Desperate Times Call for Desperate Worship

By

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Mar 14, 2018

Today’s Scripture Lesson: Psalm 74

Once again, I encourage you to read the Psalm in its entirety and allow the Holy Spirit to minister to you directly through His Word.

We have covered a number of Psalms attributed to David, and we have covered one or two attributed to a priest appointed by David named Asaph. This Psalm is attributed to Asaph. As I’ve enjoyed this journey through the Psalms, this psalmist named Asaph has become a bit of a particular delight for me. I admire the weakness he shows before God. Though relatively few Psalms are attributed to him, on many of these occasions we see his anxious thoughts and I am comforted by the progression he sets on full display – from anxious despair to the hope of faith.

In preparing this study, I used the New American Standard Bible. I mention this as the terminology I’m about to extract is not in every translation in their entirety. You may find it helpful to reference an NASB translation while reading this.

Asaph takes two progressions in this Psalm. The first is the progression of despair. It is located in the first 10 verses. Let’s break these down by verse:

v1 – Why have You rejected us forever?
v2 – Remember Your congregation…
v3 – Turn Your footsteps…
v4 – Your adversaries have…
v10 – How long, O God, will…

Throughout this progression, Asaph points to one place, in particular, the sanctuary. He refers to them as “ruins.” Everything is damaged. The adversaries of God have wreaked destruction on the sanctuary and defiled it.

Asaph points out all the ways that God has been damaged, but the real issue for Asaph is revealed in his opening question.

“O God, Why have You rejected us forever?”

He follows it up by essentially saying, “Don’t you remember us?” He could have just as easily and accurately said, “Why have you rejected me forever?”

When Desperate Hearts Cry

Isn’t this really the cry of a heart in despair? Asaph masks the pain of the sense of rejection by pointing out how God’s sanctuary has been damaged. In reality, Asaph’s instinctual response of “Why” shows that this is more about Asaph’s fear of rejection. The result of hyper-focus on himself and the enemy eventually becomes, “How long is this going to last, God?”

Then, we get to see the second progression, the progression of hope and praise. Let’s break this one down by verse:

v11 – Why do You withdraw Your hand…
v12 – Yet God is my king from old…
v18 – Remember this…
v19 – Do not deliver the soul of Your turtledove to the wild beast…
v19 – Do not forget…
v20 – Consider the covenant…
v21 – Let the afflicted and needy praise Your name.

Seeing these two progressions back to back reveals a very different outcome. When we focus on the wrong things, despair leads to despair. But when we focus on the right things, despair leads to hope and praise.

What was different?

It happened at step 2 in each progression. In the progression of despair, Asaph tells God, “Remember Your congregation.” In other words, “God, don’t forget about us. God, look at us. God, do you see what’s happening to us.” This wasn’t the case in the progression of hope and praise. Yes, he did cry out, “WHY?” But then he said, “Yet God is my king from old.”

Asaph spends the next several thoughts (verses) on who God is. He’s the One who, “works deeds of deliverance in the midst of the earth,” who “divided the sea,” who “broke open springs and torrents,” who has “prepared the light and sun,” who has “established all the boundaries of the earth.” Asaph essentially says, “God, I know who You are.”

God Still Deserves the Glory

Before he ever moves another step into “remember,” Asaph is already speaking truth about his Creator and thereby glorifying Him.

After meditating on who his Creator has revealed Himself to be, Asaph returns to the word, “remember.” It was actually OK the first time around to say “remember Your congregation.” It just isn’t helpful to do so without establishing the truth of God’s sovereignty and authority first. Time and time again in the Old Testament, God tells His people, “remember.” He tells them “Remember, I brought you out of Egypt,” “Remember, I am the Lord your God,” “Remember, I am faithful.”

In remembering, Asaph calls for protection and he leans heavily on their relationship when he states, “Consider the covenant.” It was through the relationship of covenant that God intimately revealed Himself to His people, and it is through that covenant that He continues this day to call His people into His holy presence that we may know Him and be known by Him. In covenant, God serves as Provider and Protector.

When we turn our focus to Him — in the midst of despair, in the midst of ruin, in the midst of trials of every kind, — Asaph shows us that in His presence and sustaining glory we have nothing but reason to hope and praise.

So, What’s the Play Call?

I find it interesting that Asaph was so focused on the sanctuary, on the dwelling place of God, yet God didn’t seem to have much regard for it. As I’ve been reading the Psalms, one thing has become very clear to me – we have a fundamental misunderstanding of the sanctuary. Over and over in the Psalms, God is called “the sanctuary,” “the refuge,” “the dwelling place.”

We can build our houses of worship and anyone can destroy, ruin and defile them. We must “remember” and be mindful that no one can “destroy” or “defile” the all-consuming holiness and glory of our Creator, God Almighty, in Whom we find our refuge, our sanctuary.

We’re going to have despair and trials in this life. But, they don’t change who God is, regardless of whatever destruction you see around you. So, pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal the trivial matters which have drawn your focus away from the Father. When He has done so, meditate on God’s glory, and walk in the hope and praise of His name as you stand firm in the midst of trials of every kind.

‘In Real Life’: New Christian Music-Based Devotional Service

By

Editorial Staff

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Mar 12, 2018

Engaging Youth Through Christian Music

Bible studies and Christian music have long been a part of youth ministry, but a new initiative seeks to merge those aspects together, with the goal of fostering meaningful conversations.

A partnership between leading Christian media site NewReleaseToday (NRT) and tween-focused entertainment company Bema Media has led to the creation of IRL Resources, a subscription service that delivers weekly discussion guides based on hit Christian songs. Watch the IRL Resources introduction video above.

Real Life Themes Youth Can Relate To

Named after the text lingo that means “In Real Life,” each IRL study deals with real-life issues such as trust, identity, challenges, and the choices we make. Carrying those themes are songs from some of today’s biggest artists like Lauren Daigle, Kutless, Jordan Feliz, Jaci Velasquez, All Sons & Daughters, Aaron Shust, Hawk Nelson, Citizen Way and more.

“This is a dream that has been in the making for years, both for us at NewReleaseToday and our friends at Bema Media,” said NRT Founder Kevin McNeese. “Music is a point of connection, something that brings people together. And we now get to harness the full power of scripturally inspired music to get youth talking about real life issues, as well as the hope that is available to them.”

The service offers two tracks: One for parents, families, and individuals, and another for youth leaders, pastors, teachers, and homeschoolers.

IRL studies, which are distributed digitally every Monday, include a worksheet that contains an introduction to the theme, scriptures to read, discussion questions, a quote from the artist about the song, a closing prayer and links to watch the music video and/or stream the song. Group studies also include an icebreaker game, full sermon notes, talking points, media slides and more.

“The IRL devotionals are fast, fun and up to date,” said Bema Media’s Brad Matthias, a Nashville area pastor. “Everyone knows these artists and are genuinely interested to learn about what’s behind the lyrics! And for churches, this is a great resource for those with little time to prep.”

Plans start at less than one dollar a week. Learn more about IRL Resources and the various subscription options at http://www.IRLResources.com.

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About NewReleaseToday

NewReleaseToday [NRT] launched in August 2002 and has become the largest Christian music and media site online, offering music, and boasts more than 150,000 registered users as part of its NRTeam Community. NRT also has spawned the NRT Radio Network with five unique stations featuring dance/electronic, worship, rap/urban and more. From album release dates to exclusive interviews to world premieres and Christian music news, NRT has become the go-to place for what’s new in Christian. With offices in Nashville, Tennessee and Dallas, Texas, they are focused on developing Christian content, live events, and resources for today’s Christian family.

About Bema Media

Home to iShine Ministries and iShine KNECT TV, Bema Media is a founding partner of the Tween Gospel Alliance [TGA], and B413. Active in Podcasting, Social Media, Christian television, and Curriculum development, Bema Media exists to support and encourage families with pre-teens and tweens.

The “Meg” Experience with Storm Reid and A Wrinkle in Time

By

Editorial Staff

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Mar 9, 2018

Have you had your “Meg” experience?

What’s that? You know the journey. Self-discovery. Overcoming the evils of fear, insecurities, doubt to live as the beautiful, wonderfully-made person God created you to be (Psalms 139:14).

The movie “A Wrinkle in Time“, directed by the gifted Ava DuVernay, features our locker room guest, the amazing Storm Reid, who portrays “Meg”. In this epic adventure to find her missing father, Meg, her brother, and a friend, along with 3 “Mrs.” embark on a journey to discover strength they’ve always had, and overcome “It”, the ultimate evil.

Kids and adults of all ages will get their chance to travel with Meg – not only through a vibrant universe not seen since the likes of Avatar, but through the challenging phases of self-realization.

Let’s take a brief look at some of the self-discovery “mile-markers” illustrated in the movie.

Are you Here?

I’m Angry and I’m Acting Out.

In this phase, Meg shows us that the object of our anger and frustration is not the source of our discontent and pain. You may “take it out” on others – or even yourself – but the fact of the matter is when “…hope is crushed, it makes the heart sick.” (Proverbs 13:12)

A sick heart will infect your life, your peace, your purpose. Get unstuck from this phase by embracing truth; be honest about how you’re feeling, and cast every care to God who cares deeply for you (1 Peter 5:7).

I Want to Be Strong, But I Don’t Know How.

In this phase, you’re trying. You’re doing the “right” thing, giving it a go, you’ve said ‘yes’ to the journey. But, you feel awkward. And, when you look at others around you in similar situations – they’re handling things far better than you are. What’s wrong with you?

Not a thing! It’s okay to want to be strong, but you don’t know how. Frankly, it’s okay to not know anything – but you’re in the room, you’re on the journey, putting one foot in front of the other. Meg didn’t faint at this mile-marker, and neither will you. Guard your heart against the weariness of doing good – “due season” is actually a promise (Galatians 6:9).

I’m Not Who They Say I Am, But Who God Says I Am.

Now you’re getting somewhere, Team. Words are seeds; all seeds don’t belong in the soil of your heart. Think about it. When the Creator of the entire universe set in motion every purposed event for the exact moment of your birth – what do you think He called you?

What name did someone else call you, who, perhaps, you love and respect? Who’s trying to convince you that you’re less than the way God sees you?

Give God’s voice permission to drown out the naysayers and give you strength to stand up in your personal greatness!

I Can Do This, I Just Choose Not To.

In this phase, like Meg, you’re farther along on your journey. You’ve met a few challenges, and passed a few tests. Now, you’re at the crossroads. It’s showtime. It’s now or never.

What do you realize at this mile-marker? The power of choice. Do choices have to be complicated or are they actually simple? What would happen if you chose to do it versus tried to do it?

I’d Rather Be Me Than Someone Else’s Image of Perfection

Ever want something so bad, and then, when it’s within your reach, you have a change of heart? But you wanted that, right? You prayed day and night for “it”. You’d sacrifice almost anything to be that, no? What happened?

When you align your pursuits with what brings God joy, you’ll find your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). And suddenly, the weak parts of you that believed in lack and lived in fear are gone. You really are everything God called you and made you to be.

So, check out our locker room chat with Storm Reid, follow her everywhere on her social media platforms. Check your local listings for a showing of “A Wrinkle in Time”, and let us know if you can relate to these self-discovery and realization mile-markers.

What are some of your takeaways from the movie?

Dr. Anthea Butler: 3 Teachable Moments from Christian Church History and the Papacy

By

Kim Brightness

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Mar 8, 2018

Everything Old is New Again?

Solomon had it right. There is nothing new under the sun. What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

One place where these words ring most true is within the Christian church. Even in 2018, you can compare, contrast, and learn from various events in Christian church history that appear today with slightly different twists and new characters.

As a historian, author, and Professor of Religious Studies and Africana Studies at the University of Pennsylvania, to say that Dr. Anthea Butler has seen a few instances of “nothing new in the church” would be an understatement.

We briefly caught up with Dr. Butler during press rounds for her contribution to CNN’s new original series, Pope: The Most Powerful Man in History, a six-part television event, premiering Sunday, March 11th, that goes inside the Vatican to reveal the power held by popes throughout the ages.

Interestingly, Dr. Butler shared parallels and teachable moments in the papacy and church history that the body of Christ can use today to make wiser choices and, perhaps, create a better “history” in the years to come for future generations.

Let’s take a look at a few lessons…

1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.

When it comes to division within the Christian church throughout history and the struggle for unity in divided times, Dr. Butler’s recommendation is fairly simple: “Don’t sweat the small stuff. People fight in church all time about the little things…”

From the formation of thousands of Christian denominations to splits within today’s megachurches and storefronts, many issues that cause the church to “sweat” have more to do with the offended parties than God.

Self-check questions for lesson #1:

Is God as, or more, offended than me in this situation? If not, why am I so bothered?
Is my ego, bias, pride, or insecurities fueling division – or a substantive, Biblical standard?

2. Church Leaders are Human.

The secret’s out. Behind the bishop’s robe, the pastor’s pulpit and parking space, and the papacy ring – these important men are – men. Human. Every anointed, ordained, and powerful church leader who is held in the highest regard has to contend with the same human frailty, flaws, and shortcomings of, perhaps, the very ones they lead. However, they do so with a greater requirement of accountability (Luke 12:48).

Dr. Butler shares, “Everybody messes up. Even though you might be a Pastor or hold some big position in your church, you have to be accountable for that. The world is watching. With the world watching – and you get in trouble – bad things can happen.”

Consider that these “bad things” don’t stop at fallen church leaders’ public humiliation and ridicule. What about the impact on the adoring congregation? People who, with good intentions, yet in error, “worshipped” the “creature above the Creator”? The church can learn this important lesson from the lives of powerful church leaders throughout history: Keep man as man – let God be God.

Self-check questions for lesson #2:

Have I held my bishop, pastor, or church leader in higher esteem than what is appropriate?
Have I placed my bishop, pastor, or church leader before the Almighty God?

3. Behind Great Church Leaders are Unsung Champions.

In addition to the humanity of church leaders, no church leader – from the pope to pastors – rises to any realm of prominence alone. The development and success of local churches take more than the personality and presence of the church leader in charge.

The growth of most church communities rides on the backs of the often unsung champions – women.

Historically, with church leadership dominated by men, women represented the boots on the ground, faithfully working and supporting the vision of the leader.

Dr. Butler wrote about the extraordinary Women’s Department of the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) in her book, “Women in the Church of God in Christ: Making A Sanctified World“, and the contributions of those who were behind the scenes movers-and-shakers. “The women did the hard, everyday work, their men were in leadership. They are the organizers, they cook, they keep the men going…“, says Dr. Butler.

Self-check questions for lesson #3:

Who is an unsung champion in my local church, working tirelessly for the church’s vision, that I can acknowledge or honor?
As an “unsung champion”, how can I recruit, attract, and encourage others to rise to the call of the church to prevent burnout, fatigue, and health issues?

Like Dr. Butler says, yes, Christian church history is like a soap opera. There are so many stories in the Bible and in history books filled with joy and pain, good and evil.

What will you do with the life and times you read about in church history? Odds are, we’ll watch history repeat itself. But, when we take the tests over again – it’s an opportunity to score higher today than we did yesterday (2 Peter 1:5-8).

Prayer Still Works: One People Humbled Before God

By

Andrea Matthews

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Mar 6, 2018

prayer still works — Photo by Mark Wilson/Getty Images

If My People, Called by My Name…

I was driving north on the freeway. It was one of those hour-long drives – not long enough to be considered a road trip, but certainly long enough for some time to think.

I passed by cities lined with businesses at 70 miles per hour until something caught my attention. It was an American flag flying humbly at half mast, and though the speed of my car remained, my heart paused.

Grateful to be alone in the car, I wept at the reminder – the unmasked evil that is so prevalent in our world. My immediate, near involuntary response was prayer, and then it hit me – an even greater sense of gratitude.

Free to Serve Our God

For teammates in the U.S., we live in a country that allows the freedom of worship. What a privilege that is in a world where people are truly persecuted for a simple prayer. I thought about the allegiance we pledge to the flag that now stood at half mast:

“…and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

One nation under God. No, we are not perfect, and yes, some laws need to change. But, a salute to our flag still demands submission to the Almighty God.

Although our current culture has developed a disdain for the activity, we must always remember – prayer is effective.

James 5:16 proclaims that the prayers of a righteous person, one approved by God, is powerful in its effect.

2 Chronicles 7:14 reminds us: “…if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.”

The first step in restoring our nation is prayer. It’s an act of humility, honoring God as head and acknowledging His sovereignty in our requests to Him.

If we utilize one of the greatest tools God has given us, it shows our faith is in Him and not our own actions. And, in my car, I didn’t have to hesitate for fear of my life or reputation. I prayed boldly and with confidence, knowing my God heard me.

So, What’s the Play Call?

Americans, we are blessed. Let’s take advantage of the freedoms we have and restore our land through prayer.

Pursuing Purpose: Inventor, Christian Johnson of Driver Watchdog

By

Monique C. Baisden

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Mar 2, 2018

Pursuing Purpose Interview Series

Special Guest: Christian Johnson, CEO, Founder of Driver Watchdog

Pursuing Purpose is a new interview series with people who are walking in purpose and destined for greatness. These persons come from all backgrounds of life; many are well-known and well-respected professionals in their respective industries. Some are household names, and others are not. But, what they all have in common is their faith in God. They are all Christ Followers. They have endured and overcome challenges and have made the commitment to dedicate their lives to walking in and living out their God-given purpose, no matter what.

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Monique Baisden (MB): Christian, thank you for the opportunity to do this interview with you today.

First, I would like to start by learning more about your Christian upbringing. When did your introduction to the Christian faith begin? What was your Christian upbringing like in terms of church life?

Christian Johnson (CJ):
I was raised in a Christian household. I went to a Catholic school from grades K-12. We went to church every Friday and Sunday, and Bible Study on Wednesdays.

MB: Where are you originally from?
CJ: Buffalo, NY

MB: What is your educational and professional background?
CJ: I attended the prestigious, private Catholic school, Nardin Academy, where I graduated at the age 16. From there I attended the University of Buffalo, where I worked towards a degree in Business Administration. During this time, I also began to work for my father in the debt management industry. Several years later, in 2007, I decided to start my own debt management firm which I still manage today.

I have been involved in many social and civic organizations that focus on diversity inclusion and urban economic development. I am a proud member of the National Urban League, where I mentor teens and young adults about entrepreneurship. Furthermore, I am a teacher at the University of Buffalo with the Blackstone LaunchPad program, where I teach minority students about entrepreneurship.

MB: When did you first realize your God-given purpose and how did you come to realizing it?
CJ: Well, I would answer that question like this: Throughout my life’s journey, I have realized that I have a multi-faceted purpose to help others, using my gifts and talents, and God pulls on me to do different things in different seasons. Every day, I am walking with God who is walking in front of me. I always say, God is the driver and I am the vehicle. When God speaks to me, I listen, I tune in, and I just follow Him. I do this in everything that I do, in every aspect of my life.

MB: Outside of your faith in God, who or what inspires you?
CJ: My kids and my parents are my motivation to work hard and to be a successful Christian entrepreneur. I want to be a role model for my kids to teach them that they can be resilient, that hard work pays off, and that they can accomplish anything they desire. I also want to be able to leave my business behind for my children as a part of my legacy.

The Bible says in Ephesians 6:2 to “honor your father and mother”. Therefore, I honor them by working hard so that I can give back to them and make sure that they have all they need. Over the years, my mother and my father have sacrificed a lot for me, and I want to give back to them and honor them for their sacrifices.

MB: What is your favorite scripture or “play call” and why?

CJ: My favorite scripture is Luke 15:11-32, which is the story of “The Prodigal Son”. I relate to this story as this was me at one point in my life. I was lost for awhile. I was living recklessly and doing very immature things that could have killed me. I was also in a very negative and toxic relationship that involved domestic violence.

One day, I was totally exhausted and frustrated with the state of my life and I literally dropped to my knees and begged and cried out to God and asked Him to help me to turn my life around. I needed His help and intervention…desperately! From that moment on, I re-dedicated my life to God and I became “found” again as I turned back to God and committed to living a holy lifestyle. God has truly had His hands on me ever since that time.

MB: Tell me the story behind how you came up with your invention, Driver Watchdog.
CJ: I used to have anxiety about my son driving, especially when police brutality incidents started to increase. So, one night I was driving down the street, on the same day that Mike Brown had been killed, which also happened to be the same day that my son was going to get his driver’s permit.

I could not stop thinking about the safety of my own family. I could not stop thinking about how I would feel if I got the call that something had happened to my son. I wanted to do something about this, but I did not know what to do. I started praying to God.

I heard the voice of God say, “Do a camera”, over and over again. God was relentless in giving me this message in the days after that, in multiple ways. So, God began to lay out for me the blueprint for this invention and I started researching and seeing that there was nothing like it out there. The technology for this invention was far ahead of anything that was on the market for similar products.

After countless hours, days, and weeks of researching and pulling things together to attempt to make this product, I reached a point where I started to feel frustrated and overwhelmed.

At that moment, God stopped me in my tracks and said: “Do you believe in what you are doing? Do you believe that you can do this? Do you believe that I am doing this with you?” And my answers were yes, yes, and yes! Ever since that time, God has laid out the opportunities in front of me that I needed to get my product in front of industry influencers and has opened doors that I could not have opened for myself.

I am a living testimony that your gifts will make room for you and bring you before great men (Proverbs 18:16).

MB: So a little birdie told me that you will be appearing on Rooster and Butch on the A&E Network? How did that happen?

CJ: It was all God! The producers of the show reached out to me and asked me would I be interested in doing a competition-style show for entrepreneurs. I have no idea how they found me and they didn’t tell me what show they were producing. But I told them “yes”, and went through a series of interviews with them, and finally, after about 15 interviews over a period of 6-7 months, they told me they were selecting me for the show and flew me out to Texas.

I still did not know which show I was on, and who I would be meeting. But it was an amazing experience, from beginning to end. My episode of Rooster and Butch will be airing next Wednesday, March 7^th at 10:00 pm on the A&E Network, and I am very excited about it!

MB: What advice or words of encouragement would you give to our readers?
CJ: Whatever is laid on your heart to do, even though it might seem impossible, don’t give up on it! Continue to pursue it. With God all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). As Christian believers, it is so important for us to know and believe that even when all else fails, God won’t.

MB: Christian, thank you so much for your time. It has been a pleasure interviewing you today.
CJ: This has been awesome! Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my testimony with your readers.

Team! Let’s continue to support and lift up our teammates in prayer! Follow Christian and check out Driver Watchdog today.

Christian Johnson’s and Driver Watchdog’s social media handles and website

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/mydriverwatchdog/
https://www.facebook.com/ChristianJohnsonDWD/

Instagram:
@driverwatchdog
@ChristianJohnson_DWD

Twitter:
@driverwatchdog
@ChristianJ_DWD

Website: www.MyDriverWatchDog.com

Learning Patience: God’s Timing is Perfect

By

Alecia M. White

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Mar 1, 2018

Is it Time, God?

I’m no baker. I love to cook, but baking seems to be a challenge for me – unless it comes from a box with the instructions to add 3 eggs, 1/3 cup of oil, and some water. But, making something from “scratch” has just never been my thing.

Well, recently, I’ve decided that I’m going to teach myself to bake, from scratch (pray for me LOL). I’ve started with cookies, because, well, I don’t think you can really go wrong with cookies.

My first attempt was a caramel pecan cookie that I made using a bake mix I’d been wanting to try. I mixed all the ingredients, added my own flair, and popped them in the oven. Now, the box said to bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes – so I did that. I set the timer on my oven and waited until it beeped… after 12 minutes… I’m a middle ground kinda girl.

Once the baking sheet was out of the oven, I set it on a cooling mat for my masterpiece to cool. After about 5 minutes, I decided that they’d cooled long enough and I wanted to try one.

I took a cookie off the sheet, bit into it, and spit that piece right back out! It was too gooey – they weren’t done!

I’d followed directions to a tee and they weren’t done cooking yet. What to do? I stuck them back in the oven for a few more minutes and tried again. This time they were perfect.

Perfect Plans Produce Patience

In life, we often feel we have the perfect recipe for success. We put in all of our “ingredients” and place our masterpiece in the “oven” to cook.

There are very significant times when we step out, thinking that it’s “our time” and, unfortunately, things don’t turn out as planned. Stuff is still gooey in the middle and falling apart. Easily, without another attempt, and without question, we can give up or we can keep working so that things can keep baking.

What often happens is that we grow impatient when our self-made timer goes off and things aren’t done yet.

We must realize that God’s timing is much more accurate than our own. We must realize that man-made recipes don’t always line up with God’s will for our lives. See, those directions instructed me to leave the cookies in the oven for a set amount of time that wasn’t nearly enough for them to cook thoroughly.

Sometimes, we put a timer on things that actually need more time than we allot in life. There are times when we need to bake longer.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

Patience is a task and often, as the saying goes, “good things come to those who wait.”

Yes, we must work because, as our Playbook says in James 2:26, “For as the body without spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.” But what I mean is, when God promises us something, waiting is often involved, whether He tells us to continue with our works or if He instructs us to be still and wait until He delivers.

Here are a few things to remember while your masterpiece bakes:

God always has the upper hand; His plans will always trump our own. Trust the Lord’s timing more than you trust your own. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isaiah 55:9
Seek God. It is important to seek God for what He would have you to do while you wait. Often, what we do leading up to our end results affects the result itself. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33
Make preparations. Even in baking, preparation must be made for the end result. If I had no place to put the cookies when they came out of the oven, they would not have cooled properly. And, if I didn’t have that place prepared in time, they would have burned in the oven. Be ready for what you are praying and working for. “Prepare thy work without, and make it fit for thyself in the field; and afterwards build thine house. “ Proverbs 24:27

Be patient, the timer will go off at just the right time for you!

When the Good You Know to Do Falls Short

By

Jeannette Tyson

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Feb 27, 2018

What Happened to the Good I Would Do?

Have you ever noticed that your heart and your mind don’t always connect?

There are a lot of things I know, yet these things are somewhat difficult for me to live by. It is so frustrating to know that I know something, but that knowledge has yet to come alive in me.

For example, I know that I need to eat right to be healthy and energized. I know that if I prepare ahead in the evenings, I will have better mornings. Yet and still, I have a tough time doing what I know is right or doing things I know I should do. You, too?

It’s really upsetting because I feel as though I am always starting over. Always coming up with new resolutions and making plans to live more efficiently, and then lacking the discipline to follow through – what’s the deal with that?

Connect the Dots Between Your Heart and Mind

The way to become the best versions of ourselves is to connect the dots between our heart and our mind.

I think back on childhood memories, the awkward teens, rebellious years and I can find a common theme: I typically have more in my mind than in my heart.

The Apostle Paul was right. Your mind can think – I know I can do this, I’m smart, I can get this – and your heart can be in complete opposition to what you know (Romans 7:19). The way we know that the heart is more powerful is that even a slight doubt in your heart will stop you regardless of all your head knowledge that says – “No Brainer!”

Our inner struggle between what God says and what we do is a recurring battle for many Christians. When I see well-known Christians thriving in their work or ministry, I think, “Wow, this person is really amazing; they’ve won the internal battle.”

But, in actuality, even the best teammates struggle to do better and be better on a daily basis.

Press Through for the Win

Spiritual growth takes determination and a tenacious attitude.

I believe one of the main reasons we don’t reach our growth goals is because we are too hard on ourselves when we fall short.

There are times when I know that I could have performed better or worked harder. And, when that happens, the fact that I knew better eats me up inside.

But, it’s impossible for us to change our bad habits when the entire time we’re beating ourselves up. We make mistakes, we fall short, and we disappoint ourselves. But, if we are speaking negativity and death in our mind and spirit, that is not going to help!

It is a trick of the enemy to make you feel discouraged. Proverbs 17:22 says “a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

So, no matter how many wise counselors you have, how much you read, or how often you pray – at some point, you’re going to have to start loving yourself, forgive yourself, and be patient with yourself.

If you are constantly thinking about your struggle to get it together and how “it’s always something”, you will never get anywhere. Our entire walk with God is built on our beliefs. How can you believe Jesus is the Son of God and yet not believe that you can do all things through Christ (Philippians 4:13)?

Let’s monitor our inner dialogue and cancel any negativity that tries to condemn us.

God wants us to know in our hearts that even when we feel like we’re only taking a small step, everything is working together for our good. If we maintain a peaceful reliance on God, it will sustain us as we push ourselves towards greatness.

No excuses, no “I can’t help it“, no “my thoughts are automatic and reactionary.” You are who God says you are! Allow the mind of Christ to come alive in you (Philippians 2:5).

Consistency is the key to transforming our minds; it will not happen unless you actively pursue it.

SO, WHAT’S THE PLAY CALL?

First, stop being so hard on yourself when you fall short – It’s OKAY. “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach and it will be given to him” (James 1:5).

Let’s be more intentional about our development so we can bear every fruit of the Spirit.

When your flesh feels discouraged, practice edifying yourself and feed yourself the Word of God. “The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul” (Psalm 19:7).

Meditate on these scriptures:

God is working in you giving you the desire and power to do what pleases Him (Philippians 2:13).
Moreover, I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you (Ezekiel 36:26).

Be encouraged, Team.

5 Tricks to Burn Belly Fat and More – What the Research Really Shows

By

Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD

-

Feb 23, 2018

Is Your Temple Fit for the Master’s Use?

Haven’t you yet learned that your body is the home of the Holy Spirit God gave you, and that he lives within you? Your own body does not belong to you. For God has bought you with a great price. So use every part of your body to give glory back to God because he owns it. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20, TLB)

In the last decade, here are a few things that have been established in the food and nutrition world:

The scale doesn’t show an accurate picture of your health.
Fat cells are metabolically active.
Chronic inflammation creates an environment for disease to thrive.
Belly fat produces inflammation and reduces insulin sensitivity.

Taking care of our bodies is not about reaching a certain weight, BMI or size. That’s not what God has called us to do when he charges us to take care of our temples. Healthy bodies are a result of choices we make to eat well, move daily, play, rest and speak words of life.

But research continues to show that extra fat, specifically fat in the abdominal cavity, puts us at a bigger risk for some diseases and cancers. This particular type of fat, also called visceral fat, hugs organs and has been linked to an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. In women, visceral fat has also been linked to breast cancer.

So, how can we effectively burn belly fat and more? Here is what some of the research shows and simple actions you can take to make these a part of your lifestyle:

1. Boost Your Daily Fiber

It’s well known that fiber has a huge impact on cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health, but its resume is even more impressive. A certain type of fiber called soluble fiber binds with water molecules and creates a gel that promotes a feeling of fullness. This helps you naturally eat less because you feel satisfied. But, it gets even better…

In one observational study of over 1100 African and Hispanic American adults, an increase of 10 grams of soluble fiber/day reduced the amount of visceral (belly) fat gain by 3.7%. To put this into perspective, the average American consumes 16 grams of total fiber per day. BUT, fiber recommendations are 25-38 grams per day.

Essentially, if we aim to eat enough fiber each day, we can take one step to halt belly fat. The foundation of a healthy diet includes real food, so choose food first to meet all your fiber needs.

Real food sources high in soluble fiber include:

Whole Grains– notably oats and barley
Vegetables– brussel sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, and sweet potatoes to name a few
Beans & Lentils– all varieties
Fruit– apples, pears, citrus, figs and dates
Nuts & Seeds– especially ground flax and chia seeds

ACTION:
Aim for 5-8 grams fiber per meal & 3-5 grams per snack. Here are some ideas:

Chocolate Banana Breakfast Quinoa– 5 grams fiber
Hearty Beef & Bean Pumpkin Chili– 13 grams fiber
Quinoa Edamame Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette– 5 grams fiber
Honey Parmesan-Roasted Acorn Squash– 4 grams fiber
Slow Cooker Steel Cut Oats Recipe Blueprint– 4 grams fiber (oats only)

2. Include Protein at Every Meal & Snack

Protein is known to boost your feeling of fullness which helps reduce your appetite. Remember that every time you eat extra calories, regardless of what type they are, your body stores excess as fat. Controlling your appetite by including protein at your meals and snacks will help you manage portions and avoid munching when it’s not mealtime.

But, research also shows that individuals who are eating more quality protein at meals tend to have less abdominal fat. One recommendation that emerged from a study promotes consuming 20-30 grams of quality protein per meal, including breakfast. Our first meal of the day, if consumed, tends to be the lowest in quality protein. Don’t forget about breakfast!

It’s also important to note that protein comes from a variety of sources including dairy, fish, seafood, eggs, tofu, tempeh, and beans – not just meat and poultry.

ACTION

Ensure your breakfast includes a good source of quality protein. Here are a few ideas:

High Protein Chocolate Banana Breakfast Quinoa– 18 grams protein
Protein Packed Oatmeal– 10-20 grams protein
Easy Egg Muffins– 10 grams per 2 muffins

3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

HIIT, high-intensity interval training, is a way of exercising that includes a sequence of intense exercise bursts followed by recovery. The idea is to give your best effort for a period of time and then slow down and allow your body to recover.

These workouts have gained popularity and for good reason! Research shows that HIIT:

burns more calories for the 2 hours post-exercise than traditional endurance exercise
burns abdominal fat while maintaining muscle

There are several other benefits of HIIT noted here.

The best part is that these workouts can be completed in as little as 20 minutes! For those short on time (i.e. everyone!), this is a great workout to burn fat fast!

The American College of Sports Medicine does recommend beginning with only 1 HIIT workout per week and eventually increasing to 2 times per week as fitness and endurance improve. It is an exhaustive type of workout, but definitely effective. However, it is not for everyone. Read this article to find out more and whether it is a tool you can use to burn fat.

Of course, check with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your fitness routine. You can read more from the American College of Sports Medicine to learn about some of the basics and to find a 7-minute HIIT routine to try out.

ACTION

Read this article on HIIT and determine if this is a workout for you. Many gyms have classes that include a HIIT class, and you can also find online programs that use this training method.

4. Include Strength Training Several Times Per Week

Resistance training (aka strength training or weight lifting) helps maintain and/or build lean body mass-muscle. At rest, muscle burns more calories than fat. So, the more muscle you have, the more potential you have to burn calories. Period.

A common saying is “muscle weighs less than fat.” That’s not exactly true. One pound of muscle weighs the same as 1 pound of fat. However, 1 pound of muscle looks much leaner than 1 pound of fat. Your body will look more “lean” if you have more muscle.

While aerobic exercise like walking, jogging, and cycling are excellent for your heart health, strength training may slow the increase in belly fat better than cardiovascular exercise, according to some research.

And, if you think weight training is just for young people, think again. In fact, strength training is quite beneficial for an aging population, especially because women and men tend to lose muscle as they age. If you want to keep your metabolism working for you, stay strong and fit, strength training is a must!

ACTION

Include at least 2 strength training sessions per week, working all major muscle groups – per recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine.

5. Make Rest A Priority

Although it may feel counterintuitive, rest is essential to burn fat and get lean. Stress is a natural result of our busy lives. It increases hormones that trigger hunger and abdominal fat accumulation like cortisol. When cortisol is chronically high, it works against our efforts to burn fat.

Rest is the answer. Not just your nightly 8 hours, but a day of rest – Sabbath. Thousands of years ago, God gave us the solution to prevent our lives (and waistlines) from getting out of control. This command is actually a gift. Sabbath is totally devoted to mental and physical rest. It allows you to begin your workweek with a smile instead of a frown. Who knew that this ancient Jewish commandment could actually be a key to help us normalize our hormones and burn fat? God did.

ACTION

Choose 1 practical way you can slow down and practice rest this week. A few ideas:

Put your phone up (out of sight) once you walk in the door at night – don’t look back!
Take a short 20-minute nap after lunch and before your afternoon work
Take a leisure walk after dinner listening to worship music.
Decide to practice the Sabbath. Read more about it in Exodus 20:8-11.

So, what’s the play call?

Your beautiful body doesn’t need to fit into any sized jeans, but it does need to be fit and energized to live your purpose today. If you have been frustrated and struggling with your self-esteem around the way your body looks, know that your Creator calls you beautiful, amazing, a work of art – just as you are right now.

You are altogether beautiful, my love; there is no flaw in you.
Song of Songs 4:7, ESV

He has also given you tools and wisdom so that you are not enslaved to anyone’s expectations, including your own. Today, you can choose to live well and love your body.

Choose one action step – just 1- and truly commit to it this week. Submit this area to God every morning. Choose to be fit and free – free of expectations, definitions, and frustrations.

You can be “free to be me.”

References

Hamdy O, Porramatikul S, Al-Ozairi E. Metabolic obesity: the paradox between visceral and subcutaneous fat.Curr Diabetes Rev. 2006 Nov;2(4):367-73.

United States Department of Agriculture

The Food Supply & Dietary Fiber: Its Availability & Effect on Health
Fiber Intake of the US Population

Loenneke, J. P., Wilson, J. M., Manninen, A. H., Wray, M. E., Barnes, J. T., & Pujol, T. J. (2012). Quality protein intake is inversely related with abdominal fat. Nutrition & Metabolism, 9, 5. http://doi.org/10.1186/1743-7075-9-5

Donald K Layman, Tracy G Anthony, Blake B Rasmussen, Sean H Adams, Christopher J Lynch, Grant D Brinkworth, Teresa A Davis; Defining meal requirements for protein to optimize metabolic roles of amino acids, The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Volume 101, Issue 6, 1 June 2015, Pages 1330S–1338S, https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.114.084053

Hairston, K. G., Vitolins, M. Z., Norris, J. M., Anderson, A. M., Hanley, A. J., & Wagenknecht, L. E. (2012). Lifestyle Factors and 5-Year Abdominal Fat Accumulation in a Minority Cohort: The IRAS Family Study. Obesity (Silver Spring, Md.), 20(2), http://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2011.171

American College of Sports Medicine

Resistance Training for Health & Fitness
The Basics of High Intensity Interval Training

4 Lessons on Personal Growth We Can Learn From Saul

By

Brandi Hawthorne

-

Feb 22, 2018

My daily Bible reading has me in 1 Samuel where I’m learning about the beginning of Saul’s kingship. I have to admit, I’m tripping a little bit because although these stories are familiar, I never realized that this was the Saul – David & Goliath’s Saul. Don’t mind me. I’m just over here learning new things!

Speaking of learning new things…there are a few lessons on personal growth from Saul that I’d like to share with you (reference 1 Samuel 10):

1. “At that very moment, God transformed him – made him a new person!”

The older we get, the more panicked we can become when we think about how many years we have left and how many years we’ve wasted. Don’t become so logical that you forget who your God is. He is able to change our lives in a moment. And, more times than not, we have been equipped to change our lives in 6 months to a year if we live as He has instructed. To become a new person, you have to do new things.

2. “Saul among the prophets! Who would have guessed?!”

So, people doubted Saul. What’s new? The people you’ve known the longest will always have the hardest time accepting the “new” you. It’s not something we should harp on. It’s just human nature. But, people who live according to the Word should know that God is always doing a new thing and rejoice when someone is transformed and begins walking out their calling.

Don’t find yourself on the wrong side of things because you can’t get over how the girl who kissed your 7th grade boyfriend is now a marriage counselor. Jesus couldn’t do any miracles in Nazareth because the people couldn’t get over who they knew Him as. If God sent your 5th-grade enemy to bless you, would you miss it?

3. But Saul didn’t breathe a word to his uncle of what Samuel said about this king business.

If I was anointed queen, my very first order of business is to do a photoshoot for FB! Just kidding. But, seriously, sometimes we just have to keep our great news to ourselves. Sometimes we feel we can’t share our triumphs because someone is plotting to hate on us. But, since the Bible didn’t say anything about why Saul kept the news to himself, let’s look at what we do know.

We know that Saul was found hiding when Samuel announced him as King. We also know that Saul didn’t scoff at the notion of being King. So, maybe not sharing with his uncle said more about Saul than it did his uncle.

Saul seemed to live by the principles of humility found in Luke 14:7-11.

4. Saul also went home to Gibeah, and with him some true and brave men whom God moved to join him.

I shared in my last article that God will send you help. So many people are tapping into their calling and it’s beautiful! But, I see a lot of people becoming burnt out and contemplating giving up because they feel defeated and in over their heads going at it alone.

Keep going. Just like God has called you to this grand vision, He has called others to help you grow it! God will move people to join you.

So, what’s the play call?

The Bible is a book of instruction. Don’t just read it to check it off your to-do list. Read it with curiosity and wonder. Insert yourself into the main character’s shoes or pretend you’re in the audience watching it all play out.

When you read a story, pause when things don’t make sense. Laugh when it all seems a bit ridiculous. Shudder at God’s wrath. He is sharing a piece of Himself with you that can help you right where you are. Look deeper and still, deeper. Then, adjust your life accordingly. When we begin to operate as God has instructed us, our lives can change in an instant.

Yes! I need prayer to help me with this play call.

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Today’s Scripture Lesson: Psalm 74

When Desperate Hearts Cry

What was different?

God Still Deserves the Glory

Engaging Youth Through Christian Music

Real Life Themes Youth Can Relate To

Have you had your “Meg” experience?

Are you Here?

I’m Angry and I’m Acting Out.

I Want to Be Strong, But I Don’t Know How.

I’m Not Who They Say I Am, But Who God Says I Am.

I Can Do This, I Just Choose Not To.

I’d Rather Be Me Than Someone Else’s Image of Perfection

What are some of your takeaways from the movie?

Everything Old is New Again?

1. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff.

Self-check questions for lesson #1:

2. Church Leaders are Human.

Self-check questions for lesson #2:

3. Behind Great Church Leaders are Unsung Champions.

Self-check questions for lesson #3:

If My People, Called by My Name…

Free to Serve Our God

Pursuing Purpose Interview Series

Special Guest: Christian Johnson, CEO, Founder of Driver Watchdog

Is it Time, God?

Perfect Plans Produce Patience

What Happened to the Good I Would Do?

Connect the Dots Between Your Heart and Mind

Press Through for the Win

Is Your Temple Fit for the Master’s Use?

1. Boost Your Daily Fiber

2. Include Protein at Every Meal & Snack

3. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

4. Include Strength Training Several Times Per Week

5. Make Rest A Priority

References

1. “At that very moment, God transformed him – made him a new person!”

2. “Saul among the prophets! Who would have guessed?!”

3. But Saul didn’t breathe a word to his uncle of what Samuel said about this king business.

4. Saul also went home to Gibeah, and with him some true and brave men whom God moved to join him.

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