Proverbs 16:9 says “The mind of man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.”
Have you become the prayer warrior this past week like Nehemiah? I know I have given extra, knee-time……….but look back at Chapter 1 of Nehemiah. What happens after Nehemiah prayed? NOTHING!!! Well, at least not right away. After studying a bit more closely this week, I have learned that Nehemiah’s story opens in the month of Chislev (December) and resumes in the month of Nisan (April). Therefore, there were four months of where nothing seemed to happen.
Well, nothing outwardly was happening! Nehemiah was doing more than just praying for those four months……he was planning. Planning means that Nehemiah had faith that God would indeed open the door to his prayer. He knew God would let him go!
Taking a leap of faith doesn’t mean you are going out in a disorderly, fly-by-your-seat manner. You must think through the project and count on the cost. You must think through the questions and do your homework!
Read back at Nehemiah 2:7-9. These are practical and well planned out request from Nehemiah. God will honor this type of planning, as he did for Nehemiah. Wise planning on our part gives the Lord more opportunity to accomplish His goals. And if the best plan is missed, I would sure hate to know that it was because I failed to put prayerful preparation behind the actions!
Something to think, pray, and plan about…………
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Let Us Rise Up
And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. But when Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant and Geshem the Arab heard of it, they jeered at us and despised us and said, “What is this thing that you are doing…?” -Nehemiah 2:18-19
The context of this verse is of course when Nehemiah has shared his vision to rebuild a city and he has gained some much needed affirmation from his listeners by them saying in agreement “Le us rise up and build”.
Have you ever had your heart break for something, shared it with someone else, and watch their face light up and hear them say “well let’s do something about it together!”, ever experienced that? What an awesome feeling right?
Well if you’ve experienced that, then you very likely seen some of what Nehemiah experienced from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, and that of course is CRITICISM. The Bible says that they “jeered” and “despised” Nehemiah and his team.
Criticism of the people doing the work was common in Nehemiah’s day and it’s still common today. It seems the only way to avoid criticism is to not do anything at all! But that’s not an option for us as Christians. We have been called, commissioned, and commanded to do the work of our Lord to the best of our ability, and we can’t let any amount criticism hinder us from doing that. Remember what Peter said to his critics when he was criticized to the point they were threatening to beat him? “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.”-Acts 4:19-20
Peter did not quit preaching, Nehemiah did not quit working, and neither can we. Ben Franklin was right on when he said “Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain and most fools do.” So let’s keep eyes on the GOD OF THE CITY and give our ears a rest from the THE CRITICS OF THIS WORLD and press on with the work that our King has called us to.
One last thought, is it possible that you have a critical spirit? Are you many times the one pointing out the negative side of things? If so take some extra time to look up and meditate on Philippians 4: 8. Living by the words that Paul writes here can change your life and the life of those around you.
The context of this verse is of course when Nehemiah has shared his vision to rebuild a city and he has gained some much needed affirmation from his listeners by them saying in agreement “Le us rise up and build”.
Have you ever had your heart break for something, shared it with someone else, and watch their face light up and hear them say “well let’s do something about it together!”, ever experienced that? What an awesome feeling right?
Well if you’ve experienced that, then you very likely seen some of what Nehemiah experienced from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem, and that of course is CRITICISM. The Bible says that they “jeered” and “despised” Nehemiah and his team.
Criticism of the people doing the work was common in Nehemiah’s day and it’s still common today. It seems the only way to avoid criticism is to not do anything at all! But that’s not an option for us as Christians. We have been called, commissioned, and commanded to do the work of our Lord to the best of our ability, and we can’t let any amount criticism hinder us from doing that. Remember what Peter said to his critics when he was criticized to the point they were threatening to beat him? “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge, for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.”-Acts 4:19-20
Peter did not quit preaching, Nehemiah did not quit working, and neither can we. Ben Franklin was right on when he said “Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain and most fools do.” So let’s keep eyes on the GOD OF THE CITY and give our ears a rest from the THE CRITICS OF THIS WORLD and press on with the work that our King has called us to.
One last thought, is it possible that you have a critical spirit? Are you many times the one pointing out the negative side of things? If so take some extra time to look up and meditate on Philippians 4: 8. Living by the words that Paul writes here can change your life and the life of those around you.
Perspective
As we've been studying Nehemiah, one thing we can be sure of is that he kept had a good perspective of his surroundings, God's call, even his enemies! Remember at first, he was ignorant to the conditions of the wall, but as soon as he knew what they were, he didn't bellyache. He went straight to God to find out what to do. He gained insight and perspective by going to the One who had all the answers. When he went before the King not only was he equipped to answer the king, but also to ask for the appropriate things he would need for the trip. Can you imagine if he had gone before the king and quoted off a list of unreasonable requests? Yet, he had the right perspective on the rebuilding process and new what God had told him to do. There are countless illustrations of his good perspective, but one last one is how he responded to the nay-sayers. Remember there is no record of him getting angry, cussing anybody out, or a flying fist hitting anyone! He kept focused on working God's plan. He didn't let the negativity of the enemy get to him.
WOW! What a concept! In my own life I struggle with this sometimes. Things are going along great and out of no where something very negative and discouraging comes along and then I have the choice; stay focused on the call of God...or....get bogged down in the pity, discouragement and negativity of the enemy. I'm going to be working hard to stay focused on the call. God wants to use US! His call is the loudest voice we should be hearing! All other voices should be background music in our lives.
Let's encourage each other this week to stay focused on the call God has on us and our city. Be prepared that soon or later there will be people who don't understand or appreciate it, so get your perspective grounded in what God wants you to do so you won't get sidetracked and waste needless energy on the enemy!
Praying for you...have an wonderful week!
WOW! What a concept! In my own life I struggle with this sometimes. Things are going along great and out of no where something very negative and discouraging comes along and then I have the choice; stay focused on the call of God...or....get bogged down in the pity, discouragement and negativity of the enemy. I'm going to be working hard to stay focused on the call. God wants to use US! His call is the loudest voice we should be hearing! All other voices should be background music in our lives.
Let's encourage each other this week to stay focused on the call God has on us and our city. Be prepared that soon or later there will be people who don't understand or appreciate it, so get your perspective grounded in what God wants you to do so you won't get sidetracked and waste needless energy on the enemy!
Praying for you...have an wonderful week!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
God of This City Powerpoint
This past Sunday Bruce promised to have the God of this City Powerpoint on the website. You can download it right here.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
How's Your Week Been?
Well, it's time to close out the work week. How's your week been? Have you viewed Gunter a little differently? I know I have. Driving around town, through Hidden Lakes, Maples Ranch, Main Street and Autry I see needs - physical, emotional, and spiritual - staring us straight in the eyes. It excited me to know that we are becoming more aware of how God can use us to meet these needs.
As we get ready to meet again on Sunday, will you please read over Nehemiah 1:5-2:16? Pray that your heart will be ready to receive what God has for you. As we saw last week, the enemy is ready to distract us in any way that he can. Let's all be on guard and ready to stand together. As Nehemiah stood before the king, we can also stand in confident humility knowing that God has called us to do something bigger than we could ever imagine doing without Him.
I'm praying for you and am looking forward to seeing you Sunday.
As we get ready to meet again on Sunday, will you please read over Nehemiah 1:5-2:16? Pray that your heart will be ready to receive what God has for you. As we saw last week, the enemy is ready to distract us in any way that he can. Let's all be on guard and ready to stand together. As Nehemiah stood before the king, we can also stand in confident humility knowing that God has called us to do something bigger than we could ever imagine doing without Him.
I'm praying for you and am looking forward to seeing you Sunday.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
John 2:1-11
The wedding was in Cana, a town so insignificant that John felt is was necessary to give a further explanation of its location, “in Galilee.” Jesus was invited to a wedding there. John doesn’t tell us the names of the bride and groom. Maybe John forgot them. Maybe he thought they were as unimportant as the town in which they lived.
Sometime during the feast a crisis occurred. The wine ran out. The new couple was facing not only embarrassment, but financial ruin. In their culture, neglecting to provide an adequate meal to guests was an offense which could have lead to prison. At the very least, the couple would have begun their lives together in debt to their neighbors.
The servants no doubt had run out of options. They went so far as to involve another invited guest in the crisis. Mary couldn’t help, but she knew someone who could. She told Jesus about the wine problem.
Jesus stepped in and performed a miracle. He asked the servants to fill pots with water, to draw some out, and to bring it to the headwaiter. To the amazement of the disciples and the servants, the water had turned into wine. Not just any wine, but the best wine. And not just enough for the party, but an amazing amount…enough to save, to sell, and to provide a great start for the new couple.
Only the disciples and servants saw what happened. Only those who listened to Jesus and filled the pots realized the miracle. The newlyweds never knew what Jesus had done for them. They were saved from a disaster unaware. Not only saved, but blessed with extra. And the party went on. Everyone in town was blessed by a miracle, and most weren’t even aware of it.
We live in a small town “in north Texas” not unlike Cana “in Galilee.” Perhaps we feel a bit insignificant at times, as a town and as individuals. But God knows right were we are, and He knows our names. He loves us, and He loves our small town. He is working here, and He is looking for servants obedient enough to witness a miracle. He wants to bless this town. Not just a little bit, but overflowing, to the brim, and with enough to share.
Sometime during the feast a crisis occurred. The wine ran out. The new couple was facing not only embarrassment, but financial ruin. In their culture, neglecting to provide an adequate meal to guests was an offense which could have lead to prison. At the very least, the couple would have begun their lives together in debt to their neighbors.
The servants no doubt had run out of options. They went so far as to involve another invited guest in the crisis. Mary couldn’t help, but she knew someone who could. She told Jesus about the wine problem.
Jesus stepped in and performed a miracle. He asked the servants to fill pots with water, to draw some out, and to bring it to the headwaiter. To the amazement of the disciples and the servants, the water had turned into wine. Not just any wine, but the best wine. And not just enough for the party, but an amazing amount…enough to save, to sell, and to provide a great start for the new couple.
Only the disciples and servants saw what happened. Only those who listened to Jesus and filled the pots realized the miracle. The newlyweds never knew what Jesus had done for them. They were saved from a disaster unaware. Not only saved, but blessed with extra. And the party went on. Everyone in town was blessed by a miracle, and most weren’t even aware of it.
We live in a small town “in north Texas” not unlike Cana “in Galilee.” Perhaps we feel a bit insignificant at times, as a town and as individuals. But God knows right were we are, and He knows our names. He loves us, and He loves our small town. He is working here, and He is looking for servants obedient enough to witness a miracle. He wants to bless this town. Not just a little bit, but overflowing, to the brim, and with enough to share.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Spiritual Excitement
Ephesians 4:32 says, “…there must be a spiritual renewal of your thoughts and attitudes.”
Monday, January 5, 2009
Nehemiah's Prayer Team
“O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name…” –Nehemiah 1:11
Nehemiah’s prayer in chapter 1:1-11 is one of the most talked about things from this great book of the Bible. And rightfully so! You can feel the deep, heartfelt, conviction coming through in his words. His weeping, morning, and fasting speak to his commitment and sincerity of heart. Ever wonder what made Nehemiah such an effective prayer warrior? Obviously there are many things that contributed, but I think that he gives us strong indication of what can be an easily overlooked strength in Ch. 1 verse 11. Look closely, Nehemiah asks God not only to listen to him, but ALSO “to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name”. Wow did you catch that? Nehemiah assumed that he was not alone! He prays as if he is a part of an army of praying servants that have been moved to their knees.
We can be quite the opposite however, we think that we are the only one seeing the needs and since the problem is too big for us to tackle alone, we get defeated before we get started. We may pray, but our prayers turn into distant wishes, void of faith, for a far away dream that we honestly don’t feel is possible. But if we take NEHEMIAH’S approach, we pray believing that we are not alone. That our little prayer is among many prayers that matter to God, and that he has a plan for what he has broken our hearts to pray for. We pray with the confidence that we have unidentified teammates crying out to God just as we are! Check out this powerful quote:
“You may think that your petition is of small account, but it is the many littles that make up the great whole. A pinch of incense from each worshipper will fill the house of the Lord with sweet perfume. Small lumps of coal cast into the glowing furnace will still further increase its heat. Do not think that we can afford to lose your prayer, whoever you may be; but; cheerfully contribute it to the general treasury of the church’s devotion.” -Charles H. Spurgeon
Take some time to pray. Pray to God on behalf of the broken people of your community; pray with confidence as Nehemiah did knowing that your prayer are a part of a much bigger group of prayers crying out to the God who hears.
Nehemiah’s prayer in chapter 1:1-11 is one of the most talked about things from this great book of the Bible. And rightfully so! You can feel the deep, heartfelt, conviction coming through in his words. His weeping, morning, and fasting speak to his commitment and sincerity of heart. Ever wonder what made Nehemiah such an effective prayer warrior? Obviously there are many things that contributed, but I think that he gives us strong indication of what can be an easily overlooked strength in Ch. 1 verse 11. Look closely, Nehemiah asks God not only to listen to him, but ALSO “to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name”. Wow did you catch that? Nehemiah assumed that he was not alone! He prays as if he is a part of an army of praying servants that have been moved to their knees.
We can be quite the opposite however, we think that we are the only one seeing the needs and since the problem is too big for us to tackle alone, we get defeated before we get started. We may pray, but our prayers turn into distant wishes, void of faith, for a far away dream that we honestly don’t feel is possible. But if we take NEHEMIAH’S approach, we pray believing that we are not alone. That our little prayer is among many prayers that matter to God, and that he has a plan for what he has broken our hearts to pray for. We pray with the confidence that we have unidentified teammates crying out to God just as we are! Check out this powerful quote:
“You may think that your petition is of small account, but it is the many littles that make up the great whole. A pinch of incense from each worshipper will fill the house of the Lord with sweet perfume. Small lumps of coal cast into the glowing furnace will still further increase its heat. Do not think that we can afford to lose your prayer, whoever you may be; but; cheerfully contribute it to the general treasury of the church’s devotion.” -Charles H. Spurgeon
Take some time to pray. Pray to God on behalf of the broken people of your community; pray with confidence as Nehemiah did knowing that your prayer are a part of a much bigger group of prayers crying out to the God who hears.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
What Happens When God's People Pray?
Nehemiah 1
There are so many benefits from prayer. It's a habit God wants His people to develop. From Nehemiah we learn that prayer changes a person's life. The direction of Nehemiah's life changed from being a cup bearer to the king to a contractor for THE KING. What a promotion! We also see that prayer motivated Nehemiah into action. His sense of urgency took him from prayer, fasting and tearing his clothing to an attitude of confident humility. We see this demonstrated as Nehemiah stands before the king and with sorrow on his face responds confidently to the king. Prayer also changed Nehemiah's heart toward the city. In prayer he was consumed with the sin of Israel and his own sin involvement and called on God to remember the promises that had been made to Israel.
In our own lives, when we get serious about prayer we can expect things to happen. We might be surprised at the amount of change that happens to us personally when we begin praying for our city. Thankfully we can pray expectantly, knowing God will hear the sincere heart that cries out in repentance and claims the promises in His Word. So, what do you need to pray about, confess and/or claim as a promise from God. He's waiting...ready to share His plan with you. Begin today to seek His will, His call, His forgiveness, not just for you, but for our city.
There are so many benefits from prayer. It's a habit God wants His people to develop. From Nehemiah we learn that prayer changes a person's life. The direction of Nehemiah's life changed from being a cup bearer to the king to a contractor for THE KING. What a promotion! We also see that prayer motivated Nehemiah into action. His sense of urgency took him from prayer, fasting and tearing his clothing to an attitude of confident humility. We see this demonstrated as Nehemiah stands before the king and with sorrow on his face responds confidently to the king. Prayer also changed Nehemiah's heart toward the city. In prayer he was consumed with the sin of Israel and his own sin involvement and called on God to remember the promises that had been made to Israel.
In our own lives, when we get serious about prayer we can expect things to happen. We might be surprised at the amount of change that happens to us personally when we begin praying for our city. Thankfully we can pray expectantly, knowing God will hear the sincere heart that cries out in repentance and claims the promises in His Word. So, what do you need to pray about, confess and/or claim as a promise from God. He's waiting...ready to share His plan with you. Begin today to seek His will, His call, His forgiveness, not just for you, but for our city.
Friday, January 2, 2009
God of This City
I want to take this opportunity to extend to each of you a very special invitation to be with us this Sunday morning as we begin our first series of 2009 entitled, "God of This City". The title comes from a new song by Chris Tomlin that will be introduced to each of you and the text for the next few weeks will be the book of Nehemiah. I am so excited about what God has in store for GBF this year and I cannot wait to share the first message of this series this week. Hope to see you there...
Bruce
Bruce
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