Revelation 2:4 (NKJV) Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.
It was to the once vibrant church in the city of Ephesus that Jesus had to send a note exhorting them to return to their first love. They had left it.
What happened in that church can happen in any church, any family, any life, and really at any time. Their love had grown cold. Their hearts had become hardened. They had become preoccupied with everything else but Jesus. It didn't happen right away. For the church in Ephesus, it took about sixty years for them to stroll away from that vibrant love relationship with Jesus. They started out so strong, so vibrant, so useful, so powerful in the hands of God.
The loveless church Jesus addressed were 'second-generation' Christians. They were very much following the example set by the early nation of Israel.
With Israel:
The FIRST generation KNEW God and SAW His power first hand.
The SECOND generation KNEW God but had only HEARD about His power.
The THIRD generation neither KNEW God or His power. They were lost.
Be that generation that gets back to your first love, friend. The days in which we live are crying out for a generation to stand strong for Jesus!
By Grace,
Pastor Ed
Response
I love these things. On this one, every time I get to that point of thinking "how can I forgive him or her for that" the Holy Spirit reminds me of the wicked servant being forgiven so much but refusing to forgive his fellow servant of so little. I remember how much has been forgiven me and whatever someone has done to me seems so insignificant. God bless you and your willingness to follow God's lead in your life.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Read Your Bible Everyday
Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
There are hundreds of books, thousands of Bible studies, and infinite opinions on the topic of spiritual growth, all filled with wonderful insight and help on how to grow in your relationship with Jesus. I've read and listened to dozens and dozens over the years and they've helped me a lot.
I'd like to share one with you that trumps them all. Ready?
READ YOUR BIBLE EVERY SINGLE DAY.
We all know we should read the Bible regularly -- everyday -- but for some reason we don't. When we don't, we short-change ourselves from yet another opportunity to grow in our relationship with Jesus.
Even if you have to put that other book down, turn off the radio, set aside that Bible study, it's worth it. Make reading your Bible every day a priority.
On our web site is a "Through the Year" Bible reading guide. There are many out there, so if this one doesn't work for you, find another and follow it; so that daily, you're in the Word and growing in grace.
Blessings,
Pastor Ed
Response
Amen, amen, and amen once again... You have hit a very sore spot with me. I have been the person talked about; the person they all pointed their wee li'l fingers at. I was the one that left the church for that very reason and have encountered this at several churches that I have gone to, and now, as I sit at my computer desk, I can watch all the people that pointed their fingers go by and know that I still have a great church to go to. Its on the Internet -- its Calvary Chapel Aurora :). Thank you, Pastor Ed. You have helped me alot and your devotionals are great. I'm getting ready to watch some of the testimonies that you all have. God bless you and your church. Tell 'em thank you for allowing me to be a part of your church. God's love and peace to all of you.
Friday, November 19, 2010
It's Too Easy To Complain
Philippians 2:14-16 (NKJV) Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or labored in vain.
It's just too easy to complain. I do it. You may find yourself doing it. It's too easy. When things don't go the way we like; when things aren't arranged to our satisfaction; when people aren't moving fast enough, nice enough, happy enough; complaining is the all too common response.
Poor Moses lived with it for forty years!
May it not be so among us as believers. As a pastor, I've complained and heard my fair share of complaints. Instead of jumping in to help solve the situation, I've witnessed countless people stand on the sidelines, sending out their opinions on things that they aren't even a part of, and are unwilling to help solve. In fact, there are a few who love to complain about our church that don't even attend here!
When we complain, we disobey. When we complain, we express our opinions in a way that tears down instead of building up.
I'm reminded of the statement Roosevelt made on the topic. I pray it encourages you today to jump in and help with some of the things you see that need improvement...instead of complaining.
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat." - Roosevelt
Trusting Him,
Pastor Ed
Response
Funny (well, not funny), how we can forget that we need God for EVERYTHING in our lives! I learned that day, back in 1985, that my personal decisions got me in the condition I was in. I learned later I could not trust my decisions & that I needed to depend on His alone! He is the One who has kept me sober all these years & also removed many more sins from my life, one by one by one by one & so on. And, He still is doing that, only the number has come way down so it is not as often.....He is so patient with us! I have much more Jesus-confidence than self-confidence now. Amen!
It's just too easy to complain. I do it. You may find yourself doing it. It's too easy. When things don't go the way we like; when things aren't arranged to our satisfaction; when people aren't moving fast enough, nice enough, happy enough; complaining is the all too common response.
Poor Moses lived with it for forty years!
May it not be so among us as believers. As a pastor, I've complained and heard my fair share of complaints. Instead of jumping in to help solve the situation, I've witnessed countless people stand on the sidelines, sending out their opinions on things that they aren't even a part of, and are unwilling to help solve. In fact, there are a few who love to complain about our church that don't even attend here!
When we complain, we disobey. When we complain, we express our opinions in a way that tears down instead of building up.
I'm reminded of the statement Roosevelt made on the topic. I pray it encourages you today to jump in and help with some of the things you see that need improvement...instead of complaining.
"It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat." - Roosevelt
Trusting Him,
Pastor Ed
Response
Funny (well, not funny), how we can forget that we need God for EVERYTHING in our lives! I learned that day, back in 1985, that my personal decisions got me in the condition I was in. I learned later I could not trust my decisions & that I needed to depend on His alone! He is the One who has kept me sober all these years & also removed many more sins from my life, one by one by one by one & so on. And, He still is doing that, only the number has come way down so it is not as often.....He is so patient with us! I have much more Jesus-confidence than self-confidence now. Amen!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Yielding to the Spirit
Psalm 31:3 (NKJV) "For You are my rock and my fortress; Therefore, for Your name's sake, lead me and guide me."
It's very important for us to learn how to consistently yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit. I love how the Psalmist cries out, "for Your name's sake, lead me and guide me." That's where it begins: the desire for God to lead and guide, no matter what awaits us on the journey. Too often when tough times come, there is a natural tendency to jump in and take control. After all, the more control we have, the safer we feel. Yet, it's possible for us to try and do our own thing and go our own way, only to find out we've been battling with the very God that loves and cares for us! Ultimately, God's will prevails.
Proverbs 16:9 "A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps."
Proverbs 16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."
Proverbs 19:21 "There are many plans in a man's heart. Nevertheless the LORD's counsel--that will stand." Take some time today and lift your cares and concerns to God in prayer. Ask Him for a yieldable spirit that will be in tune with His Spirit.
In His Great Love,
Pastor Ed
Response
Thank you, brother, this has been of great encouragement for me. I'm thankful and blessed that God has put me in the right place during this time of testing. This could have been the point when I give up, walk away and take things into my own hands, but I'm a rock and this too shall pass and the Lord will strengthen me. Just wanted to say thank you for being an obedient servant, sold out for the things of God.
It's very important for us to learn how to consistently yield ourselves to the Holy Spirit. I love how the Psalmist cries out, "for Your name's sake, lead me and guide me." That's where it begins: the desire for God to lead and guide, no matter what awaits us on the journey. Too often when tough times come, there is a natural tendency to jump in and take control. After all, the more control we have, the safer we feel. Yet, it's possible for us to try and do our own thing and go our own way, only to find out we've been battling with the very God that loves and cares for us! Ultimately, God's will prevails.
Proverbs 16:9 "A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps."
Proverbs 16:33 "The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD."
Proverbs 19:21 "There are many plans in a man's heart. Nevertheless the LORD's counsel--that will stand." Take some time today and lift your cares and concerns to God in prayer. Ask Him for a yieldable spirit that will be in tune with His Spirit.
In His Great Love,
Pastor Ed
Response
Thank you, brother, this has been of great encouragement for me. I'm thankful and blessed that God has put me in the right place during this time of testing. This could have been the point when I give up, walk away and take things into my own hands, but I'm a rock and this too shall pass and the Lord will strengthen me. Just wanted to say thank you for being an obedient servant, sold out for the things of God.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Elephants Love To Eat Trees
James 1:14-15 (NKJV) But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.
I read an interesting article entitled "Elephants Love to Eat Trees" a few weeks ago. In it, I learned that elephants love to eat trees and can quickly take out a small forest if they are hungry enough. Those that study such things have often wondered why that doesn't happen more often. Why don't elephants take out forests at whim? The answer is simple: ants. Elephants hate ants. When elephants start to yank on the limbs of the whistling-thorn tree, the ants swarm into their tender trunks and begin to sting and bite. Studies have shown that elephants tend to avoid these trees at all costs while learning to be careful in approaching other types of treEs. Thus, forests remain and elephants don't' have to deal with the consequences of disturbing the ants!
Trees so appealing and swarming with painful ants reminds me a lot of sin. Sin appears so appealing. Sin looks so satisfying. Sin looks so nourishing. Yet when you begin to yank on the limbs of sin, you get bit and stung by its hidden consequences.
Friends, stay away from sin, please. There is no need to learn the hard way.
In Grace,
Pastor Ed
Response
Hello Pastor Ed! God's words today have taught me that my excuses for not being good enough or competent enough to perform the functions of my job are really about me just not wanting to do what God has asked of me. I don't want to have to deal with learning the job and knowing all that I have to know, because it hurts my pride and because I'm just lazy sometimes. God has humbled me in a way I needed.
I read an interesting article entitled "Elephants Love to Eat Trees" a few weeks ago. In it, I learned that elephants love to eat trees and can quickly take out a small forest if they are hungry enough. Those that study such things have often wondered why that doesn't happen more often. Why don't elephants take out forests at whim? The answer is simple: ants. Elephants hate ants. When elephants start to yank on the limbs of the whistling-thorn tree, the ants swarm into their tender trunks and begin to sting and bite. Studies have shown that elephants tend to avoid these trees at all costs while learning to be careful in approaching other types of treEs. Thus, forests remain and elephants don't' have to deal with the consequences of disturbing the ants!
Trees so appealing and swarming with painful ants reminds me a lot of sin. Sin appears so appealing. Sin looks so satisfying. Sin looks so nourishing. Yet when you begin to yank on the limbs of sin, you get bit and stung by its hidden consequences.
Friends, stay away from sin, please. There is no need to learn the hard way.
In Grace,
Pastor Ed
Response
Hello Pastor Ed! God's words today have taught me that my excuses for not being good enough or competent enough to perform the functions of my job are really about me just not wanting to do what God has asked of me. I don't want to have to deal with learning the job and knowing all that I have to know, because it hurts my pride and because I'm just lazy sometimes. God has humbled me in a way I needed.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Can God Use Me?
2 Chronicles 16:9 (NKJV) "For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him."
I love it when someone asks me the question, "Can God use me?" I'll so quickly answer, "Yes." Absolutely! Not only can God use you, He wants to! Yet, it's often that my answers are met with reason after reason why a person has written themselves off. I'll hear things like, "But Pastor, you don't know my past;" or "I'm so unsure;" or "I don't know the Bible that well;" or a whole host of other reasons and excuses.
For sure, some reasons are real and there are heavy burdens being carried. They become an open door for biblical discipleship and ministry help. Yet, sometimes the reasons are merely excuses for not stepping up and stepping into the will of God for your life.
God only uses IMPERFECT people. Why? Because that's all He has to work with! There isn't anyone serving Jesus right now that is perfect. Far from it! Only people that have been touched and tainted by the reality of failure and faults are used by God, because all of us fall into that category in one degree or another.
If you're hesitant in stepping into the will of God for your life because you see in your past a string of unfortunate failures, then here's a section of Scripture for you to read, memorize, and hold on to:
1 Corinthians 1:26-29 (NLT) Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world's eyes, or powerful, or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God deliberately chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose those who are powerless to shame those who are powerful. God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important, so that no one can ever boast in the presence of God.
By the way, if you call Calvary Aurora your spiritual home, then print out our ministry application and turn it in. You can download it here: Ministry Application.
In His Great Love,
Pastor Ed
Response
I just want to let you know that the additional comments you have been including, with these devotionals, have really been a blessing to me and have made me rejoice and praise God right along with the people who wrote them. It's good that the "body" minister to each other, and although these folks may not have intended to do that, the Lord certainly intended that it be done. Thank you for following the lead of God's Holy Spirit and for sharing my brothers' and sisters' voices. I hope they will know how they have been used to bless others - just as God has blessed them.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Learning From Jesus
Matt 11:28 (NKJV) "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
As the book of Joshua opens up, we see God speaking directly to His young, new leader. We see it so many times in the Bible - God speaking to His servants - that if we're not careful, we may miss the importance of Joshua being able to hear God.
How did Joshua learn to hear from God? I believe it was Moses that taught him; that discipled him in the things of the Lord. Joshua was a faithful servant to Moses. As you read through the early pages of the Old Testament, you'll often find Joshua very close in proximity to Moses. Not only was Joshua a servant, he was also a spiritual student.
I'm reminded of my own life. It's so important for me, for you, to be close to Jesus. We're not just to be good servants to Jesus, but also good students of Jesus. We have much to learn, and as we faithfully serve Him, He is faithful to teach us!
By Love,
Pastor Ed
Response
There are many but I keep coming back to Romans 8:28. I particularly like the NASB translation of it... And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. Since this prodigal came home a little over three years ago, the Lord has shown me that indeed He does cause all things to work together for good. During my time away from Him, many [things] happened in my life which made absolutely no sense to me. Many things that at the time made me feel as if He wasn't in control. For if He was, surely he wouldn't allow these things to happen to me! But, now looking back I can see His hands all over those situations. I like to think that a believer's life is sort of like a jigsaw puzzle. You see the individual pieces as moments in time and you can't often seem to see how they fit into anything. But as God puts the pieces together, then out of disorder comes order and you begin to see that there is a design and that it is taking shape. It simply takes trust in Him to be able to have peace and to know that while the circumstances that you may be going through now make no sense to you, in the end it will all come together like a puzzle. The end result being a clear and beautiful picture, of your life.
Monday, November 1, 2010
You're a Saint
Colossians 1:2 (NKJV) To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are in Colosse: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Each time the word 'saint' is used, immediately the idea of someone who is super-spiritual comes to my mind. Over the years there has been a lot of confusion over the word 'saints.' Who is a saint? Who says that a person is saint? We all know that there are some famous saints like 'St. Teresa' and 'St. Thomas,' but is the world's common understanding of saints really biblical? I suggest to you that it is not.
According to the largest Christian Religion in the world, the following steps are necessary to become a saint:
"All Christians aspire to become saints, that is, persons in heaven (officially canonized or not), who lived lives of great charity and heroic virtues. In official (ROMAN CATHOLIC) Church procedures there are three steps to sainthood: one becomes Venerable, Blessed and then a Saint. Venerable is the title given to a deceased person recognized as having lived heroic virtues. To be recognized as a blessed, and therefore beatified, in addition to personal attributes of charity and heroic virtue, one miracle, acquired through the individual's intercession, is required. Canonization requires two, though a Pope may waive these requirements. Martyrdom does not usually require a miracle."
Friend, it's all not true, unnecessary, and man-made! According to the Bible, if you're a believer in Jesus, then you're automatically a saint. Saints in the New Testament, and today, are alive. You're a saint not because of what you do, but because of you are in Jesus. He has made you a saint. The word in the Greek is the word, "hagios," and literally means to be 'set apart for a special work.' As a Christian, you are set apart by God for His use. You're not perfect, but in His hands you're a saint on the move!
Please test all things by the Word of God (1 Thessalonians 5:1)! It will help clear up 100% of any confusion that has arisen through man-made religions.
Loving Jesus,
Saint Edward
Response
I truly appreciate your enotes. I use these enotes and some links to the Bible studies for my devotions and do receive much comfort and encouragement from them. Even if I heard them before, there is always something in them that grabs me. I have been a Christian all my life. We all need encouragement. Also, I love to read the replies that you get from your enotes, especially from the new believers. They are so excited about their news lives that it give me a good shot in the arm! Sometimes I just need one. Thank you for all you do.
Each time the word 'saint' is used, immediately the idea of someone who is super-spiritual comes to my mind. Over the years there has been a lot of confusion over the word 'saints.' Who is a saint? Who says that a person is saint? We all know that there are some famous saints like 'St. Teresa' and 'St. Thomas,' but is the world's common understanding of saints really biblical? I suggest to you that it is not.
According to the largest Christian Religion in the world, the following steps are necessary to become a saint:
"All Christians aspire to become saints, that is, persons in heaven (officially canonized or not), who lived lives of great charity and heroic virtues. In official (ROMAN CATHOLIC) Church procedures there are three steps to sainthood: one becomes Venerable, Blessed and then a Saint. Venerable is the title given to a deceased person recognized as having lived heroic virtues. To be recognized as a blessed, and therefore beatified, in addition to personal attributes of charity and heroic virtue, one miracle, acquired through the individual's intercession, is required. Canonization requires two, though a Pope may waive these requirements. Martyrdom does not usually require a miracle."
Friend, it's all not true, unnecessary, and man-made! According to the Bible, if you're a believer in Jesus, then you're automatically a saint. Saints in the New Testament, and today, are alive. You're a saint not because of what you do, but because of you are in Jesus. He has made you a saint. The word in the Greek is the word, "hagios," and literally means to be 'set apart for a special work.' As a Christian, you are set apart by God for His use. You're not perfect, but in His hands you're a saint on the move!
Please test all things by the Word of God (1 Thessalonians 5:1)! It will help clear up 100% of any confusion that has arisen through man-made religions.
Loving Jesus,
Saint Edward
Response
I truly appreciate your enotes. I use these enotes and some links to the Bible studies for my devotions and do receive much comfort and encouragement from them. Even if I heard them before, there is always something in them that grabs me. I have been a Christian all my life. We all need encouragement. Also, I love to read the replies that you get from your enotes, especially from the new believers. They are so excited about their news lives that it give me a good shot in the arm! Sometimes I just need one. Thank you for all you do.
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