As a kid growing up, I remember seeing the juggler who would spin plates. They would place an individual plate on a thin stick and spin it; then repeat this process over and over. Periodically they had to return to a previous plate and give it an extra spin to keep them from falling off the stick. So the idea was to see how many plates they could keep spinning before one fell and broke.
Do you ever feel like this juggler? We all have our plates: jobs (sometimes multiple plates here), spouses, kids, friends, spirituality, hobbies and the list goes on. It seems our lives can get to the place we are running from plate to plate, giving it just enough to keep it spinning, then run to the next one. Unfortunately, there is a limit to how many plates we can spin and how long we can keep spinning. How do you know those limits? It is when the plate falls and breaks.
One of the first plates that usually breaks is our spiritual relationship; we find that we are either do not “have” time or are too tired. Matthew 13, Jesus speaks the parable of the sower. In this story, seed is sown on four types of soil: hard, stony, thorny and good. The applicable part to us now is the thorny soil. It states that the seed begins to grow, but then thorns grow around it and choke it out. In verse 22, Jesus gives the insights of this scenario: The seed is the word of God (consider it our spirituality) and he defines the thorns as “the cares of life” and the “deceitfulness of riches.”
The application could be something like this; the “cares of life” are the “things” we are busy doing just to live. They are not necessarily evil or sin, but the are so time consuming they produce pressure or stress on us. It is the never ending list of social engagements, the multiple practices for various sports or arts performances, the non-stop business meetings we believe are necessary, and the list goes on and on. Add to this the laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning the house, yard work, car maintenance etc. All these add up to the care or weight of daily living.
The “deceitfulness of riches” are the wealth and “things” we think we need to possess. We ceaselessly pursue them because we believe they will some how satisfy, complete or fulfill who we are. (Now i know we may not say this, but it is really what we think deep down.) In fact there is a whole industry that their purpose is to show us how we are not complete unless drive certain cars, wear the right clothes, use the latest technology, drink or eat the “in” foods or use the certain cosmetics or personal hygiene products.
What makes these deceitful, is that we think we need them (we rationalize) and once they are obtained, the expected fulfillment is short lived, so we move on to the next. We are always pursuing that mirage on the horizon.
Jesus warns that these two things choke out our spirituality because they become the focus of our daily lives. The consume our time, energy and focus, leaving us at the end of the day, maybe even a life, exhausted and empty.
The answer - reevaluate our purpose. Refocus on Him and His purpose. When you are in alignment with what He created you for, you can learn to say no. You will not be consumed with the mundane of life and your fulfillment or completeness will come from Him.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Monday, March 9, 2009
The Captivity Of Thoughts
Thoughts are powerful things: they can be liberating and empowering, or limiting and demoralizing.
A common story told regarding the captivating power of thoughts is that of the training of elephants. As it goes, young elephants are taken and using heavy chains are tethered to stakes driven deep into the ground. The young elephant continually pulls and struggles against the chain, eventually giving up and “learning” it cannot get free. Once this has happened, even as a full-grown elephant, it can be tethered with a rope and stake because the elephant “believes” they cannot get free.
We find the same process happens in our lives when God sends us illumination of His kingdom and it’s power. We have a series of thoughts that affect how we process this illumination; unfortunately, many times these thoughts limit what God desires to do with in us.
What is the source of these limiting thoughts? They are from the traditions of men. Speaking of the effects of the Pharisee’s’ teachings, Jesus said they were “nullifying and making void and of no effect [the authority of] the Word of God through your tradition, which you [in turn] hand on” (MK 7:13 AMP). They were nullifying the authority of the Word of God. Now how can that happen? Isn’t God’s word all-powerful? Yet they were rendering it useless. The key to grasping this is in the word “traditions.”
The word used for traditions is paradosis and means “giving over, giving up, surrender.”* It derived from paradidoomi which according to Thayer’s means: “to give into the hands (of another),” “to give over into (one's) power or use.” This word is used 121x and in 100 of them it us used in the negative sense of taking or handing over into captivity.
So the principle here is that the traditions of men create thought processes that take us into captivity. This captivity of thoughts, prevent us from see the truth or illumination of the Word of God, thus limiting its effectiveness in our lives.
*For more about the definition of tradition see blog “What Stops Us From Being Apostolic?” our book Apostolic Authority, Every Believer’s Privilege.
A common story told regarding the captivating power of thoughts is that of the training of elephants. As it goes, young elephants are taken and using heavy chains are tethered to stakes driven deep into the ground. The young elephant continually pulls and struggles against the chain, eventually giving up and “learning” it cannot get free. Once this has happened, even as a full-grown elephant, it can be tethered with a rope and stake because the elephant “believes” they cannot get free.
We find the same process happens in our lives when God sends us illumination of His kingdom and it’s power. We have a series of thoughts that affect how we process this illumination; unfortunately, many times these thoughts limit what God desires to do with in us.
What is the source of these limiting thoughts? They are from the traditions of men. Speaking of the effects of the Pharisee’s’ teachings, Jesus said they were “nullifying and making void and of no effect [the authority of] the Word of God through your tradition, which you [in turn] hand on” (MK 7:13 AMP). They were nullifying the authority of the Word of God. Now how can that happen? Isn’t God’s word all-powerful? Yet they were rendering it useless. The key to grasping this is in the word “traditions.”
The word used for traditions is paradosis and means “giving over, giving up, surrender.”* It derived from paradidoomi which according to Thayer’s means: “to give into the hands (of another),” “to give over into (one's) power or use.” This word is used 121x and in 100 of them it us used in the negative sense of taking or handing over into captivity.
So the principle here is that the traditions of men create thought processes that take us into captivity. This captivity of thoughts, prevent us from see the truth or illumination of the Word of God, thus limiting its effectiveness in our lives.
*For more about the definition of tradition see blog “What Stops Us From Being Apostolic?” our book Apostolic Authority, Every Believer’s Privilege.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Stinkin' Thinkin'
“Think you can, think you can’t. Either way you are probably right” is a statement that has been attributed to Henry Ford. The profound truth of this statement is that our thoughts either liberate or imprison us. This truth is applicable to all areas of our lives: relationships, education, careers, hobbies and spirituality. How I think, will determine my level or intensity of engagement: am I capable or incapable? Worthy or unworthy?
Limiting thoughts or beliefs produce strongholds that dictate our lifestyles. These strongholds are carefully crafted arguments that are used to justify or support our underlying limiting beliefs. Each time something happens that supports one of these arguments; it is adding another brick to the walls of our stronghold, further solidifying the “truth” of the underlying belief.
One arena where strongholds are so prevalent is within “the church.” Much of Christianity is built around a certain set of beliefs that are considered sacred and unchangeable. These strongholds affect the way we do church and includes such things as service structure, type of music, programs of ministry and organizational structure. The unfortunate aspect is that many of these beliefs are the traditions of men and not the truth of the Word of God.
To me it is interesting that Jesus first message was “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt 4:17). The word here “repent” means to “think differently.” Jesus came to a society stifled with a system of religious legalistic conduct: his first words were to change your thinking.
It is my opinion that today, the Jesus is still proclaiming the same message: “Repent, change your thinking because the Kingdom of heaven is here!” It is His desire for us to dismantle the strongholds of limitations and step into the dominion He has provided for His people.
For a more detailed discussion of the limits of tradition, see chapter 2 of Apostolic Authority, Every Believer's Privilege. It can be ordered from Apostolic Missions Inc.
Limiting thoughts or beliefs produce strongholds that dictate our lifestyles. These strongholds are carefully crafted arguments that are used to justify or support our underlying limiting beliefs. Each time something happens that supports one of these arguments; it is adding another brick to the walls of our stronghold, further solidifying the “truth” of the underlying belief.
One arena where strongholds are so prevalent is within “the church.” Much of Christianity is built around a certain set of beliefs that are considered sacred and unchangeable. These strongholds affect the way we do church and includes such things as service structure, type of music, programs of ministry and organizational structure. The unfortunate aspect is that many of these beliefs are the traditions of men and not the truth of the Word of God.
To me it is interesting that Jesus first message was “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt 4:17). The word here “repent” means to “think differently.” Jesus came to a society stifled with a system of religious legalistic conduct: his first words were to change your thinking.
It is my opinion that today, the Jesus is still proclaiming the same message: “Repent, change your thinking because the Kingdom of heaven is here!” It is His desire for us to dismantle the strongholds of limitations and step into the dominion He has provided for His people.
For a more detailed discussion of the limits of tradition, see chapter 2 of Apostolic Authority, Every Believer's Privilege. It can be ordered from Apostolic Missions Inc.
Monday, February 16, 2009
God's Understudy
In the world of theater, most of us are familiar with the understudy. This is the individual who is to learn a particular role and be prepared to step up and replace the main actor if necessary.
There is another definition of understudy, it is: one who is trained to do the work of another. To me, this concept goes well with the biblical idea of image and representation.
Representation: the action or fact of one person standing for another so as to have the rights and obligations of the person represented Miriam Webster On line Dictionary
Adam, as the image of God, was to act as His representative to creation. Adam was to stand in for God, if you will, in regards to the interaction with creation. Doing such, Adam was given the same basic rights as God.
For instance, God brought the animals to Adam for him to name them. In the biblical sense, naming was a demonstration of authority over something. So Adam was exercising a God given authority when he spoke the names of the animals. Which brings us to the next point: how did Adam demonstrate this authority from God? He spoke.
In the creation process, God exercised his power by speaking; “let there be” and it happened. As God’s representative (standing in with the same rights) Adam exercised his God given authority by acting just like God did – he spoke it.
In Gen 2:19 tell us “and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.” The idea here is more than just what they were called, but it is a defining of them. In the original text, “the name there of” is one word and it speaks of being placed in a conspicuous position, a brand or putting something in its place. By speaking, Adam defined or established the identity of these animals; he was acting as God’s representative.
Being born again, we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us, Col 3:10, therefore our responsibility is the manifestation and the representation of the one who created us. We are to make Him real and have been authorized to act on His behalf in this world. This is the essence of apostolic authority: we have been sent by Jesus to operate by His authority to continue His purpose(Jn 17:18).
Paul tells us in 2 Cor 5:18-20, that we have been given the “ministry” & “word of reconciliation.” It is our privilege and responsibility to represent the Kingdom of heaven and affect the reconciliation of man to God. It is when we are actively involved in this purpose, we will see the power of the Kingdom revealed in our lives.
There is another definition of understudy, it is: one who is trained to do the work of another. To me, this concept goes well with the biblical idea of image and representation.
Representation: the action or fact of one person standing for another so as to have the rights and obligations of the person represented Miriam Webster On line Dictionary
Adam, as the image of God, was to act as His representative to creation. Adam was to stand in for God, if you will, in regards to the interaction with creation. Doing such, Adam was given the same basic rights as God.
For instance, God brought the animals to Adam for him to name them. In the biblical sense, naming was a demonstration of authority over something. So Adam was exercising a God given authority when he spoke the names of the animals. Which brings us to the next point: how did Adam demonstrate this authority from God? He spoke.
In the creation process, God exercised his power by speaking; “let there be” and it happened. As God’s representative (standing in with the same rights) Adam exercised his God given authority by acting just like God did – he spoke it.
In Gen 2:19 tell us “and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.” The idea here is more than just what they were called, but it is a defining of them. In the original text, “the name there of” is one word and it speaks of being placed in a conspicuous position, a brand or putting something in its place. By speaking, Adam defined or established the identity of these animals; he was acting as God’s representative.
Being born again, we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us, Col 3:10, therefore our responsibility is the manifestation and the representation of the one who created us. We are to make Him real and have been authorized to act on His behalf in this world. This is the essence of apostolic authority: we have been sent by Jesus to operate by His authority to continue His purpose(Jn 17:18).
Paul tells us in 2 Cor 5:18-20, that we have been given the “ministry” & “word of reconciliation.” It is our privilege and responsibility to represent the Kingdom of heaven and affect the reconciliation of man to God. It is when we are actively involved in this purpose, we will see the power of the Kingdom revealed in our lives.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Get Real!
There are many theologies and philosophies in the world that men ascribe to. Wars have been initiated and continue to be propagated over these various beliefs. It is interesting to note, however, that many of these ideologies have overlapping “truths” which ultimately become confusing to the “outsiders.” A frequent comment of individuals is “How do you know that is true?” That is an honest question. Usually, the reply to this is rhetoric of “sacred” words that the adherent believes would convince the other of the “rightness” of their ideology: which to many brings more confusion. How is one to know?
Image
Adam was created in the image of God: Jesus came as the visible image of an invisible God; and we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us. The common thread here is God is seeking an image of Himself to reveal creation. This idea of image has two concepts contained within its definition; the first one I want to address here and that is manifestation.
Manifest: to provide evidence for, stand as proof of, to make to appear distinctly
Since God is a spirit and does not have flesh and bone, from the beginning of creation He has sought a way to make Himself distinctly apparent. It has been His idea for us to have an intimate and obvious relationship with him. Unfortunately, the self –willed actions of Adam forfeited this privilege: thus Jesus and his purpose. Now it is up to you and I, the church, His body to continue the manifestation of God to the world.
However, we find the weakness of modern Christianity is that we have not made our King and his kingdom distinctly evident or plain from other beliefs. We are good and theological rhetoric, but short on manifestation.
Making Jesus evident or distinct is not about our buildings, programs or size (although there is nothing inherently wrong with them) it is about presenting Him in a way that is distinct from other ideologies.
Jesus came authentically, shaking up the religious thinkers of his day. He went beyond a religious check list and demonstrated an authentic truth of a love relationship. Everywhere he went, things happened. We see such things as:
As born again believer’s we are to continue the manifestation of Jesus. We have been sent* into the world with the same commission as Jesus (Jn 17:18, 20:21). We are told we will do greater works than what He did (Jn 14:21). It is by our actions that God is glorified (Mt 5:16). Our purpose for being renewed in the image of God is to make him plainly real to a world in darkness. This requires putting our words into action, placing some skin our theology.
Food for thought: How are you proving He is real?
*sent: this is from the Greek apostello (ap-os-tel'-lo;; set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively: (Strongs). This is the word that apostolos is derived from which is translated apostle. These two words form the basis for our presentation of the concepts of apostolic authority. See blog Defining Apostolic
Image
Adam was created in the image of God: Jesus came as the visible image of an invisible God; and we have been renewed after the image of the one who created us. The common thread here is God is seeking an image of Himself to reveal creation. This idea of image has two concepts contained within its definition; the first one I want to address here and that is manifestation.
Manifest: to provide evidence for, stand as proof of, to make to appear distinctly
Since God is a spirit and does not have flesh and bone, from the beginning of creation He has sought a way to make Himself distinctly apparent. It has been His idea for us to have an intimate and obvious relationship with him. Unfortunately, the self –willed actions of Adam forfeited this privilege: thus Jesus and his purpose. Now it is up to you and I, the church, His body to continue the manifestation of God to the world.
However, we find the weakness of modern Christianity is that we have not made our King and his kingdom distinctly evident or plain from other beliefs. We are good and theological rhetoric, but short on manifestation.
Making Jesus evident or distinct is not about our buildings, programs or size (although there is nothing inherently wrong with them) it is about presenting Him in a way that is distinct from other ideologies.
Jesus came authentically, shaking up the religious thinkers of his day. He went beyond a religious check list and demonstrated an authentic truth of a love relationship. Everywhere he went, things happened. We see such things as:
- fellowshipping with sinners
- commuting death sentences (woman in adultery)
- touching the outcasts of society (lepers)
- visiting the least popular in the neighborhood (tax collectors)
- demons were cast out
- sick were healed
- dead brought back to life
- his dream team was made up of hillbilly fishermen (no slam intended), a tax collector AND a traitor. (needs to work on his recruiting strategy here)
As born again believer’s we are to continue the manifestation of Jesus. We have been sent* into the world with the same commission as Jesus (Jn 17:18, 20:21). We are told we will do greater works than what He did (Jn 14:21). It is by our actions that God is glorified (Mt 5:16). Our purpose for being renewed in the image of God is to make him plainly real to a world in darkness. This requires putting our words into action, placing some skin our theology.
Food for thought: How are you proving He is real?
*sent: this is from the Greek apostello (ap-os-tel'-lo;; set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively: (Strongs). This is the word that apostolos is derived from which is translated apostle. These two words form the basis for our presentation of the concepts of apostolic authority. See blog Defining Apostolic
Friday, January 30, 2009
Our Job Description
Many people today are wondering what their life is all about. They are looking for something that gives them a purpose, a meaning, a reason to get up in the morning. This is very common among Christians: many are wondering what is their part in the kingdom of heaven.
In our previous post, we revealed that Adam's purpose was to be the representational image of God to creation. Unfortunately his disobedience disqualified him from that position. Thankfully, God had a plan to restore mankind.
Jesus Christ, as the last Adam, came as the visible image of an invisible God. However, he was more than an image, he was representational of the invisible God. In John 17:6 Jesus states; “I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world:” According to Vines, manifested is a verb that means; "to make visible, clear, manifest," Thayer's says it is making visible or known “what has been hidden or unknown, whether by words, or deeds” (emphasis added). A verb is an action word. Jesus came making an invisible God more than visible; he came to make him knowable by demonstration.
Just as the scripture shows us that the first and last Adams were each to be a representational image of an invisible God, so we who are born again are to be representational. Paul tells us in Colossians 3:10 that we “have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” (emphasis added). We have been born again to a new nature, one that includes His representational image.
As His body, the church is to manifest Jesus Christ to this dark and confused world. However, we are not to just present an image of a good moral life, we have been authorized to conduct business as representatives of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. We are to walk in His delegated authority as we demonstrate to this world what His kingdom will be like. By manifestation and representation, we reveal to this world there is something better. We reveal to them that there is a King and He is coming with His kingdom and His name is Jesus!
What a privilege, what an honor, what a responsibility. We are chosen to ACT as the representative of the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings! Praise God!
In our previous post, we revealed that Adam's purpose was to be the representational image of God to creation. Unfortunately his disobedience disqualified him from that position. Thankfully, God had a plan to restore mankind.
Jesus Christ, as the last Adam, came as the visible image of an invisible God. However, he was more than an image, he was representational of the invisible God. In John 17:6 Jesus states; “I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world:” According to Vines, manifested is a verb that means; "to make visible, clear, manifest," Thayer's says it is making visible or known “what has been hidden or unknown, whether by words, or deeds” (emphasis added). A verb is an action word. Jesus came making an invisible God more than visible; he came to make him knowable by demonstration.
Just as the scripture shows us that the first and last Adams were each to be a representational image of an invisible God, so we who are born again are to be representational. Paul tells us in Colossians 3:10 that we “have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:” (emphasis added). We have been born again to a new nature, one that includes His representational image.
As His body, the church is to manifest Jesus Christ to this dark and confused world. However, we are not to just present an image of a good moral life, we have been authorized to conduct business as representatives of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. We are to walk in His delegated authority as we demonstrate to this world what His kingdom will be like. By manifestation and representation, we reveal to this world there is something better. We reveal to them that there is a King and He is coming with His kingdom and His name is Jesus!
What a privilege, what an honor, what a responsibility. We are chosen to ACT as the representative of the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings! Praise God!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Adam's Purpose
Representative: One that serves as a delegate or agent for another.
– American Heritage Dictionary
Gen 1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion…
This scripture gives us wonderful insight into God’s purpose for mankind. Adam was created in the image and likeness of God. Vines tells us that image means; "image or copy" of something in the sense of a replica. According to Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament, Likeness refers to the representational aspect of the image.
Adam was God’s image chosen to reveal or manifest Himself to creation. Through Adam, an invisible God made himself visible. But more than a visible image, Adam’s purpose was to be representational of God. As God’s likeness, he was to ACT as God’s representative thereby revealing the nature and characteristics of God by those actions.
Adam’s representational purpose was not manifest when God gave him dominion. It was manifest when Adam obeyed God’s command and named the animals. God’s image and likeness was revealed, not by Adam’s position, but by his obedient actions to the commands of God.
We manifest our King, his kingdom and our purpose when we obey and do what we were sent to do. This results in demonstrating to the world that we are of a greater kingdom than the one of this world
Thursday, January 22, 2009
The Glory of God
In our previous post, we presented the idea that God's purpose for creating the earth was that He desired to fill it with His image and glory. So the logical question is: If the earth was and is to be filled with His glory, what was God’s plan to accomplish this? Glad you asked. I have a thought. Let’s go to the creation of mankind. God created a perfect world and a place called the garden of Eden for mankind to live.
“And God said, Let us make man in our image , after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.”
God created Adam (mankind) in His own image and gave Adam dominion or authority over this perfect creation. Adam was to act as God’s representative to creation. Genesis 1:28 tells us that: “God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.” Mankind was to bear fruit in increased numbers and fill, fulfill or overflow the earth with the image of God.
Psalms 8:4-8 (for the sake of space I will not print here) many times is attributed to a prophetic statement of Jesus Christ. However, in light of Adam’s creation and Jesus being the last Adam, I believe you can see where this applies to both – the first and the last Adam. The word used for angels in this passage is elohiym or God. Adam was made a little lower than God, crowned with glory and honor. Adam was made to have dominion over the works of God’s hands. All this was because Adam (mankind) was intended to fill the earth with the glory and dominion of God! Wow! Mankind was created to reveal the glory and image of God!
“And God said, Let us make man in our image , after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.”
God created Adam (mankind) in His own image and gave Adam dominion or authority over this perfect creation. Adam was to act as God’s representative to creation. Genesis 1:28 tells us that: “God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth.” Mankind was to bear fruit in increased numbers and fill, fulfill or overflow the earth with the image of God.
Psalms 8:4-8 (for the sake of space I will not print here) many times is attributed to a prophetic statement of Jesus Christ. However, in light of Adam’s creation and Jesus being the last Adam, I believe you can see where this applies to both – the first and the last Adam. The word used for angels in this passage is elohiym or God. Adam was made a little lower than God, crowned with glory and honor. Adam was made to have dominion over the works of God’s hands. All this was because Adam (mankind) was intended to fill the earth with the glory and dominion of God! Wow! Mankind was created to reveal the glory and image of God!
What a privilege we have, to be God’s representative.
Next week, I will present some ideas on how God intended to use Adam and now us to fulfill this purpose. Look forward to hearing from you.
till next time-
martin
Next week, I will present some ideas on how God intended to use Adam and now us to fulfill this purpose. Look forward to hearing from you.
till next time-
martin
Monday, January 19, 2009
God's Purpose
Purpose: What something is used for or an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions. WordNet 2.0
A lot is being said and written about purpose. This thought is prevalent in the business and motivational world. Companies are encouraged to find out what their purpose is beyond just producing a product or providing a service for profit. It is believed that in finding their purpose, they will become more successful. This success comes because of two reasons: first, by knowing their purpose they can focus solely on the actions that produce the desired results. Secondly, this focus of purpose provides a deeper motivation to achieve.
This idea of finding a purpose is also essential to effective ministry in the Kingdom of God today. However, the purpose we seek should not begin with the question “What is my purpose?” It should begin with the question, “What is God’s purpose?” Once we understand this, it provides us the perspective and framework to grasp our purpose.
So I pose the question – “What is God’s Purpose?” Tough question to think about. Me figure out His purpose? No! I need to go to the Word and see what He says about His purpose. Once I have done this, then I need to see if my purpose is in alignment with His.
In my review of the scriptures, it is apparent that God’s purpose was to have His glory fill the earth. We are told that His glory fills the earth (Isa 6:3), the knowledge of the glory of the LORD will fill the earth (Hab 2:14) and all the earth will be filled with His glory (Num 14:21). There are numerous other scriptures that declare that there will be one king over this earth and all nations will come and worship Him. (Ps 86:9, Zech 14:8, Rev 11:15). So…God’s purpose was to fill the earth with His glory!
In the next post later this week, we will present an idea as to His plan to fulfill his purpose.
till next time -
martin
A lot is being said and written about purpose. This thought is prevalent in the business and motivational world. Companies are encouraged to find out what their purpose is beyond just producing a product or providing a service for profit. It is believed that in finding their purpose, they will become more successful. This success comes because of two reasons: first, by knowing their purpose they can focus solely on the actions that produce the desired results. Secondly, this focus of purpose provides a deeper motivation to achieve.
This idea of finding a purpose is also essential to effective ministry in the Kingdom of God today. However, the purpose we seek should not begin with the question “What is my purpose?” It should begin with the question, “What is God’s purpose?” Once we understand this, it provides us the perspective and framework to grasp our purpose.
So I pose the question – “What is God’s Purpose?” Tough question to think about. Me figure out His purpose? No! I need to go to the Word and see what He says about His purpose. Once I have done this, then I need to see if my purpose is in alignment with His.
In my review of the scriptures, it is apparent that God’s purpose was to have His glory fill the earth. We are told that His glory fills the earth (Isa 6:3), the knowledge of the glory of the LORD will fill the earth (Hab 2:14) and all the earth will be filled with His glory (Num 14:21). There are numerous other scriptures that declare that there will be one king over this earth and all nations will come and worship Him. (Ps 86:9, Zech 14:8, Rev 11:15). So…God’s purpose was to fill the earth with His glory!
In the next post later this week, we will present an idea as to His plan to fulfill his purpose.
till next time -
martin
Sunday, January 18, 2009
The Proof Is In The Pudding!
The ultimate proof of a rainmaker is that they make it happen when others do not. Many times this is baffling to the non-rainmakers.
These individuals are programmed different in the following ways:
• They perceive different
• They speak different
• They do different
• They demonstrate different
The fourth and final characteristic is really the results of the first three. Because the rainmaker perceives or sees different, they speak different and this results in different actions.
Because the actions are different, the natural outcome is demonstrable results that are different. It is here that the rainmaker really outshines those around them. The others usually continue in the same old actions hoping for something different to happen. When it doesn’t they blame the system and complain about the rainmaker.
There is a point I would like to make here about the quality/amount/quantity of the demonstration of the rainmaker: that is, it is directly proportional to the quality of the first three characteristics. If they perceive a little different, they will only speak and do a little different.
However, if they perceive significantly different, they will speak and do significantly different, thus the demonstration will be significantly different.
If you want to stand out as a rainmaker, rise above the masses of mediocrity, it first must begin with your perception. IMHO, it all begins with how you see things spiritually. Jn 3:3
I hope you have benefited from this series of postings on being a rainmaker. I would appreciate your feedback.
These individuals are programmed different in the following ways:
• They perceive different
• They speak different
• They do different
• They demonstrate different
The fourth and final characteristic is really the results of the first three. Because the rainmaker perceives or sees different, they speak different and this results in different actions.
Because the actions are different, the natural outcome is demonstrable results that are different. It is here that the rainmaker really outshines those around them. The others usually continue in the same old actions hoping for something different to happen. When it doesn’t they blame the system and complain about the rainmaker.
There is a point I would like to make here about the quality/amount/quantity of the demonstration of the rainmaker: that is, it is directly proportional to the quality of the first three characteristics. If they perceive a little different, they will only speak and do a little different.
However, if they perceive significantly different, they will speak and do significantly different, thus the demonstration will be significantly different.
If you want to stand out as a rainmaker, rise above the masses of mediocrity, it first must begin with your perception. IMHO, it all begins with how you see things spiritually. Jn 3:3
I hope you have benefited from this series of postings on being a rainmaker. I would appreciate your feedback.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
To Be Different, Do Different
The unique DNA programming of a rainmaker is what allows them to produce when others are not. These individuals perceive their situations different, which causes them to speak different, which results in them doing different.
It is this doing different that reveals the difference of rainmaker. When things are tough, the average continues to operate much the same old way. They may increase the amount of what they do, but is doing just more of the same o’ same o’. Not with the rainmaker.
Rainmakers become innovative, changing their approach to their situations. They think outside the box, creating their opportunities. If the door gets shut in their face they look for a window (NOT ANOTHER DOOR – GET IT). I like what Zig Ziglar says: “If life gives you a bowel of lemons, make lemonade!” Now that’s a rainmaker attitude and actions.
Spiritual Rainmakers
In the kingdom, because rainmakers see and speak different, they do different things. They say “funny” things like: “rise up and walk” and “Be healed.”
After Elijah stated hearing the sound of the abundance of rain, he got busy with prayer. I do not know if anyone else in Israel had thought to pray to Jehovah about the drought probably not, after all they were backslid. Yet Elijah did what the others were not.
Six times Elijah prayed and after each time he sent his servant to look: each time nothing. But Elijah kept praying. After the seventh time the report came back of a small cloud forming. Elijah stopped praying and instructed the servant to go tell Ahab to get going so he would not get caught in the rain.
Because rainmakers perceive different, they can persevere when things are tough. Elijah did not give up after the first six reports. He heard different, he knew different, he spoke different. So he did different – he kept on praying.
Spiritual rainmakers: perceive different, speak different and keep on doing different even in the face of adversity.
Food for thought –
What are you doing different that reveals you are a rainmaker?
Monday, January 12, 2009
Speaking Your Reality
Rainmakers are unique individuals - they have the ability to make things happen. They produce when everyone else is making excuses.
The makeup of a rainmaker is different from others. The DNA of who they are, causes them to perceive their situations different. This then triggers the second key component of their makeup - they speak different.
The words of a rainmaker are very different from the average individual. Those of the mediocre masses speak of limitations: how bad the market it, how tough the customers are, how it is not as good as it used to be. On the other hand, the rainmaker, because they see different, speak of opportunity. The rainmaker does not deny the difficulty, but they speak with a different intent and approach to the situation.
In our previous post, we spoke of Major.OP Smith. When he and his marines were totally surrounded, Maj. Smith saw a different opportunity and expressed it with different language. He is recorded as replying "Excellent!" "What do you mean Major?" "Are you crazy?" No, just verbalizing an internal difference. Even today, you can almost feel his intensity - "Excellent!"
Kingdom Rainmakers
Spiritual rainmakers have a different language also; it is a language of faith. Elijah heard God say He was sending rain. Elijah's response was to tell Ahab to get up, eat and drink or have feast, because I hear the sound of the abundance of rain.
Notice, it had not started to rain yet. it was still hot and arid with a drought induced famine. Yet Elijah was speaking different. He was speaking what he perceived above and beyond the obvious physical conditions. He was speaking what he knew in the spirit realm.
Kingdom rainmakers are those who are led by the Spirit, declaring what the Spirit is revealing. It is not in existence in the temporal realm - yet; but they speak what they know as if it is being experienced in the here and now.
Influence
The rainmaker's programming to speak different allows them to have a significant influence on individuals.
Food for thought -
In these current economic times, are you speaking as a rainmaker?
View Empowering Moments VBlog here
The makeup of a rainmaker is different from others. The DNA of who they are, causes them to perceive their situations different. This then triggers the second key component of their makeup - they speak different.
The words of a rainmaker are very different from the average individual. Those of the mediocre masses speak of limitations: how bad the market it, how tough the customers are, how it is not as good as it used to be. On the other hand, the rainmaker, because they see different, speak of opportunity. The rainmaker does not deny the difficulty, but they speak with a different intent and approach to the situation.
In our previous post, we spoke of Major.OP Smith. When he and his marines were totally surrounded, Maj. Smith saw a different opportunity and expressed it with different language. He is recorded as replying "Excellent!" "What do you mean Major?" "Are you crazy?" No, just verbalizing an internal difference. Even today, you can almost feel his intensity - "Excellent!"
Kingdom Rainmakers
Spiritual rainmakers have a different language also; it is a language of faith. Elijah heard God say He was sending rain. Elijah's response was to tell Ahab to get up, eat and drink or have feast, because I hear the sound of the abundance of rain.
Notice, it had not started to rain yet. it was still hot and arid with a drought induced famine. Yet Elijah was speaking different. He was speaking what he perceived above and beyond the obvious physical conditions. He was speaking what he knew in the spirit realm.
Kingdom rainmakers are those who are led by the Spirit, declaring what the Spirit is revealing. It is not in existence in the temporal realm - yet; but they speak what they know as if it is being experienced in the here and now.
Influence
The rainmaker's programming to speak different allows them to have a significant influence on individuals.
- Major OP Smith was able to lead his men to safety. Obviously, they trusted and followed him because of what he spoke.
- Ahab arose and did what Elijah told him to do.
Food for thought -
In these current economic times, are you speaking as a rainmaker?
View Empowering Moments VBlog here
Friday, January 9, 2009
Watch' You Lookin' At?
Rainmakers make things happen. They have the ability to rise above the mediocrity of their surroundings and produce when others are not. They have this ability because they are wired different.
Illustration
There was this shoe salesman sent to the innermost jungles of the Amazon. Upon arrival, he discovers that none of the natives wear shoes. Discouraged, he wires the home office and says he is returning because nobody wears shoes.
A competitor sends a salesman to the same place and people. Upon arrival he also notes that none of the natives are wearing shoes. He hurriedly wires the home office and request all the stock possible because the opportunity is unlimited because: “Everybody needs shoes!”
During the Korean War at the battle of Chosin Reservoir. I was reported that the Marine group was completely surrounded by the enemy. To this statement, then Major OP Smith is quoted as saying: “Excellent, we can now attack in any direction!” - That is a rainmaker!
Rainmakers see the same thing as other, yet they see it different. Where others see chaos and limitations: rainmakers see opportunity. How many discoveries have been made because a rainmaker saw more than a problem, they saw an opportunity.
Spiritual Rainmakers
The Kingdom rainmaker also is one that perceives different. This is noted in the life of Elijah. During the time of the drought and famine, God speaks to Elijah and says he will send rain (1 Kings 18:1). It was after the ordeal with the prophets of baal when Elijah states that there was the sound of abundance of rain. Where Elijah? It is still hot, dry and a famine. Others were seeing with the natural, Elijah was seeing with the eyes of faith.
The Kingdom rainmaker is led by the Spirit, so they see things from a spiritual perspective. They are in tune with the desires of the King, therefore they look at the situations and see how they can bring the will of the King to fruition.
Food for thought –
How are your perceiving this current time economic turmoil: fear and helplessness? Or are you looking for the King to show you how to manifest His kingdom?
View Empowerment Moment VBlog - here
The first core principle of a rainmakers DNA is:
They perceive different
They perceive different
Illustration
There was this shoe salesman sent to the innermost jungles of the Amazon. Upon arrival, he discovers that none of the natives wear shoes. Discouraged, he wires the home office and says he is returning because nobody wears shoes.
A competitor sends a salesman to the same place and people. Upon arrival he also notes that none of the natives are wearing shoes. He hurriedly wires the home office and request all the stock possible because the opportunity is unlimited because: “Everybody needs shoes!”
Which one is the rainmaker?
During the Korean War at the battle of Chosin Reservoir. I was reported that the Marine group was completely surrounded by the enemy. To this statement, then Major OP Smith is quoted as saying: “Excellent, we can now attack in any direction!” - That is a rainmaker!
Rainmakers see the same thing as other, yet they see it different. Where others see chaos and limitations: rainmakers see opportunity. How many discoveries have been made because a rainmaker saw more than a problem, they saw an opportunity.
Spiritual Rainmakers
The Kingdom rainmaker also is one that perceives different. This is noted in the life of Elijah. During the time of the drought and famine, God speaks to Elijah and says he will send rain (1 Kings 18:1). It was after the ordeal with the prophets of baal when Elijah states that there was the sound of abundance of rain. Where Elijah? It is still hot, dry and a famine. Others were seeing with the natural, Elijah was seeing with the eyes of faith.
The Kingdom rainmaker is led by the Spirit, so they see things from a spiritual perspective. They are in tune with the desires of the King, therefore they look at the situations and see how they can bring the will of the King to fruition.
Food for thought –
How are your perceiving this current time economic turmoil: fear and helplessness? Or are you looking for the King to show you how to manifest His kingdom?
View Empowerment Moment VBlog - here
Monday, January 5, 2009
Rainmaker - Git R Done
Are you a rainmaker? These individuals,regardless of industry or profession, are the producers: the top salesperson, marketer or the leader that makes things happen. The identifying mark of a rainmaker is that no matter the present circumstance they make things happen.
Rainmakers make a difference because they are wired different. The DNA of who they are will not accept the mediocrity of the masses. The status quo is the plague to rainmakers. You cannot box them in with the traditional paradigms.
Spiritual Rainmakers
Just like the market place, the Kingdom has rainmakers. These are the individuals that make a difference in their worlds by being different. This individual is also wired different: at their new birth experience they are programmed with the spiritiual DNA of the King and designed to express Kingdom truths.
Kingdom rainmakers are passionate abou thier purpose in the kingdom and will stop and nothing to make it real.
Jesus was a rainmaker.
There are four key characteristics of a rainmakers DNA that are manifested:
till next time
Martin
View Empowerment Moment, vblog - click here
Because a rainmaker can make it happen,
they can make a difference.
they can make a difference.
Rainmakers make a difference because they are wired different. The DNA of who they are will not accept the mediocrity of the masses. The status quo is the plague to rainmakers. You cannot box them in with the traditional paradigms.
Spiritual Rainmakers
Just like the market place, the Kingdom has rainmakers. These are the individuals that make a difference in their worlds by being different. This individual is also wired different: at their new birth experience they are programmed with the spiritiual DNA of the King and designed to express Kingdom truths.
Kingdom rainmakers are passionate abou thier purpose in the kingdom and will stop and nothing to make it real.
- They will seem out of place in the church of mediocrity.
- They will be talked about by the apathetic religious institution.
- They will be challenged by the traditional ecclesiastical structure.
Jesus was a rainmaker.
- His DNA was unique.
- He knew His purpose.
- He was criticized by the religious establishment.
There are four key characteristics of a rainmakers DNA that are manifested:
- They perceive different
- they speak different
- They do different
- They demonstrate different
till next time
Martin
View Empowerment Moment, vblog - click here
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Entitlement or Empowerment
"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day;
teach a man to fish and you feed him for life"
"You can give a person a handout or a hand up"
We have entered 2009 - yeah! There is something about a new beginning, a fresh start. Our president elect has promoted/promised change and many are anxiously awaiting his inauguration. Yet what are we expecting? Entitlement? Empowerment? One creates dependency the other independence.
The entitlement mentality is one where we look to someone else and expect them to supply us with what we are lacking. Is an attitude that what I need is owed to me and I am not the one responsible for it. This mentality creates an individual that will never live up to their potential. They will never discover what lies hidden with in them.
It is unfortunate, many times this attitude creeps into our spiritual lives. We present ourselves at church on Sunday expecting to be chilled and thrilled with a spiritual show and hold back our involvement until we have been sufficiently "moved". Our relationship with Jesus is one that we expect him to be our doctor, lawyer, banker, grocer or magic genie. We search the word of God as a cookbook, looking for that right recipe that will fix our current dilemma.
Now please do not get me wrong here - I am not saying that Jesus does not, at various times, work in our behalf to alleviate traumatic situations of our lives
What I am getting at is that this entitlement mentality fails to acknowledge the giftings and power that He has placed in us to use for His Kingdom. It is when we see the truth of His word and how it applies to our lives that we can become empowered to reveal His nature where it counts - in a hurting world.
Empowerment is living out, or expressing that divine DNA that has been placed in us with our born again experience.
- We are told that we would receive power with the Spirit infilling, then we are to GO and do something with it - make disciples.
- We are instructed to cleans ourselves from the filthiness of the flesh and spirit.
- We are able to excessively above all we can ask or think - if we use the power that dwells with in us.
- We have been given authority over the power of our enemy and we are to walk on the things he throws against us.
- We are to lay hands on sick and expect them to recover.
till next time-
martin
martin
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