Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #37 (Evangelism) March 31, 2014

Hello my dear friends! After a lengthy break of writing Psalms of Discipleship, I'm back :)

Today's Psalms of Discipleship gives us a peek into the heart of the Psalmist as he celebrates the Greatness of His Awesome God. The best kind of evangelism is when we are living like God is Great in our lives.

Learning to live in His Greatness,

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #37

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 7 Let the sea roar and all it contains, The world and those who dwell in it. 8 Let the rivers clap their hands; Let the mountains sing together for joy 9 Before the LORD; for He is coming to judge the earth; He will judge the world with righteousness, And the peoples with equity. Psalm 98:7-9

Core Value: Evangelism

Awesome. Glorious. Wonderful. Mighty. Amazing. Magnificent. These are the kinds of words the disciple of Jesus uses when seeking to describe the kind of God he or she follows. When our life is filled with challenges that often suspend disbelief, we need to have a relationship with our Great God who is Awesome, Glorious, Wonderful, Mighty, Amazing, and Magnificent.

What is it that will attract the person without Christ to fall in love with and follow Him? Surely not in us proclaiming a god who is less than awesome, inglorious, not wonderful at all, weak instead of mighty, un-amazing, and who falls way short of being magnificent.

The role of the follow of Jesus is very clear: we need to tell the world who God says He is and what He is like. We need to proclaim the awesome power and great love of God to those who have yet to surrender their hearts to Him.

Principle #37 & Personal Application: Quality disciples enthusiastically proclaim the awesome power and great love of God.

• Our great God is praised by the roaring sea

• Our great God is praised by the mighty rivers and the majestic mountains

• Our great God is praised by you and by me

• Our great God is coming back again for you and for me

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

In what way does creation remind me of God’s greatness?

How does my focus upon God’s power help me share His love with the lost?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, may the sea and rivers and mountains never out-praise me in my worship of You. May I live my life in a way where those without a relationship with You will come to know of Your great love for them.


You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com
 
Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2014 All rights reserved.

Psalms of Discipleship Principle #35 (Evangelism) December 29, 2013

Hello dear friends,

Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a good reminder on how important it is for us to keep our focus upon the Lord's character. When we do so, it changes us. When we are changed by Him, we are a much more effective witness for Him.

Learning with you,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #35

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 O Sing to the LORD a new song, For He has done wonderful things, His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory for Him. 2 The LORD has made known His salvation; He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations. 3 He has remembered His lovingkindness and His faithfulness to the house of Israel; All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God. Psalm 98:1-3

Core Value: Evangelism

From my perspective there is a lot of talking going on: talking about politics, talking about the economy, talking about the latest cultural fads, and a whole lot of talking about religion. But in the midst of all of this talking, is anyone connecting? There never has been a greater opportunity to connect the message of the Gospel (the Good News) to a world in desperate need of a clear path to supernatural peace.

We can debate the issues of right and wrong, good and bad, and left and right. We can even “win” the argument but lose the soul. The greatest impact for life change within the person who has yet to personally experience the love and forgiveness of God is made when we direct their focus upon the character of God. Our witness has to begin within our own heart first. We can experience the kind of life where we know that God is great, victorious, saving, righteous, and good. And by our experience, we can tell others too.

Principle #35 & Personal Application: Quality disciples speak and sing of the Lord’s mighty power and of His infinite goodness.

• Our God is a great God: He has done wonderful things

• Our God is a victorious God: His right hand and His holy arm have gained the victory for Him

• Our God is a saving God: The Lord has made known His salvation to the ends of the earth

• Our God is a righteous God: He has declared and revealed His perfect character to the nations

• Our God is a good God: He has remembered His lovingkindness (mercy) and faithfulness to us.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

In what ways does this passage of Scripture help me articulate my witness to the lost?

As I reflect upon the great truths of these verses, which one resonates the most within my heart? Why?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You are a great God who has done wonderful things for me. You are a victorious God, helping me live a victorious life. You are a saving God. Thank You for saving me. You are a righteous God. I rest in Your righteousness as I approach the Father’s Throne. You are a good God, always showing me infinite mercy and faithfulness.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

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Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #31 (Evangelism) September 7, 2013

Hello my dear friends! In this Psalms of Discipleship we are reminded of the honor it is to be His ambassador, a representative of His Kingdom. In gaining a proper view of Who He is, we are able to represent Him well to those who have yet to experience His love and great salvation.

Enjoying His love and passing it on,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #31

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 9 Worship the LORD in holy attire; Tremble before Him, all the earth. 10 Say among the nations, " The LORD reigns; Indeed, the world is firmly established, it will not be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity." Psalm 96:9-10

Core Value: Evangelism

One of the great joys and privileges of being a follower of Jesus is the opportunity to partner with Him. The King has given to us His Kingdom assignment: to worship Him, to give Him all glory, and to make disciples of Jesus who make disciples for Him.

He has given for us all of the resources we need to serve Him well. He has given us His grace and power. He has given us His love. He has given us the Gospel. He has given us Himself. He has given His very best. So must we.

Principle #31 & Personal Application: Quality disciples proclaim the Lord’s love, power and glory to the nations.

• When we share the Lord we are to give Him worship

• When we share the Lord we are to tell others of His great power

• When we share the Lord we are to testify of His righteous judgment

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

What does it mean when I worship the Lord in holy attire?

In what way does my view of God impact the way I share about Him to the lost?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, as I live in Your presence I am charged to do at least three things: I will worship You in holy attire; I will tremble before You and I will say to the nations that You reign. May I be used by You to tell others of Your great love, power, and glory.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #18 (Evangelism). May 18, 2013

Hello dear friends! Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a reminder of the power behind your personal story. Jesus has touched your life in a profound way. Are you telling somebody about it?

Redeemed, and I love to proclaim it,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #18

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: I will sing of the lovingkindness of the LORD forever; To all generations I will make known Your faithfulness with my mouth. Psalm 89:1

Core Value: Evangelism

The best stories are the stories that we have experienced. Everyone can recite the words to their favorite poem or memorized prose, and even be expressive with deep feeling. But there is a far greater power when we tell our stories to others. As disciples of Jesus, we tell the story of our great redemption. We tell the story of how Jesus changed our life. We share with others of His great love for us.

This lyric from this classic hymn describes the power behind a personal story.

I love to tell the story of unseen things above, of Jesus and his glory, of Jesus and his love.
I love to tell the story, because I know 'tis true; it satisfies my longings as nothing else can do.

Refrain: I love to tell the story, 'twill be my theme in glory, to tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love.

You’ve got a story to tell. Are you telling it?

Principle #18 & Personal Application: Quality disciples love to share their testimony with anyone who will listen.

• The disciple of Jesus has a song that rings true: the Lord is merciful.

• The disciple of Jesus desires to reach as many people as possible with the Gospel.

• The disciple of Jesus makes it a life priority to share of the Lord’s faithfulness with others.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

What has Jesus done in my life that I need to share with the lost?

Who needs to hear my testimony this week?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, by faith, I will sing of Your lovingkindness forever. May I be able to testify to as many people as possible of your great faithfulness.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #16 (Evangelism) April 28, 2013

Hello dear friends. Have you ever been homesick? Today's Psalms of Discipleship reminds us that we need to keep heaven on our mind and invite as many people as we can to join us.

On the journey with you,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #16

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 His foundation is in the holy mountains. 2 The LORD loves the gates of Zion More than all the other dwelling places of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are spoken of you, O city of God. Selah. 4 "I shall mention Rahab and Babylon among those who know Me; Behold, Philistia and Tyre with Ethiopia: 'This one was born there.' " 5 But of Zion it shall be said, "This one and that one were born in her"; And the Most High Himself will establish her. 6 The LORD will count when He registers the peoples, "This one was born there." Selah. 7 Then those who sing as well as those who play the flutes shall say, "All my springs of joy are in you." Psalm 87:1-11

Some Background: This Psalm has a two-fold meaning. One, it is a prophecy of the future Kingdom where Jerusalem will be the center of the world. Two, it is a picture of heaven where every disciple of Jesus has his or her heavenly citizenship.

Core Value: Evangelism

As believers we are just passing through. Or are we? There are some of who have fallen in love with this world and all of its entrapments. We need to be reminded that the goal of our salvation is not to have the best that this world can offer, but to keep our eye on the prize and the place: eternity with the Lover of our soul. This prize is named Jesus and the place is called heaven.

My friend Pat Terry has captured this thought in a beautiful way when he writes,

They say that heaven's pretty And living here is too But if they said that I would have to choose between the two I'd go home, going home, where I belong

And sometimes when I'm dreaming It comes as no surprise That if you look and see The homesick feeling in my eyes I'm going home, going home, where I belong [Home Where I Belong by Pat Terry]

Why do we share the Gospel? We share it so those who are spiritually homeless will finally be able to go home too . . . where we all belong.

Principle #16 & Personal Application: Quality disciples are compelled to share the Gospel so that all may believe and inhabit Zion (the City of God).

• We need to share with the lost of a place that is built by God and the only way to enter is through having a relationship with His Son (vs. 1-3)

• We need to share with the lost of a place where only disciples of Jesus live forever (vs. 4-6)

• We need to share with the lost of a place where everyone who lives there enjoys the Lord’s abundant and eternal blessings (vs. 7)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

How do I explain the reality of heaven in such a way where a person who does not know the Lord will want to do whatever it takes to go there?

When I think about going to heaven one day, what kinds of thoughts cross my mind?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for a place where I will go when this life on earth is over. May I have your burden for the lost and bring some of them with me too.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #12 (Evangelism). March 31, 2013

Hello dear friends! I write this edition of Psalms of Discipleship to you on Easter morning. As disciples of Jesus we know that the resurrection of our Lord gives meaning to EVERYTHING we believe and practice. The resurrection is a stark reminder that our lives do not belong to us but to Him. Because He lives, we do also. And because He lives in us, we need to be about the business of reaching out to those who have yet to embrace the Good News that Jesus loves them too.

He is Risen. He is Risen Indeed!

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #12

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 9 Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, That glory may dwell in our land. 10 Lovingkindness and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Psalm 85:9-10

Core Value: Evangelism

For the disciple of Jesus, salvation occurs every day. No, I am not referring to having a daily “born again” experience. Once we receive God’s gift of Jesus’ atoning sacrifice for our sins, His Spirit seals us for the day of redemption. We are saved, forever. What I am suggesting is that there is also a salvation that is a daily sanctification where Jesus saves us from ourselves every day. Scripture refers to this as “working out our salvation.”

Here is where many people outside of the family of God miss it: this kind of work is to occur after the beginning of eternal life takes place, not before. There are some who think they can work themselves into a state of salvation by being good enough, being right enough, being disciplined enough, or being worthy enough to make it to heaven. It is called the way of works and this way will never allow a person to have a saving relationship with the One who is called the Way, the Truth, and the Life. On the other hand, as a result of responding to His grace and experiencing what the Bible describes as saving faith, there are others who embrace the teachings of Jesus and begin to work out their salvation—day by day.

Here is the take-a-way. Saved people, those who have experienced new life in Jesus and who are growing in their relationship with Him, seek to reach out to those who are still trying to work themselves to heaven.

Principle #12 & Personal Application: Quality disciples know how to share the precious message of the Gospel with those who are in need of His salvation.

• The good news is that His salvation is near to those who fear (greatly respect) Him. So, whoever calls upon the Name of the Lord will be saved.

• The good news is that His lovingkindness and truth have met together. So, we have a salvation not based upon a myth and legalism but a salvation based upon love and truth.

• The good news is that righteousness and peace have kissed each other. So, we who are saved have been given right standing before a Holy and Righteous God finding a peace that only comes from knowing Jesus.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

Who in my inner circle of family and friends need to hear the Gospel from my lips?

Why is the peace of Christ so intimately related to my salvation?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, because of Your love and grace to me I have experienced Your salvation. Continue to hold me near to You. I praise You for Your lovingkindness and truth: they have met together. I thank You that You have allowed righteousness and peace to have kissed each other, granting me right standing and peace with You.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…

Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Dr. Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2013 All rights reserved.

You can learn how to live as a Quality Disciple and a DiscipleMaker4Jesus by visiting my website at www.dennybates.com and my teaching blog at http://www.dennybates.com/#!blog/c1a4e

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #47 (Evangelism) December 29, 2012

Hello my dear friends! I pray that you have been refreshed during this season of Advent and are now making preparations to review your life these past twelve months. I always find it useful to reflect back upon the year's events--both the good and the challenging ones.

In today's Psalms of Discipleship we are going to be reminded that before effective evangelism can take place, we've got to know the Gospel and be living it out.

Making disciples with you,

Denny Bates

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #47

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 Listen, O my people, to my instruction; Incline your ears to the words of my mouth. 2 I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings of old, 3 Which we have heard and known, And our fathers have told us. 4 We will not conceal them from their children, But tell to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, And His strength and His wondrous works that He has done. 5 For He established a testimony in Jacob And appointed a law in Israel, Which He commanded our fathers That they should teach them to their children, 6 That the generation to come might know, even the children yet to be born, That they may arise and tell them to their children, 7 That they should put their confidence in God And not forget the works of God, But keep His commandments, Psalm 78:1-7

Core Value: Evangelism

We know of the greatest story ever told, but many of us fail to clearly share it with those who most desperately need to hear it: those who are far outside the love of the Father and the family of God. Many of these people are “nice” people; some may even be nicer that we are. But without a relationship with Jesus, they are lost. So, what are we to do?

It has been said that found people find lost people. One of the most effective ways to create a culture of evangelism is to begin with a culture of discipleship. The Gospel is more than a story that gets people saved. The Gospel is Good News and empowers us to live an abundant life in Jesus Christ after we come to know Him. Before we can effectively reach the lost, we must first reach the believer and teach them how to become a DiscipleMaker4Jesus.

Principle #47 & Personal Application: Quality disciples desire to share the Gospel with those who will reach future generations (2 Tim. 2:2).

• We need to know the Gospel before we can tell others of it (vs. 1-4)

• We need to teach the Gospel with the goal of impacting future generations of believers (vs. 5-6)

• We need to tell others to place their confidence in the God of the Gospel (vs. 7)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When am I most at ease when sharing my faith with an unbeliever? When do I find it to be the most difficult?

How can my testimony be used as an evangelistic tool? Who needs to hear my story this week?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, May I always be ready to share of the miracle of Your Gospel with those who need to accept Your saving invitation. May I always place my confidence in the God of the Gospel.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Are you looking for a helpful resource that will guide your spiritual growth in 2013? I'd like to recommend this book, "A One Year Journey With The Shepherd." Now in e-book and printed versions.

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Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #42 (Evangelism) November 24, 2012

Hello my dear friends! There is always a cause and effect in life. For example, if I am walking close to the Lord the effect will be a positive influence on those who are near to me. This is the message of today's Psalms of Discipleship: Not only is the nearness of God my good, it is also good for others too.

Perfect submission, all is at rest;
I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with his goodness, lost in his love.

When we are near to God, we find ourselves lost in His love.

Forever lost,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #42

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, That I may tell of all Your works. Psalm 73:28

Core Value: Evangelism

There is a huge difference between having a religion and a having relationship with Jesus. A religion will help you keep the rules of what to do and what not to do, of what to believe and what not to believe. A relationship with Jesus will help you achieve all of that and so much more. A relationship with Jesus causes you to love because He has unconditionally loved you. A relationship helps you to believe in Him because He believes in you.

People can become an expert in religion and still miss out on eternal life with Jesus. The years come and go, the nations of the earth rise and fall, but one thing remains the same: Jesus is the only way, the truth and the life (John 14:6). Sometimes, you may be the only witness of Jesus’ love that others see. The closer you get to Him, you will become more fully aware of His goodness. The closer you get to Him, the burden to share His love with the lost will consume your life.

Principle #42 & Personal Application: Quality disciples seek to grow closer to the Lord, and as a result, gives a personal testimony of the Lord’s great power.

• Our relationship with the Lord is a personal one: “But as for me”

• Our relationship with the Lord is an intimate experience: “the nearness of God is my good”

• Our relationship with the Lord is a strategic choice: “I have made the Lord GOD my refuge”

• Our relationship with the Lord is the platform from which we share our faith: “That I may tell of all Your works”

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

In what ways have I discovered that the nearness of God is my good?

What has the Lord done in and through me that would be an encouragement for others to know?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, but as for me, the nearness of God is my good. By Your grace, I choose to make the Lord GOD my refuge and not trust in my own strength. May I give a faithful testimony to others of Your great works that have impacted my life.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

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Psalms of Discipleship (Evangelism) Principle #38. October 13, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Are you a good story teller? Before you answer too quickly, remember that every disciple of Jesus has the opportunity to tell the greatest story ever told. Yes, God the Father did send His Son into the world and die on the cross for our sins and was resurrected on the third day. And yes, He did send His Holy Spirit to empower us. And yes, we are a part of the greatest story ever told. Its our redemptive story too. In today's Psalms of Discipleship, the Psalmist gives his perspective of why his story is so powerful. It's because of our Great God.

Sharing the Greatest Story ever told with you,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #38

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 14 But as for me, I will hope continually, And will praise You yet more and more. 15 My mouth shall tell of Your righteousness And of Your salvation all day long; For I do not know the sum of them. 16 I will come with the mighty deeds of the Lord GOD; I will make mention of Your righteousness, Yours alone. 17 O God, You have taught me from my youth, And I still declare Your wondrous deeds. 18 And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come. Psalm 71:14-18

Core Value: Evangelism

Everyone who is a disciple of Jesus has a story, a unique personal account, of how the love of Jesus invaded their heart and made all things new. Every redemptive story has two parts: part 1 is where we were and part 2 is where we are now. Before Jesus showed His love to us, we were lost. After His love overwhelmed us and embraced us, we were saved (for example, John 3:16). It’s that simple. And because our story is that simple we can share a simple Gospel with those who are still experiencing stories that are stuck in part one.

Who needs to hear your story, your redemptive story, today?

Principle #38 & Personal Application: Quality disciples tell others about God’s great love and His glorious salvation.

• We tell of a God who gives us hope and a desire for endless praise

• We tell of a God who is righteous

• We tell of a God who saves

• We tell of a God does great deeds

• We tell of a God who will never forsake us

• We tell of a God who gives us the power to declare His strength and power to those who have yet to hear the gospel

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

Does the need to share my faith depend upon how I feel about me or how I feel about the Lord?

A great God offers a great salvation to a people in great need. When I share my faith, what kind of words do I typically use to describe the gospel?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, because of Your grace You have given me hope that causes me to have endless praise for You. I praise You for Your righteousness and for Your great salvation. I praise You for Your great deeds and thank You for Your faithfulness to never forsake me. May I be faithful in sharing the Gospel with those who are apart from Your family.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Are you in need of a personal life coach and a leadership specialist? Make certain you get a Quality one. For more information check out my website at

www.dennybates.com

http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #28 (Evangelism). July 28, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Do you realize that our lives are a platform for God's glory and the medium He uses for sharing the Gospel, the Good News of His love for the world? Do you realize that it is not about us, but about Him? Do you realize that His blessing to us is just not about making us feel good about ourselves, but a way He uses to cause a hunger and thirst in the lives of those who have yet to experience His love and forgiveness?

In this week's Psalms of Discipleship we learn that His blessings upon us is simply advertising of His love and goodness to the world.

Blessed for the sake of others,

Denny Bates


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #28

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 God be gracious to us and bless us, And cause His face to shine upon us— Selah. 2 That Your way may be known on the earth, Your salvation among all nations. 3 Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You. 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy; For You will judge the peoples with uprightness And guide the nations on the earth. Selah. Psalm 67:1-4

Core Value: Evangelism

There is a phrase we use in my part of the world that says, “The proof is in the pudding.” In other words, the quality of something is uncertain until it has been tested directly. In this case, actions speak louder than words. How do we know that God is gracious to us and blesses us? We know it to be true because it is something that we have personally experienced. And when disciples of Jesus live like God is gracious to them and blesses them, it becomes the platform God uses to draw those who are outside the family of God into a relationship with His Son.

Principle #28 & Personal Application: Quality disciples know that one who is blessed by the Lord becomes a visual example of God’s glory and goodness to the lost.

We are blessed by the Lord . . .

• in abundance: God be gracious to us and bless us, And cause His face to shine upon us— Selah.

• for a reason greater than ourselves: That Your way may be known on the earth, Your salvation among all nations.

• for the praise and glory of Jesus: Let the peoples praise You, O God; Let all the peoples praise You.

• so we, along with the nations, may follow Him with gladness and joy: Let the nations be glad and sing for joy; For You will judge the peoples with uprightness And guide the nations on the earth. Selah.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

To those who know me, and do not know Jesus, find my life (what I say and what I do) to be an inviting example for them to seek Jesus more closely?

What has to happen in my life in order for my testimony to inspire others to trust in and praise the Lord?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I worship You for being gracious to me and blessing me. Your face does shine upon me, moving me to declare Your salvation to those who have yet to hear of the Good News. May I always praise You, along with all believers from every nation, with gladness and joy.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/


Are you looking for a fresh Bible study that will pay off in the marketplace, in your church, and in your family? If you live in the Florence area, check this out!

The Quality Disciple Presents . . .

“The Power-Broker’s Guide To The Kingdom:

Four Striking Examples Of How To Leverage Power In The Right Way”

Example Number One: Joseph

Facilitated and taught by Dr. Denny Bates

Four Practical Lessons . . . Four Nights . . . For You

When: August 8, 15, 22, 29 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Where: First Reliance Bank Learning Center/West Palmetto Street

Cost for Downloadable Workbook (pdf) and Course: $20.00

STUDY OUTLINE:
Example #1, Joseph: “The Use Of Power At Work: Power In The Hands Of Joseph—A Powerbroker Who Felt Its Abuse And Then Later, When Given The Occasion, Used It Wisely”

Part #1: “The Life Of Joseph: A Career That Impacted And Saved The World” (Genesis 37:1-36)

Part #2 “Promotion Comes From The Lord ” (Genesis, Chapter 39:1-6a)

Part #3 “Where Is It Written That Life Is Fair?” (Genesis, Chapter 39:7-23)

Part #4 “Learning To Be A Blessing In The Midst Of Adversity” (Genesis, Chapter 40:1-23)

Two Essential Quotes

Leadership is a stewardship. It is temporary…and you’re accountable. ~ Andy Stanley

What happens when God has made you the most powerful person in the room? What are you going to with this power? How you respond determines who you will be. This helps establish who you are. ~ Andy Stanley (See John 13)

These two quotes have made quite the impression on me. Those who have tasted from the nectar of leadership have been given the privilege of having “power” over others. It might be as simple as a parent having power over a child or a CEO having the power to hire and fire, to bless or to curse any employees who are at their mercy. Power is a gift, not a right, and certainly never an entitlement. The true test of the Christian believer is how he or she stewards their power.

This focused study of the life of Joseph, The Powerbroker’s Guide To The Kingdom, provides practical life lessons on how power can be used is the right way . . . and in the wrong way too. Of all the important lessons we learn, may we get this one right. Not just for our sake, but especially for the sake of those who can either be helped or hurt by our power.

I hope you will join me for this practical study on biblical leadership in the learning center of First Reliance Bank. Space is limited. Please confirm your attendance today by inboxing me on facebook or via my email listed below.

Dr. Denny Bates
dennybates@gmail.com

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #26 (Evangelism). July 14, 2012

Hello my dear friends, have you ever considered your life to be a trophy of God's grace? If you are a disciple of Jesus, think about it: He has created you, loved you, and saved you all for His glory. And He has given you the greatest platform of all: to be a witness to others who so desperately need to know that there is a loving God who loves them too. If you don't let them know, then who will?

I love to tell the story,

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #26

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: Come and hear, all who fear God, And I will tell of what He has done for my soul. Psalm 66:16

Core Value: Evangelism

What if you had been entrusted with an idea that would change the world, but kept it to yourself? What if you had discovered the secret to overcoming cancer but failed to communicate it to those who are sick? What if you had the kind of news that would grant others incredible peace of mind, but chose to let them find out for themselves? What if you have experienced God’s amazing and saving grace, but did not think it was important enough to share it with those who need to hear about a personal God who does very personal things in the lives of His children? What if.

Your life is to be an example of how great God really is and you have been granted the wonderful opportunity to brag on Him. This is the testimony of the Psalmist: “Come one, come all. Let me tell you all that He has done for me. And if He did it for me, He will do it for you too!”

Principle #26 & Personal Application: Quality disciples willingly give a passionate, personal testimony of God at work.

Because of what Jesus has done for us . . .

• We want others to know what we know: Come and hear

• We want others to know how great, mighty and awesome our God is: all who fear God

• We want others to know of what God has done for us: And I will tell of what He has done for my soul

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

What is my testimony? What have I seen God do in my life where I can “brag” on Him to those who are searching for His love and forgiveness?

Who in my circle of influence needs to hear my story of redemption? Who are my lost friends and family that I need to add to my prayer list?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for giving me a story of grace. Thank You for reaching out to me so that I may reach out to others and share Your love with them. May I always invite the lost to “come and hear” what You have done in my life.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Postscript:

I am genuinely excited for the opportunity of doing things that I have only dreamed about previously. By God’s grace I hope to build a leadership coaching and speaking business and impact the market place for Jesus. My business is a RELATIONSHIP business, so as you pray for me ask the Lord for KEY contacts that will lead me to KEY people in KEY organizations. In your own circle of influence, do you know anyone who desires to grow in leadership? I’d love to meet them.

In order to gain a better understanding of what I am offering, you can check out my website at http://www.johncmaxwellgroup.com/dennybates

Psalms of Discipleship. Principle #12 (Evangelism). March 31, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Would you consider yourself to be a shy Christian or a shining Christian? This is the question that comes out of today's Psalm and Psalms of Discipleship. May we all come to a place in our journey with the Shepherd of the Psalms that we shine for Him.

For His glory,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #12

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 9 I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to You among the nations. 10 For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens And Your truth to the clouds. 11 Be exalted above the heavens, O God; Let Your glory be above all the earth. Psalm 57:9-11

Core Value: Evangelism

Would you consider yourself to be a “shy” Christian or a “shining” Christian? Some of the qualities of the shy Christian are a lack of boldness, an inability to openly discuss matters of faith, and a lack of a strong conviction that people without Jesus are destined to spending an eternity without Him. On the other hand, a shining Christian has a boldness not of themselves but a boldness that comes as a result of their relationship with the Lord. A shining Christian knows what they believe and why they believe it. Finally, a shining Christian has an unending burden to share the greatest story ever told with those who have yet to receive the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Shy or shining? It makes all the difference in the world!

Principle #12 & Personal Application: Quality disciples offer a public display of worship that is presented as a testimony of God’s greatness.

A disciple of Jesus desires to:

• Give thanks to the Lord in the presence of others: I will give thanks to You, O Lord, among the peoples

• Sing praises to the Lord in the presence of others: I will sing praises to You among the nations

• Without shame, acknowledge the greatness of the Lord’s lovingkindness and truth in the presence of others: For Your lovingkindness is great to the heavens And Your truth to the clouds

• Worship the Lord with abandon in the presence of others: Be exalted above the heavens, O God; Let Your glory be above all the earth

For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. Romans 1:16 (NASB95)

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

What kind of approach do I typically take when I engage with an unbeliever? Do I avoid sharing the gospel? Do I have a confidence that I can logically share the plan of salvation?

Would I consider myself to be an “introverted” Christian (where my faith is very private) or an “extroverted” Christian (where my faith is public)?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, by grace I will give thanks to You and sing Your praises in the presence of other people. May I never be ashamed of the Gospel, but live my life in such a fashion that I am constantly in a frame of worship as I consider Your lovingkindness and truth.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Are you interested in going deeper in your walk with Jesus? Check out my website for a list of resources that will help you become "A Quality Disciple."

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #52--Evangelism--January 7, 2012

Hello my dear friends! Happy New Year to you! For many of us, the New Year is always a convenient time to make "new resolutions," to "turn over a new leaf," to change our bad habits into good ones, etc.

Today's Psalms of Discipleship reminds us that as we live out our lives as Christian disciples, we will have an impact upon the lost. May we, more than ever before, be the kind of representatives of Jesus that cause the lost to crave to know Him too.

Touched by grace,

Denny


Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #52

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation And sustain me with a willing spirit. 13 Then I will teach transgressors Your ways, And sinners will be converted to You. Psalm 51:12-13

Core Value: Evangelism

If we model IT (the Christian life) in the right way IT (the Christian life) will be attractive to those who need to have a saving relationship with Jesus. We are not talking about more rules, more meaningless rituals, or more religion. We are talking about possessing an authentic relationship with Jesus that is contagious, infecting others with His passionate love. Unless we are walking IT (the Christian life) out in meaningful ways, then our talk becomes nothing more than white noise that drowns out the truth. And IT is too important to give the lost the wrong message.

The Gospel, evidenced in our own lives, gives much grace to those who have blown IT. This is the kind of message that resonates in the hearts of those who have been beaten down with guilt and shame: salvation comes to those who need it and then seek IT. Will we allow IT to be seen through us?

Let IT be Lord, let IT be.

Principle #52 & Personal Application: The quality disciple lives an authentic life that is attractive to sinners who need to have a saving relationship with Jesus.

• Even when we stumble and fall, God does restore to us the joy of His salvation.

• Even when we stumble and fall, God sustains us with a willing spirit.

• Even when we stumble and fall, God can use us to teach unbelievers the ways of the Lord.

• Even when we stumble and fall, God can use us to lead sinners towards a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

How can God use my testimony of personal failure to be a tool that would cause others to consider Jesus?

What would I say to the person who does not have a relationship with Jesus?

Do I know how to share the Gospel in a way that is clear and convincing?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that You are the One who restores. You are the One who gives me such great joy in Your salvation. May I always be prepared to share my life experiences of faith to those who still need to bend their knee to You.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2012 All rights reserved.

Why A One Year Journey With The Shepherd May Be A Great Resource For You!

You are invited to spend some time reading and reflecting upon “Psalms of Discipleship: A One Year Journey With The Shepherd,” a simple, easy to use, devotional experience. By spending five minutes or fifty-five minutes on the weekly devotion and Bible study, you will be afforded the opportunity to enhance your spiritual growth. This unique devotional consists of fifty-two practical lessons designed for small group or individual study.

Now available in print and eBook formats. See http://www.dennybates.com/Home/OneYearJourney.html for how you can purchase your copy today!

www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/

Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #28--Grace & Evangelism--July 23, 2011

Hello my dear friends! Warm, very warm, greetings to you from sunny and hot South Carolina. Today we are going to take a close look at one of my favorite Psalms. It is a lesson on grace and evangelism and how God uses our most difficult times to bring glory to Him and good to us.

May the Lord use this passage of Scripture to give you great encouragement and comfort today. I'm praying for you. Thanks for praying for me.

In the hands of the One who cares for me,

Denny

Psalms of Discipleship: July 23, 2011—Principle #28 (Grace & Evangelism)

Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #28

Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life

Key Scripture: 1 I waited patiently for the LORD; And He inclined to me and heard my cry. 2 He brought me up out of the pit of destruction, out of the miry clay, And He set my feet upon a rock making my footsteps firm. 3 He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; Many will see and fear And will trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:1-3

Core Value: Grace and Evangelism

Whoever said that life would be easier once we became a devoted follower of Jesus is misleading at best, or at worst, just flat out lied to us. Yes, it would be easier on us if our Christianity were no more than a formula we could memorize and confess our way to success. Yes, it would be easier to be a Christian if a stable life was guaranteed with no difficult changes allowed. But, we know the truth. The Christian life is not based upon a formula; it is based upon having a relationship with Jesus. All of us have personally discovered that the Christian does experience wild swings of highs and lows.

The challenge for all of us who follow Jesus as His disciples is clear: will we trust Him when it seems everything is going against us? Will we trust Him or will we lean towards our own ability to make our way? Are we willing to rest in God’s character (He loves us, cares for us, has a plan for us, etc.) or will we convince ourselves that God has forgotten about us and left us to ruin? Are we patient with God? Do we have hope, no matter how deep is the pit we are in, that God is at work in us and through us? David did and so can we.

Principle #28 & Personal Application: The quality disciple experiences the blessing of going from desperation in the pit of destruction to a supernatural deliverance that offers to the Lord unending worship, glory and praise.

• It is the grace of a patient God that helps us wait patiently for the Lord (and for His perfect work and timing) when everything within us schemes to take control and offer our own solutions.

• It is the grace of a concerned God that helps us believe that He does care for us and that He does listen to both the audible and inaudible cries of our heart.

• It is the grace of a delivering God that helps us escape from our own forms of destructive pits and miry clay to a place of stability and safety.

• It is the grace of a glorious God that helps us sing the kind of life song of praise that causes others to trust in our great God too.

Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…

When I find myself in a destructive pit and reach the point of wanting to give up, what keeps me going?

Can I think of a time when the Lord used a difficult (but spiritually enriching) time in my life that caused others around me to grow closer to the Lord?

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, by Your grace, may I always be patient with You. I know that You have never forgotten about me and that You do hear the cry of my heart. May I always look to You as my deliverer and my stability and my safety and may my life be a life song that causes others to trust in You too.

The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service​—Evangelism

Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.

Looking for a Bible study this summer for you and your small group? Check out this link on how you can download Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace and make it available to your small group for FREE!

http://bit.ly/lwpzNU

www.dennybates.com

http://thequalitydisciple.blog​ spot.com/

http://www.dennybates.com/
www.dennybates.com