THE DANGER OF SELF-RELIANCE

by Mike Woodard

Taken from: Power to Change

“Guide me on the road to eternal life” (Psalm 139:24b, The Message).

“My do it!” were the words he repeated over and over.

Recently I was hiking on a very challenging trail along the southwest coast of Vancouver Island. My almost three year old grandson was with me. At least one section of the trail could possibly be described as dangerous, but overall it was a combination of easy and difficult stretches. I carried him on some of the sections of our 8 kilometer hike but for some reason along this particularly dangerous section, he was determined to walk on his own.

I was very vigilant in my coaching. At times I would pick him up and lift him over difficult sections. Each time his response was, “My do it.” At one point some other hikers passed us. For some reason he was convinced that he should try to keep up with them and started going faster. I glanced behind me for a split second and when I turned back to look at him, my heart missed a beat!

My small apprentice had slipped, and was hanging over the ocean, holding onto a tree root while his feet were swinging in the air. A 5-meter drop to the water and rocks below awaited him, if he let go of that root. I grabbed his arms and lifted him to the trail. He had no idea of the danger that he had just faced. He simply said, “Thanks, Papa.” Off he went. I, on the other hand, have relived that moment many times since.

As humbling as it might seem, we are all like two year olds in our strength, knowledge and wisdom when compared to God. Just as it is dangerous for a two year old to be on his own, even for a split second because they just do not understand the dangers, so it is with us. Just as we don’t allow two year olds to hike a challenging trail on their own, we also were never intended to go through life without someone to watch over us. We are invited, but not forced, to journey with God.

There are areas of my life where I like to say, “My do it!” When I try to do it on my own, I miss out on God’s strength and wisdom. Here is a prayer from the writer of Psalms 139 that helps to motivate me to move from self reliance to God dependence.

“Investigate my life, O God,
find out everything about me;
Cross-examine and test me,
get a clear picture of what I’m about;
See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—
then guide me on the road to eternal life” -Psalm 139:23-24 (The Message).

Questions: Are you tempted to rush ahead of God and live life your way? How are you motivated to move from self reliance to God dependence?

LOSE MY SOUL by Kirk Franklin & Toby Mac w/ Mandisa

Jesus said; "The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life." (John 12:25)

He also said; "If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." (Matthew 16:24)

These words applied to the disciples and to all who would come after Jesus. Jesus invites every person to follow, but those who desire to follow him must have three attitudes: a willingness to deny themselves, a willingness to take up the cross, and a willingness to follow.

Following Jesus means to deny oneself. To deny oneself means not only to surrender immediate material gratification, but also it is a willingness to let go of selfish desires and earthly security. This attitude turns self-centeredness to God-centeredness.

What if you gain the whole world but lost your soul? All the riches in the world can never regain your soul until you go back to Jesus.

This R & B song is performed by the talented Kirk Franklin, rapper Toby Mac, and American Idol finalist, Mandisa.

Verse 1
Father God, I am clay in your hands
Help me to stay that way through all life's demands
'Cause they chip and they nag and they pull at me
And every little thing I make up my mind to be
Like I'm gonna be a daddy whose in the mix
And I'm gonna be a husband who stays legit
And I pray that I'm an artist who rises above
The road that is wide and filled with self love
Everything that I see draws me
Though it's only in You that I can truly see that its a feast for the eyes- a low blow to purpose
And I'm a little kid at a three ring circus

Chorus
I don't want to gain the whole world and lose my soul
Don't wanna walk away let me hear the people say

Verse 2
The paparazzi flashes and that they think that it's you
But they don't know that who you are is not what you do
True, we get it twisted when we peak at the charts
You before we part from the start where's your heart?
You a pimp, hustler?
Tell me what's your title

America has no more stars now we call them idols
You sit idle While we teach prosperity
The first thing to prosper should be inside of me
We're free...
Not because of 22's on the range
But Christ came in range we said yes now we changed
Not the same even though I made a fall
since I got that call no more Saul now I'm Paul

I don't want to gain the whole world and lose my soul
Don't wanna walk away let me hear the people say

Verse 3
How do I sense the tide that's rising?
De-sensitizing me from living in light of eternity
How do I sense the tide that's rising?
It's hypnotizing me from living in light of eternity

I don't want to gain the whole world and lose my soul
Don't wanna walk away let me hear the people say

Lord forgive us when we get consumed by the things of this world that fight for our love and our passion as our eyes are open wide and on you
Grant us the privilege of your wealth and may your kingdom be what wakes us up and lays us down

REVELATION SONG by Philipps, Craig & Dean

Another favorite of mine, this song expresses my adoration to the one Living God. Indeed, God is our Alpha and our Omega who is worthy to be praised

JESUS IS THE WAY

Judaism sees salvation as a judgment day decision based on morality. Hindus anticipate multiple reincarnations in the soul's journey through the cosmos. Buddhism guides your life according to the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eight-fold Path. Muslims earn their way to Allan through the Five Pillars of Faith. Many philosphers deem life after death as hidden and unkown, " a great leap in the dark." Some people clup Christ with Moses, Mohammad, Confuscius, and other spiritual leaders. But Jesus declares "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (John 14:6) Many object, "All roads lead to heaven. But how can they? Buddhists look toward Nirvarna, achieved after no less than 547 reincarnations. Christians believe in one life, one death, and an eternity of enjoying God. Humanists don't acknowledge a creator of life. Jesus claims to be the source of life. Spiritualists read your palms. Christians consult the Bible. Hindus perceive a plural and impersonal God. Christ-followers believe "there is only one God" (1st Corinthians 8:4) Every non-Christian religions says, "You can save you." Jesus says: "My death on the cross saves you. " All roads don't lead to London, all ships don't sail to Australia, and all flights don't land in Rome. Every path does not lead to God. Jesus blazed a stand-alone trail void of self-salvation. He cleared a one-of-a-kind-passageway uncluttered by human effort. He offers us a unique invitation in which He works and we trust, He dies and we live, He invites and we believe. "The work God wants you to is this: Believe the One He sent. " (John 6:29)

YOU RAISE ME UP by Selah

A powerful yet beautiful hymn that never fails me to stir me up to seek God every day. My God is faithful and He is good all the time. He raised me up to more than I could be because His love sustains me.

When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit awhile with me.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

There is no life - no life without its hunger;
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;
But when you come and I am filled with wonder,
Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

WORSHIP, WHAT IS IT?

The true meaning of worship is more than singing songs of praise.

GOD LOVES YOU...HE REALLY DOES!

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?" Romans 8:35

Our limited minds cannot comprehend God's love because it comes with no strings attached. He does not us "if" but "in spite of." As a parent you may not approve of your child's behavior, but you always love and accept them. Paul asks, "Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love?" The he answers, "No nothing." Doesn't that blow your mind? We have just enough ego to believe there are certain sins God can't get over---like the ones we never commit. Do you remember the Pharisee in the temple who prayed, "God, I thank You that I am not like other men---extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or ...this tax collector standing next to me" (Luke 18:11) Understand this: God's standard is perfection, and you couldn't reach it in a thousand lifetimes. Grace is the only hhope any of us have.

Our love for God relates to the level of forgiveness we've received from Him. The Pharisees were shocked that Jesus would allow a woman with a bad reputation to kneel at His feet, bathing them with her tears and drying them with her hair. They thought, "If Jesus was a prophet He'd know what kind of woman this is." (Luke 7:39) No, it wasn't that Jesus didn't know. It was that He didn't care. Turning to this woman He said, "Thy sins are forgiven." Then He gives us the bottom line; "To whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little" (Luke 7:47-48). And what should our repsonse to God's love be? "This is love for God: to obey His commands " (1st John 5:3).

A PRAYER REQUEST FOR THE FILIPINO VICTIMS OF TYPHOON ONDOY

Due to the recent typhoon (Ondoy) that hit the Philippines and have caused such untold sufferings and devastations to the collective soul of the Filipinos, we enjoin all readers and friends to please pray this prayer and send it to as many friends and readers as you could (Filipinos and non Filipinos) so that the Lord will hear our prayer and heal our broken land.

Please Copy Here

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, we consecrate to you our beloved country- the Philippines and all the Filipinos around the world. We acknowledge Father that apart from You, we can do nothing and it is only your divine providence and grace that can unite all Filipinos as one nation. We therefore humble ourselves before your throne. We confess all our sins to you individually and collectively as a nation. Forgive us our sins Father and wash us clean by the precious blood of Your beloved Son- Jesus Christ. Mend our wicked ways and let us experience a strong and genuine spiritual revival for ourselves and for our country. Let the Holy Spirit imbibe us with power, love and wisdom to return to Your path of holiness and righteousness. Bless our country, heavenly father. Bless all Filipinos wherever they maybe. Let progress, unity, harmony, stability, justice, peace and prosperity reign in our country.

Bless our leaders, from the President down to the lowest Barangay official. Touch their hearts that they may serve our country with all honesty and with love and integrity. Bless our children and our future generation. And bless us all Father in all aspects of our lives. This we pray to You heavenly Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, through the power of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.

I THANK YOU by Rebecca St. James

Thanking God is what I always do each day. I owe it to God every thing I have and what I do not even have. Our lives, our families, our jobs, our health, our peace, our homes, our friends, and every thing we have should be grateful for. And most of all, the loving grace, kindness and mercy God gives us each day.

AMAZED by Lincoln Brewster

The Lord God has always amazed me for His love, His grace, His compassion and mercy. His love and mercy endure forever.

"Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light." Psalm 36:5-9

You dance over me
While I am unaware
You sing all around
But I never hear the sound

Lord, I'm amazed by You
Lord, I'm amazed by You
Lord, I'm amazed by You
And how You love me

You paint the morning sky
With miracles in mind
My hope will always stand
For You hold me in Your hand

How deep, how wide
How great is Your love for me

GET TO KNOW GOD BETTER

From the Daily Devotional of the Living Word Ministries, West Haven, CT

"Can you discover the depths of God?" ---John 11:17

You're on the adventure of a lifetime when you pursue a greater knowledge of God. What you've learned about God so far should give you a hunger to know Him even more. You must never be satisfied with what you know about Him already. Here are four practical benefits of knowing God.

1) Blessing
The more you know God and obey His will, the more you'll experience His blessings. "If you obey all the decrees and commands, I am giving you today, all will be well with you and your children " (Deuteronomy 4:40)

2) Peace
"Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God" (2nd Peter 1:2). The more you know God, the more at peace you'll be. Yes, struggles and setbacks will come, but even then you'll have a sense of well being because you'll feel His nearness.

3) Wisdom
Paul prayed that God would give the Ephesians "a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of Him (Ephesians 1:17). Wisdom is seeing things the right way. Revelation is when God bypasses the limitations of your mind and shows you the things you otherwise wouldn't know. Instead of finding a solution to life's problems every now and then, you can walk each day in "a spirit of wisdom, and revelation."

4) Freedom
"When you did not know God, you were slaves to those which by nature are no gods" (Galatians 4:8). Without the confidence that comes from knowing God, and your standing before Him, you become a slave to circumstances, emotions, or other people's opinions. Refuse to live that way. Instead, get to know God better.

A NEW HALLELUJAH by Michael W. Smith

For God's faithfulness is new every morning, let the world sing a new hallelujah each day.

This song reminds me of the Lord's words;

"For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God." (Romans 14:11)

and

" And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:11)

Michael W. Smith performs this praise song with the African Children's Choir.

and

"Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth,and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. " (Romans 2:8-11)


Michael W. Smith performs this praise song with the African Children's Choir.

Can you hear, there's a new song
Breaking out from the children of freedom
Every race and every nation
Sing it out sing a new Hallelujah

Let us sing love to the nations
Bringing hope of the grace that has freed us
Make Him known and make Him famous
Sing it out sing to the new Hallelujah

Chorus
Arise
let the church Arise
Let love reach to the other side
Alive come alive
Let the song Arise

Africa sings a new song
reaching out with the new Hallelujah
Every son and every daughter
everyone sing a new Hallelujah

Chorus
Arise
let the song Arise
[ Michael W. Smith Lyrics are found on www.songlyrics.com ]
Let love reach to the other side
Alive come alive
Let the song Arise

Bridge
Whoa whoa yeah (2x)
Let the song arise(2x)
Let the song arise yeah (2x)

Spoken
Let the world sing a new Hallelujah
From Africa to Australia
From Brazil to China
From New York down to Houston!

Chorus
Arise
let the church Arise
Let love reach to the other side
Alive come alive
Let the song Arise

Everyone sing a new Hallelujah (2x)

CHANGE MY HEART OH GOD

When we confess our sins to God, He is ready to forgive us, and accept us, and of course, show us the way. With our minds changed, He will change our hearts too.

I LIFT UP MY HANDS by Cindy Cruz Ratcliff

I am not ashamed to lift up my hands to glorify my Father. With all fervor and joy in my heart, I praise Him for He has changed my life.

So I lift up my hands in praise of His holiness, glory and name.

Cindy Cruz Ratcliff performed this song at the Lakewood Church in Texas, where thousands changed their hearts and minds to be renewed by Our Father through the Holy Spirit.

WHEN WE THINK WE CAN

From Our Daily Bread (www.rbc.org)

(God) is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us. -Ephesians 3:20

Remember the story of The Little Engine that Could? That determined little train climbed the steep hill by chanting positively, "I think I can, I think I can." And then , as it gained more resolve, it declared,, "I know I can. I know I can."
No one would disagree that followers of Christ should think and live in a positive way . But do you ever find yourself depending too much on your own abilities rather on the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit? In John 15, Jesus explained our need for complete dependence on Him when He said, "He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me, you can do nothing" (verse 5). Paul reminded us that "we can do all things through Christ who strengthens (us)" (Philippians 4:13) , that "the excellence of the power (is) of God, and not of us " (2nd Corinthians 4:7) , and that we are "strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man " (Ephesians 3:16) Because of God's power, we can do whatever He asks of us --through Him. We can base our confidence not in our own abilities , but in God's absolute promises. So, today, with exceedingly more power than the little engine could ever muster, we can say, "I know I can. I know I can ---because of Jesus."

God gives us to His servant this promise:
You'll not have to face life alone;
And when you grow weak in your struggle,
His strength will prevail---not your own.