The Gospel song, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” is one of my favorite refrains. I particularly love the phrase that personalizes the lyrical message when it says, “He’s got you and me brother right in His hands.” Even now in my mind I can hear Judy Dent raising her melodious voice to a crescendo in confirming this blessed assurance that He is holding us in His hands.

How does this song’s message become our daily reality? We must first acknowledge that God is in absolute control and then surrender ourselves to be shaped by Him. In my opinion, the best passage depicting this dynamic relationship is found in Jeremiah 18:1-6.

God instructs Jeremiah to “Go down to the potter’s house . . . So I went down . . . and I saw him working at the wheel. But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him.” The picture is quite evident to Jeremiah, but then God makes the application: “. . . can I not do with you as this potter does? Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand.”

Full surrender to God means that we choose to be shaped by Him as we abide in His hands. This is where the process of spiritual transformation takes place. We dare not forget that our “rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, and cleansing by the washing with water through the word, can only occur when we are in His hands.” (Titus 3:5; Eph.5:26, respectively.)

This is why David says “Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers; but their delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law they meditate day and night.” Psalm 1:1, 2. In other words David is telling us categorically that we must be in the Word of God in order to be shaped by the Word.

That means we make a conscious choice that contradicts our common habits. It means instead of working on a text, we let the text work on us. It means reading formationally rather than informationally. It also means embracing the text experientially, instead of holding it at arm’s length.

As I rest and abide in God’s hands today, I’m asking Him to fulfill His word that’s found in Psalm 1:3, 6; “They are like trees planted by streams of water . . . In all they do, they prosper . . . for the LORD watches over the way of the righteous.”

Join me as we ask God to chart the road we take today.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

Peter and John’s healing of the crippled man from birth is one of the best know and rehearsed stories in the Bible. See Acts 3. This event and Peter’s subsequent sermon that resulted in the number of believers to reach five thousand people precipitated Peter and John’s imprisonment.

I’m certain that the same priestly cartel that crucified Jesus and intimidated Peter were confident that the religious and political pressures of the establishment would overwhelm him – again, and he would cowardly recant as he did at Jesus’ trial.

The Scriptures reveal that the discomfiture of the rulers and the eradication of their sinister ploy were completely disemboweled because of two things. First, the Word says, “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them . . .” Acts 4:8. True spiritual leadership, Christ-centered transformation, and Bible-based evangelism cannot occur without being filled with the Holy Spirit. Secondly, the profane entourage of illegitimate priests noticed “that these men had been with Jesus.” Acts 4:13.

Peter’s manifestation of holy boldness completely dumbfounded the people and the priests. His transformation did not occur over night. It was the result of qualitative and quantitative time he spent with Jesus and receiving the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

The Peter seen at Jesus’ trial where he denied the Savior three times (John 18:25-27) is vastly different from the Peter who unflinchingly proclaims, “It is by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead, that this man stands before you healed. . . Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:10, 12.

Peter and John received the blessing of God’s power, presence, and influence. Is this same experience available to us today? If so, then how do we encounter and engage this heavenly companionship? Join me tomorrow for breakfast as we search God’s holy word for these answers.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

As Paul sat in a Roman prison he sensed that his life’s journey and ministry was coming to a close. His pastoral instruction to Timothy has a note of finality and urgency that’s centered in Jesus Christ.

The centrality of Christ Jesus is succinctly captured in Paul’s opening statement when he writes, “don’t be ashamed to testify about our Lord . . . but join me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God, who has saved us and called us to a holy life – not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus . . . who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light.” 2 Tim.1:8-10

In these verses the imprisoned apostle gives us powerful themes that are life transformative. First, it is God’s amazing Grace emanating from Jesus Christ that calls us to Him. Our faith in Jesus Christ, who enables us to live a holy life, is accomplished by the power of God in our lives. That’s why Paul told Timothy “So keep at your work, this faith and love rooted in Christ.” Verse 13.

Secondly, we have ultimate proof that our confidence and faith in Jesus Christ is secure, beyond reproach and impunity because He has destroyed death, once and for all. Verse 10. Jesus’ own testimony confirms this truth when He proclaimed to John on Patmos: “‘Do not be afraid . . . I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.’” Revelation 1:17, 18.

Paul underscores another critical element regarding the practicality and pragmatism of life transforming faith to Timothy. He doesn’t simply want to leave the young man with theological verbosity; a lot of theory, platitudes, and jargon. Paul discloses the key to centering faith: “Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you – guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” 2 Tim.1:14.

In order for our faith to grow, to have Christ-like characters, and to possess a transformed life are dependent upon the Holy Spirit living in us daily. Who is living in your heart today? Are you filled with anxiety, fear, remorse, and guilt? Are you on the verge of giving up – fatigued from the rut of failed attempts? If so, then listen to Paul’s declaration: “For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and of self-discipline.” 2 Tim.1:7.

Don’t give up! Take God at His word: “Come near to God and He will come near to you.” James 4:7. God is faithful; he will do exactly what he has said he will do.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

The faith of this Centurion was so strikingly powerfully in absolute trust and confidence in the power of Jesus’ word that it took His breath away. See Matthew 8:10. Jesus was astonished and amazed by this Roman official’s trust in his word.

I’ve always been taken aback by the Centurion’s profession: “Just say the word.” He didn’t need Jesus’ physical presence and display of divine power in order for answered prayer. The Savior’s word – the mere utterance of His command was sufficient to bring healing and relief to the servant. “Then Jesus said to the centurion, ‘Go! It will be done just as you believed it would.’ And his servant was healed at that very hour.” Matthew 8:13

His absolute trust in the Savior’s word alone was in stark contrast to the “people of God” who required and demanded “signs and wonders” before they would believe. Here’s the question: does your confidence and trust in Christ resemble the Roman Centurion or the unbelieving Jews?

What is Centurion faith or “just say the word” faith? Consider the undiluted resolve of the three Hebrew boys in Daniel 3. Pastor Medley, the senior pastor of Emmanuel Church, preached a Holy Spirit inspired message this past Sabbath on this topic. (If you missed it then I strongly encourage you to view it on PrazeVision.)

When confronted with immediate death by the excruciating flames of a blazing inferno, without any indication of divine intervention, their response to the Babylonian king was, “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king.” Dan.3:17. Their faith, which propelled their actions, was centered in the reality that “God is able.” It was not predicated upon visible evidence. (That came later! See Verse 25!)

How do I know that? Read the next verse: “But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.” Verse 18.

Every time I read this story my mind is intrigued on how I can possess this same type of Centurion faith – the “just say the word” faith. This is what we will examine this week at breakfast.

One closing thought: although I was on hiatus last week, I’m certain you continued spending your private time with God in the Word. Let’s continue to pray for one another as we begin a new week.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

Have you ever been to a land fill? One is overwhelmed by the acres of useless junk and abandoned materials that are being buried in the earth. It is analogous to the superfluous clutter and pointless activities that fills our minds and lives which erodes our ability to hear God’s voice. Our lives begin to look like these land fills – filled with everything but God.

A part of Satan’s master plan is to overwhelm us with every conceivable distraction, device, and ploy so that we have neither time nor desire to seek and hear God speaking to us. The enemy knows it is imperative that we maintain communication with God. Therefore his primary objective is to disrupt and abort our ability to hear and communicate with God.

Satan accomplishes this endeavor by mesmerizing us with the hypnotic medium of indiscriminate entertainment. As a result our minds and emotions remain in overdrive. There is an insatiable desire to constantly be “connected” or entertained by the pantheon of technological devices. I believe this lifestyle has created a nonstop current of restless agitation that makes God’s declaration irrelevant and obsolete: “Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10.

There is a profound spiritual principle that we cannot afford to overlook nor underestimate its potency: “The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Corinthians 2:14. Spiritual discernment which is acquired through hearing God speak in his Word requires us to spend time with God. It’s amazing that we willingly spend time with everything and everyone else but God.

Satan has executed his plan for the disfigurement of the human heart and existence with diabolical precision. His success, however, is dependent upon who we choose to listen to. Unfortunately God’s people made the wrong decision: “These are rebellious people, deceitful children, children unwilling to listen to the LORD’s instruction.” Isaiah 30:9.

If you want to hear God speaking, then the first thing to do is establish a set time period for your daily appointment with God. During this time with Him turn off your cell phone, television, internet, radio, and any other medium of distraction. Begin your time with the Master by being still and completely focused on Him.

There’s more, much more, so join me tomorrow as we continue our spiritual journey in this conversational relationship in hearing God.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

This week we are studying the Pauline theme of “living to please God.” The fact of the matter is when pleasing God is the motivation of my life, then the basis for Christian authenticity, altruistic service, and true happiness is legitimately experienced and constructed.

Additionally, Paul shows the connectivity between a life that’s pleasing to God and our rescue from the wrath of God when Jesus returns to this earth. Referring to the Thessalonians, Paul writes: “They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven . . . Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.” 1 Thessalonians 1:9, 10. He elaborates on this point by saying, “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:9.

Possessing the capability to hear God and discern His voice is a prerequisite to a purposeful existence that brings Him great joy and delight. What better story to illustrate this point then the nocturnal conversation God had with the inexperienced child Samuel. See 1 Samuel 3.

Samuel mistook God’s voice for that of the aged Eli. It took three occurrences of God calling him before he understood that the Divine Whisperer was God Almighty. This is not an indictment against Samuel for he was simply a “boy.” According to the Scriptures, he “did not yet know the LORD: The word of the LORD had not yet been revealed to him.” 1 Samuel 3:7. Additionally, the Bible declares, “In those days the word of the LORD was rare; there were not many visions.” 1 Samuel 3:1.

However Eli understands that God is about to manifest Himself to this child of the temple, so he gives him inspired counsel: “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, LORD, for your servant is listening.’” 1 Samuel 3:9. And that’s exactly what happened. God calls, “Samuel, Samuel.” Samuel responds, “Speak for your servant is listening.” Verse 10. It’s interesting to note the Virgin Mary gave a similar response to Gabriel when he revealed she would give birth to the baby Jesus: “I am the Lord’s servant . . . May it be to me as you have said.” Luke 1:38.

Do you hear God calling you today? Are you able to discern His voice? If so, then what is your response to Him? In order to hear God we must ask Him to circumcise our hearts and ears. God speaks about the essence of spiritual circumcision: “The LORD your God will circumcise your hearts . . . so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live.” Deut.30:6.

If we are to hear God speaking to us, then our ears must also be circumcised. Listen to what Jeremiah writes: “To whom can I speak and give warning? Who will listen to me? Their ears are closed so they cannot hear. The word of the LORD is offensive to them; they find no pleasure in it.” Jeremiah 6:10. The meaning of the Hebrew word for “closed” in this text means uncircumcised.

If you want to hear God speaking, then you must unstop your ears and say, “speak Lord Jesus: I’m listening to you.” If you’re wondering how that’s done, then join me tomorrow for breakfast.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

As Paul concludes the first epistle to the Thessalonians, he admonishes them “how to live in order to please God.” 1 Thessalonians 4:1. This was not an uncommon theme in his letters to the churches. He instructed the Ephesians’to “live a life worthy of the calling you have received.” Ephesians 4:1.

I believe Christians have forgotten that this is our sole objective – to please God. Service and ministry to our families, communities, neighbors, and friends are the results of our commitment to reflect the restored image of God.

Living to please God is not accomplished by our good deeds, however. Paul says, “It is God’s will that you should be sanctified . . . May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23, respectively.

God must live in our hearts through the ministry of the Holy Spirit in order for us to live a life that brings joy, honor, and glory to Him. My favorite author, Ellen White, writes: “The religion of Christ means more than the forgiveness of sin; it means taking away our sins and filling the vacuum with the graces of the Holy Spirit . . . It means a heart emptied of self and blessed with the abiding presence of Christ.” Christ Object Lessons, p. 420.

A life that’s pleasing to Jesus has a transformative impact on every relationship we have. Take notice of the “Kingdom of God” principles that activate those who obey and follow Jesus: we “live in peace with each other . . . encourage the timid, help the weak, are patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, always kind to each other and to everyone else, always joyful, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, and avoid every kind of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:13-22. Believe me; this cannot be experienced unless the Holy Spirit is living in us.

I urge you to prayerfully meditate on these verses and ask the Holy Spirit to apply them in your life.

I’m inviting you to join me in a fast today. It’s your decision what type of fast and for how long. But I want you to join me in earnest prayer that God will increase our receptivity to his power, presence, and his word. My desire is for us to hear God so that our lives will truly be pleasing to Him.

Join me tomorrow and all week, as we continue our study in pleasing God.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

The Word of God: what a profound statement. For some the Scriptures are an objective entity that can be studied, handled, and mastered solely for informational purposes. But it’s so much more than another literary source that’s the subject matter for scholars, preachers, and even skeptics.

Paul addresses the Bible’s purpose and power, and reveals how it can transform our lives in a supernatural way. The Bible is centered in the ultimate revelation: “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel – which means, ‘God with us.’” Matt.1:23.

This is the nucleus of incarnational theology: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning . . . The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” John 1:1, 2, 12.

Therefore the Bible is not a linguistic cadaver to be examined and then dissected according to our specious postulates and formulations. It is not the reconfiguration of human thoughts, theories, or hypotheses. Paul said it best: “. . . when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.” 1 Thessalonians 2:13.

Notice the last clause in the aforementioned verse. The Word of God must be at work in us. Jesus, the Word made flesh, dwells (or lives) in us through the Scriptures, which are understood and applied in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Jesus said: “If you love me, you will obey what I command and I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever- the Spirit of truth . . . for He lives with you and will be in you. . . he will guide you into all truth.” John 14:15-17; 16:13.

Listen again to Jesus’ declaration: “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him . . . The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life.” John 6:56, 63. We must spend time in God’s word so that the Word gets in us and can perform its work of soul transformation by the Spirit.

What word is working in your life today? Whose word are you placing your confidence in: men or God’s? I pray that we will follow David’s admonition: “Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save. When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing. . . Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” Psalm 146:3, 4; 20:7.

Spend time with Jesus in His Word today.

Because of Him
Pastor Gary

Paul closes his stirring letter to the church in Colosse with the vital instruction: “devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert at it with thanksgiving.” Colossians 4:2. In the original language (Greek) of the New Testament the word “devote” means to be “steadfastly attentive unto something, to persevere and not to faint.”

This inspired instruction underscores the imperative that we must pay attention to those things that keep us focused on God. How is this actually done when we live in the midst of ubiquitous distractions, noise, and the “busyness” of life?

Paul answers that question for us: “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things . . . your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3.

The source of genuine spiritual strength and vitality is obtained by spending time with God in his audience chamber. That’s why Paul says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6.

Prayer is not an elective in the Christian life, but it functions to keep us before God in a disciplined and attentive way. Have you ever prayed for a month about a situation or someone in particular? I believe God’s word. His word states that when two or three are gathered in His name and they make their requests known, He hears and answers our prayers. Matthew 18:19, 20. Do you believe this?

Let’s take God at his word. He says “test me in this . . . and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” Malachi 3:10. I know this blessing is in response to our faithfulness in returning tithes and offerings. However, I believe the principle of God’s faithful responsiveness to our prayers is equally applicable.

Call your prayer partner, or select one, and agree to pray about a situation or person every day for an entire month. Listen to God’s pledged promise to you and me: “Then when you call upon me and come and pray to me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart, I will let you find me, says the LORD.” Jeremiah 29:12-14.

I want the Spirit of God to work his revival and reformation in my life today. Please know I am devoting myself to specific prayer for every recipient of the Breakfast Club. I’m asking God to do something powerful and exceptional in your life for the next 30 days. Get ready to see God in a new way.

Because of Him

Pastor Gary

How often have you heard the expression “tough love?” More importantly, how often have you had to administer it to your erring child? The challenge for any parent is to administer correct discipline in an appropriate way and never in anger. If the truth is told, it’s a feat easier said then done at times.

Normally we think of discipline in the context of corporeal punishment. Something that’s harsh, judgmental, punitive, and even retaliatory. Have you ever seen a parent respond to their child who has slapped the parent in the face, publicly? (Fortunate for kids there are child abuse laws today!)

Jesus makes a stunning statement about how he administers discipline. He says, “Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline.” Revelation 3:19. This passage is brimming with truth that challenges our entire conceptualization of trials and the paradigm of interpretation and personal experience.

Initially it seems oxymoronic that love, rebuke, and discipline should exist in the same orbital sphere. But that is not the case in our intimate relationship with Jesus through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Listen to Solomon’s instructions regarding this dynamic: “My son, do not despise the LORD’s discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the LORD disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.” Proverbs 3:11, 12.

In today’s culture – including the church – this truth is either unpopular or ignored altogether. One does not hear this message from the pulpits across the country. It’s because we have an aversion against suffering, pain, hardships, trials, and any inconvenience that disrupts our status quo. Don’t take my word on this. Rather listen to Job’s personal testimony: “Blessed is the man whom God corrects; so do not despise the discipline of the Almighty. For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal.” Job 5:17, 18.

I can understand why the author of Hebrews says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves.” Hebrews 12:5, 6.

John reveals in Revelation 3:20 why we don’t lose heart when experiencing the Lord’s discipline. His discipline opens the door to closer communion with Him: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” Revelation 3:20. I don’t think it was accidental that Jesus’ promise of closer intimacy followed his declaration that love is at the center of his discipline.

When in doubt about the Lord’s discipline in your life, remember Job’s experience and the Lord’s desire and promise for deeper intimacy. It is the passageway to a deeper relationship with God.

I’m praying for you today. I hope you’re praying for me.