Elder’s Corner: Your Self Worth

The other day I found a meditation which I would like to share with you. 

--Enrique

If you are spiritually born again...in love with Jesus Christ...value the Word of God as the valuable treasure that it is… you truly are the most priceless miracle to God that He could possibly have executed. 

When you turned your life over to Jesus Christ, you made the wisest decision you could ever make.  One of the greatest reasons for your joy through eternity will be knowing that there are no limitations in what God can do in you, for you, by you, and through you.  Let a little of the reality of that joy slip through each day when life seems such a struggle down here.  It is the greatest equalizer, attitude adjuster, and joy jump-starter I can think of.

Your worth to God is not measured by college degrees hanging on your wall. Your worth to God is not measured by how many financial assets you may possess. Your worth to God is not measured by whatever position you may hold in the work place or your rank in the military. Your worth to God is not measured by how high you score on an IQ test.  Conversely, your worth to God is not measured by how handicapped, crippled or diseased you are, or how impoverished or financially poor you may be.

The truth of the matter is—your worth is measured by what Jesus has done for you. He died for you.—He proved that you are of infinite value! And therefore, by you having received what Jesus has done for you, God the Father is well pleased that He created you—a priceless miracle.

By Norm Rasmussen, for the complete and unedited article see http://www.precious-testimonies.com/Exhortations/u-z/YouAreGodsGreatestMiracle.htm

The Blessed Life #8: No Regrets

 On August 27th, the Todd Becker Foundation came to Eugene High School. During 2 events, Keith Becker shared his brother Todd’s story.  Todd was a high school senior who had a tremendous amount of potential only to die at the age of 18. As I listened to Keith share Todd’s story, probably the most impactful detail for me related to an opportunity Todd passed up on the last day of his life.

Todd was given an offer to have assurance of where he was going to spend eternity. Really the offer was much more than that. Todd had been offered a chance to have peace of mind throughout life, and especially during the moments of life’s end. Sadly, Todd refused.

The Apostle Paul said, “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death” (2 Cor. 7:10).  I wonder, if Todd would have been able to reconsider his response with a knowledge of what would happen that night, would he have changed his mind, leading to a radically different outcome?

Interestingly, this was the very opportunity that another man had:

One morning, as a man named Alfred was reading the newspaper, he read the words of his own obituary! This happened as a result of a simple error on the part of the journalist, for Alfred’s brother was the one had just died. Needless to say this was a disturbing experience for Alfred, but what was most disturbing was what was written about him.

The newspaper described how Alfred was a terrible man, “a merchant of death,” making “his fortune by finding a way to kill the most people as ever before in the shortest time possible.” Thus, it described how it was a good thing for this man to be dead. This was definitely not how Alfred saw himself, even though he was partly responsible for others’ deaths as the inventor of dynamite.

Alfred’s life was changed that morning. It was like someone gave him as second chance at life to live with no regrets. So much so, that when Alfred did die 8 years later, his actual obituary read vastly different. In fact each year the world honors someone for taking up the cause which Alfred started: the Nobel Peace Prize.

What would you change if you were in this man’s life? What regrets do you live with that you wish you could leave behind? Sometimes our regrets do not surface until we come face to face with the reality of the life we have been living, like Alfred. Meanwhile still, other regrets only surface in the final moments of our lives. Any regret which you might have or could possibly have, can be erased.

Scripture promises that when we seek the Lord with a repentant heart, He will deliver us from all our fears and therefore enable us to live with no shame (Psalm 34:4-5). Likewise, Scripture gives us a great model of how to pass from this life with no regrets: past, present or future. “...Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:13b-14).

Therefore, I encourage you to turn your life over to Jesus Christ, and thus, leave your regrets behind.

In His service,

            Matt 

The Spiritual Reality #2: The 5th Dimension

On September 22, 1922 the entertainment world made a radical leap when the first 3D movie debuted, making images came alive on the big screen. This radical leap gives us a significant illustration of the reality of the spiritual dimension! Prior to 1922, people could only see things in 2D on the big screen, yet much of life takes place beyond those 2 limited dimensions.

Similarly, for a long time now, many have been living in a ‘2D’ world, not recognizing the spiritual dimension that has always been there. I have entitled it the 5th dimension (the 4th dimension is time). Yet in reality there are way more than 5 dimensions; the modern scientific field of quantum physics has proven this! As we journey, our exploration of this new dimension will require that we use specific 5th dimension glasses (similar to how in 1922, the first audience had to put on special glasses to view these new 3D films). To begin our study, we will consider the proof that this dimension does in fact exist.

First, the 5th dimension is revealed through history. The most significant historical event revealing this reality is Jesus’ resurrection. When Jesus rose from the dead, the normal laws of the physical dimensions were superseded. It is natural to question the validity of someone rising from the dead. Some common questions I have encountered, and even raised myself include:

·         What does one do with all the eyewitness accounts? 

·         What about the lack of evidence against His resurrection from ancient historians?

·         Additionally, what does one do with 39 ancient non-Christian historians who support His rising from the dead (Gary Habermas, The Verdict of History)?

If you want to know the answer to these questions you can find them, along with others, at: http://www.eugenechristianchurch.blogspot.com/search/label/Matt%27s%20Matters).

I encourage you to study these answers for yourself. I am confident that as you study these truths, you will join me in coming to the conclusion that Jesus did rise from the dead. And thus, we have our first solid instance of the spiritual reality.

The second proof of the 5D is revealed through predictions of future events. This is not referring to mere luck or calculated reasoning; anyone can guess what will take place. What I am referring to is specific, detailed predictions of the future – predictions that did come to reality. There are 2 examples of such predictive prophecy which I want to draw our attention to:

The first is of a guy named Cyrus. Cyrus was a Persian king who was prophesied about by name 150 years beforehand (Isa. 44-45) who would restore and rebuild Jerusalem which hadn’t been destroyed yet! Furthermore, Cyrus was specifically mentioned before he was ever born.

And the second example comes from Jesus Himself. There are 313 specific prophecies in the OT stating exactly what Jesus was going to be like and do. Some of the prophecies would have been impossible to arrange, like where He was born, how His parents took Him to Egypt shortly after His birth, and how He would die, not to mention the resurrection. Plus, there are numerous historians, both Christian and non-Christian which support what He did.

The statistical probability of any one person fulfilling just 8 of those 313 prophecies is the same as filling the entire state of Texas with silver dollars waist high and placing 2 gold coins at random; then requiring a blindfolded individual to locate those 2 coins in just one attempt per coin. These prophecies supersede the physical dimension and are therefore, a part of the spiritual reality.

The third evidence of our spiritual reality is that of life transformation, especially of individuals radically opposed to Jesus and Christianity. These individuals may have gone so far as to torture and kill Christians. Yet once they encountered the One who transcends the physical realm, Jesus Christ, in a special way, they were never the same. Individuals like Jesus’ own brothers’ James and Jude had rejected Him prior to seeing the resurrected Jesus. Yet after this encounter James became the leader of the church in Jerusalem, and Jude was influential as well. Or who can forget the Apostle Paul who formerly persecuted Christians. Yet after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus, he became one of the most influential missionaries in history. Then there are modern examples of Lee Strobel, Josh McDowell, and C.S. Lewis. All of these individuals’ lives reveal a kingdom that is not of this world—the spiritual reality.

Based on these three evidences, a case has been made for the spiritual dimension of our world. The only question which remains is whether you will choose to look at the world through the lens of the 5th dimension.

Because of God’s love,

     Matt

The Spiritual Reality #1: The Matrix

“We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor. 4:18).

Growing up in the modern world, we are taught that the physical world is all that exists. If something cannot be scientifically observed, it is not real. However, is that the case? Consider, for example, what did scientists know for centuries about diseases?

For thousands of years, scientists and doctors did not even realize that diseases existed. This was particularly the case at the Vienna General Hospital. There 18% of the pregnant women who came to the hospital for labor died. This problem was solved once the hospital staff realized the necessity of washing hands between patients. Even still, some refused to believe it since they couldn’t see it. However, the bottom line is this, just because one might struggle to observe something, does not mean it fails to exist.   

The Bible speaks of things which for many of us seem incomprehensible. Talk of angels, demons, and the whole supernatural realm might seem more like a fairy tale to some of us than reality. Which is exactly how many viewed the idea of diseases at the Vienna General Hospital. Therefore, many people still ended up dying as a result of someone refusing to believe even after the evidence was presented to them. 

Over the next several months we are going to examine the existence of angels, demons, Satan, and the spiritual reality in general. It is my prayer that this section opens your eyes to the truth while answering some of the questions which you might have about the spiritual world we live in. Our journey begins with something commonly called “The Matrix.”

The idea of “The Matrix” was popularized by a movie entitled by that name. In it, the main character “Neil” realizes that something is wrong with the world as he knows it, but he can’t quite put his finger on it. Ultimately, Neil believes that there is more to life than what he can see. Eventually, Neil meets a man who knows the truth and offers Neil the possibility of finding out what the real world actually is. However, this creates a dilemma. Neil must choose between going back to life as he knows it, or come to terms with reality. If he chooses to find out the truth his life will never be the same again.

   What would you do if you were in Neil’s shoes? Would you go back to being blinded by the status quo which you have always known, what is familiar to you? Or would you choose to know the truth and turn your world upside down?

Before answering, there is something which you must realize. The choice is not some Hollywood drama but, is the reality of the world which you and I live in. And it is a choice you HAVE to make before you leave this world. You do not have the option to walk away from this decision. You must choose…Red (the existence of a spiritual realm) or blue (blindness, aka life as you know it)… which is it going to be?

 

Congratulations! You have made your choice. Life as you know it will change as you study along with me the truth of the spiritual reality of our universe. Scripture tells us that Satan has blinded the minds of those who CHOOSE not to believe/follow the truth; thus proving the reality of a real-life matrix.

Scripture encourages us to focus not on what is seen (temporal), but on what is unseen (eternal) (2 Cor. 4:18). So how do we do that? How is it possible for us to see into a realm in which we have never been able to observe?

There are two steps necessary to observe the spiritual realm, the first step is to actively seek the Lord with a sincere heart (Jer. 29:13). We do not understand all of how it works. But we simply ask the Lord to reveal Himself and the spiritual reality to us. When we sincerely do this, God has a way of revealing truth to us—through His Word/the Bible, through nature, other Christians, circumstances, and the Holy Spirit’s leading.

The second step is to open our eyes to the spiritual reality starts by placing our faith in Jesus. When we do this He enables us to see (John 9:25-41). Prior to this, Scripture plainly teaches that it is impossible for us to see the spiritual realm clearly (1 Cor. 2:14), since Satan has blinded our minds without us even knowing it (2 Cor. 4:4). For those of us who are already following Jesus yet struggle to see the spiritual reality, we simply must pray, Lord I believe, help me in my unbelief (Mark 9:24).

Therefore, I want to encourage you to join me as we examine with an open mind the truth of the Matrix.

Because of God’s love,

     Matt

Elder's Corner: Self Justification

Have you ever thought you had to justify your actions?  Most of us do at some point.  Maybe it is the new gun you want or perhaps a new pair of shoes.  Possibly a horse or a special show chicken, tractor, sawmill, another drink, another woman, drugs, anything that does not belong to you or anything you should not have.  

I was reflecting this week on a man's suggestion to me.  Several years ago I was trying to justify spending several thousand dollars on a new lawn mower.  He gave me a simple piece of advice.  Write it down on a paper, place it in your wallet wrapped around your money or credit card, and glance at it every time you pay for something.  After one month, reconsider the obligation of paying for it.  I think that advice is true for most things.  The list I opened went from kinda funny to kinda ugly.  Make sure that when you justify that new toy that you consider the true cost.  If you try to justify a sin, remember the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23). There is no justifying sin. 

--Tim

The Blessed Life #7: Second Chances

One individual said, “If you are lucky enough to get a second chance, don’t waste it.” The year will be starting anew this month for many individuals as they go back to school. For students this means that they can have a fresh start for overcoming bad grades or labels which they might have received from others, last school year. It is time for a fresh start, a second chance to make things right. Likewise, today can be a chance for all of us to have a second chance or a fresh start.

If all of us were honest, there have been points in life in which we wished that we could have a second chance. We wish that if we could go through what we did before; then, we would have never made the same mistake that we did. Maybe we think, “If only I had a second chance, I would not have said what I did.” Or “if only I had a second chance, I would have spent more time with my wife and kids, than working all those hours.”  Or “if only I could have told that certain someone that I loved them before they died.”

If you could do something over, what would it be? What are the second chances you are currently blessed with that you are taking for granted? You don’t have to experience a near death situation.

This reminds me of a person whom I know who is lucky to be alive. This individual suffered terribly in an automobile accident. He had broken bones and scars virtually from head to toe. He now has several rods and pins in his body, you might call him a heavy metal guy :). Truthfully, he should be dead today, yet God has given him a second chance at life.

Oh, I’m sure that there have been plenty of moments in which he wished that he had not survived the accident, yet why did he? Ultimately, that is a question which only God can answer. But the Bible does give us some clear clues of why—God gives second chances at life for two reasons.

First, God gives second chances so that we might get right with Him. In fact, this is the reason in which God allows a lot of things to happen in our lives—He wants us to wake up in order that we might take advantage of the opportunity which is before us—for none of us knows how much time we have left on this earth.

Scripture teaches that every person must come to repentance and into a saving relationship with His Son Jesus Christ in order to go to heaven when we die (2 Peter 3:9). God wants us to enjoy the Paradise which He has prepared for all who accept His offer. However, God’s second chances end when we die, “Each person is destined to die once and after that comes judgment” (Heb. 9:27).  Therefore, if you have been given a second chance at life don’t waste it!

A second reason why God gives us second chances is to fulfill His purpose for our lives. God has a wonderful plan for our lives which can enable us to live with no regrets. God’s desires for us are greater than we could imagine. He has a plan for our lives to leave a lasting legacy. Therefore, I want to encourage you to consider the second chances which are before you, and don’t waste them, for this might be your last chance!

In His service,

         Matt 

The Blessed Life #6: A Band of Brothers

During World War II there was a Battalion called “Easy Company,” known later as “The Band of Brothers.” These men stepped up to help one another when tragedy struck their company. If these men had tried to go it alone, or do their own thing, every one of them would have lost their lives! These men needed to rely upon one another, helping each other by utilizing their own strengths yet orchestrated together; and when one was hurting or under fire, the rest of the company helped to carry that man’s load.

This would not be an easy task as they faced trial after trial after trial. Yet by each person giving their best while working as a team the work got done. And in the end, this Band of Brothers was triumphant as they stood united together.

Throughout life each one of us will encounter trials from time to time (although sometimes when it seems like the opposition continues to pound us in waves without giving us a chance to even catch our breath). When people try to go it on their own, sometimes they can be successful for a period of time. However, eventually, they will find themselves out numbered, encountering giants which are far superior to their abilities.

The Christian is not exempt from circumstances like these. In fact, often times the Christian will encounter more battles and of greater intensity than non-believers. However, that is where one of the most significant blessings of being a Christian surfaces! We are a part of a “Band of Brothers.”

As a “Band of Brothers” (and sisters), we are privileged to have others who can come alongside us when we are down. Our fellow Christians can help carry our burdens just as Scripture admonishes us (Gal. 6:2). Our fellow believers can encourage us and build us up when we are down (1 Thess. 5:11). Our fellow believers can offer us the comfort which our weary souls require (1 Thess. 4:18).

Often times what we need more than anything else is just someone to be our friend (1 John 1:7). Our fellow believers can help us overcome mistakes we have made (James 5:16). Meanwhile, our fellow believers can offer the acceptance and love we need (John 13:34).

Our fellow believers can tell us the truth so that we are not deceived by Satan (Eph. 4:25), the father of all lies (John 8:44). By knowing the truth we are able to be set free from the schemes of the evil one (John 8:32). Our fellow believers can offer us the wisdom which we need to make difficult decisions (Rom. 15:14). And they can help us to attain our God given purpose in life (Heb. 10:24).

We are not meant to live life all by ourselves. And thankfully, God has called all people to be a part of the “Band of Brothers” known as the church. Yes, none of us within the church are perfect. Yet within the church we are able to help one another and most importantly they can help us to begin a personal relationship with the One who is perfect, Jesus Christ. 

Therefore, I want to encourage you to come not only be a part of the church, but also, to join the True Band of Brothers, the individuals who are committed to partaking of blessings of being a sold-out believer in Jesus Christ. 

In His service,

            Matt