I ask that she may also be diligent in her prayer life as well as always reminding her to take every thought captive for you, Lord.

In Christ, amen.

Lifejournal: Worthy to Suffer

2010-10-16T22:52:00.000-07:00

S: So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name. And every day, in the temple and from house to house, they kept right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.

Acts 5:41-42

O: Simply, I see an epic change in the apostles. The attitude of the apostles went from one of hesitant, bumbling and dense-now, as the church of Acts is established, the apostles are bold, fearless, and passionate for the sake of Christ. I can see Christ in them-such a life change cannot be from any mere man. Cowards and fools do not turn into soldiers overnight; That is, unless God decides it as such.

Anyhow, the disciples were actually rejoicing that they were counted as worthy to suffer for the name of Christ-How many people do I know that would cheerfully and joyfully suffer for Christ? To be truthful, very few. And to examine myself, I'm not even sure if I could cheerfully accept a flogging in many circumstances. But, I would hope I could do so by the same life-changing power of Christ.

Even crazier, not only did the disciples seem to be emboldened by the fact that they were punished-they continued to preach Jesus to be the Christ. I mean, I do not see men like this. Incredibly bold men ready at the forefront of spiritual warfare, putting themselves on the line physically, mentally and spiritually-it's not an easy task, I'm sure of it! But, the model they leave for men is without a doubt one to be followed. They disregarded their entire life, if it meant that they could continue to preach the one truth in their life-that Jesus was the Christ and that salvation was only through Him.

A: Yet again, I know God is teaching me to be bold-like real men changed by Christ. I need to look at life and the suffering it throws my way-and endure it joyfully for my Lord. I need to suffer for the sake of Christ to refine who I am in Him-I cannot merely sit comfortably in one place and expect to make any progress in the faith. I will consider myself to be blessed if only I could suffer for Christ-and I will do just as the disciples do: preach Jesus as the Christ.

P: Father, You alone can gauge my heart and where it stands-I pray that You may count me as worthy to suffer for Your Name. I personally know that I'm probably far from a physical flogging of some sort, but I pray that whether it be physical or any other circumstance-That You would remind me of how knowing You is my joy and any means of partaking in the suffering of Christ is a high honor bestowed to the faithful. Remove me from comfort and easy standing-put me on the edge of where I must always find You as my rock and shelter. If anything, through a greater time spent in the Word, I pray that You will bring a change in my heart to stand more firmly for You in this life-now, even: at school or at home...anywhere. Just as I am inspired by those brothers from long ago, I pray that I may follow in the legacy and vision You placed upon their hearts. Give me a vision to live, enjoying who You are fully, while giving up my entire life to You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Lifejournal: Bold as Love

2010-10-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

S: And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved.

Acts 4:12

O: As Peter and John were captured by the rulers/elders/scribes, this was the end of their (Peter and John) response to the inquiries of the leaders-When the rulers asked Peter and John about what power or whose authority they preached under, they were filled with the Holy Spirit responding extremely boldly.

There is such a deep conviction in the statement of the disciples being filled with the Holy Spirit-They leave no room for ambiguity. They plainly state that Jesus Christ is the only person in whom one can find salvation. There is no person that we can find a means of being saved.

Truth be told, I rarely see a statement as bold as this passage from others or myself. Not that I see people blatantly denying the deity of Christ or anything, but a firm conviction is far more admirable (as I definitely cannot help but to admire Peter and John responding so passionately and wholly on the behalf of Jesus) than a wishy-washy one.

A: My faith should be as rooted as this portion of Scripture-my life should scream: there is salvation in no one else other than Jesus Christ. A boldness for Christ is necessary and can only be found through knowing Christ and spending more time with Him (get more into the Word) and walking in the light (obedience). When you're right and you know you're right, you ought to flaunt it (preach the word of God in being justified-garnering joy and boldness from the fact that Christ has justified us by His blood).

P: Heavenly Father, help me look to the cross, to realize the joy and endless delight that comes with the freedom of knowing You and meeting with You. And with this freedom, may I become grow in boldness and joy, to preach just as Peter and John did; They were so convicted and so fully assured that Jesus was the only way of salvation-I often say this myself, but take me deeper into the depths of Your heart...in Scripture, speak to me exactly what You need me to hear-that the belief in it's own right would not die at the mental acceptance of the idea. Rather, I pray that you move my heart by allowing me to hear Your voice through the Word, transforming me into a bolder man for You Lord-willing to lay his life down just as great men before me did...for the greatest Man above all else. This I pray in Your Son's name, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Storms of This Life

2010-09-21T19:42:00.001-07:00

S: Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And He ate nothing during those days, and when they had ended, He became hungry.

Luke 4:1-2

O: (Luke 4 is a great passage where Jesus uses Scripture to counter the devil's attacks on Him, but I decided not to reiterate on that point) I wonder what evidence there is when someone is full of the Holy Spirit - some images that come to mind is like a glowing, powered up superhero...but I'm guessing that it's probably not that, lol.

He was led around the wilderness for forty days. That's just plain ridiculous. I don't remember the last time I was led around the wilderness, but I certainly understand that sometimes my current life situations are pretty much in that mold. For example, while attending school-I have been utterly discouraged due to the trouble I've had coming to, working to obtain, and getting through: classes. For one, the commute is mind-blowing. Two, I've no chance of getting half of my classes due to a heavy wait list. Three, the class I was able to obtain has been dropped because of a registration mistake. I'm trying my best to contain the situation, but I realized in my crippling anxiety that God is sovereign and I just need to continue work diligently towards my goals (Application) without trying to control it.

Anyhow, if Jesus was frustrated (which I'm sure he was), I sure as hell would relate with him. Sure, wandering the desert and not eating for 40 days while being tempted by the devil actually puts my current standing in perspective, but I'm sure He wasn't skipping around, singing kum bay ya.

One interesting portion of this passage that sticks out is how they emphasize that Jesus was hungry after the 40 days of being tempted and not eating. The transliteration of the word "hunger" is peinaō, meaning to metaphorically ardently crave/desire and hunger for-who wouldn't be hungry after 40 days? To top that off, the temptation would have pushed me over the edge, that is without a doubt.

A: To have read on, Jesus did endure the severe conditions of temptation and hunger and did it on the basis of relying upon what "...is written." I will face my current standing as He did-trust that the Spirit leads me where I should be led...and should the storms of life approach me (as they do now), I will fill myself with the Word in preparation to combat doubt and anxiety that may cause me to fall to my temptation or my hunger (well...metaphorically). He walked the desert, and so shall I-the same Spirit that led Christ leads me...and the Word is still as sharp as it was back then, that it would repel the devil, himself.

P: Father, it is truly a difficult time. It's only been two days and I'm beginning to despair. Honestly, I know that it's completely out of my hands-Teach me to trust that the wilderness is not some place where I can lay flat and think that it will blow over. I will try my best right now, but it truly is Your Spirit that leads me to make wise decisions and trust in Your plan. Guard my heart in Christ, because my heart is in complete chaos-I don't even know what to do...other than to be faithful and to wait upon You. May Christ's blood cover my sins as I repent of my ways-I want to be filled with the Spirit, trusting just as Christ did. I understand that my scope of things is so limited and that You have a greater plan in sight. I pray that I would walk out of my wilderness, weak and tired-but glorifying You and relying upon You as my physician. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Broken Cistern

2010-08-08T00:30:00.000-07:00

S: "For My people have committed two evils:

They have forsaken Me,

The fountain of living waters,

To hew for themselves cisterns,

Broken cisterns

That can hold no water."

Jeremiah 2:13

I have spent a large portion of my time this early morning looking over many different articles and looking over transliterations of words in the bible and yet this verse stopped me and I found that God was trying to speak to me.

That I have not come to Him in loving obedience-that I am a despised and wretched soul that only covers his sin with lies and a facade that barely keeps the general public from seeing the stain upon my soul. My rebellion against Him has torn me apart, left dry, cracked and completely miserable. Completely miserable because I have tasted and I have drank my fill in Christ-and I have been satisfied. But, I ask myself, why did I come crawling back to my own vomit like a dog when living water and the bread of life is before me. That, despite the abundance of Christ before me, I chose my vomit and then relieved myself on some bread and drink on a few choice days.

And here, my doubt lies-why am I not thirsty? I want to be thirsty. Should I not desire righteousness? Am I so dull, so dry and cracked in the very mouth of my heart that I've forgotten the sweetness of the living water that which quenches my soul?

But, yet again - I wonder if I desire true repentance - To come back to Christ and by faith receive forgiveness and righteousness. That by the Spirit, I would receive all such blessings that are drawn from Christ, from where the very living waters flow. I would surely hope so-because I realize that my current state, one who has rejected the fountain of living water and I feel as if I'm a broken cistern.

I should never have treated the abundance of Christ so lightly. I want to be delivered from this damnable sin that holds me at the very neck-I hate how it runs my life and how I can't do anything about it on my own. So I turn to you Jesus, for your righteousness to cover me. Oh, overflow in this broken cistern, God-that I may be satisfied in You. That my drawing of water would never be paused-rather that I would continually drink, by your word.

A turning of my soul to Your authority is not of my own work-I pray for a sanctification, Holy Spirit-that I may turn to Jesus as Lord, daily. I pray for a deeper longing and thirst for things that are eternal-this righteousness which cloths me, blessings in wisdom and knowledge as you reveal more to me through Your word. That I would never turn from the fount, which is Christ. All these things I pray in Your Son's holy name, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Sin's reminder

2010-07-23T18:46:00.001-07:00

Back to putting LJs publicly. I doubt many people read them, but the act of putting them up for everyone to read has quite a few benefits in comparison to writing them in my notebook:

1. Added bonus of having others proofread, to avoid heresy and utter crap that usually crops up in each of us.

2. Typing is way easier than writing.

3. You can tell if I've been doing them regularly or not, whereas with the notebook LJs you can't really tell without asking me to flip them out as proof xD

4. As long as blogger doesn't crash, I have a safe, organized means of looking back on LJs.

So back to it!

S: Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world (Adam), and death through sin (the wages of sin is death-everyone dies. Original sin.), and so death spread to all men, because all sinned-for until the Law sin was in the world, but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over those who had not sinned in the likeness of the offense of Adam, who is a type of Him who was to come.

So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men.

Romans 5:12-14, 18

O: Why is sin a big deal? I've been thinking about this question and I wonder...

Is it because sin is what severs our relationship with Him? The actions of one man's sin resulted in the entirety of humanity falling into total depravity, no hope-no means of returning to a righteous standing before the Lord...at least not by our own strength. Sin represents everything God hates and detests-it is the highest offense. In separating us from God, sin crushes us-it condemns us, rightfully bringing us before God's wrath as punishment. And the remnant of sin in our hearts and lives still exist even after accepting Christ-there is still santification to be done. One, like Christ-the Holy Spirit continues to do a work in us to mortify sins-sin, which is so repugnant to God.

Sin enslaves us. I think sin is such a big deal because it determines that we on our own, fell and by no means could ever get back up. Sin is not just a problem-it is an inevitability of life, meaning that if God did not provide a means of salvation by His grace, then we would only find ourselves on a one-way ticket to condemnation and judgement.

But, praise the Lord, He provided of means of being saved from our sins-and that was through Christ. Through the death and resurrection of Christ, the means of reconciliation was given to us and the relationship between man and God has been restored in those who place their faith in the propitiation of Christ, who curbed the wrath of God and paid the penalty of our sins-thereby allowing God's righteousness and holiness to be satisfied as well as allowing forgiveness of sins then and now and forevermore. Christ was the atoning sacrifice, and His finished work upon the cross continues to justify us. His grace is sufficient for me.

A: I think the big hit falls upon the fact that we, as sinners cannot save ourselves from our sin. Even sin points towards Christ, that He alone is the way. He died for us to be holy and blameless before Him-and it would be a waste to live continuously in the flesh knowing that (it would also judge us). I will live in the knowledge that the redemptive work of Christ is a unique gift that is consistent with the loving character of God-salvation is in Christ alone. Not in our actions in the slightest-even our disciplines to draw close to God cannot earn salvation. It is given and has been received-and to see from that perspective brings forth greater clarity and hope in Christ.

P: Lord, through one man, the world was thrown into chaos and through One, you brought everything back to order. God, I thank you for the deep reminder of Christ's work and how sin itself is even a reminder as well. Thank You for being You-loving and forgiving, and so amazing to satisfy your holy righteous standards...all of these things at the same time! It was upon Christ, and to Him be the glory-thank You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Matthew 15 - Jr. High

2010-07-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

S: You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled under foot by men.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 15:13-16

O: You. "You" represents the subject at hand and "You" happens to be the salt of the earth as well as the light of the world. "You" was and still are the Christians that live in this world.

Salt. What does salt represent? After reading a wikipedia article on salt, I found out that salt can't actually lose it's flavor due to it's chemical composition (sodium chloride)- and reading about the speculation of how true salt may represent how Christians cannot "lose salvation," I have to come to the conclusion that Jesus was fully aware that salt didn't lose it's flavor and neither do Christians lose their faith.

So we are Christians, and we are what we are-and that can never change. Just like salt, if we don't taste like salt, we aren't really salt. If we don't have faith in Christ, and aren't Christ-like, we aren't what we claim to be.

We are also the light of the world. This world that is so deeply engulfed in darkness and sin, we need to be ambassadors for Christ and shine the light that exists in us, that which is Christ. Christ is the light to darkness:

Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life."

John 8:12

And we who follow Jesus are also considered as the light of the world (notice the non-capitalization, however :), and Jesus commands us "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." - We must let Christ shine in our lives so that God may be glorified.

A: What are some ways can we shine our light (that which is Christ!) in our life?

How does shining our light glorify God?

Who do we shine our light before? Men? Who are these "men?"

Christlikeness should be apparent in the Christian-and I know the fundamental means of going after Christ and becoming more like Him is to spend time with Him. The Word is a person-and that person is Christ. But, I know that the application of what He teaches me should be taught and shared-how can I personally shine the light in my life? To make Christ more visible, through the very life I lead-I should strive to obey all He commands (in salvation, He chose us and in doing so, intending for the Christians he chose to be molded as holy and blameless). People are quite observant, and I want people to see Christ-that my love and my means of being anything...a guy, a musician, whatever would transcend that which would be anything anyone would expect-that people would see that Christ really is my Lord and Saviour and that I'm nothing but better off because of it. I want the message of the Gospel to be preached through my life, not just by my words-and I want to shine the light of Christ before my family and my friends.

P: Heavenly Father, I thank you for this day. You have made life so awesome lately and I wonder to myself why I wouldn't want to praise You or even dive right back into Your arms. So, I'm sorry for my callousness-it's not as if there's been a deep revelation or deep-seated conviction that's been going on-but just the fact that I know I have a responsibility and know enough to have myself judged. Bottom line, I know better and I'm sorry for my indifference and lack of diligent disciplines. I pray for that deep, radical change-because I know that the light is pretty dim at the moment, but I certainly don't want to act like the salt is no longer salty or put Christ underneath a basket-no, please teach me Father to chase after Your Son and to spur me on towards action. Teach me to apply the very things I'm setting out to teach. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Sonship

2010-06-27T23:37:00.000-07:00

S: But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law, so that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons, Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son in to our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father" Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.

Galatians 4:4-7

O: Sonship has always appealed greatly to me. I knew the story of the prodigal son before I was saved and the idea of a perfect, loving Father seemed too good to be true. To be inducted into sonship to God was well beyond my comprehension, let alone forgiveness for sins.

This passage I find is an excellent recap of what God did-quite literally, and why. God sent His Son, Jesus, under the same curse as every man at the time (the Law, which inevitably brought judgement upon every man) so that He would be the propitiation for all people's trangressions, thus redeeming them-but also so that those who were chosen to be redeemed would also be adopted as God's children. The Son for sons.

I can't explain why God sent His Son, or why He chose to be a father to such people. But when I hear someone say that God is a father to the fatherless, my soul really cries an amen-In my greatest time of need, God does not shut me down and say that I'm not good enough to come before Him-as He has paid the cost. The veil has been torn, and I know that I am a son, adopted by the Heavenly Father.

...Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son in to our hearts, crying, "Abba! Father" Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God.

"Abba," though phrased differently in Korean-literally means father (just an interesting fact). When I read that word, I think of...well "dad." Meaning God is not some regal, upright judge that aims to glean more evidence to condemn me, but rather an upright and holy judge that aims to correct me because He loves me.

I love my family, both my blood family and spiritual family. One day I hope that the two may just meld together to be my family. But, speaking as a son of God, I should always cherish the fact that sonship was not earned-but given as a gift to those who were shown unmerited favor by God through Christ.

A: Why should I be meek about my inheritance? A son delights in following a perfect Father-one who knows all, sees all, and has unlimited power. A holy Father should have holy sons, obedient to the ways He has laid out for them. Should my soul not cry out for my Father? How strange it would be to not know one's own Father or His embrace. I will take my place that which was given to me-knowing that no one can take away the joy and peace God gives me in the reassurance of Sonship and redemption in Christ. I will know and declare that I am a son (and be proud of it), redeemed and perfectly loved by my Father.

P: God, I still plod along, still not quite getting it, I think. But it certainly will not stop me from believing that You actually miss me-love me, and are reaching out to me even in this moment where I am so weary from the week's work and events-unwilling to see Your Son for who He is in these very words-the Word of God. I'm sorry-I totally suck. It's not getting any easier and I know there is no magical cure in tons of Bible reading that leaves most feeling dull and lifeless, even afterwards. But, remind me of Your cross-teach me to meditate on it day by day and reshape this heart back to You, Father-because, truth be told, I miss the feeling of sonship. Only when I'm with other brothers and sisters in Christ do I legitimately remember the feeling of being loved and so privileged to be caught in Your grace. Do me the honor of drowning in that love and grace, everyday-I want to feel Your very heart beat as I Seek you face to face...knowing that You seek me. Lord, help me-it's no easy task, but I want to take joy in You...peace in You, excitement and passion to serve You as well as to serve others...but mostly, just to run after You, Jesus. In Christ's name, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - The Blessings of Redemption

2010-06-07T21:24:00.000-07:00

S: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him.

In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us. In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth.
In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation-having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory.

Ephesians 1:4-14

O: This was a large passage-I usually go through the LJ reading highlighting things that especially strike a chord in me and I ended up highlighting pretty much half the chapter. It's amazing how I used to tell myself "Oh, it's just the first chapter-just the introductions of 'blessings upon this' and blah blah blah" and that I needed to jump and dig into the book rather than to take the introduction as seriously or with the same reverence people approach specific portions of Scripture. Today I found myself thoroughly humbled as I regrettably took the same approach and got owned. HERE WE GO!

(S:) "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him."

Immediately my first thought of blessings returns me to my old posting on what blessings are and how they differ for us and for God. God being "blessed" meaning that He is seen as who He is-Holy, and worthy of worship. For the man, however-being "blessed" means that God looks upon us with favor. And so, the beginning of this huge feast of Jesus' word is about the blessings-with those two definitions in mind, the way how God is characterized as being "blessed" (more like...a characteristic) and how He is such, specifically through His Son and the blessings that He has given us. This made a lot more sense to me in my head-being coherent is hard after almost 2 weeks of bits and pieces of bread (spiritual bread, that is). But He is blessed and He gives blessings to us, in Christ.

So what is the first blessing I see? He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. The reminder of unmerited favor is stressed upon when looking upon salvation-so CRAZY blessings of predestination! Why did He choose us? So that we would be holy and blameless before Him. I think this is insane-I mean, it pretty much states that whomever He decides, they will undoubtedly stand before Him (Holy God, righteous and good) to be...like Him: Holy and blameless.

(S:) "In love He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will, to the praise of the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved."

But, not only did He choose us-He also took us in as adopted sons and daughters through Jesus. This is what He intended, that he would be glorified and praised (God is blessed!) and He gave this amazing inheritance of son-ship through the Son (we are so blessed!). Praise the Lord!

(S:) In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us.

And yet again, in Christ we receive even more blessings-The forgiveness of our sins (We are blessed). Of course, this is necessary to stand before God, blameless-but, it's not as if He chose us to be saved through our own actions (because it's impossible) - But He chose for us to be saved in the only way possible-through the propitiation, that which is Christ. He gave us something that would have been unattainable if it were not for the "riches of His grace which He lavished on us." Lavished. I love that word. It means to have bestowed in abundance-He bestowed the riches of His grace in great abundance upon us all. How worthy of praise is He, who so freely gave such blessing? How truly and beautifully gracious is He? In the Beloved, we are so blessed.

(S:) In all wisdom and insight He made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His kind intention which He purposed in Him with a view to an administration suitable to the fullness of the times, that is, the summing up of all things in Christ, things in the heavens and things on the earth.

When I read this, the idea of Christ being the center came so quickly and in such reality that I got really, really excited with my highlighting, HAHA. But yeah, all things for the glory of God (Blessed be the Lord in Christ). The blessing for us is the fact that God showed us His will (the Gospel) to the crazy extent that even angels longed to look into the Gospel (1 Peter 1:12) and yet, we are the ones who receive His grace in boundless ways. When God has been so good to us, how can we not make Him the center of all things?

(S:) In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, having been predestined according to His purpose who works all things after the counsel of His will, to the end that we who were the first to hope in Christ would be to the praise of His glory. In Him, you also, after listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation-having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a view to the redemption of God's own possession, to the praise of His glory.

And yet again, this is the third time that predestination...being chosen by God by His grace is emphasized! Being chosen is a huge honor! It's...pretty much implausible, even (Oh, Lord forgive me-I cannot praise You enough for being who You are in Your mercy). To me, it's as if I were watching the Olympics and suddenly the judges pointed at me and took me down, and gave me a gold medal. The side story being that I was horribly injured and someone competed in my stead-and yet, I still received the prize. It would be tantamount to incredible kindness to the point of insanity. But that is who God is-His love far surpasses anything else.

The blessings keep on coming-Not only were we chosen (to be holy and blameless before Him), given the privilege of being God's children, forgiven of our sins through Christ, and given the privilege of knowing His will for us through the Gospel, but He rounds it off by giving us yet another inheritance...that being the Holy Spirit indwelling those who belong to Him. I'm not sure, but if I were to count my blessings that were each of infinite worth...I have about five things I can say that God has bestowed upon me. Five FAT blessings that sum up Jesus and what He's done for us that makes everything else pale in comparison. And all this to the praise of His glory. We are so blessed-and He ought to be worshiped, and made as the center.

A: Today I look at the Gospel in a simple heartfelt reminder in Ephesians, realizing that I have taken my blessings for granted. The blessings of redemption are not to be taken lightly-Each one is like a precious jewel, and it can never be taken from me! God, in His abundance of grace, love, and pleasure-has chosen me (to be holy and blameless), adopted me(as a son!), forgave me (as I could never forgive myself), allowed me to draw near to Him in Christ (reading of the Word...Christ is the Word), and resides in me (HOLY SPIRIT). Just looking at that in words is staggering. How wonderful is this God we serve? And so, my application is simple-to never forget these blessings and to remind myself that in this-Christ truly is the center of my life. By understanding the impossibility of each of these if it were not for Christ, draws up all the more passion and love and joy that is contained in knowing Him. And to also know that I had nothing to do with any of this! It was all by His doing. All this to the praise of His glory.

P: Father, be blessed. You are blessed in every way. Your grace overflows in the lives of those you chose. All these things...to the praise of YOUR glory. You are worthy of it-that in Your will, the Gospel was formed by Your very hands and that You would include a wretch like myself-so that I could live and see and learn and do all that I do...all thanks to You. Thank You, Father-Jesus has never looked more wonderful in my life and I pray that each day that the love grows deeper as You, if it is pleasing, reveal Yourself to me through the words you speak to me in my daily bread. God, I am so terribly lazy and unworthy to even be graced by this encounter with You, but I am also living proof of how far your love extends-to the very reaches of where Hell is, where I would assuredly be going if it were not for You. And so, I want to worship You because of that-looking at You, I how far gone I am and how desperate my life is without You. Teach me remembrance of Your blessings-that I may walk straight in the path of righteousness in Christ. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Trust, Word, Everything

2010-05-27T15:49:00.000-07:00

S: Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding,
In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.

Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.

Proverbs 3:5-7

O: In all my reading in the book of Proverbs, a long time ago in a late night bible study (not unlike this one, in fact...), I stumbled across this gold mine of wisdom and I was so thrilled to have found such wisdom and insight in plain sight. At the time, I didn't know that it was a verse used often amongst a lot of people, so it became a "special" or now what I'd call a life verse to me-used often and put in all my info boxes for blogs and so forth.

Reflecting on it again...I only read it as a set of verses then, and I hope that (by God's grace) it would be more than just a set of verses, but an application to this life.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding,
In all your ways acknowledge Him,

And He will make your paths straight.

The first three lines encompass instructions while the last encompasses a promise (this coming from a dude blessed with wisdom from God, Himself). And so, they are simple instructions for relying upon God's providence:

(O/A:) Trust in the Lord with all your heart - First I must trust God with all my heart. Oh, how easily words can tell one story, but how often people fail at the very first step. Trusting God has much more to do with how I should place a complete faith in how God is handling my life-He knows best, as He is indeed the potter and He will mold the clay. Should the pot say to it's potter, "No, I cannot trust you to make me anew or whole (when I am broken)!" - It would be absurd, but I see that image in my life every time I fail to pray when trouble strikes or when I am not at peace because I fail to remember that it should stem from the finished work of Christ.

And do not lean on your own understanding - This screams out to me "READ THE BIBLE AND UNDERSTAND IT. CAUSE YOUR KNOWLEDGE SUCKS AND IT LEADS YOU TO NOTHING BUT CRAP." Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men (1 Cor 1:25). I would be willing to bet my life that if I were to consult the Word and enter into prayer (trusting in the Lord to be faithful) every time something went crazily bad or horrifying, I'd be living upon the Lord's providence with no qualms or complaint-Why? Because, I'd see Him faithfully carrying out the promises of His Word every single dang time-and how could I doubt someone who never fails? I must not lean upon my own understanding, not because I've seen innumerous occasions of God being faithful (though I have seen His faithfulness, many times), but because I can see how many times I fail myself with my own logic and understanding of life. Here is a basic application of not trusting oneself, because we are too unreliable, too finite, and too weak to get through anything on our own. I will not lean on any understanding other than the Lord's, set before me in the Word.

In all your ways acknowledge Him - Praise Him, worship Him. Give yourself up as a living sacrifice to God. Yield to the Lord of Lords and take all measures to give Him glory. I like how this particular part of Scripture says to acknowledge God in all our ways-for me, that sounds like: "Obey Him and be holy, praise Him through the gifts He gave You, and love and enjoy Him to no end." It feels like as if the Word is saying, just soak Him in-make Him your delight and absolute center in this life. In all ways I will acknowledge Him!

And He will make your paths straight. Sweetness, do all that and you're pretty much good to go-it's not easy, but to think that we could go about life with such peace of heart and mind is quite the blessing. So I need to trust God wholeheartedly, lean upon His Word for understanding, and give all I have in my life to God-and I will be guaranteed to know that God will make my path straight. What does that even actually mean? Does it mean I'll see where I'm going? That God will reveal to me exactly, step by step where He intends for me to be? I'm not entirely sure, and I don't think I'll find out until I actually go about trusting God with all my heart, leaning upon His understanding, and giving all aspects of my life over to Him. Trying and hoping!

P: Lord, it's a comfort to know that You intend the best for Your children. Saying that sounds almost absurd, because You're the ultimate Father-but I think it takes a lot of time for the message to sink in. Your children need a load of discipline, after all-myself, being one of many who need it particularly often. I'm sorry for the desire of my flesh, which I yield to less (praises, all thanks to You) these days, but have fallen to yet again-Make me whole again, I'm so unclean and unworthy to come before You at such times-but, I know You respond true to my repentance. Take me in and really run with me on trusting You-I think it's so hard for someone like me to even trust that the future isn't some haze, undecided and uncertain due to the fact that I've dug myself into a financial/academic pit. But, I will trust You and Your Word because Your Word...tells me to (LOL). Take everything, God-I want to know the peace in placing my trust in You. Give me the strength to do so, especially in the times when it is crucial to turn to You-I know I won't be able to do it on my own accord, so bring remembrance to me when I am struck down by the pains of this world and let me exchange it for the peace of trusting You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Beloved by the Lord

2010-05-26T13:28:00.000-07:00

S: But we should always give thanks to God for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. It was for this He called you through our gospel, that you may gain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 2:13-14

O: When I read this, I had two immediate thoughts-that this piece of Scripture is yet again another example of how predestination is an immediate truth in the Word and then I realized how that immediate truth applies to me and how truly blessed are those whom this truth applies to.

Yet again, Paul calls for another round of applause for the Lord because of the fact that God had predestined who would be saved and who would be judged. I used to think, how is that even worthy of thanksgiving? There are people who will inevitably go to Hell and will be judged for all eternity-and I would ask myself and wonder why does that have to happen? I would childishly think that if God "loved" everyone, He would save everyone.

But of course, I realized later in my walk with Christ that God would be fully justified in condemning all to Hell for all eternity. Here, I see the clearest example of grace in Christ-that God could have withheld His Son and He would still be just and glorious, and yet-God, in such deep love that can't be expressed explicitly with words, did not even withhold His Son for that He would make some His objects of mercy rather than wrath. And every time I picture this, I see the Judge Himself coming down from the podium to say, "I will take their offense upon my own head." God is just, and He did not let the transgressions in my life to go unpunished-but, how much He must have loved me to go in my place...

So, now I come to the conclusion that predestination is a wonderful thing-because, it reminds me everyday of how I receive unmerited favor from God, which brings me to the understanding that there is a great deal of thanks to be given-thanks that lasts for eternity in fact, for an eternal consequence that I could not shift on my own. Today, like everyday is a reminder-but today I feel that God is telling me outright to look to Jesus and the cross.

A: I will give thanks, I will give praise, I will give all I have-because I was chosen and I was taken in, despite my wretchedness. I will remember that predestination is not just some Calvinist belief that others choose to believe or not believe, but in my case-it is yet another sign that points to the Gospel and the act that was and is so beyond me.

P: God, to You be all thanks and all praise and all glory. Your Son has immeasurable worth-You are so worthy of the highest honor. You picked me out before I was formed in the womb of my mother and look now! I'm no overt saint or holy man, by any means-I am a sinner, but Your Spirit sanctifies this broken soul-I pray that You would be so glorified in me, that You would be proud and joyful in molding faithfulness in someone who never deserved to be this close, or to receive anything but wrath from You. Thank You for the life You give and the life You gave. But Father, give me a devotion worthy of Your calling-someone who is enamored by Your every word and every movement. All these things for Your glory, in Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Rejoice, pray, and give thanks

2010-05-25T12:11:00.000-07:00

S: Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone, See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people. Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the Spirit; do not despise prophetic utterances, But examine everything carefully; hold fast to that which is good; abstain from every form of evil.

1 Thessalonians 5:13-22

O: Live in peace with one another. God calls the church to be unified-But everyday I see many instances of disunity and conflict in the church. The hungry aren't fed, the broken aren't comforted, and the list goes on. It's not as though the church needs to shape-shift to meet the needs of everyone, but rather...the church needs to obey God in the sense that we should "always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people." Such a command is not found to be easy to follow because it is a collective effort for the body of Christ to reach out to the hurt, hungry, and broken.

(A:) A really simple application to my observation of the unity in the church is to reach out. My heart naturally goes out to the troublemakers (probably because I was one myself) that don't draw a good crowd around them. If every single person in the church took one moment in their day on a Sunday to physically lay hands on someone and pray for them, I bet there would be so many people who would be so encouraged-to say we will pray for someone after hearing their struggles or problems is one thing, but to simply be the hands and feet of Christ, even just for a moment could drastically change people and their mindset towards one another. I have been trying to do this for some time, but I think I've been failing to see the opportunities to pray for someone because my heart has been on the cloudy side-but I hope that I can recognize the need and reach out to someone.

(O:) The latter half of this portion of Scripture is my favorite though! Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

This is a very practical way to follow Christ-because the truth of the matter is that our spirit should constantly be encouraged by the fact that God has chosen us, saved us, and continues to do a good work in us daily! What reason is there to not rejoice? None at all!

And to pray without ceasing-what a command, what a discipline-but I believe that if we are to be reminded of the constant joy in our lives, we ought to meditate on the great privilege and joy in knowing Christ at all times. Why should we draw away from God at times to sink into the world, only to return to Him during "sacred" times of prayer or church gatherings? To pray ceaselessly goes hand in hand with the command of rejoicing always.

And in everything give thanks, because every moment is given to us by God. Every moment is another gift and means of living for Him. Even in the darkest and most troubling times, when we pray ceaselessly, we are reminded that Christ is still who He is, and that joy is still found in Him-and so, we give thanks at all times.

(A:) So what shall I do, but obviously take in my daily bread (like now) and pray ceaselessly-it's not as if I need to be crying out every moment for salvation of others or desperately interceding for the worlds behalf (although, I probably should do those things on a daily basis as well of course), but to be with Him and set my heart towards Him at all times. And by doing so, I will rejoice and give thanks at all times.

P: Lord, it all points to Your Son-if it were not for Your grace, there would be no hope. How kind You are and how wonderful and blessed am I to be treated with Your love. You are a God who calls His people to be joyful, and for good reason! I praise the fact that You do not push to confuse or to set upon me, blind commandments-but that You set an order amidst Your kingdom and that in Your Word, there is real truth and sense. Father, on so many days, I forget to think upon Your cross and I fail to be joyous, caught up with my worldly concerns and pleasures. Forgive my wandering heart, I will try my best to apply myself in praying ceaselessly, so that I may find true joy-not in the actual prayer or reading of Your Word, but in Christ, who loved me and gave Himself up for me. Help me Holy Spirit, it's no easy feat for a mere man to set his heart upon Christ, no matter how sweet You may be-my heart is deceptive and I am foolish, but make me wise in Your Word and prone to obeying truth found in Him. May You unify Your people through the faithful who long for the good of everyone-and those who take action to turn hearts toward You. All these things I pray in Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Possess the Vessel

2010-05-24T22:31:00.000-07:00

S: For this is the will of God, your sanctification that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor...

1 Thessalonians 4:3-4

O: I understand the first half of this verse pretty well-as it's kind of laid out straight: Paul, telling the Thessalonians that sanctification is something that is necessary as God wills it in the walk with Christ; sexual immorality being pegged in particular.

It must be tough on pastors today, as it's probably the biggest issue amongst men in the church-Seeing as discussing sex is a bit of a taboo amongst men, I can see why Paul would address it so clearly and specifically; I think I can safely assume that people during biblical times were just as open with their sexual sins in public as much as people today (which is pretty much zero).

Which reminds me that discipleship is probably the only sure-fire way the church can address such sins-which seem to be tucked very deep in the conscience of every guy that walks around church. I think the only time I've ever been completely honest about my sexual immorality is when I'm being discipled or when I've discussed it with Jun, when drawing out a 'battle plan' together to fight it. But, even with the older guys in my life, I find it very hard to share or to even bring it up, which poses to be a problem in many ways, as I have nobody to keep me accountable, which makes it doubly hard to bear, and perhaps even more shame on my conscience.

(A:) The problem is that I haven't opened up to the Pathway dudes that I hang out with. Gleaning from the observations and Scripture, sexual immorality pretty much uproots spiritual life like it's nothing if it's left to fester on the heart. I know it's a fight I can't win alone-especially when I think I can pray it out or recite Scripture, but I feel that a good application would be to take initiative and open up to my trusted brothers in Christ. It wasn't exactly how I wanted it to happen, but-realizing that sexual sin (as Paul saw it, early on in church ministry) damages a great deal of Christians, I should take heed of the verse and consider sanctification as a great priority-especially sexual sin, in specifics. I'll find someone to keep me accountable.

"that each of you know how to possess his own vessel in sanctification and honor..."

What does this actually mean? Possess my own vessel...in sanctification and honor. I almost feel like this is a part of the application!

The knowledge: Where does this knowledge come from? The Word? Knowledge is often practical and logical information that could be used for one's own benefit. Where can I get the actual knowledge of possessing my own vessel in sanctification and honor?

...of being able to posses my own vessel: Vessel, like my body and spirit? And how can I possess my own vessel? It's not as if I can will myself to be cleansed from sin or anything. But I think this means that my own physical and mental effort contributes to the resulting work of the Holy Spirit. I suppose the heart of that effort can only truly come from the Holy Spirit as well-so...I should probably pray for the willingness to obey the call to sexual purity and sanctification.

...in sanctification and honor: Continued work of Holy Spirit in me to cleanse me of sin.

Seeing that sanctification isn't some kind of passive process where I lollygag in this life and wait for the Holy Spirit to boot up and download sanctification packets in my brain or whatever-I understand that from this passage that I'm going to have to press myself towards sanctification and choose it if I am to see this particular portion of God's will in my life. This means making an active effort to shut out temptation by all means necessary.

P: Father, your Word is good. It is righteous and it embodies who You are and what You are like. Your call is righteous and it is praiseworthy-because You are holy, You call Your people to be holy as well. It's tough, though-sexual sin is the big finisher that always seems to crush and take me down. I don't know how to even hate it or avoid it, because in all honesty-when I sin, I choose that sin over You, and I'm sorry that I can even do that. Lord, teach me to possess my vessel in sanctification and honor. Give me a desire for purity and give me a desire to obey Your call for sanctification in my life. I have no strength of my own to invest in abstaining from sexual immorality that would render my efforts successful-I can only drag myself to Your Word or be prickled occasionally before my moments of weakness. But would Your Holy Spirit do a roaring work in conquering this sin in my life as I take steps to do whatever I can. But just as it is with Your Word and with prayer, it's not as if it will do any good unless Your Holy Spirit guides me, speaks to me, and reminds me. So, Spirit be present in all times and let me be filled-so that I may do the Fathers will, so as to please Him. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Paul's Joy

2010-05-22T19:24:00.000-07:00

S: But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always think kindly of us, longing to see us just as we also long to see you, for this reason, brethren, in all our distress and affliction we were comforted about you through your faith; for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account, to as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face and may complete what is lacking in your faith?

O: When Paul ministered to the Thessalonians, he prayed for them everyday. He loved them deeply, and he was primarily concerned with their "faith and love" and was overjoyed to hear good news from Timothy-that the church in Thessolonica was doing well and was growing in faith. Upon hearing this, Paul said something that just stuck out so openly and gave me an idea of how much Paul actually cared for those who he ministered to-my favorite part of this passage is "for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord." I mean, Paul's life was dedicated to building upon the foundation of Christ, and to see it bear fruit was nothing short of pure joy. He maintains a joyous statement that is a comfort in it's own right-that he was comforted by the news from Timothy regarding the Thessalonians despite his afflictions at the current moment.

But, not only does this reaction show Paul's true feelings, but it reflects the heart and hard work he put into ministering to the Thessalonians. Daily prayer is no easy feat, and neither is planting churches. Paul perhaps may have had an inkling of the value of a person's soul. And because he knew how wonderfully miraculous it was for anyone to even be saved, he reacted accordingly upon hearing how Christ transformed those whom he prayed and worked with.

(A:) How many times do we see people actually taking steps towards growing in their faith? I mean, honestly-In my personal experience, I don't see it that often, and even when I do-my reaction is a mild "Oh, praise God!" but Paul goes as far as to say that life is worth living because the people he invested so heavily in were making progress in their spiritual life. On one particular occasion, however of remembering the fruits of mentoring those on my junior high praise team-the fruit was visible, and well worth the hard work and struggle. They were (and still are) my joy of being on praise team, that people were growing and are now spiritual leaders. I am so proud of them, and they are forever a comfort-despite the frustration they may cause me occasionally, as the growth should never stop.

I think that if I put the time and energy to pursue those around me-teaching them to observe all that Christ commanded, I would face a heck of a lot of trouble and suffering. But, the fruit that it bears would be worth it. I can see that God wants me to have the same joy and passion in investing myself in His work-because the rewards yield eternal dividends. Of course, as He commands it-whether the reward was there or not, I know I should do as He says. The reward is only a bonus!

(O:) But Paul does not stop to pat himself on the back or to announce that he's apostle no. 1 or something. But, he immediately goes on to say that there is no thanks that could be enough to properly thank the Lord for the great work that was happening amongst the Thessalonians.

(A:) How great is that reaction? I mean, it's so easy to take credit for something that we were a part of-Discipleship, ministry, whatever. Glory to the one who takes part in something successful! But, here was a man who suffered greatly for the sake of Christ, and praise God every time something wonderful happened. Here, Paul's heart is clearly seen to be one of a servant, paying proper dues to the King, when he knew that it was a privilege just to even witness such things.

To be honest, I don't think there have been a lot of great things happening in my life. Probably because I'm struggling to get back on my feet-but, I know that all things that are good come from Him. Even the fact that I'm able to stand up again, attempting to remain firm in Christ is a wonderful thing, that would never be possible without the aid of God. So I'll thank Him accordingly to all the things He's done in my life-because despite trouble, there is always reason to rejoice, even if it's just that one thing which always remains: Which is God in His steadfast faithfulness, love, mercy, and grace (which, incidentally, is the biggest reason of rejoicing, anyhow!).

P: Father, to be joyful in Your presence, when life feels desolate or when life is just one huge party-You're always to be praised and thanked, for who You are. I'm sorry for putting off my time with You again-it's not as late as usual, but I'm just glad it even happened tonight. Thanks for speaking to me, yet again! God, I see no reason to throw up my hands and sing, but at the same time, I know that mentality is so off. Would you show me that I should always be rejoicing (Rejoice, always! 1 Thess. 5:16) in You and in those whom You work in? Forgive me for my aloof attitude-I want to be filled with joy for You and for those around me-would You give me that heart? It's one thing to read it, believe it, and try to live it out-but I know I can never genuinely feel joyous without understanding that which what Christ did for me, and still does, and does in others. So remind me-remind me of the cross, so that I can be real with You and real with others-with a joy that stems from knowing You. Because I want to really live, standing firm in You. Take all these things-I believe it would be pleasing before You and glorifying as well. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - You did all that for...what?

2010-05-17T21:18:00.000-07:00

S: For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, how working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly, we behaved toward you believers; just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.

1 Thessalonians 2:9-12

O: "For you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, how working night and day so as not to be a burden to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and uprightly and blamelessly, we behaved toward you believers;"

When Paul was working with the church of Thessalonica, I see that he and his fellows took it upon themselves to work for their money and provision, so as to not inconvenience the people they stayed with.

I'm sure the church would have been happy to fund Paul and take care of his basic needs, but here Paul demonstrates the determination to keep his relationships thriving with those in his ministry-I'm guessing that it would have been easy to take advantage of his apostleship to vouch for food and shelter, which could have easily been seen as an abuse of power or superiority. But reading on in this passage, not only did Paul strive to humble himself in his position, but also sought out a pure conduct of living, to set an example before the Thessalonians.

(A): It's very easy to get caught up in power in position in the church. It sounds sad, but it's very true. As a former praise leader, I could easily say I abused my privileges to using my keys to church for my own personal use (which weren't massively destructive, as I'm sure it didn't stumble anyone, but it could have if I made a habit of it) in making copies of my own music, borrowing church equipment to my leisure, and of course the free internet/electricity/air conditioning. Looking at Paul, I know I should always set an example in my behaviour and conduct-I will remember that what I do in secret should not be something I'd be ashamed of doing in public. I will be transparent in all things that I do, and I will never take my position of leadership to a point where I could abuse it and use it for my personal gain.

(O, continued:) But what was the heart behind Paul's blameless conduct? "...just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children, so that you would walk in a manner worthy of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. "

And here comes out another example of discipleship. Apostle Paul's ministry had little to do with ministry, and rather it had much of itself invested in people (namely, God's people). As Paul repeats many times, "...we did not seek glory from men." but Paul sought out the spiritual welfare of those who took the message of the Gospel joyfully and he diligently pursued a means of bolstering their faith. And what better means is there in helping those you disciple grow in faith than by showing them spiritual maturity in your own life? Paul did exactly that-he left no provision for bitterness in his leadership position by taking care of his own finances and such, while also proving to be a mature spiritual leader to be followed after (because he devoutly followed Christ so closely). But, all in the end-Paul never did it to be glorified by men, but to be found faithful before God-working faithfully to see that God would be most glorified, and most lifted on high.

(A:) I could learn a thing or a million from Paul. He worked his butt off for his own food and he made sure that he was a blameless man before many of those who he ministered to. Why? Just so that they could be closer to God. Here was a man who loved the Lord and loved His people-Looking at myself, now-I'm struggling so deeply with even taking time in the Word and my conduct probably faces a million different problems. But I also know that the heart is where it all stems from. Do I really want to see God glorified or am I just here to get a few words of praise from the world? I certainly hope it's not the latter.

P: Lord, You stay as constant as ever. It's kind of funny how I had the biggest doubt that anything would even come up in reading the Word tonight, but You always seem to prove me wrong. Despite my excuses (thinking I needed proper "rest" to really focus) You brought to my attention someone that earnestly sought You out and I see Your message today. You want me to be more like Paul (well, more like Christ) in the sense that he worked straight from the heart. I know quite well that it's just an insult to come before You in a tired and morose manner, not expecting much-but yet again, Your grace is quite prevalent in my life when I least expect it. Thank You. I'm facing a dilemma in my commitment to cultivating greater disciplines of reading Your Word and praying-and because my good habits have been suffering, my spiritual life is too. I mean, it's definitely me-being lazy to unbelievable proportions (I guess this is why sin is so destructive-it creeps in without anyone noticing and then it blows everything to pieces). I'm sorry for how terribly lazy I've been-I guess because I have the time, I choose to waste it through my many excuses of being so "tired" and daily renewal of "I'll do it tomorrow." I'm really sorry for my inconsistency-really ought to learn something from Your constant faithfulness. Anyhow, I pray that I wouldn't screw up tomorrow or the day after and so forth-I'd much rather find my rest in the Word (which, I funnily enough longed for in my bed, but found in the Word, tonight-thanks for answering my prayer!). Would you teach me to live out my faith in earnest? It's so hard-but I'm asking for Your supernatural strength and guidance to plod my stubborn legs along. But, I'll try to keep my weak end of things (actually opening up the Bible and setting times to pray) and then I know You'll be faithful, as always. Praises to You, Lord :]

In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Cling, cling

2010-05-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

I cannot earn grace

He pulls away to show how dependent I am of Him

He loves me

S: And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Matthew 28:18-20

O: One thing I realized today is that Christ loves me unconditionally. This is not an easy truth to take down, because my own standard and impression of love is so inferior to the love that God has for each person in this life. But He loves me, and nothing can change that fact-I mean, just reflecting on His great love for me, it just changes my heart in ways that are just adequately expressed through word or even music (though I may try).

All authority belongs to Christ in heaven and on earth. What is authority? It is the right to command. It is power, and it is law. And so, this is why Christ is King-He alone is Judge and Ruler.

And so, by this authority, all his commandments come into effect for those who are willing to listen and even those who aren't willing to listen-because, no matter what (by the evidence given by the latter portion of the verse) He is Sovereign. For those who don't listen, they will be judged. I'm guessing that the Great Commission is probably one of the many significant commandments Jesus issues-but I believe we should take a special notice of how Christ proclaims His authority over heaven and earth and then continues with: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; "

It's a simple command. Go out and disciple people-and the means of discipleship? Baptizing them (in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and teaching them to observe all commandments (notice how there would be a great cycle if the disciples themselves discipled...as they did...and how it continues to this day). Making disciples doesn't mean to make people rigidly following rules and regulations-following His commandments is much more as Christ Himself said "If you love Me, you will keep my commandments." (John 14:15) and "For this is the love of God that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome." (1 John 5:3) How can it be a burden to love God, who is perfect in every way and somehow loves me enough to die for me? It cannot be a burden to follow God, and listen to that which He commands, because all that He is and all that comes from Him is good. His Word is good (so basically His Son is good) and His Word/Christ commands that we disciple to bring more people to love God (people who keep His commandments).

A: Taking this as a whole - Christ is the ultimate authority, thereby meaning the Word is the ultimate authority (more Christ and Word parallels in the next LJ)...But I will not begrudgingly follow Him just because He is the very authority. But because I love who He is and what He has done, I will listen. I don't want to do anything otherwise-if I love Him, I will keep His commandments, and should it be that I don't really love Him, my life will reflect disobedience and rebellion. I will take in whomever He sends and disciple them-teaching them to love God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength. For it takes that much to truly love God-and there is no means of loving Him without the Holy Spirit's guidance so I (Pray:) that all who come my way would have the Holy Spirit pressing upon their soul for change and a humility that seeks out God and who He is.

P: God, nothing but praises for Your Spirit's conviction upon my heart today. How righteous You are and how hopelessly lost in sin am I? To cling to the Holy of holies, is my desire.

Lazy, weak and submitted to the flesh, and a liar am I. God, without You, I would be so condemned. Please forgive me and wash me clean of this dirt that covers heart, soul, and mind-that which is so disgusting before Your eyes. I want to hate it, loathe it, and be the furthest from it. The only way to do that is to cling to Christ. To cling to Him is my greatest desire.

Thank You, for another day-for people You use in my life. Thank You for the breath I breathe, the songs I can sing, and this life that which will be fully conformed to Your Son's image one day. It is a testament to Your majesty-that this life, despite the suffering and toil, that evidence of Your beauty and goodness is present each and every day.

Lord, what can I ask but for You prompt Your Spirit to do a work in my heart so that I may be after Your heart in earnest? I never know if I love You, but You have shown me clearly, that those who love You, keep Your commandments-so would You teach me what You command? (send me to Your Word!) And would You always push me to uphold them in loving obedience? I only want to cling to You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - The Price of Christ

2010-05-14T00:48:00.000-07:00

S: Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?" And they weighed out thirty pieces of silver to him.

Matthew 26:14-15

Even my close friend in whom I trusted,

Who ate my bread,

Has lifted his heel against me.

But You, O Lord, be gracious to me and raise me up,

That I may repay them.

By this I know that You are pleased with me,

Because my enemy does not shout in triumph over me.

As for me, You uphold me in my integrity,

And You set me in Your presence forever.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,

From everlasting to everlasting.

Amen and amen.

Psalm 41:9-13

O: For some reason this verse stuck to me as I tried to finish my reading. I never thought much of Judas, other than the fact that he was the one who betrayed Jesus to the high priests. But coming across this particular passage, I felt convicted of the question the Judas asked the high priests: "What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?"

This reveals a few things about Judas. He was already willing to betray Jesus for some sort of monetary or material compensation. Extrapolating from there, Judas infinitely insults the worth of Christ by showing that he neither cares for or understands Jesus in any way. Judas is a murderer, who has little regard for any person other than himself.

But, worse, is that Judas' attitude does not die out with his hanging. The question that which he asked is still asked today. Such a painful question, because I feel like that's what we ask the world and the tempter everyday. What would we get, in return for abandoning our Lord? Sinful pleasures and worldly lusts that gratify momentarily-we trade our gold for glitter and stickers.

And so, the world and Satan answers deftly to the flesh that cries out the question that Judas asked, long ago-Forget His grace and sacrifice, we have one life to live on this earth and that's it. Truth is discarded because lies look more attractive.

By 30 pieces of silver, Judas received his payment. By our means of living out our fleshly desires and sinfulness, we receive our payment. In Exodus 21:32, the price of a slave was 30 pieces of silver. The Saviour of the world was sold out for the same price as a slave-it seems almost fitting as Christ describes Himself: "...just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but the serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mt. 20:28) And so He was servant to the fullest degree, even at the price he was betrayed.

A: I often forget that old habits and old snares are still a danger - I was seriously humbled yesterday (as well as exhausted by work work work). I will remember that giving into my flesh without a fight is the same as selling out Jesus-honestly, I'm sure many people would have done what Judas did-but I want to make sure I'm that person that at least has an inkling of the worth of Christ. If I really saw the infinite value of His sacrifice, I know that would keep me from falling for the snares that which He died to save me from. I suppose that's what this is-a daily living to see Christ more and more clearly in this life of mine. I will fight for a tangible encounter with God each day-so as to not compromise what He did for me-because I know if I don't ready myself in His Word quickly enough or take the time to pray, nothing will change and I will fall for the same sins and see nothing but a drought and motions.

P: Father, Your majesty humbles. There is no one like You:
For Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the heavens,
You who have done great things;
O God, who is like You?

Psalm 72:19

My flesh is weak. My resolve is weak-and I am sorry that I continually think I can battle my flesh without Your Spirit. Father, I pray that I may be more vigilant in this daily fight for my holiness. Show me the way, I know it may be tough and it may be difficult on me-but I know it's worth it. Discipline me as You see fit and teach me to walk in all Your ways. Please forgive me of my transgressions as I turn to walk in righteousness. I know it's never supposed to be a checklist of how many days I can go without sinning or anything, but I hope that my repentance would be genuine and assisted by the Holy Spirit-drive the desire for holiness into me Lord, because I know You desire Your bride to be clean.

Thank You for the humbling experiences I've faced this week. I have failed to love like You-but I press on and I am thankful that You always bring reconciliation as a priority in my life. Thank You for Jun-I pray that He may commit to spending more time with You as well as leaving no room for regret as this year passes. I pray that You may do a powerful work in his heart and I pray that he would present his baggage before Your feet, ready to walk with You, Lord. Thank You for good friends and good people in my life that have really made an impact with me.

I pray that You would remind me of this passage. I would ask that there is no price, no payment that would be enough for me to sell out my Saviour-even the pleasures of sin, I pray would be quashed the moment I look back on the critical mistake Judas made in failing to see the supreme worth of Christ. I pray that You would draw me to the cross when I am tempted-I need You so badly, because I know that I just cannot win a fight against myself without my Saviour. It is impossible. So I pray that You would be my 'rock of habitation' - my very dwelling place. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - With the Faithful...and the Faithless...

2010-05-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

S: For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. Throw out the worthless slave into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Matthew 26:29-30

O: Parable of the talents. I've read this one a lot, but I feel like there's much more to it. I used to teach it about God-given gifts and talents-in teaching praise team to strive for excellence and always seeking to improve and be faithful with what we've been given. No matter how little or how great of a responsibility we've been given, we're all called to be faithful.

After reading the end of this passage, I notice that Jesus makes an exciting promise for those who are faithful - "For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance..." So...Everyone who has what? Faithfulness? I think it means everyone who has been faithful with what they've been given, more will be given. This is very much where I believe Pastor Jason gets a saying that I remember very clearly-those who are responsible with a little will be given much more.

That reminds me of a passage in Luke 12:42-44, 48 -

"Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants to give them their rations at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions...."

"From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more."

Of course, now I realize that it has much more to do with all things God has given me rather than just musical talents (although musical talents are to be used accordingly as well). I know that God has entrusted me as a servant to use what I have faithfully-as a student, I need to be a good steward of my relationships and finances and so forth. Everything I have has been entrusted to me (as everything I have, has been given to me by the Lord) - Some of these things are big responsibilities and could easily be abused. I could spend all my money on music equipment, neglect important people placed in my life, and other examples of selfish ways of living. I've come to learn that God can use anything from me buying someone lunch to constant prayer for someone - This idea of being responsible ties in with many things that Jesus taught about - personal relationships, disciplines, serving. In all responsibilities one is given in a job or career, that person is expected to have a standard of work or else they would be fired. In the same way, God expects us to work diligently in our lives, for His sake-for such things are good.

(A): So I should work very diligently indeed. As God intends for me to be blessed in greater abundance by being faithful with what He has given me, why should I withhold His blessing from me? It's like something I remember Lynn telling me about not reading the Word...something along the lines of "Why wouldn't you read? It's like saying 'DON'T BLESS ME!' " God loves His people and I know He wants to bless me in abundance. I will be faithful with all that I have-my time, money, and the people that I cherish. It's a big commitment to live the way Christ calls us to live-but it's well worth it as I can tell from today's reading...

(O): However, the second part of today's reading is definitely scary. Those who are not faithful will have what they have, taken away from them. I suppose it's almost as if someone gave me money to feed my kids but instead I spend it on drugs and run away or something. That person would probably be very angry that I took advantage of what was given to me to fulfill my selfish desires. In the same way, God won't stand for His gifts being used in an abusive and selfish manner-I see people living for their gain each day, but I know that God will make good on His promises. People who are light-handed with what they have been given will inevitably have everything taken away from them, one day.

(A): With that being said, I should be very careful-Yes, I should live faithfully and responsibly by that which God has given me. However, it's so easy to say one thing, attempt to live that way and yet fall apart only moments later. I will very carefully consider all aspects of my life and see where I am falling short of being faithful (many areas, I'd assume).

Money - I could probably cut back on the food and splurging of new music equipment. I should also make it a habit of giving offering on a more regular basis.

People - I think being a faithful shepherd is really difficult, but if I put in more time and genuinely seek out God's changing touch to manifest in the lives of others, I can be more diligent in hanging out with them and praying for them as well as getting them into the Word. What more can I do? But it's such a large task to make it a reality. Slowly but surely-I need to be diligent.

Discipline - I've come to a point where I need to organize my time to literally make time for all the reading and praying that SHOULD be in my life, but isn't quite there. It's like as if I'm putting it off-but here I am writing it out to remind myself that everyday I need to shed another layer of my sinfulness and get off of my sloth-horse and get moving.

P: Good and gracious God, how wonderful it is to receive Your blessing. You are a generous God in bringing about such abundance-and yet, even if the blessings were not there, You are still good. Praises to You :] Thank You for this time that was repeatedly delayed by my distractions, but Your patience won me over in the end. Praises to YOU!

Lord, I am weary from battling sin and losing. I am sorry for losing myself to my flesh, yet again. I know that a daily crucifying of myself is in order and I am sorry that on some days I am so lazy and stricken with lethargy. Forgive my diligence, as I've learned today that I am not very faithful...

But thank You-as I've already mentioned, You have been so patient with me and have shown me diligence in Your Word. Today was a productive day and I thank You for the people in Pathway (and Aaron Chung) that have taken upon themselves to keep me accountable-I feel very blessed to have such people in my life. I pray that You would make me an encouragement and blessing in their lives as well.

Lord, it seems almost strange to ask for this, but I want to be faithful in all areas of my life! It seems that we only need to have an LJ count and prayer life to be set-but I know that You look upon my entire heart and my entire life...and I want it to be fully submitted to You, Lord. I pray that You would mold my heart to be one of a faithful heart, devoted to Your calling. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Ready When You are Jesus

2010-05-08T13:36:00.000-07:00

S: "Now learn the parable from the fig tree: when it's branch has already become tender and puts forth it's leaves, you know that summer is near; so you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door. Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away..."

Matthew 24:32-35

O: This is what Jesus says after He talked about a "great tribulation" and he talked of people who will come as false Christs and false prophets. He also spoke of His return to the world and how He will send His angels and gather His elect (His people who have persevered-But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. Matthew 24:13).

Simply put, when we see all of these things, in comparison to the fig tree coming into it's season of fruitfulness, it's the same as knowing that God is near-that Christ is on His way of returning and that we are well on our way of being with Him. I guess the real significance of knowing when Christ is near would be the actual events happening-but looking towards the end of such terrible things is the means of getting through it.

Which generation is He referring to? The world in general? Because I know that the Rapture hasn't yet occurred (obviously), but looking at the word pass-maybe it means that this generation won't ever die out completely until all of the tribulation and return of Christ has all happened? As the last sentence of this chunk refers to Heaven and earth passing away (Heaven will pass away?) it sounds as if they would be done away with (a new earth and new bodies for the elect, might be what it means? As the people on earth will definitely be dwindled down to those whom God choice for Himself)...

The very end is my favorite, however-and I believe this to be a promise God makes: "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away." Christ's words will never fade. I believe just reading them today is a testimony as to how His words have never failed and they are as relevant (if not more) today as much as the day they were written.

A: Looking that being with Christ is the end of such things is the means of perseverence-I believe that the tribulation will occur before the Rapture and the church will be purged of all of what it lacks and only the faithful will remain. So what shall I do? I will be a vigilant watctmen (Isaiah 62:6) just like Christ tells us to be in the next part of this chapter (Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. Matthew 24:42) - Everyday is the Lord's and we need to always be ready day and night. For by looking heavenward (or, I should say Christ-ward, lol), we truly live in a fashion that which glorifies God. Everyday is the Lord's!

P: Father, You are a wonderful provider. Today I have seen evidence of Your love in little disciples and I have heard and took in Your Word on women in the church-How beautiful You have made today. You have made it so, in the way that You may receive the most glory and indeed it is all Yours!

Today, I put off my time to really get into the Word-I'm sorry that I chose to eat and hang out with others when hanging with You is exactly what I needed to get through yet another day with blessings and guidance, aplenty. I will set my priorities upon prayer and a diligent heart towards Christ.

Thank You for the opportunity to pray for a great sister and also showing me that when things are going awry for so many-all I can do is ask You to take hold, Father and make it all right. I also thank You for just how great today was, honestly-Despite all the hardships others faced, I am glad that I could even be present to ask for Your comfort and love to be present upon people I love and care about.

Father, I ask for a diligent heart. One heart so diligently focused upon being with Christ, and in doing so-preparing for His glorious return, ready to present myself as a living sacrifice, sanctified by His hand. I want to be ready for Your coming, so prepare me Father for Your Son!

In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - David's Reaction to His Sin

2010-05-08T00:31:00.000-07:00

A series of Scripture that I thought was particularly wonderful and a definite blessing. The Psalm is great too! I'm going to definitely go back on that one as well...

(S): Then David's anger burned greatly against the man, and he said to Nathan, "As the Lord lives, surely the man who has done this deserves to die. He must make restitution for the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing and had no compassion."

2 Samuel 12:5-6

(O): As I read the story of David and how he took Uriah's wife and and impregnated her, I was very sad. Not only did he willingly take her, but he also set up a ploy to have Uriah killed, so as to not face him. This was David's falling point and it shows the imperfection of even the greatest of Israel's kings. This particular point in Scripture, Nathan told David a story that represented the evil David had committed against God and immediately David's reaction was both surprising but also normal.

Unknowingly, David condemned himself and basically seeing sin from the perspective of that which of how God sees it-even David was enraged at the rich man who stole the ewe from the poor man. In the same way, I feel that if we ever are to condemn sinners, we are basically condemning ourselves. David was appalled at the atrocity the rich man had committed-but how sad is it that David didn't know it was him all along.

(S): Why have you despised the word of the Lord by doing evil in His sight? You have struck down Uriah the Hittite with the sword, have taken his wife to be your wife, and have killed him with the sword of the sons of Ammon. Now therefore, the sword shall never depart from your house, because you have despised Me and have taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite.

2 Samuel 12:9-10

(O): How does God respond? In a just and righteous manner. Anyone can see that David messed up. Big time. God punishes David by cursing him as, "the sword shall never depart from your house..." I wonder what that actually means? Does it mean that David will never rest from war? Or does it mean that he will face his own troubles by the sword? That he should suffer in the same way? I'm not sure, I guess I have to read on. The part that got me the most was "because you have despised Me..." Oh man. This is how serious sin is. That should you sin against God, you DESPISE Him...that the very act of sin is hating God. That is truly terrible, but it makes sense-because God is an absolutely holy God and those who sin will infinitely offend an infinitely holy God who cannot commune with sin. To sin means to hate God. Crazy.

(S): Then David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the Lord." And Nathan said to David, "The Lord also has taken away your sin; you shall not die..."

2 Samuel 12:13

(O): The thing I respect most about David is that he didn't merely say he sinned against God-reading in the Psalm 51, he said much MORE than that. He was in anguish. His very soul was troubled to the point of agony-he was a broken and contrite man before the Lord and he humbly asked God to forgive a broken man. And so, what do I learn about my Lord? He is truly merciful and truly forgiving-here, we see a great example of how God makes good on His promises. Should his people turn away from their sins and repent, He would hear them and heal their land.

(S): So David arose from the ground, washed, anointed himself, and changed his clothes; and he came into the house of the Lord and worshiped.

He said, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept; for I said, "Who knows, the Lord may be gracious to me, that the child may live.' But now he has died; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me."

2 Samuel 12:20, 22-23

(O): After David fasted and prayed for his son, born of Bathsheba-his son inevitably died as God promised that he would surely die. But David's response is amazing in my opinion. He prayed and interceded for his child in the hopes of God being gracious-but God, being good, made good on His promise. David recognized that he received a great punishment, but also recognized that God was still God. He got up and worshiped God. In the midst of sin, repentance and mourning-David still knew who his God was, and that is why I respect king David so much.

A: Should I ever condemn in anger or in outright judgment, that I would understand I condemn myself. I can only rebuke and remind myself and others that we are all sinners-when we feel justified in condemning others for sinning, we may even see how God sees us: Blind to our own sins. I will daily remember the cross and see the incredibly huge debt that was erased.

From recognizing my sin, I will fall down before God in realization of much needed repentance. This was the only time I recall David ever sinning. I probably have to fall down before God everyday. I will also remember that God is merciful and because He sent His Son, I am forgiven.

And in His wonderful grace, I will worship Him despite my suffering. Will I mourn my sins or flinch from the discipline my Father gives? No. He is gracious and He is swift to deal with His children in correcting them. I will be obedient and submissive to His ways-as God is God.

P: Father, You are an enduring and patient God. I love that so much about You. You are also so justified and righteous. In all ways You are holy-and that is so praiseworthy. It is a wonderful thing to serve a holy and upright King-there is no one greater than You! In this time of investing myself in Your Word, I find more and more things about You that are great. I pray that it would become not just things about You, but that I would just KNOW You to greater extents.

I have unresolved conflict amongst friends and I see that I complain so much against my situations when I bring it upon myself (and yet I blame You a lot of the time). I am sorry for these things, and I will do my best to react just like David when it comes to sin-with revulsion and with repentance. For You hate sin for sin makes us haters of all that is good and holy, which is You.

God, tonight was awesome! I'm so blessed to see our three ministries gather in one place to worship You. It was truly great, but I pray there would an extended change and a newfound unity amongst Your body, God. But, I felt refreshed and I found myself wanting to be more in Your Word. Thank You so much!

Lord, I ask that I could only be more intimate with You. I feel like I'm not incredibly close to You-that these prayers feel like letters almost. But God, I want to face to face with You everyday. I want to yearn for You and desire You in ways I can't even imagine-but because You are infinite, I kind of imagine there's more than this. There must be more than this. So God, I'm going to try and do my best to chase after You-everyone always tells me that You're chasing me, so maybe we can meet somewhere in between :] But, truly, God-I want more of You. Your Word is a lamp and Your Spirit is like water. Light my way and hydrate my soul, Father-this sounds selfish, but I want to be selfish for You. I want to see and hear and feel You more-that I may sit at Your feet and dwell in Your courts, to love You and seek You. This is what I ask-all for the sake of laying down my life to honor Christ. All these things in Christ I pray, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Many are called, but few are chosen

2010-05-06T15:30:00.000-07:00

S: Then he said to his slaves, 'The wedding is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main highways, and as many as you find there, invite to the wedding feast.'

But when the king came in to look over the dinner guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed in wedding clothes, and he said to him, "Friend, how did you come in here without wedding clothes?" And the man was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen.

Matthew 22:8-9, 11-14

O: This comes from the last passage of the Parable of the Marriage Feast - The parables that Jesus tells often confuse me to no end. I'm all about symbolism, but I know that parables are usually translated with the intention of having one lesson and one important meaning, so I often cannot understand parables. But I'm making the guess that the important point was heavily emphasized at the end of this parable.

What is the one moral lesson? In the last two parables I've read - (Two Sons, and Landowner) it seems that these parables seem to all be similar. The kingdom of God was something the Jewish leaders thought they had in their grasp-and yet Jesus Christ, the very Messiah awaited as salvation and King; was utterly despised and rejected by them.

In the conclusion of the Two Sons, Jesus told the leaders that sinners and Gentiles repented after hearing John, and yet they rejected John (whom Jesus emphasized was in the way of righteousness-that's pretty big Matthew 21:32).

In the conclusion of the Landowner, Jesus yet again compares the Jewish leaders who hardened their hearts and says that the kingdom would be taken from them and given to people who produce fruit of it. (Matthew 21:43)

For many are called, but few are chosen. The Jews were not prepared. Therefore, the kingdom of heaven (is this the same as the kingdom of God? Is this heaven? Er...Salvation?) was taken from those who did not recognize the invitation to it. Jesus said twice to the chief priests that people they regarded as lowly sinners would get into heaven before they did. I know I'm sort of placing a certain symbolic conclusion upon how the Pharisees are like the ones who rejected the invitation and went about their ways, thinking they could still attend-but in reality, they essentially rejected the kingdom! Many are called, but they fail to see that. And with that being said, few are chosen.

A: Should I be so assured of my salvation ? Do I look down upon others and think that they're so disillusioned, thinking that I'm well on my way while they're going to be condemned? I think I do sometimes. This parable pressed onto me to re-evaluate myself everyday. Is my faith in Christ? Or do I just think it is? When I see the Pharisees, I often wonder if I'm so blind-thinking that all my bible studies and such could be an extra reason to know I'm saved. But truly, salvation was clearly defined by Christ-as He is the way, truth, and life. No one else. But, I will walk by that daily-not renewing my salvation of course, but always questioning and always asking God to search me. I won't be so assured by anything other than Jesus Himself. And if I'm not seeing Him or yearning after Him, I will yet again come before the cross (daily) and be assured, yet again-not by my merits, but by His unmerited grace. Would I only be so blessed to know each day that I'm chosen.

P: Father, You are mercifully patient with those who reject You. I pray that You would be honored in my life-be what I adore and love and seek. For, I could hold onto Your Word like it's nothing important and come before You so dull-but I could never change the fact that You are good. Thank You.

Lord, my flesh plagues me yet again with lust. I am sorry that I am still trying to discipline myself. But, Lord, remind me to run and pray and use the sword of the Spirit to mortify my sin, daily. I want to be consecrated not for the weekend, but for this life! I know I may fail, but You are infinitely beyond me, so I ask that You honor my repentance of these things. That I may be daily renewed in You.

Father, I thank You for the people in my life that always bring great encouragement and inspiration. The brothers and sisters on praise team and in Pathway are always a blessing. Thank You! I pray Your favor would be upon all of them.

God, I would ask that You would resolve conflict and bring unity to Your people. I ask that You bring healing upon JP's father, that it should glorify Your Son and bring praise and honor to Him. I also pray that You would do what You see fit for tonight's prayer/praise night. I don't really know what to expect-but I really ask that You would bring these three ministries together to bring forth an overflow of discipleship and unity for Your glory. All these things in Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Prayer, Believing, Receiving

2010-05-05T17:18:00.000-07:00

S: And Jesus answered and said to them, "Truly I say to you if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' it will happen. And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."

Matthew 21:21-22

O: This was when Jesus was hungry and He couldn't find any figs on a nearby fig tree. Finding nothing but leaves, Jesus said aloud that the tree would never bear fruit again and immediately it withered and presumably, died. Naturally, the disciples were amazed and they asked Jesus how it even happened.

This particular passage makes me wonder why Jesus cursed the fig tree. Maybe it was to lead up to teaching on faith. When I really think about it though-the tree didn't have fruit and any tree that doesn't bear fruit...(wait this is a verse...checks biblegateway) It's from the scary passage in Matthew 7 upon trees that bear good or bad fruit. Every tree that doesn't bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown in the fire...

I guess it's not like extreme similarity, considering the tree had no fruit at all-but if Jesus came, and he saw no good fruit in me...or even fruit at all, I have a feeling that I'd be one of the burned trees.

Anyhow, moving on - Jesus said something perhaps even more amazing than cursing a fig tree to immediate withering. That any of us who have faith, without doubt, could just as easily curse a fig tree to wither as well as tell a mountain to be thrown into the sea. Fig trees, are huge trees-I don't know if I can walk up to a fig tree and tell it to wither, because those are some seriously mighty trees. The same goes for the mountains-but here we have a reference back to Jesus telling His disciples that genuine faith, even in the smallest quantities bring about large, powerful changes (Matthew 17:20). Weak people rely on an infinitely powerful God and the result is that mighty things are done. Herein lies the power of prayer-not that prayer itself has power. Many people of many religions have practiced the art of prayer. However, the question is whom we pray to and why.

This reminds me of the statement repeated by a brother in many prayer sessions as he led-"Did you know it is an act of pride to not pray? It's absurd to think that we can do anything on our own, so we must pray-because God is the one who moves mountains, not us. By not praying, we are basically saying that we can handle everything on our own." And rightly so he said. Those who wish to do anything in the kingdom must pray-for the Father may accomplish our finite tasks with a mere lift of His finger or a batting of His eye (not even, lol), but we can hardly feed or cloth ourselves without falling to pieces over how we can do it (and yet the Lord still provides even those necessities).

But prayer has little to do with the bare minimum-it does not scrape people by in their lives, and nor does it lavishly spoil us with riches and extravagance. In fact, prayer has nothing to do with our own preservation-Rather it is a means of expressing the desire for God to be glorified and asking God to glorify His Son. He works in our lives and the things we used to selfishly desire fade and we desire nothing more than what He desires-for what we want should always be what He wants. And so, "...in all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." Prayer has power because the God we pray to has power-and He doesn't ask us to pray to get by in life or for our own benefit-but for mountains to be moved and for huge frackin' trees to be withered. Basically, God calls us to pray for big things to happen for His kingdom and in our lives.

A: I will strive to have a faith that does not doubt-and in doing so, my prayers will be that of moving mountains and cursing trees. I will not pray petty prayers, nor will I pray for my own desires (Unless they're God-given).

P: God, You are infinite. And I am so tiny in comparison to You. Your strength holds me and all others who have placed their faith in Your Son completely, without any hindrance. How awesome is our God. Lord, I come to You, still sluggish in my ways and lazy-Father, forgive me for being so prideful in the sense that I don't pray or make the effort to spend time with You. These LJs become almost mechanical and burdensome, but Father-teach me to know that I'm spending time with the LORD and not with a book or nothingness. I want that encounter with You everyday in my life. In my book, that is definitely a big prayer-because I don't know many people who say that they encounter the Lord of Lords on a daily basis, because then they'd be pretty dang excited and at peace. But beyond that, when I intercede for those in my life, I pray that You would prod my heart and remind me that You are infinite and the things I pray for are so finite-It is easy for You and that should be my basis of faith in You...to the point that I believe it is already answered and done, as long as I should be faithful and without doubt. Bring my unbelief to rest, God and teach me to glorify You in all ways. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Over 100 posts

2010-05-04T00:40:00.000-07:00

Not that it's like incredibly special or something, but I realized that I'm over 100 posts now on blogspot! Of course, I think at least ten or more of them are just random regular posts that have nothing to do with my LJ's, but it is nice to see something last.

I remember the days of Xanga and Livejournal (lol!) were the seriously cool blogs to have back in the day. When I go back and read my old posts, it's pretty crazy to see the change that's happened over the years.

So, cheers, to having yet another significant blog. This time around, it's more than just that, though-it's far more precious than memories because it's a record of what God teaches me on a daily (or if I suck, not so daily) basis. CHEEEEERS!

Soap - Walking to be Last

2010-05-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

S: But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.

So the last shall be first, and the first last.

It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.

Matthew 19: 30, 20:16, 26-28

O: The idea and ambition of being great was flipped upside down by Jesus. He said these very words that seem almost ridiculous-if anyone wants to be a great and prominent person in the kingdom, they need to be the last-slave and servant of all. Anyone who wanted to be first will be last and whoever is last, will be first.

And by these words, it's easy enough to see that people who want to be esteemed by men, will put their energies into becoming great-their ambition centers around themselves and how they can build themselves up in the eyes of all those around them. And of course, that will be their own reward-being loved and well received by those around them. However, anyone looking out for their own selfish schedule will certainly not hold any honor in heaven before God-as they chose not to discard their means of serving themselves, only.

The first will be last...meaning those who consider themselves first, will be considered last in the eyes of God, as every man will be given their due.

But the last will be first. Those who would discard their love of self and gravitate towards serving others would be greatly esteemed by God-as Christ said Himself; He didn't come to be served by all people (despite the fact that He would have been entirely justified if they did), but rather to serve them in His ministry and sacrifice. Thus, Christ set Himself as the servant of all and esteemed Himself beyond any other person that ever lived and beyond any person that will live. Christ is revered above all other men, because He was set apart to be the lowest and most humble servant of God.

(A): To be last means to serve. Not like serve in every ministry possible kind of serve-but the service rendered towards God and His people that comes out of the joyful obedience of a servant wanting to please their Father. There is a sort of ambition of wanting to be great in the eyes of the Father, and that is called obedience. God commands us to love Him and love others-and I believe that I can love others by serving them out of a genuine heart. By knowing God, listening to Him and following Him-the means of loving and serving others is made clear. To be last means to serve God-and a servant will most obviously obey his master. To be last means to serve others, always considering their needs and their hearts.

I want to be great in the kingdom. I will be a servant to all, reporting to the Lord in joyful obedience to all His ways. I will be strive to be last, as Christ was-because He did it, I want to be like Him in all His ways of serving and love.

P: God, You are the first and You are the last. No one is more greatly esteemed than Your Son, Christ. He set the way of true service to You-not because He was only a servant, but He was a beloved Son and friend. Lord, I'm sorry that I lack love and intimacy for others and especially You, oh God. Forgive me for my wandering ways, and would you breathe that warmth back into my heart? I don't want to bring my offering before You to receive rank or to be greatly esteemed even amongst the church. But I want to be received by You and to be greatly esteemed in Your eyes. I know that I can never make You love me more than You do right now, and I thank You so much for that. Despite my lack of love or service, You love me the same-day by day; And that makes me want to humble myself before others and serve them with the same love and devotion that You show me all the time. Teach me to be last, as I walk with You, Jesus. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Seek Him

2010-05-02T18:01:00.000-07:00

Today, I saw Josh's younger brother, Kyle, at church. It was wonderful seeing him there and while praying for him and his family, I realized he said something to me that didn't quite strike me until now. "I wish Josh and Joseph were here."

I don't say it very often because no one really knows my family at NVC, but I wish my family would come to church. I realized that Kyle is the youngest in his family as well, and it seems that he's holding dearly to the faith he has-which is honestly a great blessing for me to witness, but he has a concern for his family to be right with God-and that is even greater. I was and I am still very glad to know that he feels the same as I do about our families.

S: Seek the Lord and His strength;
Seek His face continually.

1 Chronicles 16:11

O: I remember defining what seeking meant. Searching earnestly for...to try and find. This is simply the definition. But seeking requires a certain amount of effort. This verse taken from David's psalm of thanksgiving as the Ark of the Covenant had finally been returned to Israel. It touches upon three things David urges his people to do in praise of God and who He is.

But I personally think it's just good advice(application). Especially for my wobbly legs and spiritual frailty in this time.

(A) Seek the Lord. Find God ? Will I find Him in a special spot or particular place? Of course. The living God can be found in the Word-Jesus is the Word. Snap, I'm hearing what Jesus is saying just by reading even just one verse. I used to think that I needed to spend hours upon hours praying to even snatch of glimpse of God, but God will come to those who seek Him. I wonder if that desire is in me? I often say I need more of God, but if my words rung true with my actions, wouldn't the need push the seeking? Deep down, I believe that I have lost a great deal of passion for God because I'm hearing so much about Him, rather than sitting at His feet, listening to what He has to say. Maybe, I'm not hearing or reading right...

(A) Seek His strength. But before I even try to listen-I need to God to help me even begin listening. I need His strength to carry me along. Man, I pray to get my focus going. I pray to get my understanding. And then I pray to be passionate about the truth I learn about. If I am finding and centering all things around Christ, I'm sure I will find His strength. But I need to pray for all of those things, and when I don't-I know I only cut down my real time spent with God in even doing these lifejournals.

(A) Seek His face continually. Diligence. Man, I suck at being diligent. But I know that God won't come to me on a silver platter-It's a daily thing. Needing and knowing in desperation that God is greater, but we can't enjoy Him or be satisfied in Him until He meets with us. There are days where I am so dull and dry, but to overcome that I need to seek God out everyday through these disciplines. I wish it could be easy, God just coming to meet with me whenever I ask, but I know it's so much more than just asking-it's actually looking to know the Person Himself, personally bonding with the friend who is also Saviour. I want to be face to face with Him.

P: Almighty God, You said that if we ask, seek and knock we will receive. God, Your promises reflect on your loving kindness-that You would meet with Your people and dwell amongst them. You are indeed worthy of praise-to have humbled Yourself and come before me as a person. Teach me to breathe Your words in deeply-because I struggle so much. I'm so crappy in my ways that there's no other way for me to understand other than by Your Spirit's direction and guidance. Give me the passion to seek You and Your strength, as well as Your face-constantly and consistently. Everyday, a battle just to hear You utter another word of love for me-so that I may be devoted to You, as devoted as You are to us. It's crazy how You are. Thank You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Psalm 68:19

2010-04-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

ARGH, I HATE BLOGGER

It deleted my post on Psalm 68:19

ARGHHHHHHHHHH. STUPID BLOGGER.

But.

Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears our burden,
The God who is our salvation.
Psalm 68:19

To condense everything:

Blessed means God looks upon with favor, but God being blessed is Him being attributed as someone worthy of worship and unmitigated reverence.

God bears not only our sins, but our entire lives hinge on Him.

God literally is our salvation. (Studies on Saving Faith) - God the Father ordained and planned my salvation-and chose me. God as the incarnate Son did a completed work and fulfilled the requirements of the Law in my stead. God as the Holy Spirit continues to do a sanctifying and regenerating work in me, preserving my faith.

I will see God as someone worthy of my worship.
I will know that my entire life anchors on the Lord.
I will reflect on the cross.

THANK YOU JESUS.

Soap - Man Putting Himself Over God

2010-04-28T20:55:00.000-07:00

S: "Why do you yourselves transgress the commandment of God for the sake of your tradition?"

Matthew 15:3

O: This was a very serious statement-as Jesus was pointing out the emphasis the Pharisees put on man-made tradition and laws. That their "devotion" to God and Scripture became so legalistic that they put upon themselves unreasonable and unbearable burden. It became a checklist and a race to see who could uphold the most commandments and how perfectly they could conduct themselves-a commendation of some sort for being able to discipline one's self to know, uphold and enforce all laws (which was a problematic approach from the beginning as it was impossible).

Today, I hung out with one of my very best friends, Josh-He said something I could have easily said a big amen to because it perfectly describes our situation. "We're being sent out to help others (he's referring to all the outreach work his church was trying to do through events and such) but we can't even help ourselves." The week before this, I realized how empty I really was running on-it was like a spiritual meter with the light on, indicating I needed more fuel. With only a few drops I was trying to run distances that was impossible by human strength and yet I would continually refuse being filled up because somewhere deep down, I enjoyed being lazy and I enjoyed be "so tired."

Do we not wear out our own brothers and sisters in Christ to the bone in ministry? Aren't we just spoiled in expecting praise with a praise team other excess extravagance that could be used otherwise? We struggle so hard to have the best equipment, most exciting retreats and the whole way through I never seemed to ask myself, am I being faithful? I would have easily set aside a practice time in lieu of prayer because praise team "needed" that. Where are the true needs being met ? I think amongst all the hub-bub of all this bustling church activity, we are rationalizing that we do a good work despite the fact that our own souls are seriously lacking any evidence of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. That we are running on empty without prayer and the Word and constantly asking "Why the dryness?"

And without realizing it, there is an empty, non-Spirit driven ministry on our hands that will utterly condemn us unless we repent and acknowledge that which God has outlined for us in life.

Why does our modern church have to be identified by awesome praise and good events? This in it's own right proves that we have elevated a certain tradition amongst our churches over what God seeks in his worshipers: faithfulness in worshiping Him in spirit and truth.

A: I know church. I know the ins and outs of church like no other. I want to marked as a man for Jesus not because I play lovely music for the Lord (though I may try to do that), but solely because I am rooted fully in Christ. A man of obedience and diligence-sanctified not because ministry tells me it's required to serve BUT because God tells me it's required of His children. I know I make the same inference over and over again, but the key difference is that I tried to shed my sins and sought sanctification because of ministry rather than because I loved God and wanted to be more like His Son. I must be Christ-like. Empowered by the Spirit rather than by blaring music and other weak, useless foundations.

P: Lord, you have blessed me even in this totally lame time of detox where I keep poisoning myself once you're done purging me of it. You truly exceed all loving patience and kindness-I know that I must be so frustrating to deal with. Yet nothing frustrates Your great plan and so I praise You for that constant source of comfort-You are good and nothing will ever change that.

Father, forgive me of my lusts-I can never win against my flesh, alone. I trust that submitting to Your commandments and praying for deliverance can be all I can do. It is in Your hands-and I don't want to draw up that veil yet again, confining me to my boring self. I know that I have also placed ministry above Your throne in my heart-please forgive me of such an atrocity, I never thought it'd ever get so bad. But I realize I have and I repent of my idolatry.

I thank You for the blessings and even the luxury I live in now, Father. I honestly have nothing to complain about other than my weak character-You provide for me in abundance and I cannot thank You enough for that. May my life be a reflection of thanks given to You, Lord.

I only ask that You would abide in me, Father-as I'm trying to abide in You this very moment. I just want to be faithful to You. It's so painful not having You in my life because of sin and apathy and lethargy. It absolutely sucks. I hate it so much. But Father, I know that You hold me in Your hand despite how disgustingly deep I've fallen in my pit. Thank You so much. Abide in me. In Christ.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Mighty Men

2010-04-27T15:27:00.000-07:00

S: Now three of the thirty chief men went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam, while the army of the Philistines was camping in the valley of Rephaim. David was then in the stronghold, while the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem. David had a craving and said "Oh that someone would give me water to drink from the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate!" So the three broke through the camp of the Philistines and drew water from the well of Bethlehem which was by the gate, and took it and brought it to David; nevertheless David would not drink it, but poured it out to the Lord; and he said, "Be it far from me before God that I should do this. Shall I drink the blood of these men who went at the risk of their lives? For at the risk of their lives they brought it." Therefore he would not drink it. These things the three mighty men did.

1 Chronicles 11:15-19

O: Out of all the Old Testament stories, this particular story about the mighty men that served under David has always fascinated and inspired me.

All throughout the times I have looked over this story I never quite knew what I could get form it, but I think that this passage reflects the kind of bond soldiers have in battle-not only are they tied together as friends, but warriors for their country-fighting for the same goal, under the same leader.

When I see David's men I see a few choice characteristics:

- They were exceedingly loyal - Under all the circumstances that befell David, they accompanied him throughout his life in battle and persecution. I'm sure that the conditions were more than harsh; they slept in caves and were constantly besieged by enemies. But they were loyal to their king and only looked towards the goal of supporting the rightful king.

- They risked everything - People who fight alongside one another must trust one another as well as be genuinely supportive-anyone who did not genuinely care would not have risked their life for David. In risking their lives for David (I'm sure they did many times before this as well), they not only demonstrated a loyalty fit for family, they demonstrated a love and trust only wrought between true friends.

In this, they fought together, ate together, and basically lived together. That makes me wonder if David had some sort of mentor relationship with his men. But, whether he did or not (I'll look that up later), the relationship they had is parallel to what I think would be ideal fellowship (in the spiritual sense).

Mighty men (and women!) certainly do exist today-and I believe strongly that they exist in my life. Although, the "mighty men" in my life have very little to do with physical warriors and mere acquaintances but rather, people placed in my life that would go to great lengths for me. People whom I know truly take time to pray for me and look out for me-I suspect I had maybe a few to no people praying for me or asking me about my spiritual life even just a few months ago. But now, it's a completely different story where it's quite reassuring that there are people who fight this fight alongside me, willing to risk much more than superficial words-but real prayer and real action. Perfect people? No. But, grounded, faithful people-would I be one to ignore the fact that they kneel in the midst of packed, hectic schedules (burst through a battalion of Philistines) to pray for me (and get me that refreshing water)? Never, never I would say-but sadly, I never took it into much account until now.

What should I do? I think I should strive to be a "mighty man" in someone's life. A person that people would refer to as a fellow brother in Christ willing to lay down his life for the sake of the kingdom. That should they face a serious spiritual battle, they know I am in full support with them, prayer and Scripture in hand-calling the General out for help. I should also remember that I'm well-supported. There are those who specifically walk by my side, trying to drag me along while I shuffle my feet. I need to be a mighty man myself.

A: I will pray more-but I want to pray for someone and press on in this life with them. I think I'm coming to realize more and more of what God wants me to do. Discipleship was never on my list to begin with until I realized the vital role it has in the church-I was never entirely enthusiastic about it either; but I feel drawn towards it more, now. I will be someone who is well-grounded, exceedingly loyal, and always willing to fight alongside those whom God wishes for me to support. People were never meant to walk alone!

P: Father, You are the good Shepherd. You tend to me, one of your flock-and You have always been lovingly kind and gentle. But, when I stray, I know that You would rather break my legs, carry me back (despite my bitter bleating) rather than having the wolves devour me, as they would surely have if it weren't for You. How glorious and beautiful You are, that You would place such wonderful people to prove to me that You work through men and women of all kinds. I am sorry to say that I have been so ungrateful for their loyalty and love that is most assuredly from You-Father forgive me for taking Your people for granted. Lord, would you teach me, however-to return the same love and blessing that is poured out upon me? I want to be a mighty man-someone others can trust because I trust in You. Someone who has the courage and resolve to fight alongside others when they are in need-in prayer and in real loving actions. I thank You so much that there are those who do that for me-in that example, I pray that I would learn all I should know in supporting as well as mentoring others. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Breakfast Soap - Mourning Saul / Jonathan

2010-04-26T10:17:00.000-07:00

S: Then David took hold of his clothes and tore them, and so also did all the men who were with him. They mourned and wept and fasted until evening for Saul and his son Jonathan and for the people of the Lord and the house of Israel, because they had fallen by the sword.

2 Samuel 1:11

O: I think it was customary to mourn the death of Israel's king, but I'm surprised that David even mourned Saul at all. After all, Saul tried to kill David on numerous occasions and not only that; when David was given the chance to kill Saul, David adamantly refused to lay a hand on Saul because he was the "Lord's anointed" and above all things-David did not want to mess with God's anointing no matter how much contempt Saul treated David with. I guess that sets apart David being the better man as we see the comparison between the two kings. Had I been in David's shoes, I would have easily rejoiced in the fact that one who wanted me dead was killed in battle-but yet again, David sought to please God, and not himself.

On the other hand, I find it to be very appropriate that David mourned his best friend, Jonathan-I imagine that that David must have been terribly burdened with his closest friend passing in battle. As the passage goes along, in verse 26 (middle of where David wrote his poem over Saul and Jonathan), David writes plainly "I am distressed for you, my brother Jonathan; You have been very pleasant to me. Your love to me was more wonderful than the love of women." That was some hardcore friendship, there-brotherhood that he counted greater than having a wife.

I think that the main part of this chunk of Scripture that spoke most to me was that David honored God-David may have truly felt remorse for Saul and maybe even pity, to the extent that he had fallen to such a dishonorable way of death (suicide, although David believed the Amalekite who claimed to have killed Saul, which I would guess to still be dishonorable). David was furious with the Amalekite and had him killed for killing the Lord's anointed-as it was taboo to kill an anointed king. What I admire most is that David honored God so deeply, of course; but I'm especially impressed because David held fast to that notion despite all the hardship Saul had put him through.

A: Things like 'love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you' come to mind when I think about the actions David took-He was definitely a foreshadowing of the coming King, and it was reflected in his character. As God looks favorably upon those who resemble...well, Himself, this mentality of reverence for God's people and long-suffering patience and mercy David demonstrates is definitely something I should strive for. There should never be a limit to what should be forgiven when someone sins against me (and vice versa) as we're all sinners. I admit that I would have had a grudge against Saul, but David held fast to obeying God and reconciled with Saul.

P: God, You are good. You have been patient and merciful with me-I confess that I am not wholeheartedly focused, but I come with the desire to remember that I'm made complete in Christ. Forgive me of my heart that can't seem to catch up-and my flesh that I which I wish I could suppress. However, You alone can mortify my sins, Holy Spirit-so press on in me. Like King David, would you cultivate a godly maturity in me-I could never forgive someone such as Saul on my own, but I know that by Your grace and example, there is no offense that is beyond the power of Your Son's blood. Would You make this day fruitful as I strive to spend it with You? In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Don't Want to be Condemned

2010-04-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

S: An evil and adulterous generation craves for a sign and yet no sign will be given to it but the sign of Jonah the prophet; for just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the sea monster, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. The men of Nineveh will stand up with this generation at the judgment, and will condemn it because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. The Queen of the South will rise up with this generation at the judgment and will condemn it, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and behold, something greater than Solomon is here.

Matthew 12:39-42

O: Ninevah was a city that God was going to destroy because of the atrocities its people were committing against Him. And the message that Jonah gave was clear and direct-Ninevah will perish in 40 days, as the Lord told Him to proclaim. The entire people went into mourning and repentance-the king himself set aside his robes, put on a sack cloth and ordered that not a living thing will eat nor drink water and cry out earnestly to God. The people of Ninevah truly repented of their ways. I believe the sign of Jonah was definitely repentance-but I don't understand the correlation between Jonah being the belly of the fish and Christ in the heart of the earth...What is the heart of the earth?

For You had cast me into the deep, Into the heart of the seas
Jonah 2:3
As Jonah referred to himself being underwater...
Christ is referring to being in the heart of the earth-in the pits of the underground...basically saying he'd be dead.

Jonah was in the beast for 3 days because he refused to go where God was sending him. But when Jonah finally decided to obey God, He made the fish vomit Jonah back out and sent him out again to warn the people of Ninevah of their impending doom due to their sinfulness.

Christ was crucified upon a cross, laid dead and rose again to life on the 3rd day...

The verses that really struck me were the latter half of the verses, though - Is Christ referring to the generation that was going on then? I feel like it stretches to this generation today, that I feel like demands a sign from God. Here, Jesus refers to people who only listened to Jonah and Solomon and yet here is the SON OF GOD and no one seems to want to repent or listen to Him. Here is something that is so great-Jesus Christ, the manifestation of the Word and no one realizes that He is the greatest. People from previous generations who never even met Christ will rise up and condemn those who have had Jesus right before their eyes.

This generation has Jesus right in front of us-we have every opportunity to study the Word, pray, and praise God without any hindrance and yet we're lazy and apathetic-Replacing real genuine time that could be spent with the Infinite with finite things. I feel like I'm a part of a generation that's like Ninevah-but just without the earnest desire to turn from our ways. Here is Jesus, and yet I will willingly put Him aside for other things. I desire peace and joy and yet I seem to forget that I find it in spending it deliberately with Him and I look for it in people and activities.

A: Every time I stray from the refreshment of real time spent with God, I always forget to go back-and so my spiritual food is taken randomly and at jumbled times. This needs to be the time I take the most seriously and most frequently and most consistently. So to go with my easy-going and spontaneous nature, I'm going to set times when I'm going to do my LJs-not to restrict myself, but to remind myself that time spent with God may be a blessing, but that it's exactly that. A blessing for myself, not for Him or others-I could spend so much more time being blessed by getting to know God and yet I only hurt myself by refusing it. I want to be different from a condemned generation and really repent of this behaviour. I want to apply repentance for my bad habits.

P: God, You are merciful. Your patience for Ninevah was encouraging and uplifting-it reminds me that a sinner like myself can never be saved by prayers or readings-but only by faith in Christ, which was even brought by You. Thank You for this piece of Scripture that you have blessed me with. I have brought to you transparently the sins I hold and I have laid them before you-but, Lord my flesh continues to bring me down-but I will strengthen myself in You and I know that the Spirit will put to death the sins in my life, daily, as I strive to fight with the Word you have armed me with. Would you teach me to be diligent in this fight-that I wouldn't let up even for a second. I want to press on with the fervor of that person whom you make passionate and joyful in You-Would you give me that very passion and joy that which only derives from knowing and loving You? I want to live in such a way that glorifies You, Lord-and I know that a passionless and joyless life is not what you have intended for me. All these things in Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Strengthened

2010-04-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

S: Moreover David was greatly distressed because the people spoke of stoning him for all the people were embittered, each one because of his sons and his daughters. But David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.

1 Samuel 30:6

O: David found his encampment in Ziklag burned down and all women and children captured by the Amalekites. Almost to be expected, the people reacted in a violent fashion-immediately blaming their leader for being unable to prevent such a tragedy. In the end David proved to be the victor over the Amalekites, taking back everything that was taken from his people.

However, as David faced serious danger in his men acting rashly and upon their emotions, he found peace and composure in reliance upon God-David, described as a man after God's heart was not someone who just turned to God when things were troublesome, but also turned to God in times of joy, sadness, and in all other things-as the Psalms would show how many times David praised and cried out to God.

I also believe that David, without acknowledging that God was ultimately the anchor that would keep him grounded through such a stressful situation would have easily succumbed to a cowardly act of running away-Although, king David had the character of one who always tried to acknowledge that God was Sovereign, so it wouldn't really have been relevant to say that I guess. BUT, the whole picture is that David found his strength in God-without it, the end result could have been drastically altered (in the bad way of course).

What is something I've learned about God's character? That He is the backing of every great man and woman in Scripture. I easily see king David as one of the greatest figures in the OT and I really admire him-but without the Lord's anointing...without God strengthening him, David was just another man who could have gone as badly awry like Saul (who, incidentally, the Lord left).

A: How can I be strengthened in God? These applications all seem to fall on the same plane, but I know that my relationship with God could really stand some more consistency-a daily offering of my life through premeditated prayer and time spent in the Word. Not a feast on Sunday and starvation through the rest of the week.

P: Father, how ridiculous is it that I'm asking you to remind me to feed myself. I'm sorry that I've been such a child lately-You deserve more, not that I could ever give enough, but I know that it would be all or nothing. Forgive me of my laziness, lust, and inability to discipline myself-but would You give me the joy in time spent with You in prayer-that it would never be an obligation, but a joyful mandate; that my soul should recognize the yearning for You and Your presence in my life. Teach me not to just look upon words, but strengthen these weak, fragile spiritual limbs with your words and Spirit. Would you be praised yet again in my life. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Random blogging post.

2010-04-14T00:25:00.000-07:00

What could I have done better today?

Well for starters, I didn’t do much, haha. I’m on my break from ministry, at the moment, and it’s nice to stretch my legs and feel no pressure. I have no intentions of going back to youth ministry, at least not as a praise leader or as anything really. I love leading, but also hate it. Obligation and duty often creep up on leaders-breaks are a luxury for the layman in ministry. Praise God for rest!

I really need to start waking up earlier-get my day rolling and working. I've got huge amounts of time in between classes and lessons...I'm thinking about taking private lessons for myself, again-to push myself in improving my technique and overall playing.

Hmm tasks to-be done in no particular order:
-Watch a movie (How to Train A Dragon [?])
-Clean my rooms and my car
-I've also gotta get a video from Eunice, maybe I'll visit her at school
-Visit Pastor Frank and hang out with him...
-I'd also like to eat some L&L's
-Pray for stuff
-Doing my LJ's at whenever times...the best time
-Gotta get this bass that Pastor Frank let me use, fixed up

I have class tomorrow which is relaxing and stressful at the same time. My teacher may finally let me solo finally (ever since the one time he let me solo in the beginning of the quarter) - Hopefully I don't screw it up. All he's been making me do is play rhythm! Blah blee bloo, stupid rhythm all day long. I HATE playing rhythm for anyone other than for people who can actually carry a solo going without throwing me off my groove. A soloist can very much throw a drummer or rhythm guitarist off if they suck. So I guess I'm trying to say I dislike playing for people who suck. I know I'm no king of the blues, but I can string together notes in such a rhythmic fashion without sounding like a vacuum cleaner going over the keys disjointedly. Yeah, I'm a little bitter about being left to play chords and being given crap whenever I make a single mistake.

Also learning how to play bass, a little more properly-I want to be good! I've been listening more intently to Pino Palladino on some of John Mayer's records and Pino absolutely rocks the bass like no one I've ever heard. After practicing on the bass for a bit, I could tell my fingers totally sped up on my ol' 6 string guitars like none other. I made up a speed lick that's a little shaky for me-but seeing as hammer ons and pull offs are my weakness, I'm surprised to say the whole lick is pretty much hammers and pulls! Anyhow, it is getting late-time to sleep.

Soap - Cleansing

2010-04-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

Just like a spiritual mid-life crisis, I've come to reevaluate my standing as a Christ-follower and I've repented of my sin and lack of obedience.

For God's glory.

My break was supposed to be a time where I got deeper into prayer and the Word. Rather, I've wasted time doing neither-instead, I've been frivolously scouring craigslist, lounging in this very chair I sit in for hours on end, and sleeping at highly unreasonable hours-only waking up to teach guitar lessons and to go to class. While, the rest of the time I would wallow in my obsession with pornography, my comfort sin.

It's a terrible thing to let the devil have a foothold in your life. It's almost as if you've conceded to defeat and deny the chain-breaking power of grace. But I'm tired of lies and I'm certainly tired of trying to act "transparent" by putting on a holy facade. Screw holiness if it's only for the means of being "holy." I used to be riddled with guilt whenever I knew sin was taking over my life-but I would override it with service to the church-thinking my sins would be overlooked if I could just contribute to the kingdom. All chaff. Nearly all my work is chaff-do you guys know what chaff is? It's the outer layer of grain, completely inedible and absolutely useless. When the harvest rolls around, chaff is burned up and the actual harvest yields reward for the harvester, as he will partake in it-whereas the one who had nothing but chaff will starve.

Here I am to apologize-to everyone. I am sorry to my praise teams, whom I left-I led you all on with my double life. I would come to short periods of repentance for my behaviour, but short-lived repentance is hardly repentance at all. So I'll just say that I'm sorry for being the unfit, unrepentant leader that I was. If I have ever stumbled any of you, I ask that you forgive me (for your sake as well as mine). I am just a boy, trying to become a man who walks in righteousness.

I am not fit, nor was I ever and nor will I ever be-to serve in the glorious kingdom that which is ruled over by Christ. But I find that we all come from the same mold-as unrepentant, undeserving people...Which makes grace all the more sweeter and yet almost bitter in the sense that it is given to a recipient who has neither earned nor deserved it in the slightest.

Praise be to God, who gives life freely to those whom he chooses to give it to.

I submit to His authority and power-and not by any of my doing do I choose to obey, but as a response to his goodness. Lord...

His unmerited favor and His Son upon that cross and raised to life is what has saved me from my sins and from my self. and Saviour.

His Word will not hang around the threshold of my mind and soul as a medal or badge to merit my authenticity as a follower of Christ (though it may contribute to that argument) but rather to bolster my knowledge (of him) and love for him, that I may be more and more submissive and suffering on behalf of His glory.

S: Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

2 Corinthians 7:1

O: In the previous chapter, Paul talks about how believers cannot be bound with unbelievers-how we need to cling to the promise of being set apart from the world and therefore being a part of the adopted sons and daughters of God.

Of course, read in context, I'm sure this goes hand in hand with 1 Cor 15:33 where Paul states that bad company corrupts good character-just as much as a believer will want to influence others, they must be well rooted and well grounded in their faith-so as the Corinthians needed to be addressed of their problems, it holds true today that Christians cannot spend all their time in the company of those who will inevitably bring about a corrupt influence upon them. From the extreme of Christians walking, talking, and acting like the world - I also garner the opposite extreme being a danger as well:

The perspective of shutting out non-christians from church does not at all support the fact that God desires all men to be saved (1 Tim 2:4). (A:) Not only should we be set apart from the world, but we should not shun the world as if we were never a part of it to begin with. All called by God are called to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19) and so we must be the ones who influence.

But to push it further and to question, how will we be set apart from, and yet still influence the world?

A: To be set apart is revealed clearly in this particular point in Scripture that which I bolded in the beginning (and it happened to be the first thing I read when I finally get back in the Word...I believe the Lord is trying to tell me something, LOL). We need to cleanse ourselves from all defilement of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Once again, the obvious states that this does not say that I must be perfect in a day-but I need to give up everything without hesitation for the sake of meeting that standard which can only be met by the blood of Christ. There is no room for rationalization or of an incubation of a "little" sin in this life that which must be set apart for Christ. To be set apart means to yield to His authority and obeying it-basically, not sinning...to be the very influence means not just being free of sin-but also taking the Lord's preceptive commands seriously, as prayer and action that aligns with God's will will change the world. They go in order though-be set apart (don't sin) and then influence (do what God commands!).

P: Lord, I'm glad that you've made a stand in my heart. Thank you for bringing me back to your Word, which I thought I didn't miss-but now, feeling at a loss for my disobedience and stubborn ways. May you be glorified in all that which You've taught me today-for I start life again, anew! Cleanse me from all defilement of flesh and spirit, and teach me to fear You, O Lord-that I may find a perfected holiness when the time comes. I want my repentance to be true, that I may come before You with no baggage(well, there's always been baggage, but I want to get rid of it!), but rather with faithfulness. I thank You and praise You for just another day. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Lost Joy

2010-04-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

I am officially burnt out-or at least I feel like I am. My joy in serving has been extinguished. My joy in many things are gone.

I'm so tired. I don't want to do anything anymore, other than pray and play guitar. And maybe hang out with people. But I'm tired of "ministry." Tired of feeling obligated to do things for the church-the vision for God has disappeared. Why do I do what I do? Am I doing anything for the Kingdom?

Aaron is excited to help out Peter and Jenny-I'm actually excited/happy about this too. More happier than anything else going on at least. And I know that helping them is real kingdom work...unlike so many other things that I rope myself into. Ridiculous.

Maybe this is the desert? I hate the feeling. So tired.

Soap - Delilah, and Jesus

2010-04-02T21:53:00.000-07:00

S: ...But he did not know that the Lord had departed from him.

Judges 16:20

O: On three occasions, Delilah attempted to find what Samson's strength was and betrayed him with every revealed "weakness" Samson fabricated. On her fourth try, she finally got him to reveal his weakness and after shaving his head, Samson was humiliated before the very Philistines he had conquered with a jawbone of a donkey. They gouged his eyes out and he was left to be made a spectacle of.

One thing that stands out to me is how Samson endured Delilah's obvious attempts to capture and subdue him. Did he love her that much? Samson obviously suspected her of treachery, due to the fact that he lied to her three times, and yet-what good did anything come out of staying with her?

Samson made terrible choices in lovers-He married a Philistine woman, had sex with a harlot (prostitute) from Gaza, and he married Delilah-the one woman to bring such a mighty man to his knees. Although Samson's character seems brash and a bit on the weak side when it comes to women, it doesn't change the fact that most guys are probably like him (other than the massive strength). Samson would look upon a woman, and if she looked favorable (in other words, if she looked sexually appealing, I'm guessing), he'd immediately turn to his carnal desire and marry her.

(A): A side note application I would have to say is not to fall into my attraction for any lady-Especially when they're not Christian. My expectation of a girlfriend has long since changed, but Samson reminds me that even the best of us will get caught up with superficial things like looks and such-but will overlook the important aspects of what to look for in a wife: One who has a relationship with Christ-in fact, one who is on par with our own spirituality, and one who God has in mind for us. I'm pretty sure God didn't really want Samson to marry a Philistine, prostitute, and a two-faced liar.

However this particular portion of verse 20 points me in the direction that Samson, despite his immense victories over the Philistines, he wasn't all cracked up to be as amazing as he thought he was (as the previous verse says "And he awoke from his sleep and said, "I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.") - Something tells me that Samson was getting into a streak of pride, the fact that he was able to fight off armies of Philistines alone and that no one could bring him down. It's strange, but God uses the weak to shame the strong-I'm sure that Samson would have never thought in his wildest dreams that a single woman would have been able to take him down. But as soon as the Lord was out of the picture, that's exactly what happened.

Delilah had men in wait to kill Samson-Just like the people who loved and cherished Christ, He was betrayed a mere few days later. And just when Delilah and the Philistines who had bound Samson thought they were victorious, Samson brought down the house one last time to remind them that God will redeem His people-As Christ was broken, and seemingly destroyed-The Father raised Him back up, and Jesus was redeemed and received as the very King of Kings. It seems like a far-out comparison, but I feel like the similarities and the very big differences make the Gospel all the more significant in my eyes, as Samson died that day. But Christ not only conquered the enemy, but He rose again to show for it.

A: Pride is a creeping, crawling sin-it can infect the minds of the once-humble and I don't ever want to be one accused of such a thing. I will never take myself to be anything other than one who has worth because He who has infinite worth resides in me and saved me and loves me. Apart from Christ, I'm an empty puffing load of fancy words that can do nothing.

P: But, Lord-if I ever fall prey to such a thing, I know that You are ever-patient and good. Thank You for such a thing, because I know I have fallen to such sins and that if I ever stray from the thought of reliance upon You, I will fall yet again. Redeem me yet again, Lord-for I know that my offenses against you are infinite. Press against my heart the infinite worth of Christ, who loved me and gave Himself up for me-I never want to forget! Teach me to be strong, yet humble-that I may be a servant used in powerful ways like Samson, but also discerning in all ways. All these things for Your Son's sake-In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - No Glory in Wealth

2010-03-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

S: But God will redeem my soul from the power of Sheol,

For He will receive me. Selah.

Do not be afraid when a man becomes rich,

When the glory of his house is increased;

For when he dies he will carry nothing away;

His glory will not descend after him.

Psalm 49:15-17

O: This psalm in particular speaks to me somehow. The first two lines in this point me to Christ-as Sheol is another word substituted as Hades-often looked at as a place where those who have passed await judgement. It reminds me strongly of Hell, although I'm not entirely sure if it's the right translation (like Gehenna Hell) but nonetheless, it's definitely got a cross vibe to it.

While the other portion reminds me of the rich man who couldn't bring himself to sell all his possessions and follow Jesus-There may be merit and even a certain glory in holding material wealth in this world. America absolutely glorifies the idea of being rich and it distorts the gospel by driving people to spend their entire lives chasing that which is unfulfilling in money, which only leaves a bigger hole to be filled.

Rich, powerful, and glamorous people who don't use their resources for the kingdom are only stocking up on crap-All things that will fade have no value in heaven. We can trade our crap for gold, though-if used well. But hoarding riches on earth will not give me riches in heaven!

A: I want to be rich in heaven-I say this a lot, that I'm a poor guy on earth, but a rich man in heaven...But it's true! I'd rather see my money and material wealth being put to good use for God's people-it's an investment that pays off in the end...the bonafide stock market of heaven :] So, why should I yearn for guitars or a new car? I shouldn't. Should I want more students so I can have more money? It would be nice! But, whether I am rich or if I am poor; I will put it all my stuff for God's use as it already rightfully belongs to Him.

P: Dear Heavenly Father-It's been a long day already. I'm somewhat numb and lethargic today, because I'm feeling the aftereffects of my bad day from yesterday. However, I thank You for this word-not sure if it applies to me that strongly right now (other than the fact that I've really been looking at a lot of music equipment that I was thinking about getting)...but I will keep it in mind and make sure not to be frivolous in my resources spent for the kingdom. Teach me to be generous and giving, with a humble heart-as I never had much to give, I pray that I would still be willing to give it all. Please be with me as I try to approach this day diligently for You, God. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Special Edition Soap: You Are Good

2010-03-30T21:45:00.000-07:00

You are good, and Your mercies last a lifetime

You are good-always, always

Everyday, Your love is never ending

For You are good-Always.

I don't know how many people read my blog (through facebook) - and I know this will go through to my facebook so people will know that I have not been accepted to Berklee.

I received my response from admissions just a little while ago-and though I had expected this, I didn't know if my immediate response would be God-glorifying. But, Grace Song-by the many times she inspires me to live fully for the Lord, reminded me by her prayers before reading her acceptance to LA that God is always good no matter the outcome. I'll admit, I'm disappointed-but I won't waste tears on something that isn't God's plan.

How did I know I was going to be rejected? Insert mandatory humble musician statement like "Oh, I guess I wasn't good enough..." ? Heck no! I think I'm a pretty good musician but I'm going to be better and continue to improve for the sake of God's glory. I expected this ever since Lynn told me about suffering-ever since the point from when I got back, I've been getting the message that God's sovereignty reigns-and the trip to Boston taught me that above all else. Pastor Jason's last sermon topped it all off for me and brought me to a whole new expectation of what was going to happen. My dream isn't big enough-His dream is bigger and I'm just trying to catch wind of it so I can get caught up in all the madness. I want to leave a mark-one that says that I did something great for the kingdom-and I know that it doesn't have to entail my plans.

God is still good. He is always good, and I take this time to personally thank and praise God for all the blessings that He's poured out on me (whether I received them willingly or unwillingly is another story). God is good, yo!

S: ...as sorrowful yet always rejoicing, as poor yet making many rich, as having nothing yet possessing all things.

2 Corinthians 6:10

O: Much of what's going on with my life has little to do with what Paul had to endure in his ministry while writing to the Corinthians. However, the Bible was right open after I read my admissions letter and after I immediately went to the thought that "God is good" I knew I should go back into His word. Most of my reading left me unfazed because I was still quite honestly preoccupied with being rejected-but I put on my music (still listening to it) and left Giver of Life on repeat, and the last part of this particular passage struck my heart and I could not help but to lift my praises to God!

(A): As a servant of God, I will take this troubling time head on and still rejoice in God-what more can I do? He's still good and He doesn't change at all! Praise God for that :] - And yet, I put in all that work-and I got nothing back by the world, but I surely received abundant blessing from the Lord. I can live in poverty and lose my worldly possessions and lead a life of never-ending strife and suffering, but God is good and He is sovereign. I feel like a broken record, but heck I need to carve this into the depths of my heart so that I would not get my strength from my own determination but from the inspiration that which God gives in the fact that it's all in the Father's hand and His will is straight.

What will I do from here? I don't know. I suppose I'll keep doing what I do-Pray. Read the Word. Disciple people. Practice guitar. Maybe I'm here for another year? Haha, 4 years of community college, maybe? Sorry, Silicon Valley-I'm not your typical bay area kid that graduates with a bachelors in 4 years. I'm just a little slow, you ought to ask God about that-I'm seriously majorly slow when it comes to His truths, haha. If there's any evidence of the Holy Spirit working in anyone, it's definitely in the fact that a stone-head like myself can even glean truth from the Word.

P: God You are worthy of my praise no matter the circumstance. I take this time to thank You for Your never-failing love and goodness. The situation may change from joyous to solemn, but I will never cease to praise You because the joy in You is never, ever gone-Forgive me for doubting Your plan, Lord. I can't help myself sometimes, but in times like these, help me raise my head and proclaim the truth that which will stand even when the world crumbles apart. Would you honor my plea for guidance and growth? I think I especially need it now, but I know that I am not lost-even when the future looks a little hazy, I place myself into Your hands, God-fully aware that wherever You place me, it's definitely the right place to be. Teach me to dream big-big enough dreams that give You all the glory and honor and praise. All this in Your Son's name so that You alone would be worshiped, amen.

P.S. I remember singing this song when early on when I was saved. Haha, how awesome that He brings it back to me now-http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXqWUAuUtp8&feature=related

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Panting for Water

2010-03-30T14:17:00.000-07:00

S: As the deer pants for the water brooks,

So my soul pants for You, O God.

Psalm 42:1

O: Water is so precious when you think about it.

The average person can survive without food for 30 to 40 days(http://www.survivaltopics.com/survival/how-long-can-you-live-without-food/). That is truly amazing to me-another victory to America and it's capitalistic fast food gluttony when I complain that a 3 day fast to me is considered torturous.

But water is a different story. The most anyone can survive in the most ideal situation without water is 10 days at best. 2 days if you're under extreme conditions. And to top it all off-the effects of dehydration and water loss in the body will cripple any person who wants to survive. The hotter it is, the more water you need to drink-the more extreme situations will require an ample amount of that which is precious to the body.

As I went through a very dry period in my spiritual life last year-Pastor Jason told me of how important it was to continually read the Word and pray as when I'm the most thirsty and under the most stress, I'll surely need more water to survive walking through my spiritual desert. As the apathy and lack of desire for kingdom things beat down on me like the sun in a dry wasteland, I needed God more than I ever did in a high point of my life or revival.

Living water...in my favorite chapter of John (4), Jesus told the woman at the well that He was the living water. Often the Word is referred to as the food for soul and His spirit like water. "but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life." (John 4:14)

Is this a reference to the Holy Spirit? As the mark of every believer is the fact that the Holy Spirit dwells in each of us, as we have received Christ as our Saviour, does this refer to the Holy Spirit or a communion with God the Father in prayer, in spirit? I believe it just might be the latter because we pray to the Father while the Spirit and Christ intercedes for us on our behalf-and that fellowship with God is the very water that quenches our soul.

A: How verily dangerous it must be, then-if the effects on our earthen vessels from a lack of water or food is drastic, it must hold true for our spirituality as well. I know that I'm probably getting spiritually chubby-taking in a lot of the Word and lots of Christian books, but I need to work out the truths and exercise them in my life with the bigger intake that I've been taking them in.

But prayer-I'm pretty dry in my prayer life, to be honest. And, I've been learning that intercession is vastly important as well as a time to just spend with the Lord-like water refilling our spirit, it keeps us level-headed and focused. I need to pray more-not just for the sake of others, but because my soul may be filled with words words words but if I don't spend time with the Author, how will I ever know His perspective on those words and to approach them? Water is important-perhaps more important than food? But I guess that comparison can't really make it to the spiritual life-both are important, and both should be the very life-source, all found in Christ-from intercession to being the very Word, I need Christ, as if my soul was deprived of Him after every hour.

P: Lord, You are life-the very One who breathes it into me and sustains me. May I recognize the thirst that my soul has for You-I repent of my time where I thought little of this thirst and shunned it as of little importance. I'm sorry for all times I ever thought that I could live with You. Teach me to find my spirit's water in Your Son and my food in Your Word (hey, the food and water come from the same place...!) and help me grow in this life that strives for You. I'm taught never to pray for self-preservation, but I know that I can't live without You, God. So nonetheless, I pray that I can live, not on trash or rotting food of this world-but clean water, living water, and good food-Your Word. May I glean from it that which will be nutritious and fruitful to my soul-only in the ends for Your glory. That I may do kingdom things in the right heart, in the right way. Glorify Your Son in me, in Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Ambitious

2010-03-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

S: for we walk by faith, not by sight-we are of good courage I say, and prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord. Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him.

2 Corinthians 5:7-9

O: A verse that has been used a lot-it only seems cliche to others because it's been used so much with little regard to what it means. What does it even mean to walk by faith rather than by sight?

Faith - Something that is believed, especially with a strong conviction. Loyalty, trust, and belief in God. (Firm belief in something for which has no proof) Complete trust.

Blessed is the man who does not see and yet believes (John 20:29). Faith is almost impractical-illogical, even. I've never seen God with my own two eyes in the flesh (I'm sure I would have died being in the presence of the One so holy) and yet I say I believe in God. Why? Because I have undeniable proof for...myself and myself only that God has moved in my life. Only by the workings and stirrings of the Holy Spirit do I now confidently say that Jesus is Lord and firmly walk by that. The evidence of God's goodness and sovereignty is staggering in my case and it would be nothing short of blasphemy to say that my faith doesn't exist. Although, I wish I had a more sincere faith-that which, even in a small quantity would have a complete trust in Jesus.

Pastor Jason had just preached about dreams. Who's dreams am I living? Mine or God's?

A man who hates his life will lose dreams and God will give him new ones-God's dreams are visions and they ALWAYS come true. There are no regrets in living God's dreams-living out the dream for the Lord is always better and if you never have a dream you will never have a dream come true.

A: Ambition always seems to have a negative context with the Christian life-usually because it's self-centered. But I want to have a God-centered ambition: One that entails the fullness of embracing who God is and in following Him in complete surrender and trust-a life devoid of myself and a life filled with the Holy Spirit. I want to manifest God in my music, my studies, and every other possible moment of my life. I want to be ambitious for Christ-I want to know Him more and love Him more deeply. I want to excel for His kingdom's sake.

So, I'll step it up. I had a difficult time this weekend. But now I realize..."So what?" I need to get back on track if I want to keep moving forward. Who cares about what has already passed? Now is what matters and I need to press on for Christ-the race won't end for me even if I stumble and fall. I'll only end up regretting my lost and wasted time. I know that I can excel in all my disciplines as a prayer warrior, Scripture/Godly text reader, and musician all by the grace of God and I know He is pushing me from behind. What can hinder me other than myself?

P: And so I repent, Father-of myself, my inherent desire to always step back, crawl into a ball and refuse to acknowledge that I'm useless. You have long since shown Yourself to be faithful and sovereign in my life, God-please be patient with this slow and totally messed up heart and make it anew. I'm asking You to work with me, despite how great the toll may be on my so-called "life" that which I once called my own. Please dry up my excuses, my petty whimpers of insincerity, and my comfort zone in returning to sin. God, I only ask You glorify Your son in me-and for something as honestly amazing as that, I know that You have a great work to do in me, but You have started a good work in me and You promised in Your Word that You would carry it to completion until the day of Jesus Christ. Please carry it through-work through this heart God, so that You will yet again be attributed to the glory that which is due to Your name. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Thorough Scrubbing

2010-03-25T22:23:00.000-07:00

S: Today we know that the Lord is in our midst, because you have not committed this unfaithful act against the Lord; now you have delivered the sons of Israel from the hand of the Lord.

Joshua 23:31

O: The sons of Reuben, sons of Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar throwing the sons of Israel almost into a state of desperate panic: "When the sons of Israel heard of it, the whole congregation of the sons of Israel gathered themselves at Shiloh to up against them in war." But it turned out the offending altar wasn't quite what they thought it to be and the whole momentum died down in relief.

If anything, I admire how thoroughly the sons of Israel addressed any idea of sin or rebellion against God-meaning that they feared God and they rightfully held God in proper reverence. After all, God wants us all to be accountable for one another and as that was true then it is as true as ever, now! With a single mention of sin, whole cities went into an uproar against this supposedly offending altar, but rather than just crushing their brethren, they talked it out and found it to be a time to thank God that it was just a misunderstanding.

The seriousness of sin is deeply grave and this passage reflects that God will not stand for any sin to amongst his people-whatever it may be, it is unacceptable.

A: I will be swift about cutting sin out of my own life. When sin rears it's head, I must address it then and cut it off at the root. Just like God's people, I need to have a greater fear of Him and truly revere Him and therein, I will naturally cut sin out, knowing that my God cannot commune with a sinner.

P: Father, your word is good and true. Praise You for Your holiness and your immutable standards that which make You perfect. Forgive me, Lord for falling for temptation-inspire a greater reverence for You, oh Holy Spirit-make me into a God-fearing man, just like those whom You delivered and guided through many trials and temptations. You do the same for me, God-and I thank You for this reminder that no matter how small the sin may be, it is still sin-and that any sin in my life will be my undoing. Conquer the sin in my life God, my life is Yours to mold and I pray that it would go accordingly with Your will. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - A Place of Refuge

2010-03-24T11:18:00.000-07:00

S: Then the Lord spoke to Joshua saying, "Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'Designate the cities of refuge, of which I spoke to you through Moses, that the manslayer who kills any person unintentionally, without premeditatation, may flee there, and they shall become your refuge from the avenger of blood.

Joshua 20:1-3

O: God appointed 6 cities of refuge-originally with Moses, there were only three cities to be appointed: Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan.

However looking deeper into cross-references:

If you carefully observe all this commandment which I command you today, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in His ways always-then you shall add three more cities for yourself, besides these three. So innocent blood will not be shed in the midst of your land which the Lord your God gives you as an inheritance, and blood-guiltiness be on you.

Deuteronomy 19:9-10

And as Joshua has led the Lord's people faithfully up to now, they set apart three more cities: Kedesh , Shechem, and Kiriath-arba (in Judah, interestingly enough-the same city where Mary visited Elizabeth when they were pregnant with Jesus and John).

But why did God set apart (sanctify) these 6 cities? 'So innocent blood will not be shed in the midst of your land which the Lord your God gives you as an inheritance, and blood-guiltiness be on you.' God treated His people as a whole-responsible for one another and the sins of a man rests on the whole people of Israel. For this act of manslaughter is not so much the shedding of innocent blood, but rather the one who avenges his friend in anger is shedding innocent blood-God wanting His people to take sin not only seriously, placed cities of refuge (quite strategically) amongst them to abate any innocent blood being shed.

I don't know why I thought of those but this passage reminds me of internal church conflicts and politics. I've heard of church's splitting over petty matters like when they would have Korean school to serious matters like a pastor who had to leave ministry because of adultery and I think of how if Christ was the refuge, none of it would have meant anything in the light of Christ. God appointed Christ to be the refuge of His people-When I do wrong, even when I never meant to hurt anyone, I know that I can come to Him with my bloodstained hands and He will look at me tenderly and wash me clean by His blood. But most of the time my hands are stained with blood that is not innocent at all.

Refuge - A shelter from danger or hardship; A safe place.

A: Run to Christ as my refuge. He is where I can find a haven-peace in the fact that despite my transgressions against God and men, if I come to Him with a humble heart and turn from my ways, He holds me accountable to no such transgressions. There are times when I am so overcome by the world and I'm gasping for air and yet I continue to suffocate under the pressure because I refuse to find rest in Him. I will run to Christ as my refuge.

P: God Your love is deep and wide, great and high-It's all I ever need. I took that from a praise song I regularly listen to-but I always find that it really strikes a chord in my soul whenever I hear those words. Your love is truly deeper, wider, greater and higher than anyone can fathom. How wonderful Your love is! Today, I really got caught up in so much stuff I had to do-I didn't have much time in the morning and this small portion of time I have left at night is all I had to really spend time with You, Lord. I'm sorry that I couldn't be more diligent today-but I know that You love me no matter what, whether I spend no time in Your Word or if I were to have somehow exposit on the entire Bible...Thank You for that love that runs so deeply for undeserving people such as myself. I pray I would take refuge in that which is unwavering-fully and forever at the highest authority, who is Christ. I pray that in being my shelter, that He would be glorified-that I take no refuge in anyone or anything else, forbid it, Lord. Thank You yet again for Your love that You extend so freely and graciously. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Light

2010-03-23T21:27:00.000-07:00

S: For God, who said, "Light shall shine out of darkness," is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves;

2 Corinthians 4:6-7

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put under a basket, but on the lamp-stand, and gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 5:13-16

O: God declared that His light would shine out of the darkness. Imagining nothing but pitch black, a sudden light coming out of the darkness would be seen by all and it would illuminate that darkness. God is the One who has placed a light in our hearts-a shining light that which represents the 'glory of God in the face of Christ.' Shone is the past tense of shine-God alone is the one who shines in our hearts.

God has shone in us to illuminate the glory that which is in Christ. God's grace, Christ's love manifests within us because His grace and love are transforming things. Evidence of these things is the very light that which God gives His chosen!

However, this perfect love and brilliant glory of Christ is housed in 'earthen vessels' so that we will not only testify to the 'surpassing greatness of the power' that which exists in us, but also testify to the fact that it is fully from God and that none of it is from ourselves. This is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit in our lives, testifying to exactly that-Christ, glorified in us and He alone receives the glory!

A: I am never to hinder the light that which exists in me. God has transformed this dead soul into one that is living and I live to testify of the glory of God. I am never to believe that any of this manifests from my own self, but rather give praise and ascribe glory to the One who truly shines in me-He is what makes me adequate and gives me worth.

P: Lord, You have been faithful and Your Holy Spirit testifies to Your glory. Who can compare to the sheer brilliance that You emit? You shine purely, brightly and eternally. I praise You for Your perfection and I only wish to ascribe to You the glory due to Your name. I ask that You forgive me for my slow heart-my frustrations and lack of understanding and lack of reverence. Please bring me to a greater understanding of the Scriptures, Holy Spirit, that I may seek a greater truth and knowledge of God to apply to my life.

"There must be knowledge of God before there can be love to God"

-Charles Spurgeon, How to Read the Bible

In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - His Promises are Kept

2010-03-23T12:15:00.000-07:00

S: Joshua spoke to the house of Joseph, to Ephraim and Manasseh, saying, "You are a numerous people and have great power; you shall not have one lot only, but the hill country shall be yours. For though it is a forest, you shall clear it, and to its farthest borders it shall be yours; for you shall drive out the Canaanites, even though they have chariots of iron and though they are strong."

Joshua 18:17-18

(Supporting Scripture)

...cross this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them, to the sons of Israel. Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon, even as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and as far as the Great Sea toward the setting of the sun will be your territory. No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life.

Joshua 1:2-5

O: God is exact about His promises and Joshua was well aware of this. From crossing the Jordan river to conquering Jericho, I imagine that Joshua has a very well placed faith in the Lord-Knowing that he was never the one who did all of those great things, Joshua places his full confidence in God and the very promises he makes.

So when the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh came to Joshua to complain about their inheritance and lack of space, he responded by telling them to work and clear apart the forest in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaim. They responded by saying their hill country of Ephraim was too narrow and brought out their concern that the Canaanites who lived in the valley land had 'chariots of iron,' basically saying that the Canaanites couldn't be conquered.

But Joshua, once again placing his faith in God, told them promptly of the above Scripture. He is so confident in God and his promises that he literally DECLARES that the two tribes are indeed a numerous and great people-telling them that they will not only have the cleared land ("Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses.") of the forest and beyond("From the wilderness..."), but that they would conquer the Canaanites despite their obvious strength. "No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life."

God does not stand half-faced before His promises. He makes them, keeps them, and anyone who decidedly places their faith in them will be abundantly blessed-Because if there's anything this passage tells me, it's that one characteristic of God is His unchanging, unswaying ways. His yes is indeed a yes and His no is a no. How much more will He be faithful in accordance to HIS WORD?! I mean, it's His very words and promises-if he wasn't a holy perfect God, I would have some doubts-but because He is holy, because He is just, because He is faithful-He will never go back on His word.

And here stands a leader, (Joshua) who places his entire faith in God. A totally appropriate and God-glorifying response came from him when he did not ask the tribe to go out, clear some space and own up some other tribes, but rather declared they would...because that answer was in accordance with God's promises. Joshua remembered God's promise, believed in it, and held onto it.

A: How can I learn of God's promises? Through His Word. Once I find the promises of God-hold on to them as if they were the very life-source they fuels me today. Because when an unfailing God makes a promise, He keeps them. Know that He does, and respond accordingly (like Joshua!).

P: God You are faithful. And the glory that You hold is not given to You in any form-It is just that You are glorious and whenever I sing praises to You, I am only ascribing the glory that which is due to Christ. Lord, forgive me for my laziness. I know that I can be more diligent in this time spent-I repent of this and would You be my strength? I know I have only been lazy because my own strength can only carry me so far. You have taught me that You are continually faithful and Your Word holds the promises that I can anchor myself upon and never let go. Teach me to remember Your promises and cling to them. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Made Adequate

2010-03-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

S: Not that we are adequate in ourselves to consider anything as coming from ourselves, but our adequacy is from God, who also made us adequate as servants of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

2 Corinthians 3:5-6

But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord, the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 3:18

O: Paul is speaking of a new covenant that which pertains to all peoples, now-He makes a comparison to the old covenant that which was "...of the letter," referring to Moses and the Law. The old covenant was referred to as the "ministry of death" (2Cor. 3:7) and most rightly so because I remember when I learned that the Law ultimately condemned those who tried to abide in it, perfectly. This particular problem screams at me the problem of those who refuse to see or cannot see the ever abounding love of Christ that which satisfies the retribution that a perfectly holy God demands from an ever-present depraved generation.

But Paul also speaks of how this new covenant in Christ, that which has overtaken the old in glory-joyfully expressing the confidence in the Holy Spirit, "...how will the ministry of the Spirit fail to be even more with glory?" (2 Cor. 3:8) Without a doubt, the law condemns, but Christ redeems-and Christ sent the Spirit to further aid us in preaching the Gospel.

And in Christ and in the Spirit, we find ourselves made adequate because of God...adequacy means barely sufficient and barely meeting the requirements. It is so beautiful because if I can quote a brother (David Kim) on adequacy, he once told me that we will "...crawl through the gates, barely making it through, never by our own works but by the grace of God that which is sufficient for us." Unlike Christ, we won't have a glorious reign going through those gates, but nonetheless-it is beyond words of praise and worship for God that we are even redeemed. If anything, I'm reminded of yet again how utterly hopeless we were-that we were not partially righteous that we might have had Christ have us pass with flying colors with His help, but we alone were at His mercy and judgement and He alone had the power to rectify the wrongs committed against Him. How truly gracious He is!

So, with this life, made adequate-the veil has been lifted and we are to be like mirrors, reflecting the very glory of God conformed to a greater and greater Christlikeness. Glory to glory. This reminds me of that very special verse that which the Holy Spirit revealed a deeper meaning (http://c3diministry.blogspot.com/2010/02/soap-faith-to-faith.html)...For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "But the righteous man shall live by faith." (Romans 1:17) Glory to glory...It makes me think of Christ-He was perfectly glorious from the beginning and He finished in glory. Is not glory God's alone?

A: Christ sufficiently fulfilled the requirements of the Law, that which condemned me. I will never consider my adequacy to ever be from my own hands or my own doing. Could I ever think that I live by the new covenant now, even by a little of my own? Never. But, as I am a face with it's veil lifted by Christ-I must strive to be conformed to Christ's image more and more, to reflect God's glory. Only by the Holy Spirit, I am continually being changed.

P: Father, praise and worship isn't enough for someone like You. Over and over again You remind me that Your Gospel is no mere thing-That Your Son is the only one who can (and who did) lift the veil from my face. Would you forgive me for my moment lapses of thought and distraction, today. I tried my best, but I know that it is not with my willing or strength that such things will be overcome-but by Your grace and Your grace alone. Thank You for Your Son, yet again-and I could say this for all time and it would never be enough. By Your Scripture, I pray that I would be more like Him, by the Spirit's prodding-so that I reflect the glory of the Lord. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - He Searches My Heart

2010-03-22T13:26:00.000-07:00

Whew, it's been a lot of work and I'm late for my daytime Lifejournal! But it's a God-glorifying and focused day so far and I pray it'll be more so as the day progresses. I've tried to fill the entire day with nothing but good habits that require a lot of discipline :]

S: "As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever. Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be courageous and act."

1 Chronicles 29:9-10

(Supporting Scripture)

"Be strong and courageous, and act; do not fear nor be dismayed for the Lord God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you until all the work for the service of the house of the Lord is finished..."

1 Chronicles 29:20

Sounds like an echo from Moses' Last Counsel to the Israelites: "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsakes you."

Deuteronomy 31:6

O: Wise advice from a father to a son. King David was giving his son, Solomon, the instructions for building God's temple-where the ark of the covenant would be placed. Aside from being advice, it was also a warning:

"...for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts."-Clearly this passage reveals that God knows the hearts of men and that their sincerity and motives are being put to the test. You can put a happy face and happy words all over a bitter heart and ulterior motives anytime you want-but as God already knows the heart of one who serves Him, we must strive to "..serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind..." A clean heart and a motive to know God is necessary to serve God!

After all-those who go about searching for about five minutes probably won't find the Lord. Where is the desire and true sincerity in searching and serving the Lord? I know that I fall into a serious guilt about this. I often question why God doesn't seem to move more in my life while I have so little invested Him. This verse really speaks to me about how if I expect something from God I need to put out my entirety in meeting Him along the way. "If you seek Him, He will let you find Him..."

What does 'seek' mean? Seek:

Try to get to or reach

Search for

Go towards

To strive after

To seek God means to actually try. I know and God certainly knows whenever I try to know more about Him in His Word-or when I'm (or when I'm not) really living for His glory. This means that I spend more than the 5 or 10 minutes of mandatory prayers at meals-more than the mandatory one Lifejournal a day! Not that quantity matters-but there is such a thing as inadequate amounts of prayer and time spent in the Word. I know that a real effort for God means that I'm constantly trying to up the standard-not so I can have more prayer time or bible time to brag about (as if that's anything to brag about to anyone other than...other dorky Christians) but because ultimately I'm looking to know God more and more each day. There is joy in coming face to face with the living God and if I'm not pressing towards it (and continue to choose living in a dry stupor), I am forsaking Him and "...if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever." Now taking this context, I know that forsake is not the same as one who turns from God and comes back in repentance-but forsake means to turn away from completely and renounce entirely.

If I take the time to think about it-a weak, partial investment in prayer and reading the Word with a heart that hasn't been brought before the Lord for consecration is not prayer and not a real reading of God's Word. His throne must be approached with reverence and nothing less.

A: Today, a new regime for the Lord has started in my life-He told me specifically, "...be courageous and act." Even if I were to spent my entire day praying and reading the Word, he also reminds me that the right heart is where it starts. A heart thirsting to know the living God, actions that reflect that heart, and a life that holds that heart each and every single day will bring about a fruitful time in this life that which is now. I want that heart and to back it up with my life.

P: Father, today has been great and I know You have made it so. You are enthroned over this wretched soul and You have saved it by Your mercy and unmerited favor. You alone hold salvation and I praise You so deeply for being the gracious God You are. I have no other lover than You. Forgive me for I have repented of my lifestyle that did put this life You have given me to good use. Thank You for this passage that reminds me that even though I have a check-list of wonderful things I want to do for You, that the state of my heart (a heart that serves You must seek, love, and worship You) must be in check first. I will never forsake You because I know that You will never forsake me. Search my heart O' Lord and make it Yours. Claim all my motives and desires and place them in line with Your will, alone, so that You may be glorified in all that I do. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Conqueror of Death

2010-03-20T22:17:00.000-07:00

S: ...then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. The last enemy that will be abolished is death.

But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, "Death is swallowed up in victory, O death, where is your sting?" The sting of death is sin and the power of sin is the law; but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:25-26, 54-58

He will swallow up death for all time,

And the Lord God will wipe tears away from all faces,

And He will remove the reproach of His people from all the earth;

For the Lord has spoken.

Isaiah 25:8

...Shall I redeem them from death?

O Death, where are your thorns?

O Sheol, where is your sting?

Hosea 13:14

O: I don't understand the context of who "...He must reign" refers to (obviously God, but not sure of the person in the Trinity). By order of elimination, it can't be the Holy Spirit because He's not mentioned in this particular passage...Christ is referred to as He who hands the kingdom to God the Father so I'm pinpointing it to Christ being the one who abolishes all rule and all authority and power. Abolishment is synonymous to destruction of. Christ will destroy all rule and all authority and power on Earth-Or has He already? The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.

It's evident that victory is already here for the believer. Death is a result from sin (For the wages of sin is death Rom 6:23) and sin was revealed to be what it is...a heinous offense against the perfect, holy, loving God (http://c3diministry.blogspot.com/2010/02/soap-sin-revealed-as-sin.html), by the Law.

But Christ has already come out on top, victorious over sin, conquering the last enemy by His loving sacrifice upon the cross. We were once perishable, which means we decay-we're easily corrupted and death was a sure thing...representing an inevitable truth that we could never change, no matter how much we tried to fight it. But in believing in Christ, we put on that which is imperishable-incorruptible and eternal!

Death was always a scary thing for me when I was young. As a child, I had a vivid imagination and an extreme fear of death. I remember my idea of death was eternal darkness, no breathing, no seeing, nothing. Absolute emptiness and I saw it as an endless abyss of hopelessness and despair-I wasn't actually too off in terms of Hell. Death for the unsaved is indeed an endless time of despair, seeing that an offense against the Holy One is irrevocable and due for an eternity of punishment and torment. I would cry for hours on end about how I didn't want to die and face that eternity. If anything, I was blessed enough to have the slightest inkling that if I were to die, I was not going anywhere I wanted to be.

But how thankful should I be? Victory in Christ is something I can't even begin to express in words of how I should fall on my knees and worship God in the fullness of His goodness every second of my life. Yet again, the Gospel shows me the infinite worth of my Saviour and how all-satisfying He is. How can I not place my hope and trust in the One who gained victory over that which plagued us for so long? If anything, the idea that someone who conquered DEATH itself can only point to the evidence that Christ is truly God. Why was death conquered? For His glory and His glory alone. In Christ, I have found life and my fears are truly relived in the fact that He abolished death, itself.

A: What should I do? This passage served as yet another great reminder of the enormity behind the sacrifice of Christ. It was not some petty, cheaply planned out scheme that God had at hand just to save a few measly people-it was for the ultimate and greatest glory that could possibly be given to the King of kings-We were saved for His glory...He is exalted to the highest place because of all that He did. And I can only stand by and praise and worship Him with every possible bit of my being (http://c3diministry.blogspot.com/2010/02/soap-greatest-commandment.html). Love, for Saviour of my soul-He took down DEATH FOR ME! He is amazing. I stand here wearing that which is imperishable and I will praise Him for it.

P: God, You are who You are. You alone conquered death, to exalt Your Son. And in glorifying Your Son, Your mercy and grace shines radiantly in the lives of those who see that You are truly the conqueror of death. All bondage, all inevitability of a life headed for destruction, and all your enemies were put under Your feet. How glorious and how marvelous You are! Father, please forgive me for ever taking Your Word lightly. Forgive me for my ever-present taste for lust. Forgive me for all of these things-I have repented of it and I only want to be reminded of the all-satisfying worth of Christ each and every single day of my life, for it leads me to repentance and it leads me to worship and it leads me to living my life only for You. Thank You so much for who You are-because you brought redemption for so many undeserving people...and I only wish to know how undeserving I am so that I may always press to live just for Your glory. Break me and reveal to me how worthless this world is and how all worth rests upon You-so that I may walk more deeply rooted in faith in Christ, obedience to You, and at the direction of the Holy Spirit. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Like a Child, but Not

2010-03-18T23:07:00.000-07:00

S: Brethren, do not be children in your thinking; yet in evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature.

1 Corinthians 14:20

O: I remember when I was a child-physically and mentally. I remember how prone I was to accidents and it was mostly due to my lack of thinking. My mom would always yell at me and call me a "dull stone head" in Korean, which of course never led to a good self-image. But, it was true-I was quite dim-witted and I would always rush into whatever was fun and exciting without thinking the consequences through. I was immature in my thoughts and it cost me dearly in the tab of many bruises, scrapes, and even broken bones! If I hadn't grown up a bit, I'm sure it would have been the death of me. Childish thinking...

Then there was the innocence of childhood. I knew not the greed deep-seated in money, the obsession of worldly things, the lusts of the flesh, and the darkness of sin. Probably the worst thing I ever did when I was little was steal a miniature canister of play-doh from the local toy store; and even then, I felt so guilty that I threw it away in shame of my crime. Sin is sin, but as a child-I knew what was wrong instinctively and that it was best to stay away from it.

But now, I have a taste for sin and as much as one promises to never taste that which is forbidden, one always seem to forget the bitter aftertaste of sin-leading to ill-suited recollections of how 'sweet' sin is and the tempter pushes us to delve into the darkness, yet again. Infants in evil never had a taste for it-and simply know not to taste it. It's like Adam and Eve, given all the fruits and animals in the garden of Eden except for the fruit from the knowledge of good and evil. They lost their chance the moment they disobeyed-and for us, we are given so many chances by grace, and yet we fall over and over. To be an infant in evil would be never tasting and always remembering the command.

Our thinking, when it reverts back to being like a child-it doesn't register how destructive sin is in our lives-so we must cling to a child-like innocence in evil, but a mature thinking that which always subverts the enemy's attacks.

A: Cling to God, like a child-for I am helpless and without clinging to Him, I will surely fall away. Mature in thought, unlike a child-for God calls me to love Him with all my mind, to arm myself with His Word and to guard my mind with it. A well-trained head filled with the Truth can never make room for any deceit or childish thinking. The Word will mature my mind, spiritually.

P: Father, great are Your words and promises. Thank You for Your abounding love and forgiveness. Your patience with me is unbelievable-and thank You for giving me the strength to push on with my reading and my LJ when I really, really didn't feel like it. But it's wonderful to let it all out, when I know I ultimately must cling to You and Your Word if I want to live. Teach me and pour into my heart, soul, and mind that which is Your truth so that I can depend on You all the more while training myself to live by that very truth. Holy Spirit, work in me to cast away all childish thoughts and behaviour (other than a child-like faith and innocence in the face of evil). In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Love Series Pt. III

2010-03-17T21:46:00.000-07:00

S: Love never fails

1 Corinthians 13:8

O: Love

So far I've learned that love...God's perfect agape love is patient (bears with all things), love is kind (compassionate and tender-hearted upon all), and it is humble, not easily provoked, and always forgiving. (Keeping in mind that 'love' is referred to the perfect love, Agape, Christ demonstrated)

Never

not ever; at no time
not at all; absolutely not
to no extent or degree

Never is a strong description-but it means under no circumstance will whatever is being described, ever occur. Never! Love holds a commanding position that it never...

Fails

to fall short of success or achievement in something expected, attempted, desired, or approved

to be or become deficient or lacking; be insufficient or absent; fall short

to dwindle, pass, or die away

to lose strength or vigor; become weak

to become unable to meet or pay debts or business obligations; become insolvent or bankrupt

Failing is a terrible thing. But as I read this definitions-it only describes all of us as the condemned people we once were...We all fall short of saving ourselves, and it is God's love alone that never fails.

God's perfect love, that which is patient, kind, humble, forgiving will under no circumstances ever fall short of success, lack, die, lose, or decay. In the same way, if we, as God's people are to demonstrate His perfect love (now that we know what it is) well, it can never fail to do what it was meant to do. Love, that which transforms the hearts of the lost, building up the kingdom of God, and spearheading the way for God's glory.

A: I will understand that God's love never has nor will it ever fail. If I am to piece together all of those things and I can really have an unconditional love for others-it will bring about exactly what I must have in all situations, in ministry and with family and friends-Christ likeness is my goal and His love is never failing. I must love like Him.

P: Father how great is Your love. That Your love goes so far as to the cross-I pray that You would teach me to love exactly as You have loved us. This reminds a great deal of the Love like Jesus retreat we had awhile back, but it's wonderful to experience that theme in Your very Word. Your love is never failing-I want to love others to the point where I know it will change and influence them! Please give me a genuine heart of love, that others may come to know and love You, as well. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Love Series Pt. II

2010-03-16T22:08:00.000-07:00

S: Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not take into account a wrong suffered...

1 Corinthians 13: 4-5

O: Love is patient

Patient - bearing provocation, annoyance, misfortune, delay, hardship, pain, etc., with fortitude and calm and without complaint, anger, or the like...

Christ, being the greatest example of love...was infinitely patient. He endured a great deal of hardship, lived a lifestyle that was not at all luxurious, and not to mention bearing the sins of all mankind. I imagine His heart ached after the Pharisees who constantly focused on splitting hairs as well as insignificant traditions rather than the actual Law. Or how he dealt with so many crowds who wanted nothing more than miracles and signs while He was there to demonstrate the love of a servant-they must have badgered Him to the point of extreme frustration, and yet he dealt kindly and graciously with those who asked much of Him.

(A:) Just the first characteristic of love, I know I fall short. How many times have flared up in anger to rush to my weapons when someone provoked or annoyed me? Or look at all the times I've failed to endure misfortune, hardship or pain-I often crumble after only a little bit of hardship in my life. Rather than turning to God in prayer or being patient OR even asking for patience with my current situation, I often selfishly mourn my own situation. I need to be more patient, just like Christ-as love is infinitely patient.

love is kind and not jealous

Kind - of a good or benevolent nature or disposition, as a person (antonym - cruel)

Jealous - characterized by or proceeding from suspicious fears or envious resentment

(Bible. intolerant of unfaithfulness or rivalry: The Lord is a jealous God.) - I just wanted to put in the example of Godly jealously...awesome stuff.

Love is kind. Kindness runs much deeper than just the nature or disposition of a person. I've known incredibly kind people over the years-people who you know look to reflect God's own kindness because their hearts are inclined towards Christ. Just to name a few people: Yunho So, Grace Song, and...uh...yep. Just kidding, I think many people are kind but those two stick out in my mind. Kindness is being forgiving (Ephesians 4:32), being almost opposite to being callous, as the church is called to be a loving people-not a people who puts the cold shoulder on one another and the world. Every time I hear the word 'kind' I think immediately upon love because I know that true kindness can only edify and that is most definitely love. People who have been kind to me have done a greater good than anyone who has bought me gifts, food (although those are a great kindness, sometimes!) or have done something for me (whether it be work or a favor).

However, once again, no one can trump the all-time champion of love, Jesus Christ, in showing an example of kindness. God's love is not merely to show mercy. Nor is it to show just His graciousness. Nor is it to show only His kindness or patience or truth...It is to show all of those things-as His unconditional love (agape) encompasses all of those characteristics. Christ dying upon that cross, taking the Father's wrath upon Himself was the ultimate act of kindness that Jesus could portray to the rest of the world. To take a hit for someone is an act of kindness-love most likely expressed through Philos. To die for someone is the point of Godly kindness which stretches to love-expressed through Agape.

(A:) I want to love others unconditionally-and to do so, words and acts of kindness should be the first thing on my heart and lips when approaching others. I know I can make a greater effort at kindness and love through the way I treat others...I can always be looking to encourage and before my rebukes and MY opinions, I can listen and speak with the intent to always build up. But not only kindness through my words, but acts that which would be tantamount to always forgiving and always sacrificing for others, considering them to be better than myself.

love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not take into account a wrong suffered

I like the definition of what love is NOT. Love doesn't take credit. I mean that's what unconditional love is not...Agape love never has an ulterior motive of wanting glory or achievements. Agape often leads to a whole lot of suffering on the behalf of the one who sincerely seeks to express it and often is taken for granted or gone unnoticed (except by the Lord!). Love NEVER has any bitterness or hold grudges-Once again, forgiveness is another emphasis of what characterizes love!

(A:) If my mind is on how I profit from "loving" someone, then it is not at all Agape love. I must always forgive and always humbly understand that whatever I do-it is not for my own to show the world as my deeds. It should always come from my heart and whether I am received well or received badly for loving others, I will continue to love by the love that Christ so perfectly demonstrated.

P: God, You are so good. You are patient and You are kind and you are never jealous (in the bad way). You never brag and nor are you ever arrogant (even though you have a right to rub in the fact that You alone are glorious!). You never acted wrongly and you never had an ulterior motive for loving us. You don't keep a record of our wrongs. Thank You so much for Your love. Without Your love, there would have never been a Saviour or life in these dead bones. Thank You for teaching me what love is, so far...I pray that Your Holy Spirit would continue to push my heart towards the true unconditional love, that which is You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Love Series Pt. 1

2010-03-15T23:21:00.000-07:00

I've decided to park at chapter 13 of 1 Corinthians and take it piece by piece.

S: If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.

1 Corinthians 13:1-3

O: Paul makes a very strong point of saying all things are pointless without love. Even if he had wonderful spiritual gifts, a faith so great as to move mountains (Matthew 17:20) or a whole list of great deeds to his name for Christ, it all means nothing without love.

But love for what? Or who? Love for God? God's people? Love must be the driven focus of the Christian when doing anything. Why would we strive for gifts, faith, or works? Because we love Christ and His people. Without love, the motive to serve Christ and His people aren't truly there. Once again I'm reminded of how God looks at the heart of a person rather than the outside.

A: I need to love God and God's people before I serve. I think it's been awhile since I've stepped back from ministry and really took a deep breath and really try to see if my heart is in the right place. Ministry has always been so natural and yet I feel sometimes I serve without the right heart-because this passage really speaks to me about how their should be a genuine motive behind every action, big or small, great or insignificant. I need to love God and His people, more! How can I love Him more? Plenty of commands to follow and plenty of sin to cut out in my life-more diligence and more discipline in focusing myself upon the cross. As for His people, I know I can love them in greater ways-whether it be through discipleship or prayer, I need to be proactive in serving them because I love them.

P: Father, it's been a long day and a longer week. You are still good and sovereign over my life-despite the few struggles that have cropped up recently. You hold all things in Your hand and I acknowledge that You have a plan. Thank You for this Word. I really do want to love You more as well as Your people. But I feel like my heart has really grown cold over the past few months. Love doesn't seem to stir me anymore and I know I need a reminder of love-which is Your Son. But would I not just repeat the Gospel to myself in thinking I would understand how You love me-but I want to feel Your love and be overcome by it each and every single time I come before You in prayer, praise, whatever-Remind me in my heart and my soul of the greatest example of love as I remind my head. Would you teach me what love is? So that I may fall more deeply in love with You-for Your glory. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - One Body

2010-03-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

S: But now God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired. If they were all one member, where would the body be? But now there are many members, but one body.

1 Corinthians 12:18-20

O: The church is the body of Christ-the people who gather in the name of Jesus Christ. Speaking about spiritual gifts and placement of the individual in the body of Christ, Paul explains that each and every single person has their purpose. If everyone was a preacher, where would the students be? Just as such, every single person in the body has their role and gifts given them accordingly to their purpose.

I remember a while back when I first accepted Christ as my saviour, I went immediately on board with praise team as a singer-Music was my passion and to this very day I find that my given role in the body of Christ is as a worship and praise leader. By the Spirit, I gravitated towards what God called me to do and I do so in the expression of praise that best suits how God has made me.

With the many members and one body, we can never feel that anyone is better or more important-The imagery evoked by the "body of Christ" brings to mind a whole set of different organs functioning together in tandem, working to live and move forward. The people amongst the body needs to understand where God has called them specifically and work together to really be the unified church that God intends to build through His faithful.

A: I will be fully satisfied with my role in His kingdom. All of those who belong to Christ must diligently pray for His name to be glorified by any means possible and also immerse themselves in His Word-however, in the ways that God has blessed me and given me passion, I will also commit myself, fully. I will also understand that God has sufficiently equipped me by His Spirit-not ever being jealous of others who are talented in different ways. Rather, I would praise God for the gifts and talents He bestows upon my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ!

P: Heavenly Father, You have so good to me and gracious in giving rest to my mind, body and soul. However, I pray that you would forgive me of my laziness and lack of motivation to follow up on that which is good-In being diligent about reading Your Word more consistently as well as applying it. I pray that You would push me on, that You Spirit would work in my heart-to bring about an unease whenever I am too deeply comfortable with being content. For Your name's sake, I pray that You would bring about a yearning to know You more as well as living for the sake of building up your body and kingdom by the gifts You have given me. Shatter my lethargy and poke at me until I move my legs-I'm definitely in need of Your admonishing. Thank You for Your goodness-You are always good! In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Christ is the Head

2010-03-10T21:07:00.000-08:00

S: But I want you to understand that Christ is the head of every man...

1 Corinthians 11:3

O: When you are the head of something you are:

A person who leads, rules, or is in charge; a leader, chief, or director
The foremost or leading position

The person commanding most authority within a group

Every man, meaning there is no exception amongst us.

The commanding tone, Christ IS the head of every man resounds with the fact that He truly is the one who is in charge. Christ holds the most authority over men and this should not be questioned. But, sadly-not every man lives in such a fashion. But, despite that-every knee shall bow, one day.

A: I'm not in charge-not even over the petty little things like what to eat or how to dress. Christ literally dictates everything in my life-not to be confused with the responsibility given to me and the mission of furthering His kingdom (as those are obvious things that Christ has dictated in my life), but whether it be how I spend my money or when I sleep, I ought to do all things for the glory of God.

P: Christ is the King. God, You reign over every man living and dead. Spirit, You do a great works amongst us. I thank You for Your mercy and grace today-and I thank You for this Word. That those who are foolish and weak (such as ourselves) are not actually the ones pushing this life onward. It is only by Your sovereignty and by Your rule that we live-I pray that with that being said, I would submit myself to that authority and live by this Scripture-Christ is the head of me. Teach me to live as such, for Your glory. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - No Temptation Too Great

2010-03-09T21:24:00.000-08:00

S: No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.

1 Corinthians 10:13

O: First off, God is faithful - He will not fail nor will He ever turn back on His Word. In this particular part of the passage, Paul speaks of God's sovereignty over how far our temptations can bring us-that we can be brought to the edge, but never to the point where sin will inevitably overtake us. I know so many Christians (including myself at many times) that give up the battle with sin because they think they're going to fail "sooner or later." This mentality shows a lack of faith in the blood of Christ-not truly submitting to the idea that the blood of Christ has broken the shackles that sin once had in our lives. Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus (Romans 6:11).

Another observation I make is that God controls the temptation, but does not actually tempt-How can God tempt? He is without sin, and sin does not come from Him.

...beyond what you are able - Does this mean beyond my own strength? Or my own turning to God in my moment of weakness? For, with all my sins on the line, I sure don't feel like I can endure sin on my own-but I'm sure Paul writes, in fact to those who have been saved and are never alone-with the Holy Spirit alongside us, we never fight a battle against sin that is impossible to come out victorious-In other words, all present sins and temptation in our lives can be conquered! There is hope even for the most depraved of us!

...with the temptation will provide the way of escape also - In the context of how this passage is written, I can see how it says, "God will not allow..." and it also says "God will provide the way of escape also." In these times where fighting for holiness seems almost futile, it's important to understand that the means of escape and guidance to do so is found in the Word. Christ alone has broken the chains of sin with the cross and the keep ourselves from "relapsing," for lack of a better word, we need to understand what the Bible says on our shortcomings-Flee from sexual immorality, flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, and make every thought captive to Christ!

Temptations are attacks. The Word is where we find the armor of God and the Word IS the weapon of choice-interesting how that works out. To endure attacks, we must...well, equip ourselves with the Word, lol. Endurance isn't all about how well we ourselves endure sin, but how we have prepared ourselves in truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and our salvation. We find all of these things in the Word, and it all comes together to be our weapon against the tempter.

A: I will not submit to defeat-I understand that the Word is where I will find myself ready for attacks, but if I have thrown up the white flag before anything else, I water down the power of Christ's blood and I disgrace the name of my Saviour. Victory is ensured when we cling to Christ-for the great victory over death was won long before I was even on this earth.

P: How glorious You are! Your sovereignty reigns over this entire universe, working itself in incomprehensible ways, far beyond any of us. Your Word never fails, God, and I thank You for this passage-strengthening my resolve in this fight against my flesh and temptation. Forgive me for my transgressions as I am always a weaker man yesterday. But, teach me to look straight-towards that great prize of being wholly sanctified, in fellowship with You. I pray that I would remember that You are victorious and You shall never let sin overtake me beyond a point where my flesh will completely take over-You are always with me, and I pray that the Spirit would do an inward work against the sins in my life to work towards a holiness that is Your will. In Christ, amen!

Soli Deo Gloria

2010-03-08T23:51:00.000-08:00

Sleep, shall read.

Soap - For the Sake of the Gospel

2010-03-07T23:23:00.000-08:00

S: I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it.

1 Corinthians 23

O: I do all things for the sake of the gospel. Life is centered around Christ and what He did on that cross. Everything exists for His glory. All things, for the sake of the gospel:

All things - Meaning...everything. From playing music to going to school to eating food. All things pretty much means what it says-Everything that encompasses some kind of activity in our lives sum up all things.

For the sake of - Because of, or out the concern or interest for.

the Gospel - Man sinned against God-Broke the once perfect fellowship with Him while also condemning themselves to Hell. God redeems the sins of men through His Son, Jesus Christ by crucifying Him upon a cross and raising Him from the grave, 3 days later. Anyone who believes this and comes to repentance for their sins and professing Christ is Lord shall be saved.

I do everything I do in life because of what Christ did...

so that I may become a fellow partaker of it...

Partaker - One who takes or is given a portion.

I do everything I do in life because of what Christ did so that I may be given a portion or blessing in it.

Paul dedicates his life to that which is eternal because it reaps eternal rewards-He understands that his entire investment (all things, basically his life) is worth putting all into something such as the Gospel.

A: I will invest my entirety in Christ-my reward will be in heaven and I want to be a partaker in the blessings of the Gospel-To be blessing to others, sharing the Gospel with friends and family is the be blessed, yourself. To squander anything God has given is to devalue it and the Gospel is no exception-it was meant to be shared amongst all peoples, so that He would receive all the glory and worship that is due to Him. The Gospel gives life, and that life should be used to further spread more life.

P: Lord, how great You are. Your sovereignty reigns so deeply in my life and I pray I would not soon forget how mightily You have moved during this trip. All praises and glory to You, God-for You are always faithful and always good! God, would forgive me for rationalizing between little sins and "little distractions" - Crush even the smallest inkling of desire to cut corners-I wish to be holy, for Your name's sake. Would You continually reaffirm the importance of placing my entire life into Your hands? I know that I do not doubt You in the slightest, now-but when the suffering and trials come, I pray that You would swiftly bring back the reminder that You have ordained every step-that all things work together for good...Teach me to grow in faithfulness-I only want more of You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - I Shouldn't Grieve

2010-03-04T23:36:00.000-08:00

S: My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.

Matthew 26:42

O: I had trouble focusing on the Word because I felt so distressed. But I was reminded of how distressed Christ was, right before being crucified-He was so deeply grieved that he felt as if He was going to die. I mean, what a way to put me in perspective-I'm not going out to die for the sins of man. I'm going out to audition for music school! Why should I be grieved? But my burden is here and I feel as though God is trying to say something else. I think maybe because I haven't prepared myself fully in prayer-It's just like every praise team that has the same problem-too much technical stuff floating around while praying "enough" to get by when leading worship. I have devoted a great chunk of my time in playing my audition piece and practicing guitar for a long, long time. But I know God is calling me to pray more and now.

A: I am to pray in accordance with His will. I am here to live in accordance with His will. I need to trust that I have nothing to offer while God will is still as straight as it ever is. Moreover, God will go where He goes. Why should I worry at all, when I know that God is sovereign? God is sovereign! Every moment and every second does not go by Him, unnoticed. He is over all of it and over even these words. I must know God is sovereign. He is sovereign.

Wow. Here I was so caught up in Por Christo Et Regno Ejus (for Christ and His Kingdom) and Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God alone) but I forgot that God is sovereign. He reigns over everything. He doesn't need a pass into music school or a loan. I am His child and if it is His will for me to go, then nothing will stop Him from getting me there, be it money or admission. He is sovereign, praise God! And if music school is not His will, He is still good!

P: ...this I will do without writing it out.

Soli Deo Gloria

Conversation that Ensued

2010-03-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

"Do you rely on yourself when you are leading worship?"

"No, I rely on You."

"Then why should this be any different?"

"..."

Soap on the Side - Days are Evil

2010-03-03T22:31:00.000-08:00

S: Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.

Ephesians 5:15-16

O: A warning on using our time well. How easily would I get sucked into facebook and anime and whittle away the hours of the day without accomplishing anything? I can tell that my fast is working by the fact that I feel terrible right now. I practiced for at least 6 or 7 hours today and I did indeed wake up to pray-but I didn't get enough done because I got sucked into a webcomic and wasted maybe about 2 or 3 hours of my time just reading comics -___-

The days are evil? I would go so far as to say my day is evil because the end of the day always catches up to me and reminds me of how much more I could have done to make it more productive.

I had read this verse earlier and God was warning me to use every minute of my time wisely and I failed to heed His warning. I mean, not all was lost-but I know that tomorrow needs to be even better. I tried really hard to shape my piece for what it is now-it's not anywhere near what I want it to be, but I know God can use me in any state as long as my heart is in it.

This Scripture clearly states that we need to watch everything we're doing throughout the day. Take a moment to see if Christ is the backdrop for every situation...Wise men make the most of their time while those who are foolish sit idly by, waiting for the next thing that perks their interest (which, never really comes because they continue in going about their business, idly...).

A: Total dedication - I've got one more day to really push for excellence. None of these days were all that terrible other than Tuesday but it has been very grueling with nothing but a whole lot of practice and a fight against sleepiness and idleness. I will be wise with my time and use each day to it's fullest extent. I have no time to waste-I cannot afford to sit by idly and may I cursed if I am found to be idle when the Lord comes for me.

P: God, You are above everything-my anxiety is severely misplaced as each day has it's own worries. Remind me of how great You are through this personal time. I am sorry for not being fully diligent today-would you forgive me? I resolve to make sure every minute of tomorrow is used specifically for Your glory alone. Teach me to rely upon you and not even my practice or my other preparation-just give me a heart for reliance upon You, that's all I can ask. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - A Little Leaven is Too Much

2010-03-02T21:08:00.000-08:00

Practice is tough-and it's been a long time since I've felt this way, but remembering one of the biggest challenges to becoming half-decent at guitar was battling with my insecurities. One day would be filled with fresh determination to learn new songs and the next would be covered in hopeless dismay over feeling like a sub-par player. This week is definitely bringing back feelings of the latter-I'm being attacked a lot and it is no fun. I don't like to be the one hoping to only get by-I really do want to be better than that, but I honestly cannot help it at this point. My audition piece could really spell either a great success or a great failure. But, I remember looking back at how incompetent I was at guitar (terrible at strumming and terrible at switching chords) and the struggles were well worth it-there was and is a great comfort in being able to play music, which led to a greater passion for it. It eventually blossomed into something even more wonderful, that I can use it as a tool to lead worship and connect with others-and I've got to remember, that it's all ultimately for the Kingdom. Use my gifts accordingly...

Since we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, each of us is to exercise them accordingly...

Romans 12:6

I was convicted of a very serious sin today. I realize that I try to be justified through my own effort of repentance. But God has clearly laid out that I am only justified by faith in Christ. I am sorry to ever think that I ever had the power to walk in holiness without clinging to God. I will only have faith in Christ.

S: Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough? Clean out the old leaven so that you may be a new lump, just as you are in fact unleavened.

1 Corinthians 5:6-7

O: What is leaven and what does it represents?

1 : a substance (as yeast) used to produce fermentation in dough or a liquid
2 : something that modifies or lightens

Yeast, and it represents sin. The dough represents us.

But I think leaven can mean more than sin-it can be depression or discouragement, in my case. Sin being a relevant case as well, such as sexual temptation-a little bit of leaven permeates through the entire dough and every bit of sin in my life will get to me no matter how negligible the sin seems at first. Cutting corners is a perfect example of a little leaven in one's life. From little lies to getting soda in a water cup, a little bit of sin will become a whole lot of sin. To attain a life of holiness, sin must be conquered in one's life, completely-sanctification is no one day deal...Christ did not die so we could be forgiven once.

When faith is in Christ and justification comes about, we are made anew-a new lump of dough, so to speak, unleavened. But when sin strikes even once and we fall to it, it spreads rapidly like a virus and we are once again in need of His grace. Sanctification is a long process but to fight sin means to understand that conquering sin means to chop it off at the root-before it even takes root.

Even as I write, I know that lust is like a lot of leaven for men trying to fight sin. But if we're openly giving outlets to Satan to attack us, it's no wonder why we fall. I'm also letting myself be attacked mentally with thoughts that are self-deprecating and very discouraging when I'm trying to practice guitar. A single outlet is all Satan needs to crush me from the inside out.

A: Am I not a soldier? I need to close all available routes to my heart and attack back. Like a poison-tipped arrow in my side, if my armor had been on securely from the start, I never would have fallen from something that is so small. The attacks are relentless and I need to be sharp-my clumsiness can cost me very dearly in this time. I will not break my resolve in fighting sin-I may be discouraged and I may be tired, but God is far greater than anything in my life-if I cling to Him, His strength will guarantee that I will come out, alive and well-I need to draw back to a full reliance of His Word and His promises...(I'm also going to read Ephesians over again).

P: God, You are infinite. More powerful than my imagination and You alone speak through the Word that which conquers the cunning and shrewdness of how Satan employs sin to draw my focus and heart away from you. God, I am sorry for my pride in thinking that my feeble attempts at repentance could justify me. Would you also forgive me for the lust in my heart that spirals out of control, like leaven? I also ask, in the name of Christ, to reject all thoughts of dejection and uselessness-strengthen me, God, and place my conviction in doing all that I do now for Your glory. Lord, teach me to reject the shallow promises of happiness in sin. A little sin draws me into more than I could ever fight down with my own strength so I am asking you to pour down Your insight through Your Word-would Your Holy Spirit teach me how to wield that which is heavy and difficult to handle? Thank You for revealing to me that which is like leaven in my life-would you stir up a heart that is alert and cautious...always testing everything by Scripture-I do not want to be snared. Sanctify me, for the sake of Your name. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Hidden in my Heart

2010-03-01T08:07:00.000-08:00

S: Therefore do not go on passing judgement before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God.

1 Corinthians 4:5

O: Paul's letter to Corinth, talking about being 'servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God (1Cor 4:1).' - Passing judgement...Who was passing judgement? Was it the people of Corinth? And before what time?

Judgement

- the forming of an opinion, estimate, notion, or conclusion, as from circumstances presented to the mind

- a misfortune regarded as inflicted by divine sentence, as for sin.

There were many divisions amongst the church in Corinth (1Cor 1:11-13) and it seems that the church was pointing fingers at one another-as churches that are split often do. But in this passage, Paul tells them not to condemn one another with judgement before the time-The time when the Lord comes to reveal what was truly on men's hearts. No man can see every detail or even search the hearts of others-only God can see all that is covered in darkness and hidden away from the rest of the world. There were pagans and divisions amongst this church and it was by no means perfect-there were fakes and phonies with the wrong motives for being in the church. This reminds me deeply of the church today when we ask "What are your reasons for coming to church?" There could be many people who profess that they are here for Christ and yet not be there for Christ at all. Only the Lord knows the sincerity of each man and it is written in this passage that God will reveal the motives of men's hearts (when the time comes).

...and then each man's praise will come to him from God - Oh man, this one is the clincher. Everyone will receive from God that which he deserves. This is both encouraging and quite scary because I know that this particular part of the passage does not refer only to God glorifying or showing approval to those who come with the right heart and motives-but also what merits an unclean heart and ulterior motive. I read this and felt as if praise is almost like appraisal as God is the one who examines us (1 Cor 4:4).

A: God will be the one who searches me and I will keep my heart and motives set on His will. I don't want to be found, otherwise-when my heart is brought to light, I want see God and have His approval and no one else. Say goodbye to the favor of the world and say hello to favor of the Lord. How will I gain his approval? By setting my heart upon his commands-For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments and His commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:3). By his precepts, I can live a life of holiness, keeping the temple of God, holy-thus being faithful and loving towards God. It's no burden to obey if it is for Him. I will walk in obedience.

P: Lord, if my heart is not right-if my focus is not centered upon Christ, search me and rebuke me. I pray that you shape and mold my motives after Your disposition. Just as you commanded to love You with all my heart, soul, strength and mind-how could I say I love You if my heart hides anything in the darkness? I pray that you would scrub the corners of my heart clean-leaving nothing but room only for You-as the very throne (temple) for You to reside in. Thank You for honoring my desires and I pray that this day and week would be approached with a clean heart and motives worthy of the calling I have received. In Christ, amen.

I have hidden Your Word in my heart, so that I might not sin against You.

Psalm 119:11

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - God's Holy Temple

2010-02-27T23:52:00.000-08:00

S: Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If any man destroys the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy, and that is what you are.

O: The temple is ourselves. The Holy Spirit resides in every Christian and the residing place of that which is holy must become holy...By repentance, we are forgiven by God through the blood of Christ and made righteous-those who live in repentance are working towards sanctification.

As the temple is our body, is it anything else? I'm sure that it's not just our physical bodies, but our hearts as well as our mind and soul-as the Spirit is there, residing in the temple of God-which is all of those things as one. Christ has renewed our hearts and minds and redeemed our soul-

"The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands."

Acts 7:24

God has made us anew, bought us with His Son's blood, and readied us to be the residing place of His Spirit.

What does it mean to destroy the temple? I think to fill our hearts and minds with crap-trashy television, explicit music, sexual inuuendos, etc, we destroy our heart (as well as expressing it vocally), thus destroying a part of the temple.

"But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man."

Matthew 15:18

To disrespect our bodies, with even a lack of sleep or the controversial tattoo (for the wrong reasons and I doubt even good reasons), is the hold the temple in irreverence-As we no longer hold custody over our bodies, it's no longer our right to live the way we see fit...because we are the temple of God.

But above all else, when our soul is stained with sin, it is most definitely destroying God's temple-God cannot have fellowship with sin and love of sin breaks down the temple in far worse ways than lack of sleep or coarse talking (but those can lead to sin as well)...

Those who hold God's temple with litte regard will find themselves (unrepentant, for one thing which leads to) being condemned. God will destroy him-that's really quite straightforward and I understand that whoever lives in sin and does come into repentance, thus destroying the temple that which God intended to be holy, will be utterly condemned by the Lord.

A: I will remember that I (the entirety of who I am) am the temple of God. The Holy Spirit resides with me and I will not have a love of that which defiles the temple of God. I will strive for sanctification, with absolute hatred of sin-not only that, but I will strive to keep my body in shape and well-rested as it actually isn't my own body anymore.

P: Lord, with Your Son's sacrifice, you bought my life and I see that just knowing and applying the knowledge that my entirety is the temple of God means I need to live differently. Would you be glorified in my desire to be responsible and treat my body, heart, soul, and mind as a holy place? I also pray that you work up that desire to a diligent, daily action of living in repentance and keeping your temple holy. In Christ, amen.

Let them construct a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell among them.

Exodus 25:8

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Holy Spirit, Revealing Truth

2010-02-25T10:41:00.000-08:00

S: Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words.

1 Corinthians 2:12-13

O: Who is the Spirit who is from God? First of all, this question automatically answers itself-The Holy Spirit is not a force or power used by God-the Holy Spirit is a person who comes from God. The Holy Spirit is the one who is at work in our lives-doing all the works as God instructs. He is also the 3rd person often overlooked in the Trinity-but He is the one who is with us at all times, working with us and against our flesh.

Through the Holy Spirit we've come to know the truths in the Word-The Spirit reveals truth in God's Word, especially in the Gospel, where salvation was given to us freely for Christ paid the cost. But not only does God freely pour out his mercy upon us through His Son, He freely pours out his grace and blessings as co-heirs with Christ. All testimony of the Gospel and of the Word are not spoken in words taught by our own human wisdom (which is foolishness in comparison to God's!) but rather spoken in words taught and directed by the Spirit, Whom alone knows the thoughts of God.

Spiritual thoughts? Spiritual words? Only by knowing the Word's true meaning, revealed by the Holy Spirit, we manifest spiritual thoughts and spiritual words. We who have received the Spirit know the abundant truth and goodness given to us from God-we testify of those truths not by our own conviction, but by the Spirit that reveals what to be true.

A: I need to be Spirit-filled and reliant upon the Spirit. To be Spirit-filled means that I will be equipped to speak the Gospel without any sugarcoating or my own wisdom or tact put into testifying of God's glory and it will move powerfully. My own words will always be foolishness, but by the Spirit, God's wisdom and power is at hand. To be Spirit-filled means I will consecrate myself and press towards sanctification. To Spirit-filled means I will strive towards submitting myself to God's will and God's kingdom. By the Spirit, I lead worship, speak Truth, and exist to reveal God's glory in me that which is not me at all, but Christ who saved me.

P: Who knows the mind of God? Who understands Your ways? I certainly don't. But Your Spirit Who was given to me by Your grace pushes me on in this race to do greater things. I want to a Spirit-filled servant! Would you spur on a greater passion for Your name in my life, Lord? This coming week used to look ominously large, looming over-and I used to wonder how I would get through it. But I understand that I won't, at least not by my own strength. I thank You for Your Spirit, revealing the great truth that brings me face to face with Your saving grace-humbling me beyond anything else in this life. I pray that as the Spirit intercedes for me, when I'm spouting off all the wrong words and desires-set me towards the direction that You intend for me. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - God's Foolishness and Weakness

2010-02-24T21:30:00.000-08:00

S: Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.

1 Corinthians 1:25

O: Is God ever foolish or weak? It's not an example I've ever really seen used in Scripture-usually when defining God's character, Scripture explicitly says how mighty or how glorious God is. Rather than actually saying that God is ever weak or foolish, this Scripture points towards the comparison of man and God and how infinitely wide that gap is:

Paul uses a great example of showing God's infinite character through the comparison of men-That the wisest man that ever lived (take King Solomon as a good example:) possessed wisdom that in comparison to God's wisdom was still...foolishness.

Or look at Samson, the judge that brought two pillars of stone come crashing down with his bare hands-and yet, in comparison to God, he is puny.

A: I need to see straight when I'm looking at God-I must have the right perspective...Anything that I see to be especially great in men, is mediocre in comparison to the Lord. Too often I'm admiring the strength and wisdom of others rather than bowing down before the One who makes every man look weak and foolish. Infinite wisdom, power, etc...it's all impossible to comprehend-but every time I can be amazed by a person on this earth is yet another time for me to boast about how my God is greater, more amazing, and all the more glorious than me or those that I know. With that being said, I bet God is a ridiculous musician-He literally made the existence of music!

P: Lord, You are greater than I can imagine. You are beyond these words and beyond any description given to You. I pray that when I approach anything, from prayer requests to ministry-You are above and beyond what I ask. You can always do greater things than what I can imagine and I pray that You press that upon my heart-may I not see my own strength or wisdom, but see Your vast power and fall back in awe of the great things you promise to do in my life. Make a name for Yourself, by Your strength and wisdom that which humbles every man to bow his head before You. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Ch. 1 of Spiritual Leadership / Soap - Gideon

2010-02-24T10:55:00.000-08:00

To aspire to leadership is an honorable ambition.

1 Timothy 3:1

Should you then seek great things for yourself? Seek them not.

Jeremiah 45:5

-Most people shy away from leadership because they don't think it's appropriate to aspire towards leadership. It's emphasized that 'leaders must be servants' (which is so very true but...) and somewhere along the line the boldness and ambition was extinguished and the 'leaders must also actually be leaders' got lost somewhere along the way.

Ambition isn't necessarily a bad thing as long as the motives behind it are honorable-The difference between wanting great things for ourselves and God is distinct.

Back in the times when Paul was trying to raise up leaders, such a problem didn't really exist because along with carrying the mantle of leadership, suffering, rejection, hardship, and even death were possibilities. Even the greatest of Christians needed encouragement to lead so Paul brought out boldness by calling that which is honorable, an honorable ambition. Even today, people are suffering at the hands of communists and their governments for being church leaders in countries where the Gospel is illegal (China, North Korea, Nepal, etc).

In churches like our own, in America, being a leader brings privileges and respect that could easily tempt people to aspire towards leadership for the wrong reasons. Striving towards excellence could never be a bad thing, but the heart behind it is what determines whether or not the ambition is godly or self-seeking.

Christians ought to strive towards building up and edifying the church through our God-given talents and gifts (remember every Christian has their given gifts). They should never press towards the popularity or recognition, but rather press towards serving God and His people. In doing so, being the last means first-being first means being last: There will be a cost to count and true suffering refines the leader who will either be left with selfish ambition broken or a holy aspiration, realized.

S: But Gideon said to them, "I will not rule over you, nor shall my son rule over you; the Lord shall rule over you."

Judges 8:23

O: I remember very clearly at how I was amazed at the story of Gideon. Gideon was the biblical version (and OG, if I might add) of 300 - God separated 300 men from over 30,000 to help him overtake the Midianites and the two kings Zebah and Zalmunna-300 of God's chosen men took out 120,000 swordsmen!

At this point in Scripture, Gideon had avenged his brothers and he had gained victory-the men of Israel asked Gideon and his generation to rule over them and he refused by replying as such. After reading such an amazing story of how Gideon conquered, I was especially impressed by his humble answer. He knew that all along it was never by his own strength nor by the strength of his men that they were able to overcome the Midianites-through the many signs (Gideon's fleece, prophetic dream of Gideon's victory over the Midianites, Gideon somehow conquering thousands with a mere 300) God demonstrated his power and Gideon worshiped him accordingly.

A: It is not wrong to do great things-in fact it is a great thing, but only when it is for God's kingdom. I will not take credit for what I know to be God's talents and gifts given to me to demonstrate His power in me. I will know when thousands fall to a mere 300 I assembled, it was all the Lord's doing. I will also aspire to being greater and greater-meaning less and less, so that God's glory will never be diminished by my character.

P: God, you are worthy of all praise. For who amongst us could say we have done great things when we see that you do infinitely more beautiful works by a single breath? Lord, I pray that you may bestow a humble heart upon me, I want to do amazing things for You and Your people-would you fill me yet again with Your Spirit? Teach me not to be content with standards and norms-but rather pressing towards excellence for myself and Your church. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Unified Church under the Word

2010-02-23T19:38:00.000-08:00

S: Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus, so that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 15:5-6

O: To be of the same mind means to share the same goals and core belief. With one singular vision, church is to be unified. I know that the church (the entire body) isn't connected in prayer or biblical foundation and this verse explicitly states that we should be.

Coming from different backgrounds and denominations, how can we possibly hope to be fully unified in what we believe and do for God? It is impossible without God-as the verse says, may God grant us to be of the same mind...

I've known conflict with several people amongst the church about certain issues-The best way to approach such issues would be "What does the Bible say?" rather than "What would Jesus do?" as I believe several people do a severely misconstrued impression of what Jesus would actually do.

To make a connection to loving God with our minds-I made references to stretching our mental capacity in reading the Word deeply...I'm sure God wants us to all be in the same mindset- as a Scripturally based church!

A: To be of one mind-we must derive all truths from the one truth that God gave us-which is His Word. If everyone was to focus upon the Word, I'm sure that all church politics and petty issues would fall away in a heartbeat and the glory of God would be the only concern of the body. I will do my best to be an advocate of God's Word as I know it to be what it is-to come in an accord with Christians is for Christians to understand and accept God's Word as the absolute and ultimate authority of our lives-correcting and encouraging one another with it, living in unity.

P: Father, unify Your church under the Word-as the supreme authority of our lives, teach us to both revere and do all we can to understand it so that we may all continue to strive for a unified goal to do Your will. Thank You for this Word, in Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Soap - Wavering of the Unfaithful

2010-02-23T12:33:00.000-08:00

S: Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you.

The Lord is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

Deuteronomy 31:6, 8

O: Before the Israelites crossed the Jordan to enter into the promised land, Moses gave his last counsel. One thing that I absolutely love about these two verses is the repetition in emphasizing and reaffirming (to Israel) that God never changes-I feel as though these first books of the OT were pretty much this being repeated:

Israelites are delivered from ridiculous oppression from the Egyptians and immediately when they are being chased down, their faith in God is cast aside and they cry out and complain about how they would have been better off dying in Egypt serving the Egyptians. What does God do? He does not fail nor forsake His people and delivers them (miraculously I might add) across the Red Sea.

Fast forward to wandering in the desert, and yet again they complain about their living conditions and despair over lack of food and God, being the gracious and unfailing dude he is, provides a miraculous amount manna and meat from out of nowhere. (as a side note, God commanded them not to collect more than they needed and they did-which was a complete lack of faith and trust in God's providence with daily bread).

You'd think that by now the Israelites would have stopped grumbling but I suppose God used the whiniest and brattiest people of all to demonstrate how He could demonstrate his patience as well-the Israelites cried out again against Moses and God for water (yet again complaining that they left Egypt to be killed by them) and God brings water forth from a rock (what the heck, that's 3 miracles so far and counting) to yet again demonstrate his unfailing love.

There are tons of examples of how the people of Israel went back and forth upon their unfaithfulness and distrust in God but the true application of these verses happens in the repetition of verses-confirming the importance of knowing what it means to us personally and contextually. God will not fail me nor forsake me. God does not barely pull through when it comes to His providence-He does not come up short with resources or power.

When people are chased down by an army, he provides a way out (despite the impossibility in our eyes) and he crushes the army. When people are starving, he rains down food. When people are dry from thirst, God brings forth water from A ROCK. We forget the God we serve is well-beyond our thought capacity. With the unfathomable, I cannot put walls around any situation or limits by thinking up 'possible scenarios.' But that is exactly what I do, despite knowing God and some of the miraculous things He's done, I still somehow find a way to put Him in a box and I tentatively ask "God could you do this much? Could you move this much?" Why do I put numbers and logic upon the Infinite and Almighty?

The Lord is my God and I will serve Him with all my heart, soul, and might-He will not fail me nor forsake me.

A: If I truly believed that God is who He is and who He has revealed Himself to be, there is no reason to fall back on the rocky plains of sin. Sin in it's own right is faith in the world and unfaithfulness towards the Lord. I will not waver because His Word tells me that He will not fail nor forsake me. I will have faith in the only person who has never failed-With a proven track record, why should I trust anyone else? People fail, the world fails, and I fail, but God NEVER fails. I will trust in Him.

P: Lord, thank You. You've revealed to me that I am just like the people of Israel-sometimes I'm so wishy-washy and my weak desire for a greater trust to be anchored upon you has been given to me through Your Word-Thank You! I truly praise You because I know that You never fail and the same goes for Your Word. Teach me to trust You in the most impossible of situations. You are the Lord, my God. In Christ, amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Schedule

2010-02-22T23:59:00.001-08:00

Finding it especially hard to keep up with my commitments - But, I break off at 12, no matter what to go at least to my bed and continue reading and then sleeping.

Wake up earlier than 8:40 - check

Always start with prayer and LJ - check

Breakfast - ...kind of check

2 hours of supplementary reading - fail - only got about 30 minutes

3 hours of practice on piece - fail - about 2 hours of practice

LJ at night - fail

Work out 3 times a week - have not worked out yet

Contact Student Activities - not yet

Cut out facebook/youtube/anime (although exceptions facebook only for administrative stuff for church and youtube for teaching guitar/practice) - kind of fail

I'm still adjusting to this new schedule...it's really strenuous in comparison to last week. But tomorrow is a new day, I need to press on! I'm sure it can only get better despite my shortcomings.

You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only...Make every thought captive to Christ.

Soli Deo Gloria