Sow to Grow Part 2

Sow to Grow Part 2

Used in the context of sin, sowing and reaping is a worthwhile and necessary teaching. However, the emphasis in our lives should not be on reaping from sin, but reaping from doing good.

If we are doers of the Word, we will reap the results of that Word, which results in spiritual growth.

Galatians 6:7-10 NKJV
7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

1. We reap the same in kind as we sow.

Job 4:8 NKJV
8 Even as I have seen, Those who plow iniquity And sow trouble reap the same.

Matthew 7:2 NKJV
2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.

Luke 6:38 NKJV
38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Christ is telling us in Matthew 7 and in Luke 6 that we will reap how we sow and reap the kind we sow, and it will be measured back to us by the measure we use.

2. We reap in a different season than we sow.

Galatians 6:9 NKJV
9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

Matthew 5:43-47 NKJV
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet your brethren only, what do you do more than others? Do not even the tax collectors do so?

Galatians 6:10 NKJV
10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

3. We reap more than we sow.

The harvest is always greater than the seed planted. Why? Because God has set in motion the principle of multiple return.

4. We reap in proportion to what we sow.

The previous principle was God’s part; this law or principle is our part.

II Corinthians 9:6 NKJV
6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

5. We reap the full harvest of the good only if we persevere.

Sowing and reaping from doing good requires our ongoing attention.

Somehow we have this feeling that if we do things right, there should never be any problems.

I Corinthians 16:9 NKJV
9 For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.

Through these problems and difficulties, God seeks to work virtues into our lives: the virtues of patience, perseverance, and discipline in trusting Him when things aren’t going well.

God was working in Paul’s life. He left Paul in Rome to meditate, to reflect, and to produce some of his greatest epistles. It was during this time that he wrote Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.

Romans 5:3-4 NKJV
3 And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.

James 1:2-4 NKJV
2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. 4 But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

James 5:11 NKJV
11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

6. We cannot do anything about last year’s harvest, but we can do something about this year’s.

Philippians 3:13-15 NKJV
13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Therefore let us, as many as are mature, have this mind; and if in anything you think otherwise, God will reveal even this to you.

I’m forgetting the past. I’m not taking the bad of the past into my future.

1. We reap the same in kind as we sow.

2. We reap in a different season than we sow.

3. We reap more than we sow.

4. We reap in proportion to what we sow.

5. We reap the full harvest of the good only if we persevere and don’t lose heart.

6. We cannot do anything about last year’s harvest, but we can do something about this year’s.

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Sow To Grow part 1

Sow to Grow

Used in the context of sin, sowing and reaping is a worthwhile teaching. However, the emphasis in our lives should not be on reaping from sin, but reaping from doing good.

If we are doers of the Word, we will reap God’s best, which results in spiritual growth.

“What you feed grows and what you starve dies.”

Let’s make a choice today to feed biblical obedience and see our character and attitude grow, starving the prompting and desires of the flesh in the process.

Galatians 6:7 NKJV
7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.

Galatians 6:8 NKJV
8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.

Galatians 6:9 NKJV
9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.

James 5:7-8 NKJV
7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. 8 You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

James 5:11 NKJV
11 Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.

1. We reap the same in kind as we sow.

Job 4:8 NKJV
8 Even as I have seen, Those who plow iniquity And sow trouble reap the same.

If you are sowing good, you will reap good.

If you are sowing wrongdoing and evil, then you will reap wrongdoing and evil.

If we are sowing to the flesh, the sooner we stop and ask forgiveness, the sooner we stop reaping the harvest. The more we sow in the spiritual realm, the greater the harvest continues to be.

Ecclesiastes 10:8 NKJV
8 He who digs a pit will fall into it, And whoever breaks through a wall will be bitten by a serpent.

2. We reap in a different season than we sow.

Ecclesiastes 11:1 NKJV
1 Cast your bread upon the waters, For you will find it after many days.

The reaping comes, but it may just come in the next season.

Do deeds of kindness and goodness and they will return to you later in accordance with the laws and principles of sowing and reaping.

Galatians 6:10 NKJV
10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.

3. We reap more than we sow.

When we sow good, we receive in abundance from the hand of God who is debtor to no man, for the harvest is always greater than the seed planted. If this were not the case, no farmer would plant anything. Unfortunately, it is true for negative fleshly sowing as well.

I Kings 15:5 NKJV
5 because David did what was right in the eyes of the Lord , and had not turned aside from anything that He commanded him all the days of his life, except in the matter of Uriah the Hittite.

Most of David’s life was sowing good, not evil. As a result, God continued to bless many of the kings of Judah for many years for David’s sake.

If we are obeying God’s word and fulfilling His commandments, we will walk in more and more peace. If you choose the path of sin, you will grow more and more anxious in your life, which is a result of the absence of God’s peace.

4. We reap in proportion as we sow.

The previous principle was God’s part; this law or principle is our part.

God’s part is multiplying whatever seed is sown many times over.

Our part is sowing all the good we can.

II Corinthians 9:6 NKJV
6 But this I say: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.

Titus 3:8 NKJV
8 This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you to affirm constantly, that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable to men.

Luke 6:38 NKJV
38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Luke 6:38 NKJV
38 Give, and it will be given to you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over will be put into your bosom. For with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you.”

Proverbs 11:25 NKJV
25 The generous soul will be made rich, And he who waters will also be watered himself.

Ecclesiastes 5:10 NKJV
10 He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; Nor he who loves abundance, with increase. This also is vanity.

The emptiness inside of a man before salvation will never be satisfied by the empty things of this world.

There is not a thing that we can give to God that he has not first given to us.

His cup is always running over.
He does not just give a calf; it is a fatted calf.

The robe he puts on is the best robe.
The joy is unspeakable and full of glory.

The peace is that which passes understanding.

The love of God surpasses knowledge.
His grace is abundant.

All the Father wants from us is a heart that overflows with gratitude and does for others as we have received ourselves.

Making the Most of Your Mud

Making the Most of Your Mud

John 9:1-7 NIV
1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” 6 After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. 7 “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

I. Your Set Backs are Set Ups.

John 9:1-3 NIV
1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

2 Corinthians 4:4 NIV
4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

“but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.”

Romans 8:28 NIV
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

II. Your Savior is willing to Stoop

John 9:6 NIV
6 After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.

Genesis 2:7 NIV
7 Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.

Philippians 2:6-8 NIV
6 Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; 7 rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!

Mark 2:16-17 NIV
16 When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” 17 On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

John 3:16-17 NIV
16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

John 9:4 NIV
4 As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.

John 9:6 NIV
6 After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.

1. Just GO – He went…

When you’re comfortable where you are, it’s hard to be committed to where you belong.

2. Just DO – He washed…

3. Just BE – He came home seeing

John 9:8-11 NIV
8 His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” 10 “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. 11 He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.”

A Confession to Speak Over Your Nation

One nation under God. That’s who we are. With privilege becomes responsibility (Luke 12:48). With the tremendous freedoms we enjoy in the United States of America, we are also stewards in the eyes of God of this precious gift. We are called to contend for righteousness, to love truth and justice, and to be bold as lions. Because God has given free will and authority to His children, the key to victory in our nation lies with YOU.

Contending for our nation can be challenging and even overwhelming when looking into the face of so much evil. But we are not to give up; rather we are to run the race that is set before us knowing that when we run, we will not grow weary or faint.

Below is a confession to speak over your nation that you can declare in faith:

 

As a child of God and a citizen of the United States, I declare that we are a godly nation and established in righteousness. We are and will always be One Nation Under God. Our battle in this nation is not against flesh and blood, but against demonic authorities, powers and spiritual forces. As a steward of this nation, I take my spiritual authority over Satan and his forces as one who is now seated with Christ in heavenly places far above all rule and authority, power and dominion (Ephesians 1:21, 2:6).  Satan, you can’t have this country. It doesn’t belong to you; it belongs to God! 

 

In the Name of Jesus, I declare that our leaders—all across this nation, on every level—are making decisions that will lead our country in God’s ways and according to His Word.

 

I speak change to the politics of our nation—that voices of influence are changing to speak in agreement with the Word of God. Those who oppose God are being replaced with those who follow Him. Those who promote sin and unrighteousness in government, schools, media and entertainment are being replaced with those who will promote godly, biblical principles. 

 

Christians are coming forward—speaking as boldly as lions for what is right and against what is wrong. I call abortion dethroned, dismantled and deactivated in the Name of Jesus. I declare that life-giving pregnancy centers are opening at a record pace, and Planned Parenthood centers are closing their doors to evil, death and destruction.

 

I call the foundations of marriage restored in the Name of Jesus. Perverse ideas and lifestyles will no longer be glorified, but there will be a celebration of truth, righteousness and strong, healthy families.

 

I declare today that Christians are voting in record numbers, influencing our culture for good, being faithful stewards, and serving as light in a dark world. I declare that those who are called to the seven mountains of influence in our culture are hearing and answering the call like never before. 

 

Christians are rising to the top of businesses in record numbers—promoting godliness without fear and giving of their resources to those in need like a cup of cold water in Jesus’ Name.

 

I declare that the greatest awakening this world has ever seen is here! Miracles, signs, wonders, gifts, and demonstrations of the Holy Spirit and power are in strong operation in the Church. Believers everywhere are unified in the love, power and glory of Jesus’ Name for the good of our nation and proliferation of the gospel all over the world.

 

I call the United States of America one nation under God, serving God, honoring God and glorifying God in all things. Jesus is LORD over America!

 

When you speak this confession over your nation in faith, you are taking an important spiritual step toward seeing victory! Keep praying, keep confessing, keep voting and most of all—keep standing in faith for America.

Whom Should You Vote For? How to Choose the Right Candidate

When it comes to elections, do you often find yourself puzzled as to whom you should vote for? Do you even consider not voting? Well, we have a biblical responsibility to be good stewards of all God has given us—including our government. So, that means participating in the voting process is not optional, but who we select is up to us.

However, as Christians, this can be challenging at times—often leaving us with one question: Who should I vote for?

There are many times when none of the choices seem to be a perfect fit, but here’s something important to remember: Your vote for one candidate is not a proclamation of your full faith in that person. Instead, it’s a decision to honor God with good stewardship. No matter who is on the ballot, we will always be choosing between two fallen sinners. As Christians, we should be voting for people who will best represent and uphold biblical values.

So, whom should you vote for and how can you choose the right candidate? Below are some helpful tips to help:

 

1. Vote the platform, not the person. Each political party has a platform that describes what it believes and what direction it wants to move the country. Each candidate will try to meet his or her party’s goals. While some elections present better candidates than others, our job is to evaluate each major party platform, determine which most closely represents biblical values, and vote for that candidate out of obedience and honor to God’s Word.

For an official outline of the Democratic, Republican and Libertarian party platforms, click here.

 

2. Research the candidates’ stances on important biblical issues. When you find that you have several choices within the same platform, how can you narrow your choice down even further? The best way to foresee how a candidate will vote is to research and examine their record. Has this person voted to protect the sanctity of human life, traditional marriage and religious rights? Or have they voted against biblical values, or even remained silent? The evidence is in their former actions, so be sure to do your homework!

Find voter guides at christianvoterguide.com, ivoter.com or ivoterguide.

 

3. Guard against worldly influences. The news media and other voices from every corner will try to influence you and draw you in a direction away from the Spirit of God. Cleverly designed commercials and ideas abound on your television screen, but you can choose to turn them off and, instead, tune in to the voice of the Lord.

Don’t let the enemy bring a spirit of confusion into your God-ordained right and responsibility to impact our political process for righteousness. Take a stand, be a voice, and be a good steward of the government God has given you. Base your decision on the Word of God ONLY—not your neighbor, your mom, your friends or your favorite television stars. There is only one right way—God’s way.

 

4. Pray for the election and those in authority. During the election, and thereafter, we are called to pray for those in authority, according to 1 Timothy 2:1-2. That doesn’t mean only pray for those you like or agree with—it means pray for all who are in authority.

Don’t wait until election time is upon us before you start seeking God for whom to vote. Start praying now about the coming elections. Whether they are small local elections or major national elections, remember to pray for them regularly.

Then, ask God to grant you wisdom in choosing the candidate that will best represent biblical values. Be sure that your decision is Spirit-led, rather than driven by emotion or media influences. Thank the Spirit of God for His wisdom concerning for whom to vote. Thank Him for giving you His wisdom about what to say and when to say it to others. Thank Him for giving you wisdom to declare the Name of Jesus and declare that this shall be a God-indwelt, God-ordained, God-overseen administration.

When you vote the platform and candidates who best align with God’s Word, avoid secular influences, and pray for elections and those in authority, you will choose the right candidate every time. Maybe not the perfect candidate—but the right one. Be a good steward of the election process, then pray and believe for God’s supernatural touch on our nation. He says when we humble ourselves and pray…He will heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14)!

The Nation God Blesses

The Nation God Blesses

Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance. Psalm 33:12

God blesses a nation because of its prayers, not its power. He blesses a nation because of its character, not its commerce. He blesses a nation because of its trust in Him, not its advanced technology. God blesses a nation because of its fear of the Lord, and not its fear of man. God blesses a nation who loves God and expresses that love in caring for the impoverished and diseased. God blesses a nation because of His church, not the size of that nation’s economy. Prosperity may be the result of a God-fearing nation, but it is not the cause. People believe in God when they get enough of themselves and realize there has to be more to this life than simply meeting their every need. God blesses a nation when individuals gather corporately in vibrant Christian worship; and the church is God’s means to awaken a nation.

Nations who try to control the church lose God’s blessing. God’s blessing cannot be governed. Every time government intercedes to manage faith, the faithful become more marginalized. Countries that restrict church competition and rely on a state-church monopoly miss the mark. The church is meant to be released to restore the ravished character of culture. Christians are “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-14) in the midst of decayed and darkened nations. When believers gather together in a bond of love, they create a thirst for righteousness and shed light on the ways of the Lord.

Wise nations encourage competition among churches. Freedom of religion feeds faithfulness in God. God expects His church to grow and engage with the culture. This is how He changes a nation. When countries have church choices, they can compare what is best for their families. A church that drifts into irrelevance and isolation is of little concern to Satan. He wants religion to come across as ambiguous and antiquated. Churches that are alive and well serve a mighty and compassionate Christ. These types of trusting institutions make a difference in their communities. A church that is alive and growing becomes a catalyst for good things. Indeed, God blesses nations where the church is allowed to compete. Stewardship trumps entitlement. Sick churches are not kept alive by outside funding. They either change or close. God blesses nations when His bride’s worship is alive, engaging, and relevant.

Therefore, avoid churches where membership is just a status symbol. Attend church where God is loved and feared, and worship where you see the Lord high and lifted up. Soak up the teachings of the Bible that transform your life. Band together with a group of believers who are disciples and who disciple others in the faith. Choose a body of believers where the character lessons you teach your children at home converge with their small group lessons on Sunday. If church is not working for you, then pray to find one that works best in this season of life.

God blesses nations who humbly seek Him. “…if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Prayer: Dear Lord, lead us as a nation to repent and seek You, Your forgiveness and Your blessing, so we can be a blessing to other nations.

Application: What is one way can I grow in my character and become a more responsible citizen?

Related Readings: Proverbs 11:11; Jeremiah 22:2–25; Matthew 12:21; Romans 16:25–27

Seeking God through Prayer

Weekly Overview:

Learning to seek the face of God is the foundation for experiencing the amazing life Jesus died to give us. We have available to us through Christ all the wonders, excellencies, and satisfaction we can fathom. God has granted us grace upon grace, mercy upon mercy, affection upon affection, and love upon love. When we pursue him through all the avenues available to us, a door is opened in which we discover all our heavenly Father longs to give us. May you grow in your pursuit of God this week as we study various ways we’ve been given to seek his face.

Worship

Find Me | Jonathan David Helser

The fact that God listens to us as his children changes the landscape of prayer from empty phrases uttered into the abyss to direct communication with the Creator and Sustainer of all. When you pray you are heard by your heavenly Father. And it’s because he listens to us that prayer is one of the most wonderful and powerful avenues to pursue him. May we learn to dialogue in greater ways with our heavenly Father as we open our hearts to all he would show us today about prayer.

Matthew 6:7-8 says, “And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Jesus inaugurated an entirely new perspective on prayer. Prior to Jesus, God’s people would pray out of obligation or ritual, begging a seemingly distant God to move on their behalf. Jesus taught that God knows our needs before we even ask. He taught that God is a good Father who longs to respond to the needs of his children. And in John 15:7 he taught, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” God’s desire is to respond favorably to our prayers. He always has our absolute best in mind and longs to satisfy the desires of our hearts.

The key to effective communication with God is first to trust that he is a good Father who listens and longs to answer the prayers of his children. After gaining proper perspective, we need to spend significant time allowing God to fill us with his desires for us, fashioning our hearts into a reflection of his. God will not give you what he knows is less than his best. Rather, he longs to fill you with a desire for what is best for you, then come along and satisfy that desire in magnificent and miraculous ways as you pray.

Jeremiah 33:3 says, “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” When you call out to your heavenly Father, trust that he will answer you. He longs to fill you with the knowledge and desire for his will. He longs to speak with you. You can have his heart and know how he feels. The Holy Spirit who dwells within you longs to reveal to you the perfect plans of your heavenly Father.

Spend time in prayer listening for the heartbeat of God and allowing him to fill you with the knowledge of his will.

1. Meditate on God’s purposes for prayer. Allow Scripture to fill you with trust and faith in your God’s ability to both listen and speak to you.

“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” Matthew 6:7-8

“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” John 15:7

“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” John 10:27

2. Ask the Spirit to fill you with a knowledge of God’s desires for you.Where do you need God’s wisdom? What part of your life doesn’t seem to be marked by the work of God? Where do you need peace, joy, and purpose?

“Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” Jeremiah 33:3

“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his saints; but let them not turn back to folly.” Psalm 85:8

3. Pray in accordance with God’s will.Pray with boldness after you discover God’s heart for your need, knowing that he hears you and will respond to your prayer perfectly.

In his book, Power through Prayer, E. M. Bounds shares incredible wisdom on a lifestyle of prayer. May his words guide you into a deeper connection with your heavenly Father today:

The men who have done the most for God in this world have been early on their knees. He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuits than seeking God will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day. If God is not first in our thoughts and efforts in the morning, He will be in the last place the remainder of the day.

Extended Reading: Matthew 6

Here are 8 Freedoms to Thank God for This Independence Day

The Declaration of Independence was adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, and announced the separation of the thirteen American colonies from Great Britain. With this, a new nation was formed—the United States of America. History verifies Thomas Jefferson as the composer of the original draft. Once completed, Jefferson submitted his draft to Benjamin Franklin and John Adams for their changes. Eventually, it made its final destination to Congress where it was amended for the last time. Today, we see in its detailed wording why Congress was declaring independence from Great Britain.

The most quoted line from the Declaration is “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Our forefathers were declaring they not only deserved freedom, but were willing to continue fighting for it.

Freedom is a great definition of independence, as it is the result of the choices we make in our life. The power of choice is one of the greatest freedoms we have in our country, and knowing where to find it is important, as we see in Proverbs 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth comes knowledge and understanding.” Let’s review eight freedoms we should all celebrate this July 4th.

1. The freedom to believe

Our country continues to serve as a magnet for oppressed individuals who come to the USA for an opportunity to capture their dreams. Many dream for a good job, food, and shelter for their family. But our government should not be relied upon as the only resource to replace our faith in a God “who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 6:17).

2. The freedom to live out our faith

In some countries the mention of serving God or his son means instant death. Our forefathers recognized the creator through their extension of certain God-given rights in the Declaration of Independence. Our faith is the most important of all, as it gives us the foundation and assurance that God is in control of a world in chaos. When life seems out of control, seek the source of all creation — God. He will provide peace in the midst of all your life’s storms.

3. The freedom to worship

We are allowed the choice to worship in any way we desire. God created us for fellowship. Our individual gifts are stronger when they are joined with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Sadly, statistics show worship attendance is in a decline as more people choose a life of independence which ultimately leads to a life of solitude. Choose today to ask God to direct you to a community in which to be involved. He will direct you to “give and receive“ as needed.

4. The freedom of prayer

Self-reliance is an American lifestyle demanded and respected in numerous circles. Just as this can be seen as a strength, it can also be a tremendous weakness when it leads us to put God on the sidelines of our life, and call upon him only when we need his rescue. In personal times of self-reliance, I sometimes take on an image of seeing myself as “God-like” which results in my placing other gods before him, namely the god of “Me.” By choosing to submit our requests to God in prayer we are making the choice to live out the faith to which he calls us.

5. The freedom to have a say in government

In the last Presidential election over 30 million professed Christians did not vote. We must recognize in our nation every vote does count, as issues such as mixed marriage, abortion, social services, and taxes continue to create further divisiveness. Our nation was founded on God, yet we continue to chip away at God’s sovereign place of authority through the decisions continually implemented by the Senate, Congress, and Judicial branches. As a body of believers, we must call sin what it is and stand united as we cast our votes through God’s divine wisdom and direction.

6. The freedom of speech

Free speech is one of the most sacred rights enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, and truly, all the others flow from it. We are guaranteed the right to speak openly and publicly about our opinions, beliefs, and faith. And like many of the other freedoms, it’s easy to take this one for granted. This is also an extremely important freedom when it comes to preaching the Gospel. We are blessed to live in a country in which evangelism is not only tolerated, but protected in our founding documents.

7. The freedom to petition the government

The freedom to petition the government is guaranteed in the First Amendment to the Constitution. This freedom includes having the right to collect signatures on a petition, to engage in lobbying activities, and to protest government leaders if they do something with which we disagree.

One way the freedom to petition the government has been explained is as follows: “A more simple definition of the right to petition, is ‘the right to present requests to the government without punishment or reprisal.'”

8. The freedom to pursue happiness

If you notice in the Declaration, one of the rights it defines is “the pursuit of happiness.” Galatians 5:22 says we can have real joy in our life as we walk in the Holy Spirit. We don’t have to pursue happiness; rather we can choose to live it out in the Spirit. This allows us to receive what we richly deserve. So what about the disease, divorce, death and disappointment we may receive along life’s journey? Paul summarizes our responsibility well: “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed” (1 Peter 4:12-13).

People Pleasing or Pleasing People?

People Pleasing or Pleasing People? 

Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. 1 Corinthians 10:24

Those who know me well know I used to be a huge people pleaser. I would be amiss if I told you I have completely defeated this bad habit, but I’ve come so far and for this, I am very grateful to God.  

As a child, I learned that through people pleasing (being nice), I could avoid rejection which is what I feared the most. As a young woman, I carried this fear into adulthood and people pleasing defined me.

Recently, as I was reading Scripture, I came across a verse that reminded me of the difference between people pleasing and pleasing people. God wants us to avoid the first and do the second. You might be thinking, “Wait a minute. We’re supposed to please people?” Yes, indeed.

In Romans 15:2 it says: “Each of us should please his neighbor, for his good and to build him up.”

People pleasing is often rooted in fear, but pleasing people is rooted in love. If you are doing something for someone and it’s not building them up, and it’s not for their good but for your comfort, perhaps instead of pleasing them to help them become more of the person God has created them to be, you’re pacifying or enabling them—or like I used to do, you’re hoping to avoid rejection or their anger.

The goal of the kind of pleasing Paul is talking about is to protect from evil, to demonstrate love, and to serve in a God-honoring way that builds up someone and points them to Christ. This type of pleasing is sacrificial. It’s not about being a pushover. It’s not about fear. It’s about the advancement of holiness in the life of the one we seek to please. And, it’s pleasing that was modeled for us by Jesus.

In Romans 15:3 it says, “For even Christ did not please himself.” Jesus is the perfect example of self-sacrifice. He desired our good rather than his own so much that he was willing to die on the cross to bring us great pleasure, now and in the afterlife.

In the days ahead, ask yourself, “Am I people pleasing out of fear or am I pleasing out of a heart of love?”

“. . . in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (Philippians 2:3a-4).

 

Prayer: Lord, help me to please you by pleasing others out of a heart of love. Show me how I can do this today. Amen.

Application: Make a list of how you can serve the most important person in your life today by pleasing them. As you make your list, consider if each item on your list will build them up and help them become more like Jesus.

Related Readings: Romans 14:19; Philippians 2:4-5; 1 Corinthians 9:19-22; Philippians 2:8

A God Fearing People Imitate the Faith of God Fearing Leaders

A God Fearing People Imitate the Faith of God Fearing Leaders 

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:7-8

Will we follow the faith of our nation’s founding fathers or will we cower to the smug elites who delight in satirizing our faith in Christ? Better to become like our leaders who made America great by their goodness, great by their gumption and great by their love of country—than be shamed by those who deride religion as a sham. Our pluralistic society can experience a unified spirit with humility, respect for one another and faith in Holy God.

Our nation’s soul is experiencing a crisis of faith in God. Once a God-fearing country, we have traded our faith in the Almighty for faith in ourselves. Once a country of engaging neighbors, we have isolated our homes from human contact and snuggled up by ourselves with our phones. When we do interact with people, we talk about the nasty other people. Can we let go of the need to feel superior and instead respect those different from ourselves? The Lord’s love is long-suffering toward all, so can we give up the self serving sport of cowardly name calling? Love is patient.

The writer of Hebrews gives us a solution to those who seek our culture’s systemic extermination of faith in God. Consider the outcomes of the lives of the faithful who went before us; faith that took the gospel of Jesus Christ all across this great land, so love of God and love of fellow man became as common as a chicken in every pot. Faith that fought for freedom at home and abroad. Faith that pioneered space exploration, railroads, interstates and air travel. Faith that survived a depression and multiple recessions. Faith that embraced religious liberty and racial equality.

“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose” (Philippians 2:1-2).

Most of all we need faith in Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday and today and forever. Christ is the only constant who never disappoints, but surprises us with His joy. The joy of our salvation in Him. The joy of our strength from Him. The joy of our forgiveness He modeled on the cross. When Jesus Christ is lifted up within a confused culture, He brings clarity of purpose. When Christ is central in a polarized government, He brings reconciliation. When Jesus is a friend to those who have hurt each other, He brings healing. The constant grace of Christ is our constant.

If we can survive a Civil War, by God’s grace we can survive a civil cultural war. But if we continue to be uncivil in our discourse and treatment of each other, the foundation of our nation’s faith in God will continue to crumble. Will you become part of the solution by praying for those who treat you with disdain? Will you seek to serve others, instead of demanding to be served? And will you examine your heart and honestly ask if you have surrendered your life to faith in God through Jesus Christ? We can thrive united or we can barely survive divided.

Nations who respect faith in God experience His favor, but those who thumb their noses at their need for a Savior experience the Lord’s discipline. Faith unites us around our Savior Jesus!

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life” (John 3:14-15). “But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself” (John 12:32).

Prayer: Heavenly Father, unite us around faith in You, so we might work together in Your name, in Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Application: Who can I befriend who is not a friend of God?

Related Readings: Psalm 133:1; John 17:23; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Romans 15:5-8; Colossians 2:2