God’s Servant!

05/10/201605/09/2016Leave a comment

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.” ~Colossians 3:23

When I arrived at the colony 10 years ago, my job was to work on the dishwasher; the infamous Hobart. That was a learning curve, as well as dose of humble pie. Promotion day! I was promoted to supply handler, but my main job was to upkeep the basement. Basement work was a lonely task and at first I didn’t see the value to go beyond where many wouldn’t notice. However, I was introduced to this verse and this perception on what work is really about.

I was advice to work in that basement for an audience of One!

Paul was encouraging his readers to serve/work diligently; without selfish desires, but to be faithful in the Master’s eye. Contextually he was dealing with Roman-Greco slaves and servants of all sorts. These conditions and these individuals most likely needed a voice of reason. This was God’s command, the challenge was to process their efforts through the right views, and to understand that their labor was not in vain, but to be an example of a servant of the Lord.

How about you? Are you treating you job/career as testimony to God’s workmanship in your life? Whatever the condition, this command is applicable and if your employer is not asking you to blatantly sin, then the Word is encouraging you continue the work, unto the Lord. The amazing realty with God is that after a command, he follows with a promise. Here’s the next verse.

“Knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward”(vs.24)

As God cultivates our new life with Christ, this causes us to think about matters differently. Personally, I know how hostile a work environment can be or even service for the local church. But grasp God’s call and direction, and he will provide the peace in your service and labor will not be in vain. Be encouraged Saints!

Written by Juan Mendez: Juan is a Colony of Mercy graduate and full time staff member at America’s Keswick

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 128; Proverbs 10

Daily Quote: “Let this one great, gracious, glorious fact lie in your spirit until it permeates all your thoughts and makes you rejoice even though you are without strength. Rejoice that the Lord Jesus has become your strength and your song – He has become your salvation. “ ~Charles H. Spurgeon

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

¹⁷The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
¹⁸The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,
And saves such as have a contrite spirit.

¹⁹Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
But the Lord delivers him out of them all.

~Psalm 34:17-19

Addiction Recovery Is What We Do

05/09/201605/08/2016Leave a comment

The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.~ John 10:10

Last week I blogged about our 3rd Core Value which is our commitment to the ministry of addiction recovery.

This weekend we welcomed back men who graduated from the Colony of Mercy, women who have graduated from Women of Character, and our first graduates from Barbara’s Place.

It was the most incredible time of welcoming home these trophies of God’s grace. Most of the men and women who came are walking in victory. Some are struggling and reached out for help.

For those of us who serve on staff, we refer to this weekend as “pay day.” It’s the weekend that we reflect on what God has done in the lives of the men, women, teens and kids God sends our way.

Last week one of my staff emailed me this quote: “MINISTRY is not about the income. Ministry is all about the OUTCOME!” And for us on staff, this weekend was that reminder, that “AHA” moment of why we do what we do.

In addition to the Reunion Weekend we had our 2016 Family Freedom Walk. Our goal this year was $55,000. The weather forecast was ominous, but we cried out to God and guess what? At 3:10 PM the sky’s began to part and the blue sky started appearing. By 3:30 PM, the sun was out in all its glory.

We had a great turnout and the Lord wowed us once again with exceeding the goal for HIS glory — $66,646!!! This is all traceable back to HIS hand. We can’t take any credit. Did the staff work hard? Yes! Did we have people who really pounded the pavements? Yes! But we all know that it was God who provided. And I am so proud of my staff because they raised over $19,000 of the goal.

As I rubbed shoulders with the precious folks, I realized again that this ministry is all about God. It’s all about people. It’s all about you. Wait, you say. All about you?

Yes! Your prayers and financial support help us make a difference one life at a time. I met for the first time a man who graduated in 1976!!! With tears in his eyes and the biggest hug, he said, “From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!”

I hope and pray that I never lose the wonder of seeing God transform a life. We have 118 years under our belts, but who knows how many more God will give us. But until then, we will keep fighting and sharing the good news that Jesus Christ sets the captive free! Praise God, and thank you.

Written by Dr. Bill Welte is President/CEO of America’s Keswick: He has been married to his child sweetheart for 40+ years, and has three married kids, one that is engaged, and 10 amazing grand kids. He loves music and is an avid reader.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 127; Proverbs 9

Daily Quote: Make no mistake: to be at peace with your sin is to be at war with God. ~Kevin DeYoung

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

¹⁷The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
And delivers them out of all their troubles.
¹⁸The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart,
And saves such as have a contrite spirit.

¹⁹Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
But the Lord delivers him out of them all.

~Psalm 34:17-19

In case you missed them:

To Proud to Feel Forgiven

05/06/201605/04/2016Leave a comment

Christians who remain in hiding continue to live the lie. We deny the reality of our sin. In a futile attempt to erase our past, we deprive the community of our healing gift. If we conceal our wounds out of fear and shame, our inner darkness can neither be illuminated nor become a light for others. We cling to our bad feelings and beat ourselves with the past when what we should do is let go. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, guilt is an idol. But when we dare to live as forgiven men and women, we join the wounded healers and draw closer to Jesus. ~Brennan Manning

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. The Lord works righteousness and justice for all who are oppressed. He made known his ways to Moses, his acts to the people of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. ~from Psalm 103

Oh beloved, it is true. The beloved disciple, John, was (and is, and will be) right. If we say we are without sin, we deceive ourselves (1 John 1:8). Yes, we are no longer slaves. And yes, we sometimes forget our freedom as we look back over our shoulders at the onion and garlic we ate in our bondage.

Even as we have come out of the land of our slavery; even as we have been made new in Christ, our old man wants to jump up out of his grave and look around. And it doesn’t help if we get a little too hungry, or angry, or lonely, or tired, or disoriented, or hurt. All of the friction of the world rubs up against us – and unless

we flee into G_d’s arms – we can find ourselves making some pretty stupid mistakes.

This fool of a writer is still amazed at his own capacity for stumbling. Thankfully, I am not drinking myself to death – or drowning in chemicals and food and a long list of other things anymore. But, even still, i can quickly fall into fear or anger or impatience or shame. My eyes can go in the wrong direction (oh brothers, don’t get too proud. So can yours.); not just to looking at the wrong woman – but also putting my eyes on the waves of life.

The circumstances

The chances for failure

The doubts about the future

The failures of others

The pain and shame of my past

And on and on the list does go.

However, this same disciple, John, says something else in much of his writings. While there is no place for us to walk in or practice living in darkness, neither is there to be any doubt whatsoever about the forgiveness that has been lavished upon us by our King.

As I am both convinced of my need for forgiveness and agree with G_d about my abject depravity apart from Him – a powerful justice takes over. Jesus’ work in His life, death and resurrection cleanses me from ALL unrighteousness. HE makes me (and you) clean, and sets us back on our feet, in a right relationship with Him.

The problem is that, often, we do not feel forgiven – or we choose to dwell in the shame of something we have done that falls short of the glory of G_d. Yes, the sin was horrible. This is why it took the very blood of G_d to pay for it. But the truth is that He paid for it. G_d has already paid for ALL of my (and your) sins.

Can we see it? There is a significant problem. If we are not living as though we are forgiven, we are setting ourselves up for an even greater failure. We are standing up against G_d and telling Him that what He has done to pave the way for our forgiveness is not good enough. And this is even more egregious than any bad behavior our incorruptible flesh may have talked us into.

So, have you messed up lately? It happens. Can we / should we walk in victory? Absolutely. However, beloved this is what grace is about. We have both the power to walk in the light, and His power and forgiveness is what pulls us back out of the shadows when we stray.

Our Father knows that we are messed up. He knows our frailty. He knows it much better than we do. Still, in His justice and mercy and grace and Love, He has forgiven you. Will you not allow this reality to soak into your life? Tonight is your night beloved, time to be humble enough to walk forgiven.

Written by Makala (Mak) Doulos: Makala Doulos is a child of God, a husband to his wife, a father to his children, and a teacher to his students. But mostly, he is a prisoner set free by Jesus. Love has invaded his life, crushed it, and made it new. Now, God’s Love is what constrains him to live in full surrender to the freedom The Father and Son and Holy Spirit have bought for us all. Grace and Peace to you all.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 124; Proverbs 6

Daily Quote: “The moment you asked for forgiveness, God forgave you. Now do your part and leave the guilt behind.” ~Unknown

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them. ~Psalm 34:6-7

More Writing From Makala (Mak) Doulos:

Maintain A Joyful Attitude

05/05/201605/04/2016Leave a comment

“Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue His work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” ~Philippians 1:4-6 (NLT)

Attitude. When we say the word “attitude” among folks today there seems to be something uncomfy about it. I guess it’s because we are waiting for a negative adjective to be attached to it. To say one has a bad attitude seems the norm today and then to say that at all seems to be the only time we bring someone’s attitude. Maybe it’s not like this in your circles of life but in mine it is an everyday thing to overhear. A worker that doesn’t do a particular task (because they weren’t hired to do this task) displays their attitude as anti-team and therefore they maintain a bad attitude towards the job.

I think if there was anyone in Scripture who could’ve had and maintained a bad attitude it would have been the apostle Paul. Well I think he had one when he was a “Pharisee of Pharisees” but Jesus Christ changed that attitude over to one that found joy in affliction. In 2 Corinthians 11:24-28 we get a long list of things that Paul endured during his missionary travels. One time with getting 39 lashes is enough to send me into a “This ain’t happenin’ no more” attitude but Paul was different because Jesus made it different for him.

There was something Paul understood and that he had to have an attitude of joy. None the matter of people, possessions or circumstances when your confidence is in God joy is the resulting attitude. It didn’t matter the difficulty of the paths he walked or how much of beating he took walking those paths, Paul’s choice he to put his confidence in God. As Chuck Swindoll wrote in “Laugh Again”, Paul’s confidence in God guided him like an inner compass, always keeping him on joy’s course regardless of the gales that blew.”

So here in lies this question: Do you have that same inner confidence in God guiding you? If you think not, then maybe we should examine this confidence of Paul’s…

Paul’s time Philippi church planting didn’t go wasted. Because they were consistent, alive and actively participating in the Gospel on our their own. He states that quite clear in his opening lines of his letter to them. It’s in verse 6 that you can feel the firm confidence that Paul has that: “For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” and it’s in this that three reasons of Paul’s confidence appear. That God was at work, in control and His plan for His glory was being followed in the Philippian church.

The thing that kept all of this influx is having a “keen discernment.” The church went Gods way because the people of God of choose to go God’s way. For any church to be able to grow in the grace of God is having God’s people, individually make the conscience effort to have a full and complete knowledge of truth on one side and a keen sense of right and wrong on the other. And I believe this comes from people who choose to maintain a joyful attitude by placing their confidence in God.

As a contributor to these Freedom Fighter blogs you gotta be asking…Do I do this myself? My answer to that goes like this…He who BEGAN a good work in me WILL PERFECT it until the day He comes back or chooses to take me home. I have confidence in this because it is a promise of God. Do I express this joy and confidence at all things at all times? Well I need to that better but I am pretty sure I’m alone in this either (not that this excuses me for my falling short).

To finish up for today let me borrow from Chuck Swindoll and say there are three principles we need to glean before we set sail into our day. First, confidence brings joy when you focus on the things for which you’re thankful. Second, confidence brings joy when you let God be God. Third, confidence brings joy when you keep love within proper limits. Giving thanks to our God is becoming a lost art. Today lets band together to regain our joy in the LORD by giving Him thanks in all things…even if His answer to somethings are “NO”. Amen?

Written by Chris Hughes: Chris, a graduate of The Colony of Mercy (11-2003) is married with two adult children (you may remember them from summer staff) and serves on the Deacon Board at Trinity Alliance Church in Cologne NJ.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 123; Proverbs 5

Daily Quote: “It’s easy to understand why the world doesn’t see much joy reflected in Christianity today. We’ve quit practicing the art of thanksgiving, and without it, joy will remain a very scarce commodity.” ~Charles Swindoll

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them. ~Psalm 34:6-7

More Writing From Chris Hughes:

Face Value

The Eagles Example!

05/04/201605/03/2016Leave a comment

But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31)

This is not referring to the Philadelphia Eagles as an example , but they are ok as well. But the wonderful creation that is uniquely designed by God. When this awesome specimen mounts up, the bald eagle can reach speeds of up to 100 mph, they cruise about around 65 mph. They climb up to around 10,000 ft. and soar for hours, this is some serious sustaining power.

God frequently uses other members of his creation to teach us various lessons. As a loving father was reassuring His children, the Israelites, that he was with them and encouraging them to continue in their journey. What can we learn from this challenge?

Wait upon the Lord: This is being resolved; making a choice to patiently walk through life in way that gives God the glory and space to workout His divine plan in our Lives. Bearing our cross, He will sustain us within the journey.

Shall renew their strength: Increasing faith is developed as we prove tried and true. We began to stand firm; this is essential when feeling overwhelmed by the trials of life; allow God to continue His graceful work and we shall be more than conquerors. News Flash: This is all temporary anyway!

They shall mount up with wings as eagles:

Our souls, our thinking, our perceptions, our actions, our values will soar like an eagle above all these worldly/carnal realities. An eagle is not moved by all the troubles on the ground level. He flies most strongly, swiftly, and high, out of the reach of all danger. Let us watch over and not engage against unbelief, pride, and selfishness.

They shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint:

This is the result of the previous conditions working together in harmony. Paul so elegantly mentions,“ But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.” (2 Corinthians 4:7-10)

The Jews waited thousands of years for their Savior and we have Him. Let’s not take that for granted and mount up and live as the Eagle lives, freely above reproach.

Written by Juan Mendez: Juan is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a full time staff member at America’s Keswick.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 122; Proverbs 4

Daily Quote: “Truth offends everyone outside its definitions. But the irony of truth is that the greater its potential for offense, the greater its potential for giving hope.” ~ David Jeremiah

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them. ~Psalm 34:6-7

Don’t Just Do Something, Stand There

05/03/201605/03/2016Leave a comment

Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. ~2nd Thessalonians 2:15

I think I watched too many superhero cartoons as a kid, I have this desire to take on every battle that comes my way. I picture myself in perpetual motion as I single handedly fight for truth, justice and the American way… Then I wake up.

In a world where there is no absolute truth, chaos and confusion are sure to set in. Sometimes it seems like we need to react with every whim or notion that society brings. I feel like a dog chasing his tail, round and round I go and where I stop know body knows.

I can be a bit of a zealot when it comes to right and wrong and although some may say “he is too boisterous”, they have no idea how much constraint I am applying. My flesh wants to scream and battle everything that comes against what I believe to be right.

I thank God for the scriptures that stand out when I need them most. It’s as if my evil thoughts are dissolved by God’s word and I’m directed to what He teaches in large, underlined and bold print.

Paul’s final letter to the Thessalonians comes with an exhortation to “stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle”. He encourages them to not be distracted by the evil around them but to a pillar that is not moved by the works of this world. I think the picture is more of a stationary rock that withstands the blows of wickedness and when the dust settles those in opposition to God’s word will see the strength of those who stand on Truth.

I have seen time and time again a man who is still effected by his old ways and in deep pain lash out at me with everything he has to try me and test the work of God only to fall in exhaustion and surrender to Jesus.

There’s a battle going on that is to be won with prayer and fasting. When those in opposition see a united church that stands for the Truth of God I believe many will also fall to their knees.

Our only hope is to project a banner of faith that will not buckle under the pressure of a way of life where there is no absolute truth and people are living according to their feelings and desires. Those attributes are not built on a foundation but only sand. When the wind and rain of life come crashing down on society I believe a faithful and healthy church of God will be the only ones standing.

So when the fiery darts of the enemy come at you, “Don’t just do something, stand there”!

Paul finishes chapter two with “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work”. Amen!

Written by Rob Russomano: Rob is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and a full time staff member at America’s Keswick. He is also available as a speaker of the grace of God with a message of Hope for church events.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 121; Proverbs 3

Daily Quote: “Let this one great, gracious, glorious fact lie in your spirit until it permeates all your thoughts and makes you rejoice even though you are without strength. Rejoice that the Lord Jesus has become your strength and your song – He has become your salvation. “ ~Charles H. Spurgeon

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them. ~Psalm 34:6-7

Core Value #4 Our Commitment to Addiction Recovery

05/02/201605/02/2016Leave a comment

It’s been the heartbeat of what we do at America’s Keswick for 118 soon to be 119 years. It is how our ministry started on September 27, 1897.

I hate addiction. Every day I hate it more and more. Sometimes I feel like we are casting a pebble in the ocean and question are we really making a difference.

Part of my frustration is because the enemy keeps upping the ante. 19 graduates have died since January 2015. Guys who were doing really well. Guys who decided to try a shot of heroin one more time.

Maybe they knew – maybe they were naïve. Heroin today is not like it was even two years ago. It’s dirty. It’s lethal. You don’t have a chance to get addicted. One injection = death!

I am tired of our government officials proclaiming concern over the drug problems in our country then turning around an legalizing the stuff to see more and more people than ever before.

Yesterday I heard a statistic that 17.5 million American’s are addicted to alcohol. And yet we joke about it – call ourselves legalists if we as believers choose not to drink socially.

The former Mayor of Philadelphia, decriminalized marijuana. Really? What that means is that you can have a small amount in your possession if you are caught without legal entanglements. Interesting. A famous drug Czar who served for several Presidents says that the marijuana on the streets today is five times more potent than it was 2 years ago. Connect the dots. Your smarter than most. The little you can have has five times more potency!!!

I am tired of getting calls about men who have committed suicide because they can’t handle their issues any more.

I am tired of seeing how addiction tears apart whole families.

IF I FOCUSED ON THE NEGATIVE – I WOULD RATHER BE FLIPPING BURGERS AT WENDY’S!!!

This value reminds why we exists and who we serve!!! The heart of the Keswick ministry is our addiction ministries. The conference ministry provides us the vehicle to raise the visibility of the addiction recovery ministries and tell the story of how God transforms lives.

So as long as God gives me breath and energy, I am going to keep fighting. I am going to keep us sharing the good news that Jesus Christ is the ONLY LASTING ANSWER to addiction. He wants to rescue, redeem and restore.

Am I discouraged? Sometimes. Am I hopeful! Absolutely. I have seen it work. I have seen it happen over and over in a man’s life and now, in the lives of women through Barbara’s Place.

But we need each other in this battle. Your prayers and financial support help us make a difference. On Saturday, May 7th, we have our Family Freedom Walk and our goal is to raise $50,000 towards the 1.5 million it costs to provide addiction recovery ministry at America’s Keswick.

Will you help me? You can call 800-453-7942 for information or visit our website at www.americaskeswick.org. Thanks for your consideration!

May God bless you.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 120; Proverbs 2

Daily Quote: “We can still see a difference in our churches and culture. Unless we decide not to pray. Unless we decide not to care. Unless we succumb to the enemy’s deceptions. God’s Word call to us across time, urging us to believe Him again for revival in our time.” ~From Living the Battle Plan

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him,
And saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the Lord encamps all around those who fear Him,
And delivers them. ~Psalm 34:6-7

In case you missed them:

God Qualifies the Unqualified

04/29/201604/28/2016Leave a comment

Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Peter. ~John 1:40-42

Today’s devotional is very personal and an idea I’ve struggled with my entire life. The idea of labels and identity, the “I am ______’s” of our lives. At a very early age we all start adding labels to our lives… as we grow some are changed and some are added by others.

Here is a quick list of some labels and identifiers either I’ve given myself, or I’ve been given by others…

Overweight
Driven
Dumb
Devoted
Afraid
Prideful
Failure
A liar
Shy
Creative
Uncompassionate
Caring
Intelligent
Helpful

Now out of this list, most are negative, some even contradict each other but most would be consider weaknesses.

The truth is we all have weaknesses. We call them hang ups, screw ups, mistakes, problems, sins, faults, inner demons and addictions. We all have them and it’s these labels that determine how we live our lives.

When it comes to my ministry here at Keswick I’ve always felt unqualified. Through any of the ministries I’ve been apart of here I’ve never felt educated, talented or experienced enough to complete the tasks God has placed me in.

All my labels and identifiers were crippling me and stealing the joy of me working in the Lord’s ministry.

Now, i’m not sure if Peter knowingly went through an internal crisis like this but he sure did live it. At the beginning of his faith in Christ he a was placed with a name he wasn’t qualified for. As many of you know the translation of Peter’s name is “rock.”

In Peter’s early ministry he has moments like, taking his eyes off Jesus on the water, letting himself be filled with emotion and slicing the ear off a man in the garden and even denying Christ three times at the crucifixion. None of those events sound very “rock” like (steady, never changing, faithful).

A few weeks ago I put a status up on my Facebook that said, “The first half of my twenties was discovering who I was and the second is now changing who I want to be.”

We all have a calling and a purpose but our own labels and identifiers can cripple us from doing the tasks God has called us too. God gives us all a name and identity we may not be ready for but one he will prepare us for. A name, that only through his truth and strength we can inherent.

So what do we do about these labels?

The first step is to truly understand who has the right to fill in your “I am _____’s”

A great analogy from a book I’ve been reading is one of the teacher…

While taking a test, most questions are formed in two ways, either multiple choice or “fill in the blank” questions.

There is no game of chance with “fill in the blank” type of questions, you either know the correct answer or you don’t. The only one who truly has the authority to fill in blanks is the teacher.

In Psalms 139 is says…

13 For you created my inmost being;

you knit me together in my mother’s womb.

14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

your works are wonderful,

I know that full well.

15 My frame was not hidden from you

when I was made in the secret place,

when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.

16 Your eyes saw my unformed body;

all the days ordained for me were written in your book

before one of them came to be.

17 How precious to me are your thoughts, God!

How vast is the sum of them!

If God has created me and designed me, even my inner most self, only he has the right to fill in our “I am ____’s” of our lives.

Secondly, we need to truly understand “how” God see’s us. This step is so incredibly important yet so easily misunderstood. God doesn’t love us because Jesus died for us. Jesus died for us because God loved us.

That means God loved me in my hang ups, screw ups, mistakes, problems, sins, faults, inner demons and addictions. So now that we understand that no one, including ourselves, have the right to fill in the “I am ____’s blanks, only God and that we truly understand how God loves us and views us, we can begin the process of discovering who we are in Christ.

In the life of Peter we see a man given a name he didn’t deserve, nor was he qualified to have. A name he had to grow into. Through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus, Peter recognized what Christ did for him and who he was in Him. Peter allowed Jesus to fill in his “I am _____’s” and qualify him for the work he predestined him for.

So what do we do?

First, we need to be brutally honest and ask ourselves what are the “ I am _____’s” we’ve either given ourselves or have been given to us.

Second, we need to ask what are the “I am _____’s” God has given us.

And lastly we need to truly understand who we are in Christ and allow him to work in us and through us even with our messes and weaknesses because that’s where his glory and power shine brightest.

We’ve all been given a name, and only he can qualify you to live it.

Written by Graeme Wilson: Graeme is the Director of Marketing at America’s Keswick and is passionate about coffee, technology and travel. You can email him at graemew@americaskeswick.org

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 120; Proverbs 29

Daily Quote:“I’ve read the last page of the Bible. It’s all going to turn out all right.” ~Billy Graham

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

We wait in hope for the Lord;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name. ~Psalm 33:20-21

Face Value

04/28/201604/27/2016Leave a comment

“But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s chains were unfastened.” ~Acts 16:26-27 (NASB)

The original reason for founding the town of Philippi was to control the gold mines that were nearby and to establish a military garrison under the rule of King Philip II of Macedon. Later on down the historical line some dudes named Mark Antony and Octavian confronted the assassins of Julius Caesar on a plain west of the city. After Marcus Junius Brutus and Gaius Cassius Longinus were defeated the city was reorganized into a Roman colony. When Octavian became Emperor and the Roman Senate gave him the title “Augustus”, the Praetorian Guard became part of the citizenry and a “Miniature Rome” was established. This miniature Rome was left abandoned by the Ottoman Empire sometime in the 14th century and it ain’t nuttin’ but ruins now.

Perfect back drop for one of the most infamous sayings ever to be found in the Bible, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved.” (Acts 16:30) Then comes another infamous saying, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you shall be saved, you and your household.” (Acts 16:31) A whole lotta stuff happened in Philippi while Paul and Silas were there. We meet a woman named Lydia. She is wealthy, owns a home and after her conversion turns that home into a meeting place of this first church plant in Macedonia. Lydia also becomes the patroness of Gospel messengers while they are in Philippi.

We also meet a slave girl who has a “Python spirit” that Paul casts out from her. This action ticks off those who have profit from her divination and these same people seize Paul and Silas and have them tossed into prison. The Charges? “The whole city is in an uproar because of these Jews!” they shouted to the city officials. They are teaching customs that are illegal for us Romans to practice.” (Acts 16:20-21) “Nough said!! They were stripped down, beaten with rods and thrown into the inner most of a Roman jail with their feet in stocks. So I guess after a while one gets in the mood to sing hymns of praise to God? Eh…why not?

This place musta been real heavy on Paul’s heart while he was in a prison in Rome because he writes them a letter that does nothing but pour out outrageous joy and encouragement. I can almost see the smile that Paul has on his face as this letter is being written, remembering them as babes in Christ, ink flowing. Kinda makes me wonder what has happened over the centuries to us believers, followers and doers of Christ. Are we smiling when we claim Jesus Christ as Savior? Are we smiling when we share Jesus as Savior? Are we smiling at all at the name of Jesus? Or are we like the Grinch who stole Christmas before he actually stole Christmas?

Well over the next moments of time (as long as it takes me I guess) I’ll be sharing with some insights I got from this really cool Bible Study I ran into by Charles Swindoll titled, “Maybe it’s time to Laugh Again: Experience Outrageous Joy”. It’s a study of Philippians and I’ll tell ya as of right now it’s kinda convicting. Just like there being 4 chapters in Philippians there are 4 embedded principles of joy we should be aware of:

1. Joy in living—Chapter 1

2. Joy in serving—Chapter 2

3. Joy in sharing—Chapter 3

4. Joy in resting—Chapter 4

So I hope you’ll be joining me as I dig into this study. Maybe you could get the study for yourself ($8.99 Kindle, $10.58 paperback from Amazon) and you could e-mail me your thoughts. (I might use them in my writing with your kind permission, of course). If ya can’t get the book but have a Bible e-mail your thoughts on joy right from the Scripture. Brothers I know that we get all crazy with saying “Every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess” but until then how about we put a smile on our face and increase its value because it shines for Jesus? After all, we should count it all a joy…Amen?

E-mail me at cphughes515@verizon.net

Written by Chris Hughes: Chris, a graduate of The Colony of Mercy (11-2003) is married with two adult children (you may remember them from summer staff) and serves on the Deacon Board at Trinity Alliance Church in Cologne NJ

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 119; Proverbs 28

Daily Quote: “Joy. You don’t see it very often nowadays. It’s certainly not in the newspapers or nightly news. It’s not even in many churches. Have you noticed the looks on the average Sunday morning crowd? One word comes to mind—grim. Rows of overcast faces forecast dreary to mildly depressing days, with little or no chance of any laughter.” ~Charles R. Swindoll

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

We wait in hope for the Lord;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name. ~Psalm 33:20-21

Fan Into Flame

04/27/201604/27/2016Leave a comment

“For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” ~2nd Timothy 1:6

Would you say that you have a person in your life that challenges you spiritually? Someone who makes you do things to a point of being uncomfortable.

You may be able to answer with a confident “yes I do” or you could be there thinking to yourself, “I don’t think so”. The first is easier to see the one who has laid his hand on you and sees the way you’ve been stretched. The later my not realize it but if we don’t have an obvious suiter God usually puts people in our life to “Fan into Flame” our gift from God. The problem with the less obvious is we tend to view these people as annoying or bothersome, even getting into conflict with them.

Paul, in this chapter of 2nd Timothy is Timothy’s obvious billow, he’s taken this young man and invested himself in Timothy to bring him up and keep him fresh. Paul seems to be addressing an issue of fear or a better word would be cowardice in Timothy. He isn’t teaching him a new thing, he is reminding him of what he already knows and in a sense “shaking off the dust”.

I wonder if we aren’t guilty of moving into more knowledge before we practice what we already know. Is it possible to have a fear of doing and instead of walking in what we already know we fear what it brings?

We sometimes get comfortable in our surroundings and forget what were called to do. That’s where the object of a person acting as a billow over a smoldering flame comes into play. We need those people who remind us what we already know and challenge us to act. The saying “familiarity breeds contempt” may be accurate here. It’s when we become so familiar with our surroundings that we lose respect for the gifts God has given us. Jesus has a lot to say about this in the Gospels regarding talents and minas.

The typical response when we are affected by fear is to react to our feelings and emotions which are usually wrong. Paul urges Timothy to “Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you” (vs. 13,14). He says in the previous verses that we don’t do this to earn anything with God but because of the testimony of Jesus “who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel” (vs.9,10).

So don’t let the fire go out, allow someone to be able to “Fan it Into Flame”. Amen!

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 118; Proverbs 27

Daily Quote:“Truth offends everyone outside its definitions. But the irony of truth is that the greater its potential for offense, the greater its potential for giving hope.” ~David Jeremiah

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

We wait in hope for the Lord;
he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice,
for we trust in his holy name. ~Psalm 33:20-21

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