August 31, 2016

It will work better if we break it. That may sound like unconventional and even unwise advise, but it really is true. "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise." (Psalm 51.17) 

No one gets through life without being broken to some degree; some severely so. But, broken is good. When brokenness produces humility, we are in the very best position to become whole. God "will not despise" our brokenness brought to Him in humility. 

A greater problem is not facing the truth about brokenness. A rich and self-sufficient church received some of Christ's greatest condemnation (Revelation 3.14-22), as did some smug religious leaders (i.e., Matthew 9.12) Although badly broken, they were blinded by a deceptive sense of wholeness. 

Followers of Christ are often stereotyped as "perfect" people. Sadly, sometimes we believe the same. As a result, we hide our brokenness from others, and even ourselves, rather than offer it humbly and honesty to God. Brokenness that could be mended is left needlessly broken. 

Whatever your brokenness today, know that God will not despise it as an offering, but will welcome and mend it. Wholeness awaits if we will only risk bringing our brokenness to Him.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 30, 2016

A realtor shared a testimonial on the radio as to how God provided when sales were nonexistent. She sensed Him impressing on her, "I will take care of you," and He did. Such is the truth shared by the Psalmist: "they who seek the LORD shall not be in want of any good thing." (Psalm 34.10) 

Our God Yahweh is not a cosmic vending machine, dispensing our every wish and desire, but the sole provider of every "good thing." His assessment of "good" and ours are often radical different. "You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures." (James 4.3) Mercifully, God never gives that which is not good.

The testimony of every faithful saint is that God always provides that which is good. As the Psalmist also says, "I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken Or his descendants begging bread." (Psalm 37.25) We may fret and worry as we wait for His provision, but it always comes - somehow, some way. In the process of providing, His greatest provision is through shaping our character and faith.

Wait for the LORD, and His provision. Perhaps today that is especially challenging. May these words encourage and remind you that He WILL provide the good you need. He never fails.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 24, 2016

There is nothing holding you back. You've got what it takes to accomplish all that is needed before Christ comes back. That's  the reassuring message of this passage:

"in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge ... so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ." (1 Corinthians 1.5,7,8)

In spite of how quickly we might identify our imperfections and inadequacies, God's inspired word tells us otherwise. Through abundant grace, God has provided necessary speech, insight, and giftedness for those eagerly working and longing for the return of Christ. So abundant is this grace act that no accusing finger of blame can or will be pointed at us on the day we give an account of our lives before Him. Now that's basis for confidence!

So, this enabling and equipping ought to free us today to ponder what He specifically wants to do in and through us. Is there a great plan and idea burning in your mind? Is there a kingdom project you long to start? Then tap in to the inner Spirit resources and, "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might" (Ecclesiastes 9.10).

Someone recently stressed that these are times for God's people and leaders to live fearlessly. With all the God-given resources available to us, indeed these are times for such attitudes and actions.

Speak His inspired word to others, as He has given you knowledge. Exercise His spiritual gifts. Let eager anticipation of the return of Christ motivate. Live fearlessly, confident of His approval of you.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 23, 2016

Where you are at this very moment in your life is a testimony to hope. Those who are in Christ have "obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us." (Romans 5.2-5) 

You may feel that you are just hanging on by a thread in the midst of the current crisis, or that something on the horizon threatens to overwhelm you, but the fact is, you are standing at the moment. And, you WILL continue to stand! You are a survivor and an overcomer. Tribulation HAS produced perseverance, shaped character, and resulted in hope that "does not disappoint." You have come thus far, and you will continue on, because of hope. 

I'm no starry-eyed dreamer or optimist (by nature I'm more of a pessimist), but I believe in biblical hope. The prospect of immortality and perfect life in the age to come on a renewed earth is so real that perseverance and character follow in its steps. The best is yet to come, in every sense of the word. 

And so we stand. Life today may be a breeze; a walk in the park, so to speak. But gale force adversity may also be unleashed today. Regardless, hope coupled with faith causes us to stand.

So, do not lose sight of that great truth: "hope does not disappoint"!

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 17, 2016

It's like enjoying a delicious appetizer, and knowing that an amazing meal is about to be served.

"But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus." (Ephesians 2.4-7)

We bask in His favor and grace through Christ now, but 'we ain't seen nothin' yet.' For all eternity on a renewed earth, we will have His lavish grace forever heaped upon us. As immortality and life in the age to come will know no limit or end, neither will "the surpassing  riches of His grace." 

Now, that's powerful incentive to savor and share His grace today as we await the best that is to come. Know and experience His unqualified acceptance in Christ. Passionately share the gospel of grace (Acts 8.12) with others so that they might enjoy it as well.

His grace really is amazing. May you be lost in wonderment of it as you administer it to those around you.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 16, 2016

A couple of gutsy guys stuck their necks out to make the ultimate controversial statement: "And there is salvation in no one else; for there is no other name under heaven that has been given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4.12)

With one fell swoop, they negated every other religious system and approach. The only perfect man is the only valid approach to Creator Yahweh. Jewish legalism, muslim, hindu, and new age religions are all inadequate. Even Christian "religion," in and of itself, won't do it. It's all about God's Son. "God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world." (Hebrews 1.1-2)

Now, this truth doesn't give the followers of Christ license for arrogance and exclusivity toward other religions and peoples. Instead, it ought to generate urgent compassion for those who will miss the gift of forgiveness and immortality if they don't embrace the Son of God and experience conversion. It is a compelling truth that should drive evangelism and mission.

Born again followers of Christ have cause to bask in the glory of grace, but that grace should be powerful incentive for sharing the gospel (Acts 8.12).

Rejoice as you live and serve today, and let that rejoicing be the springboard for Great Commission work.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 10, 2016

It seems like a tall order in an age of suicide bombings, mass shootings, hatred, and extremism. "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12.21) 

Nothing is easier than becoming reactionary in these violent and evil times. In the face of horrific evil, there is a great tendency to hunker down and hide where we find safety and security. And, our church fellowship can and should be such a place of safety. But, active good should not suffer in evil times. Our response to increasingly violence is to stay the course of good actions and works; especially the good work of outreach and evangelism. More than ever, hurting people need what we have found.

The only thing that will effect real change is a change of heart. Political and social activism can bring temporary relief, but only when people are changed from the inside by the dynamic work of Holy Spirit will they think and act in ways consistent with God's plan and principles.

Let's work to overcome evil by being those who share and live the gospel message (Acts 8.12). As such, we will improve current conditions, and advance the coming kingdom of peace.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 9, 2016

The focus, dedication, and determination of an Olympic athlete. We are called to the same. 

"Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9.24-27) 

It is possible that the apostle Paul may have witnessed one of the first Olympic competitions in Greece, and that these words are reflective of that experience. The pursuit of the lifestyle of a follower of Christ is worthy of such dedication and excellence. Self control and discipline are virtues that should characterize us. A resolute focus on the goal and prize is key in our pursuit. 

Paul disciplined himself not merely for the sake of personal character, but for that of an appealing and compelling witness to others. And so with us: our self-control and discipline should be such that others are drawn to the message we live and proclaim.

May we pursue the Christian life with athletic excellence.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 3, 2016

"As we have heard, so we have seen In the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God; God will establish her forever." (Psalm 48.8) 

No city is more significant than Jerusalem. Against impossible odds, it endures to this day. It has been sacked and destroyed more than once, and yet it has arisen from the ruins as a testimony to the God whose city it is. And, He will "establish her forever." 

The closing chapters of Revelation describe a new Jerusalem in all her beauty and splendor (Revelation 21-22); a reminder of the promise and faithfulness of God. The fate of the people of God is inseparably tied to this great city. It is both figuratively and literally "the bride, the wife of the Lamb. (Revelation 21.9).

Jerusalem, the city of God, can be visited by anyone traveling to modern Israel. Perilous events are destined for this great city as the present age comes to a close, but it will rise and endure.

The lasting city of God serves as a reminder and promise that we, the people of God, will also endure and prevail. May your faith be strengthened by the great legacy of God's great city.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
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August 2, 2016

There is an old saying, "The difficult we do right away; the impossible takes a little longer." That was probably the motto of a man named Peter who had the audacity to step out of a boat and walk on water. 

The story is recorded in three of the Gospels - Matthew, Mark, and John. In particular, Matthew tells us that the triumph over the impossible quickly became exactly that; the impossible: "But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, 'Lord, save me!' " (Matthew 14.30) 

Resolute faith, focused on God's Son, made the impossible possible. But doubt, generated by an assessment of circumstances, overpowered faith. 

Most of us often face circumstances that seem as impossible as walking on water. There appears to be no way out of marital problems, financial challenges, job or school pressures, addictions, or health issues. We might, like Peter, have taken a bold step of faith out of the boat, but circumstances appear as threatening as wind and waves, and doubt overwhelms faith. 

The difference between faith and doubt is focus. Am I fully focused on Christ, who turns the impossible into the possible, or am I focused on circumstances that threaten and menace? 

The world is full of naysayers who will negatively assess circumstances. Faith calls out, "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength." (Philippians 4.13)

Whatever your circumstances, listen today to the call of faith instead of the voice of doubt. He can do far more through faith than we can begin to imagine.

Steve

©Steve Taylor, 2016
Be sure to also visit http://thetruthrevolution.wordpress.com/  

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