READY & WAITING: WEEK 6 DEVOTIONS

Mari Keisling • April 1, 2023

DAY 1

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

We love one another when we know one another, when we live in community with one another. We can have nice thoughts about each other all day long but loving one another requires action and investment in each other’s lives.

Which means it may not feel like we are investing in our own lives the way the world says we can, should, or deserve. And we may argue, “Who is the one-another I should love?” just the way an expert in the law argued, “Who is my neighbor?” And in that question, they were looking

for a loophole to not invest in a certain group of people.

We do that, don’t we? We look for loopholes. We think we’re looking out for ourselves, but really, we’re missing out on the ways God wants to bless us. Instead of loving one another, we love to look for “reasons” why something doesn’t apply to us, and we end up making excuses to not do what God has commanded.

And that’s what this is; it’s a commandment to follow Jesus in all His ways. Loving one another looks like Jesus when:

We thank God and pray for one another. (1 Thessalonians 1:2)

We greet and offer hospitality to one another. (2 Corinthians 13:12, 1 Peter 4:9)

We accept and have fellowship with one another. (1 Corinthians 16:20, 1 John 1:7)

We are devoted to and live in harmony with one another. (Romans 12:10, 12:16)

We meet with and share with one another. (Acts 2:42-47)

We encourage and spur on one another. (Hebrews 3:13, 10:24)

We instruct and speak truthfully to one another. (Romans 15:14, Ephesians 4:25)

We are humble, gentle, and patient, bearing with one another. (Ephesians 4:2)

We are kind and compassionate, forgiving one another. (Ephesians 4:32)

We submit to and serve one another. (Ephesians 5:21, John 13:14)

We love and keep on loving one another. (1 Peter 1:22, Hebrews 13:1)

We look most like Jesus when we love God with our whole self and love our neighbors as ourselves. And all our “one-another’s” begin with the church. We are the body of Christ. We are one with Him and we are one with one another.

And when we do this, practicing it day after day, leaning into the Spirit and God’s heart for each person, it will not only be who we are inside the church, it will become who we truly are with everyone we meet.

DAY 2

“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:22

God is faithful.

How often do we need reminding of this truth?

Throughout Scripture, and specifically in the New Testament, we read words like take hold, grasp, obtain, find, receive, and the like. There is an action we must take to participate with God in the faith that He gives.

We can do none of this without God’s first giving to us. We can take nothing from God. We can’t take His authority, His peace, His wisdom, or knowledge. Nothing.

He gives, we receive. When we ask, He gives more: wisdom, peace, faith, grace, mercy, and so on.

He loved, so we love. When we grasp His love, He gives us more opportunities to love, not because they weren’t already there, but because we recognize in a new way how to love.

He allows, so we can learn, grow, and understand. When we seek with a sincere heart, He reveals more of Himself. When we grasp with both our minds and hearts the loving ways of our Father in heaven, we will walk in His ways, and operate in accordance with His will.

We obtain what we need because we know He is the One who has what we need. We set our roots deep in the foundation of our faith, planting ourselves in the soil of hope that does not disappoint. We read it, speak it, talk about it with one another so that we may be encouraged to remember, to not give up. We come together so that we can go and do the good things God has created us to do.

As we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, holding tight to Him, remembering His faithfulness, we will be found ready on that Day, whenever it may come, to see Him face to face.

DAY 3

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Three short verses that absolutely stop us in our tracks. How can we do this? Always, continually, and in all circumstances?

“How” is a common question with God. “How will you do this?” “How is this possible?” “If they can’t, how can we?” “How many times?”

All things are possible with God. We can do whatever God has commanded us to do. He will never lead us somewhere He hasn’t already gone. He will never ask us to do what He hasn’t already done.

When we rejoice always, we celebrate God and we celebrate life, because it’s in life that we have and experience relationship with God. God is life. Death is a separation from God. So whenever possible, we celebrate, encourage, and rejoice in the blessing of life lived with Him. In Christ, we live and move and have our being. In Christ, not even death can separate us from His love. So, we rejoice always.

When we pray continually, we recognize that God is always with us. He is not distant. He is not unaware. We invite Him into all things, not hiding any part of our selves. He sees and knows, and in our hearts, we want to see and know His perspective so that as we ask, we can respond with wisdom and understanding. We don’t want to hinder any work of the Spirit in our own life or the lives of others. We don’t want to put stumbling blocks in anyone’s path. Our desire is to follow Him wholeheartedly. So, we pray continually talking with and listening to God about all

things.

When we give thanks in all circumstances, we demonstrate that He is good. We build ourselves up and encourage others that what one meant for evil, God meant for good. We remind ourselves that God works out all things for the good of those who love Him. We know that all good gifts come from our Father in heaven. Nothing good exists outside the goodness of God. So, we thank Him for what He is doing in and through every circumstance.

Rejoice, pray, and give thanks always, continually, and in all circumstances. This is God’s will for you.

DAY 4

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Micah 6:8

God has shown us what is good. We know our own desires for things to be “right” and to want to “make things right.” But too often we get justice confused with judgment and we don’t see a place for mercy in the mix.

God knows that when we’re hurting, we want people to pay. We want them to get what they deserve. We want consequences to be severe, so it deters others from doing the same. This is where we go in our hearts when we follow the sinful ways of worldly thinking. But God in administering justice doesn’t respond this way.

I’ve heard it said that justice without forgiveness is just revenge. Forgiveness removes the need to get payback. God loves mercy! James writes, “Mercy triumphs over judgment!” (Exclamation mine.) He doesn’t hold justice and mercy in tension the way we do. God weaves justice and mercy together perfectly to change hearts, thinking, and actions so we can move forward in a new way. And since God loves mercy, His justice is always working to restore, redeem and reconcile.

And when everything in us wants to fight against this, when we want God to judge, we are called to submit to His authority and Lordship. God knows these struggles within us, so He helps us in our walk with Him. He tells us what to do.

Paul in Romans 12 says “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Instead of seeking revenge and judgment, we trust God as we carry out His commands. Paul goes on to say, “‘If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”

In humility, we trust God and the ways He calls to respond to the evil in the world. As we walk with Him, we seek to truly act justly and in love, embrace His mercy.

DAY 5

“I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.” Psalm 40:1

“I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.” Psalm 130:5

In Romans 8, Paul says that we do not hope for what we already have. Having what we need, want, or desire means there is no waiting involved. Waiting means there is something not yet attained.

We know that in Christ, we have all we need, and yet we also know we still lack something in this world. There is still confusion and chaos, worry and anxiety, famine and disease. There is division and strife in families and neighborhoods, between nations, ethnicities, genders, and religions.

If Christ makes all things new, if he restores, redeems, and reconciles, then we know there is still more to come. There is still more to hope for. There is still more to wait for.

And it’s easy to lose patience. “When God!” And when we do, when we start to grumble and complain that things aren’t improving quick enough for our taste, we go to His word to be reminded that God’s timing is perfect. When it’s time, He acts. He does not hold back what is good. We can say with full confidence:

We’ve come to know you, Father, Son, and Spirit stilling ourselves and settling our hearts in your presence.

We’ve asked for and allowed, even rejoiced in your conviction and work to help us turn from our sinful ways so that we can be holy as you are holy, fully devoted to you.

We’ve given serious thought to your ways, to have faith in what we cannot see and hope in what is to come. We are alert and sober in how we think about what it means to live with you, or without you, for all eternity.

We want to be strong and courageous in this world for the sake of your kingdom. We live unashamed of the gospel so that more may come to know you.

We will live ready to see you face to face. We will not be caught off guard, worried about what you may find when you return. Help us be prepared for that day.

And until then, whenever “then” may be, we cry out to you in our hurt, sorrow, and anguish. We turn to you and find joy, peace, and wholeness. We praise you in all things as we patiently wait for you with our whole being. You are faithful. Come, Lord Jesus, Come.

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TRUSTING GOD AS SOVEREIGN

April 10, 2025

“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.” As we come to the final line of the Lord’s Prayer on this Palm Sunday , we are reminded that Jesus didn’t enter Jerusalem with the might of a warrior, but with the humility of a servant. The crowds shouted “Hosanna!” expecting a political revolution, but Jesus came to establish a far greater kingdom—one that would rule hearts, not just nations. This final phrase of the Lord’s Prayer isn’t just a cap on a beautiful prayer, or simply a sentiment of respect. It’s a declaration of trust: God is sovereign. The kingdom belongs to Him. The power is His. The glory is His—forever. Even now, Jesus reigns. And though we live in the tension of the “already, but not yet,” we can be certain: God is completing what He began. As citizens of His kingdom, we’re called to reflect His rule—marked by peace, justice, grace, and truth. C.S. Lewis said it well: “There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal… It is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit.” We live in light of eternity, under the rule of an eternal King. So as we wave our palm branches and lift our prayers this weekend, let’s do it with full confidence that Jesus is King, and He is worthy of our trust. Reflection Questions: What does Palm Sunday reveal to you about the kind of King Jesus is? How can you reflect His kingdom, His power, and His glory in your own life this week? Amen. Let it be so.

TRUSTING GOD AS DELIVERER

April 2, 2025

“Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” – Matthew 6:13 Life is full of trials, moments when we feel tested, tempted, and even attacked. Every hardship comes with a choice—will we turn toward God in trust, or will we rely on our own understanding? The truth is, God is not just our protector; He is our Deliverer. He doesn’t just remove us from danger—He brings us to Himself. C.S. Lewis once said, “Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.” We may believe in God’s goodness, but when the weight of life presses in, do we truly trust Him? The Reality of Temptation Temptation isn't just about avoiding obvious sins. It’s the subtle pull to rely on ourselves instead of God, to give in to fear, pride, or control rather than faith. James 1 reminds us, “ Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed.” We are most vulnerable when we think we can handle things on our own. Even Jesus was tempted. After fasting for 40 days in the wilderness, the devil tried to lure Him away from trusting the Father. But Jesus remained faithful, showing us that temptation is not just something to resist—it’s an opportunity to deepen our dependence on God. More Than Rescue When we pray, “deliver us from the evil one,” we are asking for more than escape. We are inviting God to transform us. He delivers us not only from external dangers but also from the sin within us—the fears, habits, and desires that keep us from fully embracing His love and purpose. God’s deliverance is not passive. He strengthens us, refines us, and shapes us to become more like Jesus. Every test we face reveals our weaknesses but also invites us to grow. Romans 8:28 reminds us, “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.” Even in hardship, God is at work. A Question for Reflection Where do you feel most tempted to rely on yourself instead of God? How might today’s challenges be an opportunity to trust Him more deeply? God is faithful! He is our Deliverer—not just pulling us out of trouble, but drawing us closer to Himself. Will you trust Him today?

TRUSTING GOD AS GRACIOUS

March 27, 2025

Have you ever struggled to forgive someone who hurt you? Maybe they never apologized, never acknowledged the damage they caused, and you’re left holding onto the weight of that wound. It’s easy to believe that time will heal it or that ignoring it will make it go away. But deep down, unforgiveness festers like an untreated wound, leading to bitterness, resentment, and distance from God’s peace. The good news? God offers a different way—a way of grace and freedom. God’s Grace IS More Than We Deserve Romans 5:8 reminds us, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Before we acknowledged our sin, before we even knew we needed forgiveness, God made a way for us to be reconciled to Him through Jesus. His grace is not conditional, temporary, or dependent on our actions. It is freely given, unearned, and overflowing. But what about the sins committed against us? Just as we have sinned against God and others, others have sinned against us. And just as we need God’s forgiveness, so do they. Forgiveness IS The Bridge to Healing Nothing destroys relationships faster than unforgiveness. Holding onto offense builds walls, isolates hearts, and prevents healing. C.S. Lewis once said, “ To be a Christian means to forgive the inexcusable, because God has forgiven the inexcusable in you.” That’s a hard truth. But it’s also a freeing one. Forgiveness doesn’t mean excusing the wrong or pretending it didn’t hurt. It means releasing the debt, just as God has released ours. When we pray, "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew 6:12), we are asking God to help us reflect His grace—to let go, to heal, and to trust Him with the justice and restoration we long for. A Permanent Grace The world often sees grace as temporary , something that must be earned back over time. But God’s grace is permanent. He doesn’t keep a record of wrongs or wait for us to prove ourselves worthy. Psalm 103:12 tells us, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us." If we trust in Jesus, our forgiveness is secure. The same is true for those we struggle to forgive. We forgive not because they deserve it, but because God calls us to. And in doing so, we experience the freedom of living in His grace rather than being bound by pain. Reflection Questions: Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What’s holding you back? How has God’s grace personally impacted your life? How can you extend that grace to others? Do you truly trust that God’s way of forgiveness is for your good? Why or why not? God’s grace is good. It is undeserved. It is limitless. And it is meant to flow through us to others. Will you trust Him enough to extend it? Come to church this weekend as we learn how to do this together!

TRUSTING GOD AS PROVIDER

March 20, 2025

"He who provides for this life but takes no care for eternity is wise for a moment but a fool forever." — John Tillotson Every day, we find ourselves in need—physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Some days, those needs feel small: a little extra patience, clarity on a decision, or a peaceful moment amid chaos. Other days, they feel overwhelming: financial struggles, a heavy heart, or a battle we never saw coming. Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us today our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). What may sound like a simple request, actually reveals so much more. It’s an acknowledgment that we rely on God not just for survival, but for everything we need to truly live and flourish. God’s Daily Provision Jesus reassures us in Matthew 7:7-11 that God, as a good Father, delights in providing for His children. But His provision isn’t always what we expect. He doesn’t just give us what we ask for—He gives us what we need . And sometimes, that means trusting Him when His answer doesn’t match our request. Daily bread isn’t just food on the table. It’s peace when our thoughts are restless, strength when we feel weak, wisdom when we’re confused, and grace when we’ve fallen short. It’s the presence of God in the details of our lives, shaping us for something greater than we can see. Living in Trust, Not Worry We don’t know what tomorrow holds, but we know who holds tomorrow. Trusting God as Provider means living with open hands—bringing our needs to Him daily, believing He will supply exactly what is necessary. It means shifting our focus from scarcity to abundance, from fear to faith. A Moment of Reflection What is something you’ve been holding onto in worry instead of trusting God to provide? How has God provided for you in ways you didn’t expect but later realized were exactly what you needed? Take a moment today to bring your needs before God. He sees you. He knows. And He provides. Come to church this weekend to be encouraged!

TRUSTING GOD AS GOOD

March 13, 2025

We say it in church. We read it in scripture. But do we really mean it? "Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10) This is more than a hopeful wish—it’s a declaration of surrender. A Kingdom with a King God is not just a distant deity; He is a King with a kingdom. His rule is just, His ways are good, and His will is perfect. In His kingdom, the broken are restored, the weak are strengthened, and justice prevails. But here’s the challenge: if we want His kingdom to come, we have to let go of our own. The Prayer of Exchange When Jesus teaches us to pray, He invites us to an exchange. The word for “pray” in this passage means to trade our desires for God’s. That means we’re not just asking for good things to happen—we’re surrendering our will for His. C.S. Lewis put it this way: “There are only two kinds of people in the end: those who say to God, ‘Thy will be done,’ and those to whom God says, ‘All right, then, have it your way.’” The question is, which one are we? What’s Holding Us Back? Sometimes, we resist because we don’t fully trust that God’s way is best. We want Him to fix things from a distance, but He chooses to work through His people—through us. Other times, we misunderstand what “good” really means. We think of good as second-best, the bare minimum to get by. But God’s goodness is not mediocre. It is full, abundant, and exactly what we need! An Invitation to Trust Praying “Your kingdom come, your will be done” is a call to action. It means living in a way that reflects heaven’s reality here on earth. It means trusting that God is working, even when we don’t understand. So, take a moment to reflect: What areas of your life are hardest to surrender to God? Do you truly believe that God’s will for you is better than your own? God is bringing His kingdom to earth. The question is—are we willing to be part of it? Come this weekend for part two of our study! And -- it's not too late to join a small group!

TRUSTING GOD AS WORTHY

March 6, 2025

Most of us know The Lord's Prayer by heart. We pray it regularly. Maybe even religiously. But we should ask ourselves: Do we speak these words because we think this is what we’re "supposed" to say? Or are we praying with the purpose of these words becoming our hearts desire? Do we really know what were declaring about God and His kingdom? Do we know what we’re asking God to do in our lives? This week, we begin a brand new sermon series, and churchwide study, for the 40 days leading to Easter. We'll be diving deep into The Lord's Prayer and shaping our hearts around his kingdom and his will, deciding that we truly want life on earth to be as it is in heaven. Here's just a tiny sneak peek at this week... When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He started with "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name." Those words set the stage for everything else that follows! They remind us who God is, how close He is, and why He’s worth trusting with our lives. God as Our Father God isn’t some distant, disconnected force. He calls Himself our Father—the one who creates, cares for, and walks with us. He brings us into His family, making us part of something bigger than ourselves. No matter where we come from or what we’ve been through, we belong to Him and to one another. Life can be messy, and relationships can be hard. We hurt each other, we struggle, and sometimes we feel alone. But God designed us for community. He never meant for us to do life on our own. When Jesus says, "Where two or more are gathered in My name, I am there," He’s reminding us that we’re never alone. A Name Set Apart When we say "hallowed be Your name," we’re saying that God is set apart—holy, different from everything else. His name carries His character, authority, and reputation. He’s not like anyone or anything else. He’s above it all, and yet, He invites us to know Him personally. We put our trust in all kinds of things—careers, relationships, causes, even our own abilities. But are they truly worthy of our devotion? Do they hold up when life gets hard? God does. He’s been faithful since the beginning, and He won’t fail us now. What Are You Living For? We all chase after something. Maybe it’s success, security, or a dream we’ve had for years. But at the end of the day, the question is: is it worth it? Will it last? God’s kingdom is the one thing that will never fade. When we put Him first, everything else falls into place. He gives us wisdom to balance our work, relationships, and passions in a way that brings real peace and purpose - because they are centered on him. Life throws challenges our way, but when we trust God as worthy—of our time, our trust, and our whole hearts—we find strength that lasts. Whatever comes next, we can face it knowing He is more than enough. CONSIDER THIS: As you get ready for this week's study, here are some questions connected to the content, that can serve as a primer to the weekend teaching and group discussion. What are some things in your life that you tend to put your trust in over God? Does knowing God as your Father change the way you view yourself and others? What definitions, pictures, thoughts, or feelings pop up when you hear the word "holy"?

THANK YOU NANCY!

November 14, 2024

Nancy Grams. For over a decade, Nancy has poured her heart and energy into serving on Northgate's Board of Directors, always with a spirit of gratitude, humility, and a strong sense of purpose. As she transitions from this role, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on her invaluable contributions and hear from Nancy herself about her journey with us!

ORCHARDS + PATCHES: OUR FAVORITE FALL DESTINATIONS

September 30, 2024

It's fall, y'all! As the leaves all change and the crisp air rolls in, fall offers us a beautiful reminder of God’s creation and the simple joys of the season. From picking apples to finding the perfect pumpkin, local orchards and patches around the Twin Cities provide the perfect opportunity to slow down, connect with the fam, and embrace the beauty of fall. Whether you're savoring a warm apple cider or wandering through a corn maze, these experiences are a wonderful way to experience community and gratitude for the season's blessings. Here are a few of Northgate Staff's favorite spots to explore...

INFLUENCED? OR INFLUENCER?

September 26, 2024

What a difference one letter can make! To be influenced means to be affected or changed in how one behaves, thinks, and develops. To be an influencer is to be someone who affects how others behave, think, and develop. Which one does God want believers to be? Does He want them to be influenced? Or to be an influencer? The answer is: both. When someone first comes to the Lord, they need Godly influence in their life. Mature Christians are needed to come alongside them, helping them understand what "being a Christian" is all about—showing them how to live out their faith and discover their purpose in God's kingdom, as well as how to live out that purpose. However, as believers grow in faith and maturity, they become the influencers to those who are young in the faith. They help others find their purpose in God's kingdom and guide them in walking the faith life they have entered into. So, what does all this have to do with cell phones, social media, and overbooked schedules? Quite a lot, actually. Many would agree that cell phones and social media are two of the biggest influences in today's culture. Consider how different things were just sixty-three years ago. Phones hung on the wall in homes, and wealthier households might have had more than one. Then came portable phones, which operated within a limited range, but they allowed freedom to move around the house while talking. If no one was available to answer the phone, the caller left a message on an answering machine. Home computers didn’t hit the market until 1977, and they were large, expensive, slow, and less functional than modern cell phones. In 1983, the internet was born, making information accessible at the touch of a few keys. In 1997, social media made its debut with Six Degrees, starting a race that led to platforms like Friendster, MySpace, LinkedIn, YouTube, WordPress, and Instagram. These advances, driven by the space race and technological breakthroughs, have undeniably transformed the world in every aspect, from medicine to manufacturing, education, air travel, and even warfare. But at what cost to society, culture, and individuals? Many of us have grown reliant on modern technologies, so much so that if they were to disappear, we might find ourselves unsure of how to navigate daily life without them. Additionally, while these advancements have brought convenience, they’ve also contributed to a shift in how we connect with one another. Amid the hustle of work, family, church, sports, and countless other commitments, finding time for genuine human interaction has become more challenging. Relaxation now often involves screens—whether it's laptops, cell phones, or TVs—rather than gathering around the table for meals or engaging in meaningful conversations. Social media, though it can keep us connected, sometimes takes the place of in-person fellowship, with virtual interactions becoming more common than face-to-face time with friends. But real relationships were the very reason God created humankind! He desired a relationship with people who would worship Him out of free will, not coercion. And in Genesis, God created Eve because it was not good for man to be alone. This craving we have for relationships is exactly what draws us to social media and shows about characters we identify with. So where's the balance? How can we be certain we are more heavily influenced by God, than by media? And is it possible to use those same tools to help influence others to grow in relationship with Him? In our "Over the Influence" teaching series, Pastor Steve shared some valuable insights on how to manage our screens and social accounts wisely, in an increasingly digitally-dictated culture. Here are a few more: TRACKING YOUR TIME: Personal reflection and change can lead to a healthier relationship with technology. Track and inventory your screen time, then determine if you need to be more intentional. One can decide, in advance, not to be too heavily influenced, but instead to become the influencer. PLAY THE ALGORITHMS: By unfollowing those who post content that conflicts with one’s beliefs, and scrolling past unwelcome material, a person can reduce negative influences without completely cutting off communication. Quick searches on scripture, apologetics, Christian authors, and other edifying subjects will also positively inform what's on your feed. YouTube, for example, offers a treasure trove of worship music, any by watching those videos, more of that nature will be suggested to you. It’s about controlling what is seen rather than being passively influenced by it. SHINE A LIGHT: Posting content that builds others up, strengthens them, or glorifies God also changes the way social media is used. Do you have a story to tell? Love a certain scripture passage, worship song, or church event? Use your platform! Share something good and engage healthy conversations in the name of Jesus. CONSIDER QUITTING: While it's unlikely that any of us are abandoning our phones for good, each of us probably has one game, streaming app, or social account that isn't helpful or necessary. Consider which one you might want to quit and get rid of it. In doing so, you might reclaim 2 minutes or even 2 hours back each week! Try making a small change this week, and let us know how it goes!

A LITTLE EFFORT GOES A LONG WAY

August 29, 2024

Can you believe it? Summer is almost over! The summer has been filled with both activities—Night to Unite, Day at the Lake, Time 2 Play—and teachings—Understanding the Battle, First Things First, and Messy Spirituality. A common thread through these teachings is the idea that godly living takes some effort. To avoid confusion about what effort looks like, let's pop in to two passages real quick... Ephesians 2:8-10 says, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Similarly, Philippians 2:12-13 states, “T herefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose.” It's evident that salvation is not earned through works; it's a result of God’s grace and mercy, initiated and completed by God alone. Dallas Willard often quipped “Grace is not opposed to effort, grace is opposed to earning.” The distinction is that effort is an action by which we join God in what He is doing. Practically speaking, effort is a necessary part of life. All of us make efforts, either with God or without God. Earning is something different. Earning is an attitude that reasons "someone owes me for the efforts" , and wrongly believes that "I can secure what I want (including salvation) by my efforts." It’s clear from these passages that salvation is a gift that cannot be earned and that God, anticipating our efforts to respond, has even been preparing to work with us in advance. And what are His good purposes for us? To mature in faith in Him To grow in obedience to Him To bear much fruit for Him This concept can be explored through an acronym using the word—yep, you guessed it—EFFORT! Each letter represents two words: the first is the effort required, and the second is the spiritual result it brings to the Christian walk. As we will see, these “efforts” always yield spiritual outcomes in our journey with the Lord. ENERGY: Energy spent builds Endurance. Hebrews 12:1-2 says, “Therefore, since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us.” The Greek word for endurance is hupomone , which conveys the concept of having the strength to keep going even when exhausted. Some versions use the word perseverance, which is similar in meaning. A professional athlete trains to build skill sets, muscle memory, and stamina. Similarly, as Christians, training in spiritual matters builds spiritual skill sets (such as understanding the Bible and hearing God’s voice), spiritual muscle memory (knowing what to do based on past experience), and spiritual stamina (refusing to give up because God is with us). Three actions can help train for running a good race: Study the Bible regularly, daily if possible. Our culture is in sensory overload, bombarded with images and ideas from morning until night. This is a tactic of the enemy to distract from what is important and tear apart the fabric of faith. It is crucial to counter the world's ungodly input with Godly concepts. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Reading the Word transforms the mind by filling it with Godly concepts. Pray daily. Pray often. Prayer is a conversation with God, not merely presenting a list of requests. It is a dialogue, not a monologue. Learn to listen to God—He truly desires to speak with us! Meaningful communication is vital in any relationship, and prayer will revolutionize a relationship with God, leading to deeper intimacy with Him. Worship every chance possible. Worship is more than singing; it is expressing love and appreciation to God. It can be kneeling, lifting hands, or simply sharing feelings with Him. Psalm 22:3 says, “But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” God inhabits the praises of His people, and worship brings His presence into any environment. Thus, the Word of God transforms the mind, prayer transforms the relationship with Him, and worship transforms the environment. FORGIVENESS: Forgiveness brings Freedom. Forgiveness is at the heart of Christianity. Romans 5:8 states, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Psalm 130:4 adds, “But with You there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve You.” Without God’s forgiveness, we would still be lost in sin, unable to serve Him with reverence. God initiated the reconciliation by forgiving us, changing our status from slaves to sin to members of His family forever (John 8:34-35, 36; Romans 8:2). Is God’s gracious act of forgiveness solely meant to set us free from sin and change our relationship with Him? Absolutely not. Christians are called to bear fruit for the Kingdom, becoming the image of Christ to a lost world—a living sermon, as it were. A lifestyle of forgiveness toward others is essential for spiritual maturity. What happens if one chooses not to live a lifestyle of forgiveness? Matthew 6:14-15 warns, “ For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” Unforgiveness can bind one in sin. The story of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:23-35 illustrates this kingdom principle, showing how an unforgiving spirit can hinder both the ability to forgive others and to receive forgiveness. God paid the ultimate price to forgive and set humanity free from sin, making it possible to be in relationship with Him. Forgiveness is a kingdom principle that must be followed to keep the heart open to God’s forgiveness through Christ. Faith is demonstrated through actions. FAITHFULNESS: Faithfulness brings God’s Favor . Faithfulness is defined as having the characteristics of one who keeps promises and follows through on commitments. Such a person is reliable, trustworthy, steadfast, and unwavering. In Galatians 5:22-23, faithfulness is listed as a fruit of the Holy Spirit, a characteristic of God Himself. As God builds His image in believers, faithfulness is a trait He seeks to develop. Does the favor of God exist? Isaiah 66:2b says, “These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word.” Humility is understanding God’s greatness and being brought low by that understanding. Contrition is feeling sorry for sins and desiring forgiveness. Trembling at God’s Word means taking it seriously and embracing its teachings. The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates God’s favor, particularly in the interaction between the father and the oldest son. The older son had everything he needed and desired, including his father’s presence. He labored faithfully and never disobeyed his father, living under the umbrella of his father’s favor. Similarly, a believer's relationship with and obedience to God keeps them under the umbrella of His favor. John 14:15 and 21 reinforce this idea: “If you love me, keep my commands,” and “Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.” Obedience does not earn salvation, but it deepens the relationship and interaction with God. OBEDIENCE: Obedience demonstrates Obeisance. Obedience is vital to a relationship with the Lord and Savior. Many Christians desire a savior to keep them out of hell but resist having a Lord who makes demands on their lives. There is a growing ideology, especially in America, that suggests God understands shortcomings and is okay with them, implying no need for change because He accepts people as they are with no strings attached. However, this ideology is not supported by Scripture. In fact, Scripture teaches the opposite—that believers should be changing into a better likeness of Jesus every day (2 Corinthians 3:18; Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:8-10). The process of “killing” the old self and putting on the new self is a lifelong journey, as highlighted in our Messy Spirituality message series. God is patient, ensuring His mercy is new every morning and never fails. Obedience is crucial, but what is obeisance ? It is an old practice of making a vow of obedience by a vassal to a lord or a slave to a master, demonstrating submission to one who has authority. Paul considered himself a bondservant or slave of Christ because Jesus had redeemed him from the hand of Satan. Christians should view themselves similarly. Thus, obedience directly demonstrates obeisance, the willingness to submit to the master. While this may challenge modern sensibilities, believers must remember they are submitting to One who loves them more than anyone ever could. Jesus made obedience easy in John 14:15, saying, “If you love me, keep my commands.” REPENTANCE: Repentance builds Relationship. Repentance involves a change of mind, heart, and direction, transforming actions and attitudes. It is a lifestyle, not a one-time event. Throughout one’s life, every moment should be lived in such a way that brings honor and glory to God. Living this way is impossible without first embracing repentance. The journey begins with salvation, as the Holy Spirit convicts of sin, righteousness, and judgment. The willingness to respond to this conviction reflects a repentant heart. Salvation cannot occur without a lifestyle of repentance. And while believers may stumble, God’s mercy is always available to those who desire to return. Ephesians 4:30-31 emphasizes the importance of living righteously to avoid grieving the Holy Spirit. When believers are sealed with the Spirit at salvation, the relationship becomes intimate. In the spiritual realm, the intimate relationship between the Holy Spirit and the believer is likened to marriage. The story of the prodigal son, who returned to his father in repentance, shows how the father (God) did not shun him but celebrated his return. God’s Word urges all people to return to Him through repentance to avoid judgment and to live a life that brings honor to Him. Repentance is a kingdom principle that Christians should live by. It is a transformative process of changing thoughts, actions, and attitudes to align with God’s will. The result is a deep, intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit and a life that reflects God’s glory. TRUST: Trust builds Thankfulness. Trust is fundamental to any relationship, and the relationship with God is no exception. Trusting God means relying on His promises, believing in His character, and depending on His wisdom. Trusting God is essential for spiritual growth, and it leads to a life filled with thankfulness. In Proverbs 3:5-6, the Bible instructs, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Trusting God requires submitting to His will, even when it is difficult to understand. When believers trust in God’s sovereignty, they can be thankful for His guidance, provision, and protection. A life of trust and thankfulness is a life that honors God. Trusting God in all circumstances, even in the face of challenges, leads to a heart of gratitude. Thankfulness becomes a natural response to God’s faithfulness, and it deepens the relationship with Him. As believers trust God more and more, they become more aware of His presence in their lives. This awareness fosters a sense of thankfulness for His continuous work in their lives. Trust and thankfulness are intertwined, as trust leads to gratitude and gratitude strengthens trust. In conclusion, godly living takes effort, and the rewards are immense. As believers, let's strive to live godly lives, experience spiritual growth, deepen our relationship with God, and move toward the fulfillment of His purposes for our lives. Through energy, forgiveness, faithfulness, obedience, repentance, and trust, we can live lives that reflect the glory of God and bring honor to His name.