Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Parallel Citizenship

PARALLEL CITIZENSHIP
Luke 2:14
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.”

Do you think this year is off to a great start? Do you feel, as a partner with Almighty God (Joint Venture devotion) and living by faith and not by sight (Higher Reality devotion), that one of your feet is on planet Earth, and the other one is dangling in thin air? It’s hard to stand firm when both feet aren’t secure on solid ground. As a believer in Christ, we’re currently between worlds. We’ve got parallel (PAR-a-lell means matching) citizenships in both this world and the next (heaven).

What’s weird is that this dual citizenship is simultaneous. We dare looking into our future in Heaven, while still battling trials on Earth. How many people have both these citizenships? It’s hard to tell just by looking. The person sitting beside you could either be your brother or sister in Christ, or a person who’s future does not include eternity in heaven.

Some people had a dramatic life that displayed both citizenships openly. Imagine Mary, when the angel told her that she was going to give birth to Jesus. Her one foot was in familiar territory, where she was engaged to be married, and the other foot was dangling in space. How would she tell Joseph? How would her parents react to their pregnant, unmarried daughter? (Luke 1:26-45).

And imagine Joseph. He fell in love with this girl and wanted to marry her, only to discover that she’s pregnant—with God’s Son! (Matthew 1:18-25). He must have wondered who this girl was, that God chose her to have His Son. Was he crazy to marry Mary? One thing we know for sure: he believed what the angel told him, and obeyed.

Both of their struggles must have been torment. Mary was thrilled to have been chosen as the one who would give birth to her long-awaited Messiah. On the other hand, she was at the mercy of Joseph’s, her parent’s, and neighbor’s disgust. But her song is still sung today! (Luke 1:46-56).
Whenever God allows His kids to live through troubled times, He walks with us. He equips us, strengthens us, and cheers our victory. It sure grows our faith when ending up on solid ground after one foot’s been dangling in thin air!

Take Home Nugget


Christmas is when we see the two worlds collide. The Lord of both worlds descended to live by the rules of the one when Jesus surrendered His deity to live as a human. What Jesus accomplished on Earth made it possible for God to resolve all discord in both worlds!

The key to Christmas is ‘Immanuel’—God with us!!
J.D. Griffith
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Friday, January 14, 2011

Christocentric

CHRISTOCENTRIC
Zechariah 12:10-14
v. 10: “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a Spirit of grace and supplication. They will look upon Me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child.”

Christocentric (krist-o-SENT-ric) means Jesus Christ is at the center of everything. This principle of Biblical understanding relates all things to Jesus Christ. He’s the heart, the core, the axis from which everything else is linked. God the Father, angels, the whole universe, the devil, human hopes are all parts of our understanding that can be seen in relationship to Jesus.

Christocentric evaluation of how we view things kind of turns our world upside down, doesn’t it? Perhaps Christocentric relationship of all things known is the most precise way to see things. Every other way to view life is what’s upside down!
We are not at the center, that’s for sure!

As God’s kids embarking on a new year, many of us are following the points made in the previous devotions, Joint Venture, Higher Reality, and Belief & Action. We’ve become partners with the Almighty--branches who get nourishment from the vine of Christ--with a purpose of pleasing the Lord by good works. We’re on board with living by faith, and not by sight. We’re enrolled in God’s school of obedience, and are growing in trust for Him every day. What’s more relevant than to begin to view everything in the world (and beyond) in relationship to Jesus Christ?

The Bible is Jesus’ story. From the beginning to the end (Alpha and Omega), the Bible is Christocentric. The opening Scripture, for example, speaks about Jesus being pierced. This is in reference to Israel’s rejection of Christ as Messiah. At Jesus’ second coming, a remnant of Israel will recognize the One crucified and embrace Him.

The Old Testament book, Zechariah, shows many details of our Savior, as well as predicting the future. By finding Scripture that opens the door to seeing passages about Jesus in the Old Testament, we’re encouraged to look all throughout the Bible for Christ-centered truths.

Take Home Nugget


Keeping Christ in mind—when considering all things—is fun to do. Imagine the kid who gives you a hard time. Ask Jesus to give you a different perspective about this person. You might see that he’s jealous of you, and really wants to be your friend. Won’t you two enjoy remembering your rough beginning, after you’ve become good friends?
Jesus Christ is the key that unlocks both the Word of God, and your own story.
J.D. Griffith
Some have read God’s holy Book
But failed to see its glory;
That’s because they didn’t know
It’s really Jesus’ story.
Branon
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Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Belief & Action

BELIEF & ACTION
John 14:15-21
v. 20: “On that day [after Jesus' resurrection] you will realize that I am in the Father, and you are in me, and I am in you.”

This ought to give all God’s kids much joy. Can you see the unbroken link between you, Jesus, and the Father? At this point in John 14, Jesus had kept his disciples close for three years. But the time was coming…when their lives would unravel by His death. There was so much Jesus wanted to reveal to them so that they wouldn’t fall apart. The assurance that by our belief and faith--we are one with the Almighty God--ought to be enough to keep us strong and courageous through everything that happens in life. But just as with Jesus’ first disciples, we too, need reassurance from time to time.

We’ve learned to walk by faith instead of what’s visible (see Higher Reality devotion). Our days here on earth grow us in many ways—and we never stop learning—even after college! There is book learning, life learning, and spiritual learning (or sanctification, making us holy). Part of being set apart from the world is enrolling in God’s school of obedience.

Here, our trust in God grows. (We see first-hand that God truly is Who He says He is). In this school we develop “waiting-on-the-Lord” patience. (We resist running ahead, and wait for the right timing, where doors open). We finally grasp obedience, and commit to His ways. (Before making this decision, fear prevents our choosing God’s path).

Our study book? The Bible. Would you go into the forest at night without a flashlight?

Searching The Word is important for guidance, but the Father also wants us to listen to His Spirit’s promptings. Rarely do God’s kids actually “hear” God speak. But Jesus guarantees us, in John 14:26, that the Counselor will teach and remind us what we need to know.

Abraham had no idea where God was sending him, but he went anyway. Now that’s obedience! The Father expects the same from us. That’s what is meant by “stepping out in faith”; we don’t need to know the details of our journey, kids! Even Jesus made the Father’s will His own priority and purpose.

Before we realize it, we’ll discover that we are linked with Jesus and the Father as one—what joy!

Take Home Nugget


When people see that your life interests and choices have changed in living full throttle for God, expect conflict. Jesus warns us that in this world, we will have trouble. But He wants us to take heart, “I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.”

Master speak, make me ready,
Upon Your prompting heard
To obey gladly and steady
Following Your every word.

J.D. Griffith
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Friday, January 7, 2011

Higher Reality

HIGHER REALITY
2Corinthians 5:6-8
v. 7: “We live by faith, not by sight.”

Full throttle for God and Joint Venture devotions began our new year with a bang, if we dare to follow the message. Are you ready for an even more thrilling adventure? This third rail of the partnership guarantees success as we grow deeper into following Jesus.

As humans, we typically measure the world through our five senses. Beyond what our eyes see, ears hear, fingers touch, noses smell, and tongues taste is a higher reality. Our Father commands us to live by faith, not by sight. (This is easier for a kid than an adult because kids naturally trust, adults naturally challenge). The world (non-believers) lives by sight, because it does not believe in God. So what is this live by faith stuff? The Father calls His kids to believe that what the Bible says about Him is true. This trust in the unseen God allows us to live confidently, although non-believers won’t have a clue.

Scripture claims that God is good—and is faithful to keep His promises (2Corinthians 1:20). Psalm 86:15 calls Him merciful, gracious, loving, and slow to anger. Hebrews 13:8 guarantees that God’s character never changes.

The truth of who God is depends totally on Him—not on opinion, circumstance, or feelings. It isn’t anything humans can scientifically measure, so leave your unbelief outside. Ephesians 2:8 points out that belief, or faith, is a gift from the Lord. So, it’s not something we can force on ourselves. But we can pray to the Father, asking Him to give us more faith, especially when we’re unsure.

How do we live by faith, then? Our conduct, lifestyle, and the choices we make show others who’s in charge of our lives. When the Holy spirit is guiding our steps, we purposefully follow. Although we can’t usually see where we’re heading, asking for direction and wisdom maintains peaceful hearts. Confidently putting our trust in God—because we admit that He always knows what’s best—assures us of answered prayers, and that every need will be met.

When attempting to handle life by ourselves, the stress can be overwhelming. Isn’t it a wonderful peace when our God offers us rest? Infinitely wise, perfectly loving, and completely sovereign, our Lord is supremely capable to care for His children.

Take Home Nugget


Never become embarrassed after making a mistake—we all do! Our God is eager to hear repentance, and immediately scoops us back into His embrace. As we grow deeper into this higher reality of focusing on Christ, our trust and belief increase, too!

“Take up your cross” the Savior said,
If you My disciple would be;
With willing heart, humbly
Follow after Me!

J.D. Griffith
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Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Joint Venture

JOINT VENTURE
1Corinthians 12:4-11
v.7: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”

Happy 2011! Now that we’re in full throttle for God, (See Full Throttle 4 God devotion) let’s examine this partnership. Joint venture is a business term that forms an alliance (al-LI-ance means association, treaty, pact) between two firms, or people. The New Year’s resolution we just gave God, if you followed through with Full Throttle for God, was forming a partnership with the creator of the entire universe. Now that’s what I call a partner!

Just as it was a little frightening to be named as a disciple for Jesus, living full throttle for God, and becoming His partner can be intimidating (in-TIM-i-DATE-ing means threatening, scary), too. There’s really nothing to fear. We are promised that we’re never alone in this venture (VEN-chur means endeavor, dare, task). Jesus remains as our nourishing vine (John 15:1-5), and walks beside us every day.

No one is a bystander in God’s kingdom! He chooses to work through humans to accomplish His Gospel mission (telling others about Jesus) on earth. We’re not only the branches that the gardener prunes, we’re also the workers cultivating (KUL-tiv-a-ting means growing, educating) the fruit to be harvested. (Matthew 9:37-38). On earth, we work the largest garden ever! So how does the Father equip us for this partnership?

The Father provides one or more spiritual gifts to every child for the work before us. The Father knit that special gift into our personalities and unborn (sleeping) talents. Ask Him what is your unique gift and purpose, if it’s not clear to you. There is no such thing as a non-gifted believer. We’re after all, His workmanship, created in Jesus for the purpose of good works (Ephesians 2:10). The special wiring is the Holy Spirit Who’ll manifest, (show, make plain) our special gifts.

The Holy Spirit’s leading and Jesus’ sap of nourishment that flows from the vine into the branches (you and me), is how we produce fruit for God’s kingdom. The Spirit then lives and works through God’s kids to exhibit acts of service. God’s power is behind and through it all!

Instead of shrinking away from accepting and following your life’s purpose, I encourage you to embrace this joint venture. Full throttle for God will rock your world!

Take Home Nugget


God’s awesome power is present inside you. The Holy Spirit equips us to obey God in whatever He brings before us. Won’t you check out the lesson that accompanies this devotion to see the various gifts available to God’s kids? Which ones do you possess?
Take stock, child,
For your life has come due.
You know God’s made you wild
For the task that He’s prepared for you!

J.D. Griffith
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Friday, December 31, 2010

Full Throttle for God

FULL THROTTLE FOR GOD
John 15:1-8
v. 8: “This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to by My disciples.”

At the end of another year, how would you complete your report card for following Jesus, being His disciple? It is true that life is hard—especially when living as the Lord desires—but Jesus promises to walk by our side, supplying all our needs (Philippians 4:19). Marty, in the previous devotion Remain in the Light, figured out pretty fast about apologizing for a little white lie he told his Mom. Immediately, he was fast-tracked on target for bearing fruit for His Father, once more. Can you remember a time during this year when it took you longer to get back on the track of following Jesus?

Jesus was right on, when He said, “apart from Me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5). Can you think of a time this year when you tried doing something without Him? How long did it take for you to figure out why you failed so miserably? Do you remember being tired, worn out, feeling weak? At some point, His juice leaked out of the wiring at the connection between Him and you.
A leak drained His power when you focused on something besides Him. The remedy (REM-e-dee means a fix) is quick, and easy: refocusing on Jesus recharges and restores. Reading His Word, praying, spending time with godly friends are all good ideas that refresh the believer’s walk.

Things seem to flow very well when we’re on the Jesus track. Victory and power are in our grasp as long as we remain connected to the vine. But, separated by distractions that divert our attitude and activities toward worldly goals can veer us way off course in a split second. Many wise believers learn how to discipline themselves before losing their power, by recharging with a daily dose of His Word and devotions.

Hebrews 12:1 urges God’s kids to “throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.” What is preventing you from living passionately for Christ?
As a New Year’s resolution, won’t you ask Jesus for His help and commitment for action following Him? His plan, with His strength, guarantees His kids’ lives filled with peace, joy, and contentment.

There’s nothing like living at “full throttle for God!”

Take Home Nugget
Persist no matter what.
Endure discomfort.
Request help.
Steadfastly hold on to your beliefs and values.
Envision triumph.
Very consistently keep at it.
Embrace adversity as your teacher.
Refuse to give up.
Enjoy and celebrate every tiny bit of progress!
anon.
P-E-S-E-V-E-R-E through 2011!

Happy New Year, World!
J.D. Griffith
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Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Remain in the Lght

REMAIN IN THE LIGHT
1John 2:6
“Whoever claims to live in Him must walk as Jesus did.”

Marty complained about his dress shoes at church, over Christmas. He hoped his Mom would take him to buy new ones, so that maybe he could also get new sneakers. “How do they feel? the saleslady asked Marty about the new black dress shoes he was wearing.

“They pinch my toes.”
His Mom said, “If they’re uncomfortable, they aren’t worth getting, sale or no. Let’s keep looking.”

Marty looked at the shoes, wondering, Why am I grouchy? Looking up, it dawned on him. I didn’t want new dress shoes, I wanted new sneakers! He said aloud, “I also need new sneakers, Mom.”

“Of course you’ve out grown all your shoes!” Marty’s Mom said.
After they found sneakers, the saleslady announced, “It’s buy one pair, get the second pair half-price.”

“The dress shoes don’t really pinch my toes, Mom. Sorry. Could we get both pairs? Please?”

“Well, OK, Marty…but you’d better wear the dress shoes!”

“I promise.”
The way to maintain a pure heart is to confess sin. Marty knew the dress shoes fit fine, but he really wanted sneakers. How often do people whine and complain when everything is just fine? Apostle John told us that light and darkness don’t mix. Marty realized that his goal of getting new sneakers by complaining about the dress shoes was wrong, and he felt guilty.

Marty’s ‘little white lie’ made him ashamed, but he felt better after admitting the truth to his Mom. Inviting darkness into our lives by lying creates immediate conflict every time. Although lies may seem innocent, they always have consequences (con-se-QUENC-es mean punishment, or a price). Confession of sin always removes the grime of guilt and shame. We are only made clean, and guilt-free, by Jesus’ work in the cross. Our identity in Him remains secure.

That’s way better than a buy one, get one at half price!

Telling little white lies messes up the relationship between believers and our Lord. If left unchecked, unrepented sin can choke the bond between God and His children. This dims the light of Christ in our lives—and the light that we show the world.
The Holy Spirit doesn’t convict us of general sin. He’s very specific. He points out the problem exactly. God is pure light, perfect light. How quickly we worship God, even after such a wonderful Christmas, then muddy up our ideal relationship with a stupid lie? And for what? New sneakers?
Take Home Nugget


Honest believers acknowledge their sin, and take responsibility for it. How much better to remain in the light than to tarnish our perfect relationship with God!
One tiny lie darkens the soul in a big way.

J.D. Griffith


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