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How the Early Church in Acts Overcame Selfishness

By
Jeannette Tyson
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selfishness

“All the believers were one in heart and in mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had. With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all, that there were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned land or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales.” Acts 4:32-34

Does anyone else feel convicted when they read about the Acts church? To have grown from 120 to 3,000 in one day, casting out evil spirits, healing the sick, and taking care of each other in complete devotion?! These are high standards; these people were committed even under persecution.

I wonder why we don’t see this kind of faith and miracles today?

There are several things that contribute to our current state, but I believe one of them is selfishness.

Selfishness is not only evil – it’s debilitating. You won’t get too far being selfish – not at work, in relationships, or otherwise. The Bible says that “For God so loved the world He gave…” (John 3:16). God created us in His image (Genesis 1:27) so giving is in our DNA. When you are selfish, you’re taking on another nature apart from God’s.

In Acts Chapter 5, a husband and wife were killed because they lied and withheld a portion of their money from the church, acting like it was the full amount (Acts 5:1-10). The Acts church was so holy that the husband and wife’s deceit could not survive its weight of glory.

The Root of Selfishness

selfishnessIn my experience, selfishness is most commonly rooted in insecurity and a need for love. True love from God is the remedy. When people are broken and empty, they will do anything in their power to fix themselves and fill the void. When you’re trying to cope and self-medicate, it’s impossible to fully love and relate to others because you can’t see past your own “needs”. All of your encounters will be self-serving, everything you do or don’t do is fueled by desperation. People who are selfish are not always evil people, they just haven’t received the full love of God in their hearts.

When you can only take care of something or someone who can reciprocate the kindness, that’s selfish. I didn’t know until after I had my daughter that I was selfish. Having to put her needs above my own was never a question, but subconsciously, there was a lingering resentment. When God revealed this to me, I was so hurt and I felt like a bad parent. Here I am with a gift from God and my ignorance and the need to heal was preventing me from being able to fully enjoy motherhood.

The Lord let me know I wasn’t a bad parent, but I needed a revelation of His love to become whole and overcome selfishness.

Motive Speaks to Selfishness

There are people who only give to receive – and that’s still selfish. Some people only do things for thanks and a “pat on the back”. This is the insecurity aspect.

There was a time when I was so giving, I would bend over backward for anyone simply because I fed off their compliments and praise. It was exhausting, but I needed it to feel good about myself. I didn’t even know this about myself until God revealed it! I thought I was just a ‘good person’. That is why knowing God and building your relationship with Him is vital for deliverance. You can’t have genuine relationships with people when you have a manipulative personality or are a people pleaser.

God’s Love Cures Selfishness

love letterWhen we get a glimpse of God’s perfect love for us, we take on a whole new perspective. His love makes giving a joy and insecurity non-existent. His love opens your eyes to the fact that no matter where you are in life, you have all you’ll ever need. It makes the temporary things of this life seem so minute, and all of your strivings are no longer for you – but for His glory.

This makes dealing with people a lot easier. You will begin to see people through God’s eyes and when they hurt you, you’re able to keep loving them.

In fact, it’s a lot more difficult to be hurt when you’re in the love of God. You realize that attacks on you reveal pain and misery in the offender; your heart is grieved for them. You begin to intercede at a higher level because you want them to be free and whole. It gives you godly compassion that makes you love the person even more.

You may be confronted by an angry teammate, and the Spirit will give you discernment and show you what that person is dealing with. It hurts you and you take it into your prayer closet and travail for their situation. Not to say you should hang around for someone to mistreat you or take your kindness for granted – please use wisdom. I’m saying, “hurt people hurt people.” Let’s bear with one another in love (Ephesians 4:2).

So, What’s The Play Call?

Do a heart check and be honest with yourself. We are called to serve, and selfishness hinders servitude. We are supposed to present ourselves as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1) to God, who calls us to serve others.

God created good works for us to do before we were born (Ephesians 2:10). As great as this life is, it’s not about us! What a challenging reality! We should commit ourselves to find out what God’s will is for us and what role we play in His plan.

It’s okay if you struggle! Don’t beat yourself up. We press toward the mark and in our consistent pressing God will change us and equip us to do His will. Remember, His grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in our weakness (1 Corinthians 12:9).

Be blessed.

The Key to Acceptable Words and Meditations of Our Hearts

By
Ryan Churchill
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meditations of our hearts

Today’s Scripture Lesson: Psalms 19

My studies still have me in the Psalms and at my current rate, they’ll have me there for a while. As the last Bible Study To Go article revealed, I entered the Psalms for a deeper understanding of worship. While the Holy Spirit is teaching, guiding, and instructing me in that regard, He has revealed something else about the nature of the Psalms.

What I have found is what I can only describe as a filter. As I read the Psalms, I find God drawing my attention toward more and more junk and baggage that I continue to carry with me. While the Psalms reveal glorious truths about our Creator, they shine a light on the meditations of my heart. That light isn’t always pleasant and has repeatedly revealed empty falsehoods I have claimed and spoken as truth – falsehoods focused on rewards outside of God’s very presence.

As I understand more deeply how easily my heart is deceived by the pleasures of this world, I pray for deliverance and that He will soften my heart into a deeper state of surrender.

What’s in Your Heart?

Primarily, I want to spend some time with Psalm 19, today. I encourage you to open your Bible and read this Psalm in its entirety.

This Psalm reveals the meditation of David’s heart. He begins with a wondrous word of praise, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; their expanse is declaring the works of His hands.” The first thing David does in this Psalm is to bring recognition to the fact that we only look upward to witness the proclamation of the glory of God. Verse 3 reveals that the heavens do so without speech, without words, and even without voice.

Before we dive into the middle section, let’s look at how David closes this Psalm. He closes seeking forgiveness and in a state of surrender. Verses 12 – 14 state:

Who can discern his errors? Acquit me of hidden faults.
Also keep back Your servant from presumptuous sins;
Let them not rule over me;
Then I will be blameless,
And I shall be acquitted of great transgression.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer.

I find an interesting connection between four phrases from this little section.

  • Who can discern his errors? (a question of self-awareness)
  • Presumptuous sins (things to which we give ourselves a free pass)
  • Words of my mouth (we could do a whole study on that…oh we already did)
  • Meditation of my heart

What’s on Your Mind?

I have a friend who pointed out how we’re all excellent at meditation. If you believe that to be a false statement, chances are good that you’re only thinking about meditating on the Bible. Truth be told, when all is quiet (and not necessarily in the silence), there is self-talk going on. “I’ve got this.” “This is easy.” “No problem.” “They’ll be glad I was the one to take care of this.”

Of course, those are the positive phrases we say, aren’t they? We also say things like: “They don’t deserve me.” “No one appreciates me.” “I’m a loser.” “I’m a failure.” “God doesn’t care.”

Our mouth speaks directly out of the meditations of the heart (Matthew 15:18). Those are the things which defile us. When you consider the idea that your heart has been meditating on lies, do you see how that leads to an inability to discern your own errors? Do you see how this inability can lead to presumptuous sins?

It’s pretty easy to fall into what David calls presumptuous sin. Let’s clarify what this sin is, though. Doing a little word study, you might come to the conclusion that it is sin rooted in pride and arrogance – both of which are manifestations of unbelief. It turns my attention to Jeremiah 6:15 and Jeremiah 8:12 where God is speaking to the prophet. In both verses He says to Jeremiah, “They were not even ashamed at all; they did not even know how to blush.” Pride and arrogance have a central focus of self, but it is often masked by focusing on the sins of others. At the same time, this sin can easily be about knowing right from wrong and choosing sin with an attitude of unbelief.

So, What’s the Play Call?

What does David use as the meditation of his heart? We ding the answer to this question in the middle of this Psalm. He meditates on God’s revealed truths, and he does so in faith.

Meditate on the following verses (truths) from Psalm 19:

The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether. (7-9)

As you meditate on these truths, remember how David viewed these truths:

They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb. (10)

 

You Are Not Alone, Jesus Christ is There

By
Andrea Matthews
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good health

I received a text from a friend:

“I feel completely alone in this world.”

I recognized that emotion, it had become all too familiar to me last Fall. My immediate response was “you’re not alone”. My heart continued…

I was there, trust me, I know exactly how you feel. But there’s joy in the morning, there’s peace on the other side…

But, I knew her situation, and I couldn’t relate. I had rejected those same words from a friend months ago. I began deleting them even faster than I had typed them.

What could I actually say? I asked the Lord and He reminded me of where the passion for my own deliverance came from. So, I simply sent His Word:

“And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Hebrews 12:1-3

Jesus Is So Close… He’s Touched by Your Pain (Hebrews 4:15).

I couldn’t relate one bit to her struggle, but I found the One who could. He’s the same One who felt every ounce of my hurt and brought assurance for an abundant life.

How incredible is our Savior? He carried all of our shame and the guilt of our sin, so we would never have to feel alone. He’s been there, in each situation, and He’s still there now waiting for us to walk in His resurrection power.

So, What’s the Play Call?

If you feel alone because you don’t know anyone who has walked the same path or endured the same heartaches as you, throw that lie back where it belongs. The truth is, Jesus voluntarily walked through it for you. He understands, and He’s there (Deuteronomy 31:6).

Good Soil: Why Following Jesus Christ is a Dirty Business

By
Alecia M. White
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good soil

Good Soil is Dirty

Home for the weekend and my mom wanted her yard cleaned and if y’all know me, well most of you don’t. Ehem… Mmmkay, so, my name is Alecia M. White, and I hate dirt.

Like, I don’t do yard work, plant flowers, or keep plants in my house. Bugs, insects, and worms are enemies of mine. I have seasonal allergies and my insides itch at the thought of being outside for extended periods of time.

But well, you know, my momma wanted me to help her, so I sucked it up, took my allergy pill (brief praise break to celebrate the creator of such a pill), and got my tail out there in that yard.

I was brave, y’all – I didn’t complain, and I was out there for three hours.

So, as we were moving stuff around, I began to step into more and more dirt and it had rained, so there was rainwater in a couple of empty flower pots that had been sitting in the yard. As I poured the water out, I noticed how dark the mud was and I looked at my mom and said, “You have good dirt out here.”

Now, I took notice because the soil outside my parent’s home is pretty dark, and it isn’t dry like some in yards I’ve seen, and not just as you dig, but on the surface as well. It reminded me of the bagged soil that you’d go purchase in order to plant a garden, like, we could’ve probably planted flowers right then and there.

Good Soil is Necessary

faithful over littleAs I continued to help clean the yard, I began to think more about this “good soil” and how we all need some.

What I mean is, we always talk about the rain that is needed for flowers to grow, both literally and figuratively. In life, we discuss how we can’t get where we are meant to be without a little “rain” and a storm or two – and then comes the rainbow.

Well, we hardly ever talk about the dirt that is necessary in order to plant these “flowers”.

Yes, water is good, but dirt is also necessary. We often shun the “dirty” things that happen to us and write them off, but sometimes we fail to realize that if we hadn’t experienced those things, we couldn’t reach the heights that we have gotten to.

Our PlayBook says in 1 Peter 4:12, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:” That “fiery trial” is that dirt that you need to grow. Verse 13 goes on to say “But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.”

You see, the water is the topper, but you must first be planted, covered… in dirt.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

Yes, it’s hard being dirty – especially for long periods of time. I think of myself in the summer heat after a long day – a shower is all I want! And maybe that’s why we try to overlook the “dirt” – because we just want that rainwater to wash us clean. I know you want to hurry and break free of the dirt you’re buried in, but here are a few things to help as you are “planted”:

  1. Ask God to clean you up. Yep, we all have things that we must be cleansed from. We all have our own reasons that we need a little extra rainwater, and it’s okay to admit that to Christ. He is waiting for you to accept what He has to offer. “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” Psalms 51:10.
  2. Remember that if God allows it, it’s “good dirt”. No, I’m not talking about that mess that you happened upon because you were hanging around the wrong crowd. I mean those rough patches in life that you cannot seem to explain. They teach you things you would’ve never learned on your own – that’s good dirt. Recall our scripture in 1 Peter, “think it not strange.”
  3. It’s okay to let God’s joy overtake you, even when you seem to be “buried” and you cannot yet feel the water breaking through. “But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice.” Psalms 68:3.

Know that when you are doing all that you can, God sees you and He hears your cries. He just needs for you to be covered in “good dirt” so that He can “reign” over your life.

 

Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood: Fight At His Feet

By
Brandi Hawthorne
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Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood

After a tumultuous day, my mom spoke words of wisdom to me.

She said, “When you argue with flesh and blood, you’ll lose every time.”  

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Ephesians 6:12)

She said, “Jesus wants us to take time from all the business to sit at His feet.”

The Master said, “Martha, dear Martha, you’re fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it’s the main course, and won’t be taken from her.” (Luke 10:41-42, MSG)

That particular day, I had gotten an ‘F’ in both.

And, as I expressed the weariness I felt from trying to do right, and the guilt I felt from messing up, she reminded me that mercy and grace follow me (Psalm 23:6).

Then, she reminisced on the WWJD craze. And, with a chuckle, she said, “If you had asked yourself What Would Jesus Do, you would have responded differently.”

She was right.

How Are We Instructed to “Fight”?

Even when you get what you want out of an argument, the guilt of disobedience lingers. And, look at all the fires you started with your tongue in the process – and who did you hurt along the way?

Sometimes real strength is walking away, sitting at God’s feet and fighting in your prayer closet.

You know how sometimes you just want to be reckless? Just do something stupid? Well, I’ve learned that it feels good for about 5 seconds.

But, if you’re really His, the Holy Spirit gives you a gut punch and you quickly realize there was no reward in the disobedience.

You also realize that restraint, though it may look weak and though it may be difficult, comes with joy and peace. Why? Because you did what you knew was right. And, pleasing God is the BEST victory.

Sometimes, we just need a reminder that living for Christ is the only life worth living.

I learned my lesson that day.

So, what’s the play call?

When you find yourself tempted to act or fight according to your OWN will…

1. Find a friend who knows the Word. When I called my mom, I called the right person. She was going to comfort (and correct) me with the Word. Not with her opinions.

2. Give people a second chance when they respond poorly the first time. Her first response was a little bit whack, but she called back and I’m glad I laid my offense down and answered.

3. Just do it. If you have a hard time living by God’s Word, you just have to do it. I can admit that sometimes God’s instruction sounds a little like, “Yeah, right.” But, remember your flesh can’t understand spiritual things (1 Corinthians 2:14).

4. Grace and mercy follows you. You won’t always get it right, but that’s why there’s grace and mercy. Don’t linger in your mess-up. Go back and repent right away and never do that ever again.

 

Yes! I would like prayer. Please pray for me.

Overcoming the Impact of Divorce

By
Jeannette Tyson
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divorce

Divorce Happened, Now What?

In my last article, I talked about the things I wish I knew before I married and divorced. I spoke mainly from a proactive point of view, and I would like to now talk about the reactive side. If you are a divorced single parent, living for God, holding down the fort – YOU ARE NOT ALONE! I see you, and more importantly, God sees you!

It’s not easy leaving a relationship, especially a marriage, but sometimes it is necessary. I know it hurts, but perhaps you’ve made the first step toward God’s best and I am proud of you! I say this all the time – DISCERNMENT is key. Some of us are able to work things out and reconcile. Some of us decided to divorce for various reasons. Whatever the situation, God loves you and your ex-spouse, and the two of you will get through this.

The Effects of Divorce on the Whole Man

Physical Effects

When it comes to physical touch or proximity with others, dealing with the impact of divorce doesn’t always hit you right away. Depending on the person, some of us can be alone without being lonely, and if you have kids, you’re never alone anyway. At first, it’s nice having your space and not having to consult with another person on things. After a while, it gets old and if you don’t have a good support system (friends and family), you have to be careful to guard your heart and not allow the devil room to come in and tempt you.

If you fall to sexual immorality, don’t allow guilt and condemnation to rule over you (Romans 8:1). Repent and allow God’s grace in your heart. If you start down that path, it is a long road back. My advice is to be transparent with your leaders or someone you trust who is submitted to God and who can be an encouragement to you along the way.

Emotional Effects

Divorce is an emotional rollercoaster. There will be good days and bad days, which is to be expected. If you don’t control your emotions during this process, you will drive yourself crazy. If you can afford a therapist or have access to one through your company’s insurance, I highly recommend the guidance of a professional counselor.

I believe all emotions were given to help us experience the fullness of life and to express ourselves during the experience. But, we have to be careful not to allow our emotions to override what God said and what He is doing. Emotions change in every situation, but God remains the same (Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 13:8).

There is nothing wrong with feeling sad, but don’t let sadness change your perspective on God or make your heart bitter.

Give it to God and allow Him to heal you. God knows that some of the things He asks us to do hurt – He doesn’t expect you to act like it doesn’t. But, He wants you to take comfort in knowing that His will is what’s best for you. He wants you to trust that on the other side of obedience is greater peace, joy, and life!

Spiritual Effects

Spiritually, you may be fearful or ashamed before God. You may be feeling like you failed Him or ruined a blessing. I want to encourage you with this scripture, “Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.” (Psalm 139:16)

Receive this Word in your heart and let go of the guilt! God loves you so much and while knowing all your flaws and sin before your body was formed, He prepared a Lamb of salvation.

God is the Restorer of Your Soul

coping with lossDon’t be discouraged! Some of us were never even supposed to marry the one we did and we are reaping the consequences of making that choice while fighting to get back to God’s original plan. Some of us now regret not allowing God time to heal the marriage. Whatever the situation, never doubt His perfect love for you which you could never mess up.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your divorce or have been divorced for years, it is a journey. Going from married to single isn’t easy, but God says His grace is sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9). Lean on His Word and cry out to Him for peace and comfort and He will supply your needs according to His riches and glory (Philippians 4:19).

I want to remind anyone who is struggling with an unreasonable ex to be strong and wait on the Lord, vengeance is His (Romans 12:19). I know it can be hard to not “get even”, it’s petty season, and everyone wants the last laugh, but don’t do it! Maintain your integrity and serve God. Your ex is either really hurt, acting out, or they’re just crazy. But, no matter what their motive, only God can change them.

If there are children involved, you may need a mediator, someone who would allow their home as a pickup/drop-off spot, and the two of you needn’t see each other at all. God will give you the wisdom to navigate this separation.

For anyone who has bravely left an abusive marriage or relationship, I love you and I am so godly proud of you! I truly thank God for you! Sometimes the Lord trusts us with tragedy so that we can teach others to overcome. Whatever your story, just remember the Author knew the end before the beginning. This is your time and you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you!

So, What’s the Play Call?

Take things one day at a time and don’t rush your healing (Philippians 4:6).

Join a support group, go to counseling, or maybe start a blog! Whatever you do, allow yourself room for expression and connectivity with others who are in the same boat, or better yet, who have overcome the boat. It’s important that we embrace community during hard times and not fall for the trick of isolation.

Remember, God is not mad at you. He loves you dearly.

God Bless!

U.S. Supreme Court Rules in Favor of Christian Baker in Landmark Case

By
Editorial Staff
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colorado baker

Today, the landmark Supreme Court case involving Jack Phillips, the devout, Colorado Christian baker who refused to create a custom wedding cake for a same-sex couple in 2012, has been decided in Mr. Phillips’ favor.

According to Mr. Phillips in his opinion piece in the Washington Post, “It’s really quite simple: I serve everyone, but I can’t create custom cakes that express messages or celebrate events in conflict with my faith. That is why I told the gentlemen who are suing me that, even though I couldn’t design a custom cake to celebrate their same-sex marriage, I’d be happy to sell them anything else in my shop or create a cake for them for another occasion.”

A key part of the Supreme Court’s decision, “The government, consistent with the Constitution’s guarantee of free exercise, cannot impose regulations that are hostile to the religious beliefs of affected citizens and cannot act in a manner that passes judgment upon or presupposes the illegitimacy of religious beliefs and practices.”

Read the entire Supreme Court’s opinion here.

 

 

Mental Health in the Christian Community: A Chat with Brittney A. Moses

By
Editorial Staff
-

Hey, Team!

You know, it is God’s earnest desire that His children live abundant lives, prosper, and be in good health (John 10:10; 3 John 1:2). A huge part of an abundant and healthy life depends on our mental health. For when the mind is not well – when we are depressed, stressed, filled with anxiety or hurt – it directly affects our physical bodies and the environment around us. When we’re mentally distressed, it’s extremely difficult to live out God’s purpose and plan for our lives individually – and be an effective Team collectively.

We caught up with Faith and Mental Wellness champion, Brittney A. Moses, to chat about the importance of mental health in the Christian community, and learn more about her new mobile app, the Faith & Mental Wellness app.

_____

Brittney, tell us a little bit about your background and why the integration of Christian faith and mental health is so important to you.

brittney mosesHey guys! Well, right now I’m residing in California – born and raised in the Los Angeles area. I’ve been studying Clinical Psychology, which I found to be a passion of mine a few years ago after not only encountering mental illness in ministry, but also overcoming my own mental health challenges as a believer. I’d served with a couple churches as well as running my own non-profit ministry in 2012.

Over and over again – anxiety, depression, trauma, and suicidal rumination kept resurfacing among the young adults I’d walked with, and honestly, I felt helpless with what to practically do in these situations. So I began to educate myself more and more until it became so clear to me that this was a major need in the body of Christ and if anything, I needed to have a conversation about it.

This is what led to my blog, going back to school, my app, and really all the work I’ve been putting together around the integration of Faith and Mental Health. As I like to say, we are bio-psycho-spiritual beings. Our mind, body, and spirit are all playing a role in our wellbeing, and we need to view the individual holistically if we truly want to be effective in our ministries.

faith and wellness app

How’d you come up with the idea for the Faith and Mental Wellness app, and what’s one of its most popular features?

When I first wanted to have an app developed, it was mainly for the notification feature that pops up on your phone. I thought it could be so helpful to have an inspiring message alert you in the grips of anxiety, depression, or a crisis and restore faith back to your spirit in the moments you need it most.

This was something I wish I had when I was experiencing anxiety and depression – a pick-me-up reminder. But of course with an app, you can include such a variety of content, I thought why not just put all my writings, podcasts, devotionals, worksheets, guides and community in one place? It really became a one-stop-shop for all things Faith & Mental Health and I’m so encouraged to see how much it’s grown.

In your experience, what recurring theme causes us as the body of Christ the most mental distress/depression/sadness?

Oh, there can be so many dynamics that play a role in depression and many of them are just a part of being human. The Bible talks about how the rain falls on the just and the unjust alike (Matthew 5:45), meaning no one is immune to the pitfalls of life. So, that’s the first thing I want to clarify. Being distressed or struggling with depression doesn’t mean you’re a “weak Christian”; it just means you’re human.

Many times we experience these bouts because there’s some form of loss that’s taken place in our lives – whether it be the loss of a relationship, financial distress, not meeting personal expectations, moving and losing community/friends, etc. Some aspects of mental health are genetic or greatly impacted by trauma, leaving some people more vulnerable to fall into depression. It really depends on the person, and as brothers and sisters in Christ, the best thing we can do is start by meeting them where they are and asking what’s going on rather than judging or making assumptions of a person’s character. 

What are your favorite “play calls” [scriptures] to help either fight mental distress or to maintain a healthy mind?

I’m so glad you asked! Here are a few that have helped myself and others in times of crisis:

  • In his kindness God called you to share in his eternal glory by means of Christ Jesus. So after you have suffered a little while, he will restore, support, and strengthen you, and he will place you on a firm foundation. – 1 Peter 5:10
  • My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. – Psalm 73:26
  • I will be your God throughout your lifetime – until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. – Isaiah 46:4
  • Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory He will reveal to us later. –Romans 8:18

Sometimes we get so sucked into our current state that we lose sight of the bigger picture of what God is doing in our lives and I find that these verses help renew the mind.

Do you feel there’s a stigma in the Christian faith community to seek professional mental health or to talk about issues regarding mental health? If so, how can we overcome these stumbling blocks so the Team can find healing?

I think that as those in the church are becoming more aware of mental health issues, they’re seeking to understand the different dynamics at play. However, there’s definitely still some stigma, and when that arises, it’s mainly because of an imbalanced perspective or a lack of understanding about mental illness in general.

It’s very easy for us to see things as 100% a spiritual issue. Yes, a spiritual issue can be at play, but there are sometimes biological issues with neurochemical imbalances in the brain, an underactive thyroid can play a role in depression, psychological issues where things like trauma or genetics may have impacted someone’s mental framework is common. At the end of the day, we have to be humble enough to realize when we need more tools or need to refer to those who have the tools for a certain area of someone’s life.

We tend to understand this with physical health, but not as much with mental health. The best way to start overcoming that stigma is to begin educating ourselves and even just sitting with those who are struggling long enough to understand the space they’re in without pre-conceived judgments.

How can the Team support you in prayer or otherwise – any prayer requests, new initiatives, or upcoming events?

You guys are so thoughtful, thank you! Prayer is always appreciated and needed. I have quite a journey ahead with school and this is a heavy subject so continuously being renewed and refreshed by His Spirit is so necessary. I’m excited to announce that I just partnered with the YouVersion Bible App so my latest reading plan, The 7 Day Anxiety Detox, is up there for anyone who’s interested! Other than that, you can always catch me over at BrittneyAMoses.com to follow or support any of the work I’m doing over on the blog! Thanks, guys!

_____

Team, be sure to connect with Brittney and her excellent resources to keep your mental health in tip-top shape. If you’re looking for a community that supports mental health from a Christian viewpoint, consider Brittney’s Faith & Mental Wellness group on Facebook, or if you need to speak with a Christian mental health professional, consider our friends at My Christian Counselors, a service of Faithful Counseling.

Connect with Brittney Moses on:

Instagram: @BrittneyMoses

Twitter: @Brittney_Moses

Facebook: @BrittneyAMoses

iTunes Podcast: Faith & Mental Wellness with Brittney Moses

Blog: BrittneyAMoses.com

Download the Faith & Mental Wellness app:

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/f-mw/id1224099324?mt=8

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.apolloengine.brittneymoses

Do You Prey On or Pray For Your Enemies?

By
Ryan Churchill
-
pray for your enemies

Today’s Scripture Lesson: Psalm 83

Please open your Bible or Bible app and read this psalm on your own, allowing the Holy Spirit to minister to you through His Word.

The 83rd Psalm is the final psalm attributed to the psalmist, Asaph. I must admit, I have grown quite fond of Asaph’s psalms and I’m a bit saddened to be moving forward knowing I won’t be encountering more of his writings. I’ve found his writings to be a challenge to my customary mindset and this final psalm of his is no exception.

As you can clearly read in the opening 5 verses, Asaph is praying to God about God’s enemies who are conspiring against His people, Israel. Asaph tells God that His enemies:

  • make an uproar
  • have exalted themselves
  • make shrewd plans against God’s people
  • conspire against God’s treasured ones
  • desire to wipe Israel out as a nation, wishing that Israel be remembered no more
  • have conspired together with one mind
  • have made covenant against God.

In the next three verses, Asaph names the tribes and nations who have joined the ranks of the enemies. And, after identifying them, Asaph begins to pray and raise a petition against their actions before God.

It is in this prayer that I become particularly challenged. While I hope you read this prayer in its entirety (verses 9-18), I will focus in on just a few verses which I would like to view through the lens Jesus provides in His Words from the sermon on the mount (Matthew 5).

To Love or Curse Your Enemies

worshipJesus proclaims, “You have heard that it was said, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” in Matthew 5:43-44.

It is such a simple, yet challenging, message, but doesn’t it stand in direct opposition to what Asaph’s psalm teaches? Asaph was praying for destruction and annihilation. He wanted God to “pursue” the enemy with His “tempest” and to “terrify” the enemy with His “storm.” He prayed that God’s enemies would be “humiliated” and “perish.”

Is this “pray for your enemies” thing that Jesus teaches actually for real?

For that matter, isn’t this a blatant contradiction between two places we claim to be the “inspired Word of God”? This doesn’t sound like “loving” and it doesn’t sound like he’s praying for anyone but himself.

How did the omnipotent, infallible God mess this one up?

The Truth in Contradiction

I don’t know about you, but I find myself weary of the standard “Old Testament vs. New Testament” argument in these situations. You know the argument, “Well, Jesus came to show us a new way and the Old Testament often shows you what it was like without Jesus.” And then we walk away until the next contradiction reveals itself. Yes, there is a little bit of truth to this argument, but maybe, if we lean into the Holy Spirit and allow Him to reveal Himself in these moments, we will find that He has as much to show us about the sinful natures we continue to cling to as He has to reveal about the glory and wonder of our beautiful Creator.

When approaching what appears to be a contradiction in Scripture, I have to step back for a moment and redefine what I am seeing. I choose to look at contradictions as contrast. One truly reveals the other. It’s sorta like walking into a room that is almost all blue, and then there is a bright orange vase prominently featured. The orange reveals just how blue the room really is, and the blue reveals just how orange the vase really is. Further, these contrasting colors, which are opposite one another on the color wheel, serve to complement one another. They reveal the subtleties in their complementary color.

I find the two most subtle moments in this 83rd Psalm to fall in verses 16 and 18. As 18 essentially reinforces 16, let’s zero in on verse 16:

“Fill their faces with dishonor, that they may seek Your name, O LORD.”

Read that again through the lens of “loving your enemy” or better yet, “praying for those who persecute you.”

The beauty of this verse is the purpose Asaph reveals in praying this prayer about God’s enemy, Israel’s enemy, his enemy. He reveals the desire of his heart in this prayer, which is a reflection of the heart of God. The purpose behind Asaph’s prayer is so ”that they may seek” God’s name.

Now, granted, Asaph doesn’t really take anything off the table here, including that the enemy “perish.” Asaph reveals it can happen by any means necessary, but he ultimately wants the enemy to seek God’s name.

Asaph’s prayer isn’t revenge-minded, it is recognition- and repentance-minded.

Love for All Types of Enemies

restoring a fallen brotherI would be negligent if I failed to visit one point I see revealed in Matthew 5. I find it interesting that Jesus has two commands here. One command is to “love your enemy.” The other command is to “pray for those who persecute you.”

It seems that not all enemies persecute you. In fact, some of your enemies are not in a position to persecute you, rather, you’re possibly in the position to persecute them. What are you supposed to do when you have the power? Love them.

Some of your enemies are actually able and do persecute you. What are you commanded to do regarding your persecutor? Pray for them. What is the purpose of your prayer? Well, it may be in part self-preservation, and also in part that the persecutor may seek the name of God. But Jesus reveals one more thing about loving your enemies and praying for your persecutors.

The purpose is this, “so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven.” (Matt 5:45)

Asaph named the enemy, but he didn’t exclude them from seeking the name of God.

I want to caution you not to mistake your mission field for an irredeemable enemy. Chances are good that many of the enemies of God are your close personal friends. In a physical sense, they neither seek to destroy you personally, nor do you seek their destruction. Love them. Pray for God to break down the strongholds and barriers keeping them from knowing Him and surrendering to His Lordship. If you have enemies who do seek your destruction and who persecute you, pray for them.

It’s also important to recognize the enemy is oftentimes an internal, habit-structure of thinking. It is time to identify these enemies as well. Though there are certainly more, John Piper gives us a number of names for the enemy in his book Future Grace: Anxiety, Pride, Misplaced Shame, Impatience, Covetousness, Bitterness, Despondency, and Lust. Oftentimes, these are enemies who persecute and ultimately destroy us, and they come from our very own flesh.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Surrender your thoughts and actions toward your enemy(ies) to God Almighty. Ask the Holy Spirit to lovingly reveal the answer to this last question: Do your prayers for your enemies reveal you as a son or daughter of God, reflecting the heart of your Father?

 

4 Stages of Preparation for God’s Call on Your Life

By
Andrea Matthews
-
god's call on your life

Embrace the Process

God is all knowing and all powerful, but He created man to have free will. We make our own decisions and reap the consequences of them. A lot of times, the choices we make are not the best and have negative effects on our lives.

Why would God do that? Why would He allow us to make our own bad choices?

God allows us to mess up so that we would eventually see Him as holy and ourselves as the total opposite in need of Him. Acknowledging our wretchedness and our reliance on God is a crucial, constant step in the Christian walk.

In Isaiah 6, we see the process of the prophet’s commission. At which stage can you find yourself?

Stage 1: He saw God.

In the very first verse, Isaiah describes the grandeur and might of the Lord. He heard the shouts of glorious heavenly creatures crying out His holiness one to another. What a privilege it was for him to feel the roar of their voices in the temple. It shook him to his knees, and there…

Stage 2: He saw himself.

“‘Woe to me!’ I cried. ‘I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips…’” Isaiah 6:5

The opposition of Isaiah’s flesh to the holiness of God was overwhelming to him. He could not stand in the presence of God without seeing his own weakness. And, without this step, he could never be able to fulfill his calling in excellence and truth.

Stage 3: He was cleansed.

Immediately after Isaiah acknowledges his humanity, an angel touches a piece of coal to his mouth and says, “See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and sin atoned for.’” How incredible that God not only allows us to see our filth, but to be cleansed from it as well. That’s the whole point. Because once we are cleansed….

Stage 4: He was sent.

Verse 8 of the same chapter states that Isaiah heard the Lord asking who He should send, and Isaiah with a new burst of boldness said, “Here I am. Send me!”

The processes of God astound me. Because Isaiah had been made holy, just as his King was holy, he now had the confidence to walk out his purpose.

Follow God’s Plan

god's call on your life

There are other stories in the Bible and in modern day Christianity of people who have encountered this same process. I believe it’s a standard that God uses to determine and refine those who will be truly used by Him. I want to encourage you to embrace this process, even if it seems you’re stuck in Step 2, constantly reminded of how broken you are.

After it was revealed to Peter that Jesus was indeed the Christ, he denied Him THREE times. Even Peter had to go through the necessary stages to see his own self – weak and scared and unfaithful. You know what’s amazing about Peter is that his story doesn’t end there. He goes on to lead the first church and boldly declare the gospel of Jesus Christ.

So, What’s the Play Call?

If you’re in a season that seems to only reveal your insecurities and flaws, trust that God is there with you (Deuteronomy 31:8). Trust that this season, no matter how painful it may be, is a part of His master plan.  So stay ready and willing to grow – your purpose-driven season might arrive sooner than you think.

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