Thursday, January 8, 2015
In the Stands or on the Field "So we tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect [mature] in their relationship to Christ. That's why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ's mighty power that works within me."1
Joseph Stowell, former president of the Moody Bible Institute in Chicago, said, "I love going to Chicago's Wrigley Field for a baseball game—sitting in the stands, downing a great hot dog, and cheering the Cubs on to victory!
"Unfortunately, Christianity has become a lot like professional sports. As a friend of mine has observed, there are nine guys on the baseball field doing all the work and thousands in the stands just watching. And as you probably know, that's not God's game plan for His people. He wants us to climb out of the stands, get out on the field, and join the team.
"If you are wondering what good you can do on the field, wonder no more. What about your financial resources? Jesus can take your 'silver and gold' and use it to accomplish great things for His glory.
"But more than just getting out your checkbook, you have gifts you can contribute. God has given each of us gifts that can help advance His kingdom. Whether it's teaching, encouraging, serving, showing hospitality, or extending mercy, the productive use of each gift can yield great dividends. Let's follow the example of Paul who tirelessly served on God's field for the joy of being used by Him."2
I still remember well one of my grade school teachers who constantly emphasized the importance of being an active participant in life—not just a watcher. Great teaching. As Joe Stowell said, "Believe me, it's far more rewarding to be on the field than to sit in the stands."
Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank You that You use ordinary people to accomplish Your work on earth. I am available. Please use me to be a part of Your plans and what You are doing in the world today. Thank You for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus's name, amen."
1. Colossians 1:28-29 (NLT).
2. Cited on KneEmail. kneemail-subscribe@welovegod.org
<:))))>< NOTE: If you would like to accept God's forgiveness for all your sins and His invitation for a full pardon Click HERE.
Or if you would like to re-commit your life to Jesus Christ, please click HERE to note this. |
How to Know God and be sure you're a real Christian without having to be religious: Click HERE.
Archives: For Daily and Weekend Encounter archives: Click HERE. On the Lighter Side: Click HERE.
NOTE: You are receiving this recurring mailing because you subscribed on one of our web sites, or requested by email or letter to be subscribed, responded to an advertisement on ArcaMax.com to be subscribed, or confirmed your subscription after recording your response on one of our web sites.
Prayer Partners Needed: One of ACTS International's greatest needs is Prayer Partners to stand with us as we seek to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with millions of people around the world through E-mail and the Internet, and to bring people to Jesus. If you would like to join with us as an ACTS Prayer Partner, please Click HERE, and then click on the Subscribe to Prayer Encounter. Unless a special or urgent need arises, we send out only one prayer update report each month.
|
 | Passport for Heaven: Excellent for giving to family, friends and contacts. Available in packs of 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, or more.  To Purchase
See also People Power for Jesus |
No comments:
Post a Comment