SCRIPTURE
But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust me enough to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!”
Numbers 20:12
OBSERVATION
The people of Israel were very difficult. They complained, grumbled, and rebelled all the time. Moses had to put up with their tantrums to the point of burning all his margins. Moses and Aaron reacted angrily rather than responding wisely. They did not trust God enough and failed to demonstrate the holiness of God. In their reaction, they became as rebellious as the ten spies with negative reports. And even though Moses and Aaron did not die immediately, they were banned from leading the people in the promised land.
APPLICATION
There are some people that will drive us crazy. Their negative attitude, their victim mentality, their constant and unquenchable neediness, and their manipulative grumbling has the potential to worn out the strongest of us. And if we are not careful, we will end up reacting rather than responding. Reactions are volatile emotionally and may solve a temporary problem. Moses' angry attack on the rock provided the water people demanded. But responses are charged with divine wisdom and will always provide long term solutions. When Moses responded to the people's cravings for food, God set things up to provide manna and quail faithfully everyday.
Good shepherds must avoid reactions and embrace responses. And because they are human beings, vulnerable to the pressures of people, they need to protect their margins and avoid patterns that warn them out. Moses was listening too much what people were saying. We cannot have a receptive ear to people's complains. We need to learn how to listen, retain only what is good, and reject what is counterproductive.
PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father, please help me to keep healthy margins and a healthy distance from difficult people. Give me wisdom to avoid their ambushes. Help me to escape their 5 minute requests. Help me to focus my attention into those that want to keep moving forward and follow God's will. I don't want to loose my trust in you and end up not honoring your holiness. Give me the heart of a good shepherd. Teach me how to solve problems in a long term fashion. And don't let me walk one step in rebellion by reacting emotionally rather than responding wisely. Amen!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Monday, February 23, 2009
RESTORING THE RISK TAKER IN ME. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." But the men who had gone up with him said, "We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are." And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, "The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them."
Numbers 13:30-33
OBSERVATION
Few weeks ago I had the privilege to sit down for lunch with the head of the intelligence agencies in Hawaii. We talked about this passage of Scripture and from his perspective, he shared very important insights. Good intelligence collection is about decision support. Good reports help to suspend critical disbelief in decision making. The assignment of Moses' spies was to report, but they included their decision in their report. Their report was true and accurate, but their conclusion was faithless and demoralizing. They took upon themselves an assignment that wasn't theirs. Decision making was the responsibility of Moses, not theirs. They lost objectivity and they spread discouragement all around the camp. They wanted to manipulate the decision according to their opinion. Lack of objectivity kills hope, faith, creativity and innovation. They were certainly punished accordingly and they died before entering the Promised Land.
As a contrast, we can see Joshua and Caleb with a different attitude about the situation. They don't change the data, but they change the approach. They were cautious, yet they were risk takers. They were prudent and realistic about the situation. But they realized that the solution was not about retrieving, but about building an army. Their approach was according to the possibilities of God, not according to the possibilities of men.
APPLICATION
We need to resist the temptation to collect data as decision points. We cannot manipulate the decisions according to our fears. We need to be sober and realistic, but not according to our expectations and experience. We need to trust in the Lord to do miracles in the midst of our disadvantages.
During the tough economic times our nation is going through, we can easily fall in the mind trap that the 10 spies were into. We can be very accurate in our assessments, but very off in our attitude and strategy. The bottom line is to hear what God says, to trust in His promises, and to be risk takers, without being reckless. This is certainly a season to make tough decisions, and to move forward pleasing God, not people.
During the last three months, as we have been planning for the economic downturn, I fill like we have been playing safe too much. There is no risk in the way we are setting things up. We are not following vision. We are making decisions according to worldly and human patterns, not according to divine and godly patterns. We are looking at what we have in the bank to determine the direction we must follow, rather than hearing God and believe for His provision to do whatever He wants. I believe that there is a way to accomplish both: to be responsible stewards, and to be visionaries and risk takers. I need to help my leadership team to see these economic times with the eyes of Joshua and Caleb. We may not have the army yet, we may not have the resources yet, but we have God's instruction for our lives and we need to obey God above all things. These are not times to retrieve and play safe, but times to be courageous and full of faith and trust in God's promises for our church.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, I just want to follow your ways. In the past, I have always risked everything to follow your instructions. I have applied the same pattern to our ministry in Hawaii. Every time we risked it all for You, You never disappointed us. Why is it that now we want to play it safe? Certainly it seems that the more we have the harder is to risk it all. But I don't want to downgrade my heart and attitude. Please restore unto me the spirit of Joshua and Caleb. Help me to convince my team to be risk takers, to be willing to loose it all for the sake of following you. If You want us to retrieve and let our cash flow to determine our direction, then so be it! But I feel that You want to challenge our faith and human strength. We ask our congregation constantly to bring everything to the altar, but also, as the leaders of the church, we must be willing to bring everything to the altar. Guide me during this times! I want to follow You and Your promises for our church, not numbers, not opinions of men. I love you Lord! Help me to be bold and courageous during these times! Amen!
Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." But the men who had gone up with him said, "We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are." And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, "The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size. We saw the Nephilim there (the descendants of Anak come from the Nephilim). We seemed like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and we looked the same to them."
Numbers 13:30-33
OBSERVATION
Few weeks ago I had the privilege to sit down for lunch with the head of the intelligence agencies in Hawaii. We talked about this passage of Scripture and from his perspective, he shared very important insights. Good intelligence collection is about decision support. Good reports help to suspend critical disbelief in decision making. The assignment of Moses' spies was to report, but they included their decision in their report. Their report was true and accurate, but their conclusion was faithless and demoralizing. They took upon themselves an assignment that wasn't theirs. Decision making was the responsibility of Moses, not theirs. They lost objectivity and they spread discouragement all around the camp. They wanted to manipulate the decision according to their opinion. Lack of objectivity kills hope, faith, creativity and innovation. They were certainly punished accordingly and they died before entering the Promised Land.
As a contrast, we can see Joshua and Caleb with a different attitude about the situation. They don't change the data, but they change the approach. They were cautious, yet they were risk takers. They were prudent and realistic about the situation. But they realized that the solution was not about retrieving, but about building an army. Their approach was according to the possibilities of God, not according to the possibilities of men.
APPLICATION
We need to resist the temptation to collect data as decision points. We cannot manipulate the decisions according to our fears. We need to be sober and realistic, but not according to our expectations and experience. We need to trust in the Lord to do miracles in the midst of our disadvantages.
During the tough economic times our nation is going through, we can easily fall in the mind trap that the 10 spies were into. We can be very accurate in our assessments, but very off in our attitude and strategy. The bottom line is to hear what God says, to trust in His promises, and to be risk takers, without being reckless. This is certainly a season to make tough decisions, and to move forward pleasing God, not people.
During the last three months, as we have been planning for the economic downturn, I fill like we have been playing safe too much. There is no risk in the way we are setting things up. We are not following vision. We are making decisions according to worldly and human patterns, not according to divine and godly patterns. We are looking at what we have in the bank to determine the direction we must follow, rather than hearing God and believe for His provision to do whatever He wants. I believe that there is a way to accomplish both: to be responsible stewards, and to be visionaries and risk takers. I need to help my leadership team to see these economic times with the eyes of Joshua and Caleb. We may not have the army yet, we may not have the resources yet, but we have God's instruction for our lives and we need to obey God above all things. These are not times to retrieve and play safe, but times to be courageous and full of faith and trust in God's promises for our church.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, I just want to follow your ways. In the past, I have always risked everything to follow your instructions. I have applied the same pattern to our ministry in Hawaii. Every time we risked it all for You, You never disappointed us. Why is it that now we want to play it safe? Certainly it seems that the more we have the harder is to risk it all. But I don't want to downgrade my heart and attitude. Please restore unto me the spirit of Joshua and Caleb. Help me to convince my team to be risk takers, to be willing to loose it all for the sake of following you. If You want us to retrieve and let our cash flow to determine our direction, then so be it! But I feel that You want to challenge our faith and human strength. We ask our congregation constantly to bring everything to the altar, but also, as the leaders of the church, we must be willing to bring everything to the altar. Guide me during this times! I want to follow You and Your promises for our church, not numbers, not opinions of men. I love you Lord! Help me to be bold and courageous during these times! Amen!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
SETTING THINGS IN ORDER. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
So the people of Israel did everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses. Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the Lord had instructed them.
Numbers 2:34
OBSERVATION
In order for the people of Israel to mobilize their massive population and be prepared for battle, God instructed Moses to organize the people according to family clans. Like an advanced military, Israel followed an orderly system that will help them in their journey through the desert. The system was clear, leaders were informed, and the people were instructed to follow their respective family banners. Nobody was left behind. They were united in mind and purpose. The result was an impressive army that moved like clockwork.
APPLICATION
God has a huge plan for our lives that will be fulfilled in its entirety when we submit to his instructions of restructuring. Very often during our journey with the Lord, we need to take a break and set things in order. Life comes and goes so fast that very often certain areas get messy. Clutter accumulates, relationships need to be repaired, habits must be under control, emotions must be checked, and motives need to be surrendered before the Lord. Our life must be in order in order to move according to the pace God has designed for us. He doesn't want us to leave thongs behind. He wants us to tie loose ends. My life must be set in order often. Otherwise, I will loos momentum and become vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy.
During this season I must also set things in order for our ministry in the church. Things need to be restructured so communication is clear, relationships are strengthened, and effectiveness is maximized. We need to empower people, give them banners so they can lead with purpose, and keep them on the same page as we advance the kingdom. I don't want to leave people behind. I don't want to have vulnerable points for the enemy to come and attack. Things need to be set in order.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for always keeping things in order and for instructing me to put my life in order. Please forgive me for neglecting the divine order in priorities, habits, and lifestyle. Help me to set my life in order. And in the same pattern, lead me in setting things in order in the ministry of our church. Let us be effective, organized, and ready for battle at all times. Pour out your Spirit upon us to bring unity, clarity, and effectiveness. Show us how to move the troops during this season so we can advance your Kingdom. Amen.
So the people of Israel did everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses. Each clan and family set up camp and marched under their banners exactly as the Lord had instructed them.
Numbers 2:34
OBSERVATION
In order for the people of Israel to mobilize their massive population and be prepared for battle, God instructed Moses to organize the people according to family clans. Like an advanced military, Israel followed an orderly system that will help them in their journey through the desert. The system was clear, leaders were informed, and the people were instructed to follow their respective family banners. Nobody was left behind. They were united in mind and purpose. The result was an impressive army that moved like clockwork.
APPLICATION
God has a huge plan for our lives that will be fulfilled in its entirety when we submit to his instructions of restructuring. Very often during our journey with the Lord, we need to take a break and set things in order. Life comes and goes so fast that very often certain areas get messy. Clutter accumulates, relationships need to be repaired, habits must be under control, emotions must be checked, and motives need to be surrendered before the Lord. Our life must be in order in order to move according to the pace God has designed for us. He doesn't want us to leave thongs behind. He wants us to tie loose ends. My life must be set in order often. Otherwise, I will loos momentum and become vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy.
During this season I must also set things in order for our ministry in the church. Things need to be restructured so communication is clear, relationships are strengthened, and effectiveness is maximized. We need to empower people, give them banners so they can lead with purpose, and keep them on the same page as we advance the kingdom. I don't want to leave people behind. I don't want to have vulnerable points for the enemy to come and attack. Things need to be set in order.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for always keeping things in order and for instructing me to put my life in order. Please forgive me for neglecting the divine order in priorities, habits, and lifestyle. Help me to set my life in order. And in the same pattern, lead me in setting things in order in the ministry of our church. Let us be effective, organized, and ready for battle at all times. Pour out your Spirit upon us to bring unity, clarity, and effectiveness. Show us how to move the troops during this season so we can advance your Kingdom. Amen.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
HARMLESS ATACKS. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God. While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him into court.
Acts 18:9-12
OBSERVATION
God revealed to Paul in a vision a promise to protect him from harmful attacks. There is not reason for Paul to be afraid because God was promising to be with Him. But as we keep reading, right in the next verse, the vicious attacks of the Jews came. In one verse God promises protection from attacks, but in the next verse Paul is under attack. Important to observe what God clearly promised to Paul. He did not promised a life free from attacks, but a journey free from hurtful attacks. He told Paul, "Attacks will come. But they will not hurt you or harm you. They will not be a threat to your life or your assignment."
APPLICATION
We would have unrealistic expectations if we assume that our journey with Christ is free from attacks. In fact, as followers of Christ, we should expect attacks from many places and in many shapes and forms. But those attacks, as relentless as they could be, will not destroy us. God promises to be with us, to be our shield, and to carry us to the finish line of our assignment. We will not be stopped. We may be afraid and we may want to retrieve. But God will come to our aid as we put our trust in Him and depend in His power and might, not ours.
During this season our church has been under constant vicious attacks of the enemy. I recognize that I've been afraid of the negative consequences and the damage that the enemy can do to the members of our body. But this morning I'm hearing from God the exact words that are going to sustain my during this assault and constant attack. I don't need to be afraid. I will not be silent. I will continue with boldness and determination doing what God has called me to do. When the enemy comes from one way, God will come out to meet him from 10 different ways. I'm confident that the Lord will be fighting for us, protecting us, and securing the victory for us as we depend on Him.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, we need you more and more, especially during this season. Let us come before you and depend on you to find protection from the attacks of the enemy. These attacks are not going to destroy us. They may slow us down. But they will not stop us. Give us the resilience to dissipate or fears as we fix our eyes on you. We cast all our fears and anxieties before you. Thank you for being with us. Amen!
One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God. While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him into court.
Acts 18:9-12
OBSERVATION
God revealed to Paul in a vision a promise to protect him from harmful attacks. There is not reason for Paul to be afraid because God was promising to be with Him. But as we keep reading, right in the next verse, the vicious attacks of the Jews came. In one verse God promises protection from attacks, but in the next verse Paul is under attack. Important to observe what God clearly promised to Paul. He did not promised a life free from attacks, but a journey free from hurtful attacks. He told Paul, "Attacks will come. But they will not hurt you or harm you. They will not be a threat to your life or your assignment."
APPLICATION
We would have unrealistic expectations if we assume that our journey with Christ is free from attacks. In fact, as followers of Christ, we should expect attacks from many places and in many shapes and forms. But those attacks, as relentless as they could be, will not destroy us. God promises to be with us, to be our shield, and to carry us to the finish line of our assignment. We will not be stopped. We may be afraid and we may want to retrieve. But God will come to our aid as we put our trust in Him and depend in His power and might, not ours.
During this season our church has been under constant vicious attacks of the enemy. I recognize that I've been afraid of the negative consequences and the damage that the enemy can do to the members of our body. But this morning I'm hearing from God the exact words that are going to sustain my during this assault and constant attack. I don't need to be afraid. I will not be silent. I will continue with boldness and determination doing what God has called me to do. When the enemy comes from one way, God will come out to meet him from 10 different ways. I'm confident that the Lord will be fighting for us, protecting us, and securing the victory for us as we depend on Him.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, we need you more and more, especially during this season. Let us come before you and depend on you to find protection from the attacks of the enemy. These attacks are not going to destroy us. They may slow us down. But they will not stop us. Give us the resilience to dissipate or fears as we fix our eyes on you. We cast all our fears and anxieties before you. Thank you for being with us. Amen!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
A MESSAGE LIKE NO OTHER. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
When they heard Paul speak of the resurrection of a person who had been dead, some laughed, but others said, "We want to hear more about this later." That ended Paul's discussion with them, but some joined him and became believers. Among them were Dionysius, a member of the Council, a woman named Damaris, and others.
Acts 17:32-34
OBSERVATION
Paul is preaching the Good News in one of the most difficult places. He is among the elite thinkers and philosophers of the time in Athens. His message was a home run. Clear, complete, and to the point. Even though Paul did a great job, many people in his audience laughed at his claims of Jesus. But there was a few that listened and believed the message. Those lives were touched and changed for the glory of God.
APPLICATION
What a powerful message the Gospel is! It has the power to bring salvation, not only from eternal death, but also from the claws of the enemy here on earth. We must continue proclaiming this message of salvation, not being distracted or disappointed by those who reject it. The more bold we become to proclaim the Gospel, the more rejection we will encounter. People's minds are being fed by skepticism and secularism in a daily basis. The Gospel is very different than any other message they hear. So many will make fun of it, or dismiss it as irrelevant. But the truth is that there are some people that will embrace it and change their eternal outcome. I usually get disappointed when someone rejects the Gospel. But rather than feeling like a failure, I need to be thankful for those that have listened, are listening and will be listening the Good News. Planting seeds of the Gospel is hard work and only few stumps will grow and produce fruit. We cannot give up! We must keep trying, even in the places where we will be criticized the most.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege to share with the world the most amazing message of hope and salvation. Give me boldness to speak the Good News among those who are the most difficult to convince. Grant me favor to proclaim the Gospel in places where I would be labeled as "weird" or "crazy." There are souls to win! Help us to bring more and more people closer to you. Amen!
When they heard Paul speak of the resurrection of a person who had been dead, some laughed, but others said, "We want to hear more about this later." That ended Paul's discussion with them, but some joined him and became believers. Among them were Dionysius, a member of the Council, a woman named Damaris, and others.
Acts 17:32-34
OBSERVATION
Paul is preaching the Good News in one of the most difficult places. He is among the elite thinkers and philosophers of the time in Athens. His message was a home run. Clear, complete, and to the point. Even though Paul did a great job, many people in his audience laughed at his claims of Jesus. But there was a few that listened and believed the message. Those lives were touched and changed for the glory of God.
APPLICATION
What a powerful message the Gospel is! It has the power to bring salvation, not only from eternal death, but also from the claws of the enemy here on earth. We must continue proclaiming this message of salvation, not being distracted or disappointed by those who reject it. The more bold we become to proclaim the Gospel, the more rejection we will encounter. People's minds are being fed by skepticism and secularism in a daily basis. The Gospel is very different than any other message they hear. So many will make fun of it, or dismiss it as irrelevant. But the truth is that there are some people that will embrace it and change their eternal outcome. I usually get disappointed when someone rejects the Gospel. But rather than feeling like a failure, I need to be thankful for those that have listened, are listening and will be listening the Good News. Planting seeds of the Gospel is hard work and only few stumps will grow and produce fruit. We cannot give up! We must keep trying, even in the places where we will be criticized the most.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege to share with the world the most amazing message of hope and salvation. Give me boldness to speak the Good News among those who are the most difficult to convince. Grant me favor to proclaim the Gospel in places where I would be labeled as "weird" or "crazy." There are souls to win! Help us to bring more and more people closer to you. Amen!
Monday, February 9, 2009
HONEST MISTAKES. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
Then Aaron answered Moses, “Today my sons presented both their sin offering and their burnt offering to the Lord. And yet this tragedy has happened to me. If I had eaten the people’s sin offering on such a tragic day as this, would the Lord have been pleased?” 20 And when Moses heard this, he was satisfied.
Leviticus 10:19
OBSERVATION
It was a sad day for Aaron. Two of his sons died in the presence of the Lord because they offered unauthorized fire in the altar, a serious offense before the Lord. God instructed Aaron to refrain from showing signs of grieving. And later on the same day, his other two sons burned completely the offering that Moses instructed them to eat in a holy place. Moses was very upset about this too. Aaron's response to Moses reveals an important principle that if not careful, we can miss in our reading. This is it: God is always more concerned about people than laws. Aaron never made a case to defend the actions of Nadab and Abihu. His oldest sons did something wrong out of rebellion, immaturity, and probably drunkenness. Aaron probably knew that his sons deserved the punishment. But when responding to Moses, Aaron describes an honest mistake of his younger sons. How could they eat the sacrifice in such a horrible day for their family? Would God be pleased with that kind of attitude? Moses understood clearly because he knew the heart of God. Eleazar and Ithamar made an honest mistake, motivated by love for their father, and their family. They did not die that day like his other brothers! Their heart was different. God's mercy covered them.
APPLICATION
Over and over I thank God because perfection is not a requirement to serve him. It's very liberating to know that I don't need to be perfect and that God's grace will cover my honest mistakes. Sometimes I have the tendency to be really hard on myself when my imperfections come across. These are decisions made not out of rebellion, but out of the best intentions for the people. Eleazar and Ithamar broke a direct order, but they acted according to a principle. They risked all for the sake of honoring someone. Nadab and Abihu broke a command, but they acted out of selfishness and rebellion, careless of what they could bring to the people.
In order to steward my authority well, I need to always discern people's actions. If they act out of rebellion, then the consequences will be unique. But if they make a mistake, motivated by doing the bet for people, the outcome should be different. I must be willing to provide grace when people make honest mistakes. But also I need to learn how to be gracious and direct when people are acting our of rebellion.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you so much for the privilege I have to serve people. Let me always put people first before any policies or tasks. Please give me discernment to look in the heart and in the motives of their actions. Let me distinguish between mistakes motivated out of ignorance and the mistakes motivated out of rebellion. Give me boldness to deal with all of them accordingly. Let me stewrad my authority well. In Jesus name. Amen!
Then Aaron answered Moses, “Today my sons presented both their sin offering and their burnt offering to the Lord. And yet this tragedy has happened to me. If I had eaten the people’s sin offering on such a tragic day as this, would the Lord have been pleased?” 20 And when Moses heard this, he was satisfied.
Leviticus 10:19
OBSERVATION
It was a sad day for Aaron. Two of his sons died in the presence of the Lord because they offered unauthorized fire in the altar, a serious offense before the Lord. God instructed Aaron to refrain from showing signs of grieving. And later on the same day, his other two sons burned completely the offering that Moses instructed them to eat in a holy place. Moses was very upset about this too. Aaron's response to Moses reveals an important principle that if not careful, we can miss in our reading. This is it: God is always more concerned about people than laws. Aaron never made a case to defend the actions of Nadab and Abihu. His oldest sons did something wrong out of rebellion, immaturity, and probably drunkenness. Aaron probably knew that his sons deserved the punishment. But when responding to Moses, Aaron describes an honest mistake of his younger sons. How could they eat the sacrifice in such a horrible day for their family? Would God be pleased with that kind of attitude? Moses understood clearly because he knew the heart of God. Eleazar and Ithamar made an honest mistake, motivated by love for their father, and their family. They did not die that day like his other brothers! Their heart was different. God's mercy covered them.
APPLICATION
Over and over I thank God because perfection is not a requirement to serve him. It's very liberating to know that I don't need to be perfect and that God's grace will cover my honest mistakes. Sometimes I have the tendency to be really hard on myself when my imperfections come across. These are decisions made not out of rebellion, but out of the best intentions for the people. Eleazar and Ithamar broke a direct order, but they acted according to a principle. They risked all for the sake of honoring someone. Nadab and Abihu broke a command, but they acted out of selfishness and rebellion, careless of what they could bring to the people.
In order to steward my authority well, I need to always discern people's actions. If they act out of rebellion, then the consequences will be unique. But if they make a mistake, motivated by doing the bet for people, the outcome should be different. I must be willing to provide grace when people make honest mistakes. But also I need to learn how to be gracious and direct when people are acting our of rebellion.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you so much for the privilege I have to serve people. Let me always put people first before any policies or tasks. Please give me discernment to look in the heart and in the motives of their actions. Let me distinguish between mistakes motivated out of ignorance and the mistakes motivated out of rebellion. Give me boldness to deal with all of them accordingly. Let me stewrad my authority well. In Jesus name. Amen!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
PRISON BREAK. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.
Acts 12:5
OBSERVATION
The persecution of the early church was intense. Herod had James killed and Peter was his next target. Peter's situation is almost hopeless. The church cannot do anything... so they start praying earnestly for Peter. The Lord hears their prayers and an angel miraculously rescues Peter from the prison. Peter could not believe what was happening. Even the same people that were praying for him would not believe the news of Peter's escape. That shows that their faith in their prayers were not the most optimal. But God's will prevailed above the faith of the people.
APPLICATION
Praying according to the will of God is going to challenge our faith, our emotions, and even our character. First of all, is prayer my first answer when a brother or sister is in trouble? Do I go to my knees when the news of someone's misfortune reaches me? As a shepherd I must not neglect the prayers of intercession for the people of our church. They may not be persecuted and sent to jail, but the enemy of our souls is prowling and chasing them to hurt them. Satan wants to keep them imprisoned in his realm of death and destruction. Who is praying for them? I should be standing in the gap!
Also I need to pray for God's will to come. Regardless of how I feel, or how confident I am that God will do a miracle, my prayers must line up with the will of God. I should not be surprised when God answers my prayers. My level of faith will not determine how much of the will of God will be released in people's lives. I need to trust in God's ways and remember that my prayers can change outcomes as long as I keep trusting God's will to do what it needs to be done.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, please let your will be done in the lives of those who are suffering the vicious attacks of the enemy right now. I pray for life where there is death. I pray for peace where there is turmoil. I pray for healing where there is pain. Let your will be done regardless of my faith. Release your miracles as we learn how to trust in your goodness and grace. Amen!
But while Peter was in prison, the church prayed very earnestly for him.
Acts 12:5
OBSERVATION
The persecution of the early church was intense. Herod had James killed and Peter was his next target. Peter's situation is almost hopeless. The church cannot do anything... so they start praying earnestly for Peter. The Lord hears their prayers and an angel miraculously rescues Peter from the prison. Peter could not believe what was happening. Even the same people that were praying for him would not believe the news of Peter's escape. That shows that their faith in their prayers were not the most optimal. But God's will prevailed above the faith of the people.
APPLICATION
Praying according to the will of God is going to challenge our faith, our emotions, and even our character. First of all, is prayer my first answer when a brother or sister is in trouble? Do I go to my knees when the news of someone's misfortune reaches me? As a shepherd I must not neglect the prayers of intercession for the people of our church. They may not be persecuted and sent to jail, but the enemy of our souls is prowling and chasing them to hurt them. Satan wants to keep them imprisoned in his realm of death and destruction. Who is praying for them? I should be standing in the gap!
Also I need to pray for God's will to come. Regardless of how I feel, or how confident I am that God will do a miracle, my prayers must line up with the will of God. I should not be surprised when God answers my prayers. My level of faith will not determine how much of the will of God will be released in people's lives. I need to trust in God's ways and remember that my prayers can change outcomes as long as I keep trusting God's will to do what it needs to be done.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, please let your will be done in the lives of those who are suffering the vicious attacks of the enemy right now. I pray for life where there is death. I pray for peace where there is turmoil. I pray for healing where there is pain. Let your will be done regardless of my faith. Release your miracles as we learn how to trust in your goodness and grace. Amen!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
MORE THAN WILLING HEARTS. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
Then Moses told the people of Israel, “The Lord has specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft. And the Lord has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach their skills to others. The Lord has given them special skills as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth, and weavers. They excel as craftsmen and as designers.
Exodus 35:30-35
OBSERVATION
The important task of building the tabernacle, the dwelling place for God's presence, was assigned to people that had more than a willing heart. God gave Bezalel and Oholiab the skills to get the work done. Moses called them and placed them in leadership to complete the task God assigned for them. They were not only capable to do the work well, but also they were capable to teach others how to do their work well. And when the right people are assigned to lead, God pours His blessing and favor. Not only they finished the tabernacle as God wanted, they also had more than enough resources to complete it.
APPLICATION
In order to build God's kingdom and to fulfill our assignment, we are going to need more than a willing heart. We are going to need to develop our skills. Also we need to find the right people for the riht assignment. Some people may have all the desire in the world, but their skill level can only take them to a certain point. They are certainly precious to the Lord and to us, but they need to be encouraged to raise their skill level or to let someone else, who has both a willing heart and the skill, to take over the assignment.
Every time wehen I watch the TV show "American Idol" I witnness the amazing power of the willing heart. The world watches people that have a desire, a dream, a vision, and the guts, to audition in front tough judges. This contest is not about willing hearts. It's about vocal skill. As a leader, I need to look in my own life and recognize where I'm running only with a willing heart and where I'm lacking skill. Instead of pretending being good at something, I need to let those who are really good to take over those things. No shame in doing that. In that way, I can focus in what I'm really good at it. And when I find the place where my skills and gifts help me to advance God's kingdom with excellence, then God will be glorified.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, help me to serve you with more than a willing heart. Give me the skills and the gifts to fulfill your assignment for me. Let me focus my heart and energy where my skills are the strongest. And help me to call those who are gifted and skilled to serve in those areas. Please send someone to help our church with the always increasing administrative load. Send us someone that has more than a willing heart. I love you Lord. Amen!
Then Moses told the people of Israel, “The Lord has specifically chosen Bezalel son of Uri, grandson of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. The Lord has filled Bezalel with the Spirit of God, giving him great wisdom, ability, and expertise in all kinds of crafts. He is a master craftsman, expert in working with gold, silver, and bronze. He is skilled in engraving and mounting gemstones and in carving wood. He is a master at every craft. And the Lord has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach their skills to others. The Lord has given them special skills as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth, and weavers. They excel as craftsmen and as designers.
Exodus 35:30-35
OBSERVATION
The important task of building the tabernacle, the dwelling place for God's presence, was assigned to people that had more than a willing heart. God gave Bezalel and Oholiab the skills to get the work done. Moses called them and placed them in leadership to complete the task God assigned for them. They were not only capable to do the work well, but also they were capable to teach others how to do their work well. And when the right people are assigned to lead, God pours His blessing and favor. Not only they finished the tabernacle as God wanted, they also had more than enough resources to complete it.
APPLICATION
In order to build God's kingdom and to fulfill our assignment, we are going to need more than a willing heart. We are going to need to develop our skills. Also we need to find the right people for the riht assignment. Some people may have all the desire in the world, but their skill level can only take them to a certain point. They are certainly precious to the Lord and to us, but they need to be encouraged to raise their skill level or to let someone else, who has both a willing heart and the skill, to take over the assignment.
Every time wehen I watch the TV show "American Idol" I witnness the amazing power of the willing heart. The world watches people that have a desire, a dream, a vision, and the guts, to audition in front tough judges. This contest is not about willing hearts. It's about vocal skill. As a leader, I need to look in my own life and recognize where I'm running only with a willing heart and where I'm lacking skill. Instead of pretending being good at something, I need to let those who are really good to take over those things. No shame in doing that. In that way, I can focus in what I'm really good at it. And when I find the place where my skills and gifts help me to advance God's kingdom with excellence, then God will be glorified.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, help me to serve you with more than a willing heart. Give me the skills and the gifts to fulfill your assignment for me. Let me focus my heart and energy where my skills are the strongest. And help me to call those who are gifted and skilled to serve in those areas. Please send someone to help our church with the always increasing administrative load. Send us someone that has more than a willing heart. I love you Lord. Amen!
Monday, February 2, 2009
FRIENDS THAT DARE. By Pastor Fernando
SCRIPTURE
Moses said to the Lord, "...You call me by name and tell me I have found favor with you. Please, if this is really so, show me your intentions so I will understand you more fully and do exactly what you want me to do..."
And the Lord replied, "I will personally go with you, Moses. I will give you rest - everything will be fine for you."
Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. How will anyone know that you look favorably on me—on me and on your people—if you don’t go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth.”
The Lord replied to Moses, “I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name (You are my friend).”
Moses responded, “Then show me your glorious presence.”
Exodus 33:12-18OBSERVATION
This recorded conversation between Moses and God is fully charged with Moses' boldness. This same guy years before was timid and self conscious facing the burning bush and speaking to Pharaoh. Now. Moses has become a confident man, willing to dare and ask God the most amazing requests. It seems that Moses is trying to manipulate God. But when you look into this man's heart, his request was sincere and based in the friendship he had with God. Because of their close relationship, Moses dared to ask God for the most important and precious things. He dared to ask God to reveal His intentions clearly so he could lead the people with vision and purpose. God offered to give him that and even more - rest and success. Moses dared to ask God for His constant and evident company. God complied to this request because that's what friends do. They never withhold relationship or companionship. And then, Moses dared to ask the impossible... He asked to see God's glorious presence... And the Lord revealed Himself to Moses in a way that friends only do!
APPLICATION
Very recently I've been blessed with great friendships. In the past I had what we call "best friends" that came and went according to different seasons of my life. But recently, starting with my outstanding friendship with my wife Karen, I have found the rich blessing of outstanding and unique relationships. When you have these kind of friends - people that want the very best for you and people that you love sincerely for who they are, not for what they can do for you - you feel more confident to be open, to be vulnerable, and to dare to ask what normally you would not ask of others. My requests are not burdens for my friends because we have a clear understanding of our relationship. They dare to ask of me what others could not. And I dare to ask of them...
My friendship with God gives me access to dare to ask what seems outrageous and impossible. Jesus even challenged us to ask God whatever we need in prayer because friends dare. True friends neither demand nor manipulate. They do not threaten to interrupt their relationship if they do not get what they want. They simple trust each other and dare to ask boldly. There is a level of trust in a friendship that only those who have it understand it.
This morning, I'm exhorted to trust in my friendship with God. I can dare to ask amazing things and trust God for the right response, whether I like it or not. Lately, I've been apprehensive about what I dare to ask before God. The enemy doesn't want me to understand the blessings I have in my friendship with God. I can come to Him at any time. He will not be bothered by my requests. I can trust Him completely. He is my friend. And he will give me companionship, rest, success, and more of His presence as I follow Him.
PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you so much for the friendship and favor you have given me, not for what I have done, but because of your grace. Forgive me for not honoring our friendship the way I'm supposed to. Make me more bold and intimate in your presence. Let me be more open, sincere, and trustworthy before You. Let me dare to ask of You the things that You can only do in my life, and grant me more intimacy, rest, and success in all my endeavors. Even though you are my King, my Master, my Boss, My Father, you are always my friend. Thank you for your sincere friendship! You are my very best friend for all eternity. Reveal your presence to me more and more. I will do the same! That's what friends do! Amen!
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