Hello dear friends! Warm greetings to each of you on this day. I thank the Lord for you. Many of you are in a challenging set of circumstances where you are. Some of you are in harms way in Afghanistan. Others are planting seeds of the Kingdom in Ukraine and in Eastern Europe. Then, there are many of us are living in the United States... seeking to live out the discipled life that Jesus calls us to live. The common thread for all of us? We are in desperate need of His grace.
Today's Psalms of Discipleship reminds us of the value of living the grace-driven life. It's been a good reminder for me. I pray that it will be a good reminder for you too--no matter where you are living and serving today.
Captured by His grace,
Denny
PS. Thanks again to all who lifted me up in prayer this past week as I defended my dissertation. I passed . . . by the grace of God :)
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 23 The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. 24 When he falls, he will not be hurled headlong, Because the LORD is the One who holds his hand. 25 I have been young and now I am old, Yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken Or his descendants begging bread. 26 All day long he is gracious and lends, And his descendants are a blessing. Psalm 37:23-26
Core Value: Grace
Just try harder.
Anyone ever told you this before? What if you have “tried harder” and the harder you tried, the harder it got and the harder it got, made you want to try even harder . . . and yet, no matter how hard you tried, and how many times you tried, you failed (and did so miserably)?
Sometimes the answer to life is not to try harder but to trust more. In our own strength, we can only do as much as we can do. The result of our trying is often limited to how we feel on a given day. Is there a better way of living the Christian life?
I believe there is and it is called the grace-driven life. When we set out to live a grace-driven life we are committing to trust the Lord for His endurance, His persistence, His power, His agenda, His life to become our own. Remember, grace gives us what we do not deserve. It pleases the Lord Jesus to give us “established steps” so we might hold on to His hand when we do fall. His grace allows us to live a life of faith where our physical needs are met, no matter how young or old we might be. His grace allows us to create a legacy where even our descendants are a blessing. This is what a grace-driven life will accomplish.
It’s time to quit trying so hard. May we all experience what it means to live a life that is driven by grace.
Principle #22 & Personal Application: The quality disciple does not have to strive for an impossible perfection but gladly presses in to experience a grace-driven life.
• A grace-driven life is marked by steps that are established by the Lord.
• A grace-driven life is marked by a protective Hand that grips us tightly, even when we fall.
• A grace-driven life is marked by a testimony that speaks of God’s great faithfulness to provide.
• A grace-driven life is marked by a desire to give away our time, resources, and talents.
• A grace-driven life is marked by a legacy of our family (our descendants) who become a blessing too.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Can I recall a time when I suffered a stumble and, yet, the Lord caught me?
Am I experiencing a grace-driven life? If not, what must change in me?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank You for granting me steps that are established. May I always sense the grip of Your hand, Your grace. Thank You for the promise of Your gracious provision for everything I need in this life. And because I am experiencing the wonder of Your grace, may I always have a giving heart and be a vessel of Your grace to others.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace is now available in eBook for only $7.99 per download (a 50% savings). Great idea for your computer, iPad or Kindle!
http://www.dennybates.com/Home/PODGIG.html
Learn how you can photocopy up to 10 free copies of this eBook for your discipleship ministry. http://bit.ly/lwpzNU
http://www.dennybates.com/
www.dennybates.com
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #21--Prayer--June 4, 2011
Hello dear friends! I pray that all of you are experiencing what the psalmist called "the desires of your heart." One of the desires of my heart will be the fulfillment of a five year journey. The Lord gave me a desire to grow in my knowledge of Him and a desire to become a better leader. He has done this in a very practical way as I have made the journey towards the completion of a Doctor of Ministry degree in Leadership. Now, finally, I see the finish line.
On Tuesday, June 7 at 1:30 I'll be making an oral presentation before my dissertation committee. Would you pray and ask the Lord for these three things? He would be glorified; He would give me clarity of mind and peace of heart; and He would grant me much mercy and grace in my time of need :) (Hebrews 4:16).
I am "delighted" that you are a part of my journey. My desire for you is that the Shepherd of the Psalms would encourage you and grant to you the desire of your heart.
Growing with you,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #21
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 3 Trust in the LORD and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:3-5
Core Value: Prayer
My way . . . or His way. These are the two choices disciples of Jesus make every day. It would seem, at least on the surface, to be an obvious choice: His way. But one thing often gets in the way of the best choice: Me. My way. My will. My desires. The word the psalmist uses, “delight,” means to become like pliable clay. The gripping image of this word does not escape us. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us that God is the potter and we are the clay. But what kind of clay are we? Hardened by our own stubborn will or are we softened by His grace, submitting our desires for His?
In this portion of Scripture are sweet reminders of what God wants to do in us and for us. What is our part? We must trust in the Lord. We must abide in Him and cultivate a faithful life. We must delight ourselves in the Lord and we must commit our way to Him. What will He do for us? He will give us the desires of our heart and He will do it in a way that will remind us that He did it in a way that only He could.
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. And what would those desires be? He wants You to experience them and enjoy them! How? You can discover them through prayer.
Principle #21 & Personal Application: The quality disciple experiences an intimate spiritual life—fueled by prayer—which is built upon one’s trust in the Lord.
Prayer is the fuel the believer needs…
• To place one’s trust in the Lord. Trust in the LORD and do good
• To cultivate faithfulness. Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness
• To delight one’s self in the Lord. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart
• To commit one’s way to the Lord. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Does prayer characterize my life? Or am I more prone to work out things in my own strength?
What does it mean to delight myself in the Lord? If I do so, what promise has He made to me?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, it is only by Your grace that I can place my trust in You and do good. It is only through grace that I can rest in Your promises and cultivate a faithful life. May my heart always desire to delight myself in You. May I always commit my way to You. And give me the faith to trust You for the desires of my heart that You have already planted within me.
The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace is now available in eBook for only $7.99 per download (a 50% savings). Great idea for your computer, iPad or Kindle!
Learn how you can photocopy up to 10 free copies of this eBook for your discipleship ministry. http://bit.ly/lwpzNU
Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
On Tuesday, June 7 at 1:30 I'll be making an oral presentation before my dissertation committee. Would you pray and ask the Lord for these three things? He would be glorified; He would give me clarity of mind and peace of heart; and He would grant me much mercy and grace in my time of need :) (Hebrews 4:16).
I am "delighted" that you are a part of my journey. My desire for you is that the Shepherd of the Psalms would encourage you and grant to you the desire of your heart.
Growing with you,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #21
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 3 Trust in the LORD and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. Psalm 37:3-5
Core Value: Prayer
My way . . . or His way. These are the two choices disciples of Jesus make every day. It would seem, at least on the surface, to be an obvious choice: His way. But one thing often gets in the way of the best choice: Me. My way. My will. My desires. The word the psalmist uses, “delight,” means to become like pliable clay. The gripping image of this word does not escape us. The prophet Jeremiah reminds us that God is the potter and we are the clay. But what kind of clay are we? Hardened by our own stubborn will or are we softened by His grace, submitting our desires for His?
In this portion of Scripture are sweet reminders of what God wants to do in us and for us. What is our part? We must trust in the Lord. We must abide in Him and cultivate a faithful life. We must delight ourselves in the Lord and we must commit our way to Him. What will He do for us? He will give us the desires of our heart and He will do it in a way that will remind us that He did it in a way that only He could.
Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. And what would those desires be? He wants You to experience them and enjoy them! How? You can discover them through prayer.
Principle #21 & Personal Application: The quality disciple experiences an intimate spiritual life—fueled by prayer—which is built upon one’s trust in the Lord.
Prayer is the fuel the believer needs…
• To place one’s trust in the Lord. Trust in the LORD and do good
• To cultivate faithfulness. Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness
• To delight one’s self in the Lord. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart
• To commit one’s way to the Lord. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Does prayer characterize my life? Or am I more prone to work out things in my own strength?
What does it mean to delight myself in the Lord? If I do so, what promise has He made to me?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, it is only by Your grace that I can place my trust in You and do good. It is only through grace that I can rest in Your promises and cultivate a faithful life. May my heart always desire to delight myself in You. May I always commit my way to You. And give me the faith to trust You for the desires of my heart that You have already planted within me.
The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace is now available in eBook for only $7.99 per download (a 50% savings). Great idea for your computer, iPad or Kindle!
Learn how you can photocopy up to 10 free copies of this eBook for your discipleship ministry. http://bit.ly/lwpzNU
Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace is now available in eBook!
Summer Studies 2011 With Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace
Now Available In eBook (pdf)!
Looking for a fresh way to give your bible study and small group a boost this summer?
Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace—eBook. Same 100 page count as the print version, same great practical content for only $7.99 per download (a 50% savings off of the regular price!)
· A full-length devotional with 13 lessons (along with a five day spiritual journal workbook)
· A 21 point biblical assessment on the grace of God
Click on this link for a free sample http://files.me.com/dennybates/gwn8bo
Ready to Order Now? Psalms of Discipleship: Growing in Grace In A Downloadable eBook
Click on this link to purchase your eBook copy and begin your study today
Check This Out! It is our goal at Something New Christian Publishers to place God’s Word into the hands of as many people as possible. My personal goal of providing Psalms of Discipleship to you, beyond your own personal encouragement, is to enlist your help in getting the Word out and getting more people involved in transformational life change. It will cost your friends nothing to use the material because after your initial download, I am granting you permission to photocopy up to 10 copies of this eBook for use in a small group / discipleship setting. The terms are simple: Please do not sell the material for profit and please give proper credit to the copy write owner. Other than that, go for it and become a DiscipleMaker4Jesus!
The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Something New Christian Publishers:
A Quality Disciple . . . A Quality Life
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #20--Prayer--May 28, 2011
Hello my dear friends,
This week we are going to take a closer look at prayer and the value it can add to our lives . . . if we pray. I hope and "pray" that the Lord will speak to us in a fresh way and remind us pray to Him.
Still learning how to pray after all of these years,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #20
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 17 The righteous cry, and the LORD hears And delivers them out of all their troubles. 18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:17-19
Core Value: Prayer
Any disciple worth his or her salt knows that prayer is an essential practice for one’s spiritual growth. We know that prayer is the communication connector between God and us. And we know that when we do pray, it is a good thing to do. And yet, for many of us, we often pray as a last resort, or even worse, not at all. Why is this so? Perhaps . . .
This week we are going to take a closer look at prayer and the value it can add to our lives . . . if we pray. I hope and "pray" that the Lord will speak to us in a fresh way and remind us pray to Him.
Still learning how to pray after all of these years,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #20
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 17 The righteous cry, and the LORD hears And delivers them out of all their troubles. 18 The LORD is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit. 19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, But the LORD delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:17-19
Core Value: Prayer
Any disciple worth his or her salt knows that prayer is an essential practice for one’s spiritual growth. We know that prayer is the communication connector between God and us. And we know that when we do pray, it is a good thing to do. And yet, for many of us, we often pray as a last resort, or even worse, not at all. Why is this so? Perhaps . . .
• We trust more in our ability than in God’s.
• We are too prideful to humble ourselves and ask for God’s help.
• We have allowed our heart to wander away from a sweet communion with the Lord and have forgotten that we can “do all things through Christ who strengthens us” (Phil. 4:13).
• We have accepted a way of life that is separated from the life of Christ, forgetting that apart from Him, we can do nothing (John 15:4-5).
• We have become so focused upon competing in “the rat race” that we have neglected to tap into His resources of grace, mercy, and peace so that we may “Sabbath” or rest in Him.
Prayer is not a new thing. It has been around . . . for a long, long time. May we come to a new realization of how an old spiritual discipline can help us grow closer to Jesus and experience His presence, His deliverance, and His comfort. Let’s pray.
Principle #20 & Personal Application: The quality disciple understands the great value of being positioned “in Christ” and praying in His name.
• When we offer our prayers in Jesus’ name, we know that the Lord hears us: The righteous cry, and the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.
• When we offer our prayers in Jesus’ name, we experience His loving care: The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.
• When we offer our prayers in Jesus’ name, we are able to place our trust in His mighty power to save: Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
What does it mean to pray in Jesus’ name?
How confident have I become in the effectiveness of my prayers? What kinds of steps can I take that will enhance my prayer life?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank You for giving me Your ear. As I pray in Your name, I know You will hear my cry and will deliver me out of all of my troubles. You, O Lord, are near to the brokenhearted and You save those who are crushed in spirit. Though my afflictions may be many, Your promise to me is that You will deliver me out of them all.
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.
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #19--Community--May 21, 2011
Hello dear friends! I hope that each one of you are connected to healthy groups of other believers. It is possible, but very difficult, to live out the Christian life without the help of others. All of us were made for relationship, and in relationship we learn how to do the "one anothers" of the Bible (e.g., love one another, pray for one another, encourage one another, forgive one another etc.).
Today's Psalms of Discipleship teaches the principle of guarding our words and deeds. If we do as the Scriptures instruct us, we will experience, not only for ourselves great personal blessings, but we will be a blessing to our community of believers as well.
This is a prayer we can each call our own:
May the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. (Ps. 19:14)
Denny
P.S. Let me share a little bit of housekeeping matters with you. Perhaps you are aware that facebook is changing the way "Groups" are managed. After this submission, I am going to upgrade the group. As far as I know, this change should not have any significant impact upon your ability to stay connected with Psalms of Discipleship. As far as I know, your email inbox (if your settings are such where you receive notifications, you receive an email of the newest post) should still give you access to Psalms of Discipleship.
If, for whatever reason, you get cut off, you can still locate Psalms of Discipleship via my teaching blog. It can be found by clicking on the link at the bottom of this message.
I am grateful to hear the feedback of how this devotional ministry of discipleship has been a blessing and personal encouragement to you. Thanks for praying for me. This past week I completed the written portion of my doctoral dissertation. Lord willing, sometime this summer I will defend it and then graduate. To God be the glory!
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #19
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 12 Who is the man who desires life And loves length of days that he may see good? 13 Keep your tongue from evil And your lips from speaking deceit. 14 Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:12-14
Core Value: Community
Connecting in community is not an option if one wishes to grow in faith and in relationship. The answer for a meaningful relationship and spiritual growth is not isolation or even into a program steeped in religious rituals. What really matters in Christian spiritual formation is the relationship with other believers. “Ironically, one problem we often see in the Christian community is that people get more into religion and less into the connectedness the Bible prescribes, with the result that they get sicker” (From “How People Grow” by Cloud & Townsend 2001, 123). It was the great writer and thinker John Donne who stated these timeless words: “No man is an island unto himself.” This simply means that it is crucial for a believer who wishes to grow spiritually to have frequent times of fellowship with other like-minded believers. In addition to times of corporate worship, time must be spent in a smaller group setting in order to build lasting, meaningful relationships.
Trust in relationships must be established for any community to be considered as “safe.” The goal of any community of Christians should be “an environment of grace.” Author Bill Hull suggests that, “Trust is only present when the faith community experiences relationships of trust in an environment of grace.” Being a participating member in a healthy community of other believers, one experiences more than just having “fellowship.” In a community where grace is celebrated and trust is a part of the culture, one can be changed; even one’s character can be impacted by those who surround them. Again, Hull says, “Character is shaped in community.” Hull also suggests the value of being a member of a group of other disciples of Jesus Christ enhances the spiritual growth of each individual. In many cultures, there is the great temptation to go it alone. The success of the spiritual journey is never about how fast one can go. The underlying challenge and measure of success is to make the journey with others too. “As the African proverb tells us, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together’” (Bill Hull).
Principle #19 & Personal Application: The quality disciple desires to build a community that is committed to having a healthy and safe place for spiritual, relational and emotional growth.
• A healthy community of believers will guard their tongue from evil and deceit.
• A healthy community of believers will depart from evil and do good.
• A healthy community of believers will seek peace and pursue it.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Do I have a place, a group, where I can receive spiritual and emotional support on a regular basis?
What positive contributions can I bring to the Body of Christ that will help others feel safe with me?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I do desire a quality life, a good long life that I may be a witness of what is good. Grant me the power to keep my tongue from evil. Keep my lips from speaking deceit. Help me to depart from evil and empower me with the inspiration to seek and pursue peace.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Today's Psalms of Discipleship teaches the principle of guarding our words and deeds. If we do as the Scriptures instruct us, we will experience, not only for ourselves great personal blessings, but we will be a blessing to our community of believers as well.
This is a prayer we can each call our own:
May the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. (Ps. 19:14)
Denny
P.S. Let me share a little bit of housekeeping matters with you. Perhaps you are aware that facebook is changing the way "Groups" are managed. After this submission, I am going to upgrade the group. As far as I know, this change should not have any significant impact upon your ability to stay connected with Psalms of Discipleship. As far as I know, your email inbox (if your settings are such where you receive notifications, you receive an email of the newest post) should still give you access to Psalms of Discipleship.
If, for whatever reason, you get cut off, you can still locate Psalms of Discipleship via my teaching blog. It can be found by clicking on the link at the bottom of this message.
I am grateful to hear the feedback of how this devotional ministry of discipleship has been a blessing and personal encouragement to you. Thanks for praying for me. This past week I completed the written portion of my doctoral dissertation. Lord willing, sometime this summer I will defend it and then graduate. To God be the glory!
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #19
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 12 Who is the man who desires life And loves length of days that he may see good? 13 Keep your tongue from evil And your lips from speaking deceit. 14 Depart from evil and do good; Seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:12-14
Core Value: Community
Connecting in community is not an option if one wishes to grow in faith and in relationship. The answer for a meaningful relationship and spiritual growth is not isolation or even into a program steeped in religious rituals. What really matters in Christian spiritual formation is the relationship with other believers. “Ironically, one problem we often see in the Christian community is that people get more into religion and less into the connectedness the Bible prescribes, with the result that they get sicker” (From “How People Grow” by Cloud & Townsend 2001, 123). It was the great writer and thinker John Donne who stated these timeless words: “No man is an island unto himself.” This simply means that it is crucial for a believer who wishes to grow spiritually to have frequent times of fellowship with other like-minded believers. In addition to times of corporate worship, time must be spent in a smaller group setting in order to build lasting, meaningful relationships.
Trust in relationships must be established for any community to be considered as “safe.” The goal of any community of Christians should be “an environment of grace.” Author Bill Hull suggests that, “Trust is only present when the faith community experiences relationships of trust in an environment of grace.” Being a participating member in a healthy community of other believers, one experiences more than just having “fellowship.” In a community where grace is celebrated and trust is a part of the culture, one can be changed; even one’s character can be impacted by those who surround them. Again, Hull says, “Character is shaped in community.” Hull also suggests the value of being a member of a group of other disciples of Jesus Christ enhances the spiritual growth of each individual. In many cultures, there is the great temptation to go it alone. The success of the spiritual journey is never about how fast one can go. The underlying challenge and measure of success is to make the journey with others too. “As the African proverb tells us, ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together’” (Bill Hull).
Principle #19 & Personal Application: The quality disciple desires to build a community that is committed to having a healthy and safe place for spiritual, relational and emotional growth.
• A healthy community of believers will guard their tongue from evil and deceit.
• A healthy community of believers will depart from evil and do good.
• A healthy community of believers will seek peace and pursue it.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Do I have a place, a group, where I can receive spiritual and emotional support on a regular basis?
What positive contributions can I bring to the Body of Christ that will help others feel safe with me?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I do desire a quality life, a good long life that I may be a witness of what is good. Grant me the power to keep my tongue from evil. Keep my lips from speaking deceit. Help me to depart from evil and empower me with the inspiration to seek and pursue peace.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #18--Evangelism--May 14, 2011
Hello my dear friends! I pray that each one of you are experiencing the abundant life promised to those who are in Jesus Christ. I pray that your soul is full of God's goodness, poured out upon you, and that you are overflowing in His grace and love; and that you are impacting the lives you touch on a frequent basis with His love.
This week's Psalms of Discipleship is about how "tasty" our experience is with the Lord and how, because of what we have tasted, we are compelled to encourage others who have yet to taste and see that the Lord is good.
Mmmmm good, is the Lord. Taste and see for yourself.
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #18
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: O taste and see that the LORD is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! Psalm 34:8
Core Value: Evangelism
“Have I got some great news for you!” Really? For many believers, news about how well their 401K is doing is something to shout about (perhaps, at least, that may be true for some of us). Other believers get really excited when talking about the success of their favorite sports team. Still others love to share of their personal exploits, scoring points of pride from their adoring fans.
May I offer some balance here? There is nothing wrong with sharing good news. It is a blessing to share one’s joyous experiences with others. Life’s joys are meant to be celebrated! But there is an even greater joy, greater news we can share that has eternal ramifications. It is the good news of the Gospel. God loves us and He demonstrated that love by sending His Son, His only begotten Son, to a world of people who were desperately lost, without hope. This is great news for people who have discovered what it means to be loved by God and have received the life-changing, soul-saving, gift of His Son. It’s also great news for those who have yet to experience the Lord’s salvation and great joy. The prophet Isaiah foresaw this great news when he wrote,
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. 3 Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. 4 And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Isaiah 12:2-4 (KJV)
Now, that’s some great news we need to pass on!
Principle #18 & Personal Application: The quality disciple desires to share the greatest invitation ever to the seeking unbeliever: taste and see that the Lord is good!
• The quality disciple’s relationship with the Lord is personal: On our own, we are to taste and see that the Lord is good.
• The quality disciple’s relationship with the Lord is passionate: Because we have experienced the goodness of the Lord, we need to invite the seeker to join us in having a relationship with Him.
• The quality disciple’s relationship with the Lord has purpose: Our lives are not our own but are given to invite the seeker to experience the Lord and to find their refuge (salvation) in Him.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Who invited me to taste and see that the Lord is good?
Who are the seekers on my prayer list that I can extend a personal invitation and introduce them to the Lord?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that someone invited me to taste and see for myself that You are good. Thank You for the refuge I have been given in You; a place of comfort and safety. May I be filled with boldness when I am given the opportunity to invite the seeker to also taste and see that You are good.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
This week's Psalms of Discipleship is about how "tasty" our experience is with the Lord and how, because of what we have tasted, we are compelled to encourage others who have yet to taste and see that the Lord is good.
Mmmmm good, is the Lord. Taste and see for yourself.
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #18
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: O taste and see that the LORD is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! Psalm 34:8
Core Value: Evangelism
“Have I got some great news for you!” Really? For many believers, news about how well their 401K is doing is something to shout about (perhaps, at least, that may be true for some of us). Other believers get really excited when talking about the success of their favorite sports team. Still others love to share of their personal exploits, scoring points of pride from their adoring fans.
May I offer some balance here? There is nothing wrong with sharing good news. It is a blessing to share one’s joyous experiences with others. Life’s joys are meant to be celebrated! But there is an even greater joy, greater news we can share that has eternal ramifications. It is the good news of the Gospel. God loves us and He demonstrated that love by sending His Son, His only begotten Son, to a world of people who were desperately lost, without hope. This is great news for people who have discovered what it means to be loved by God and have received the life-changing, soul-saving, gift of His Son. It’s also great news for those who have yet to experience the Lord’s salvation and great joy. The prophet Isaiah foresaw this great news when he wrote,
2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. 3 Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. 4 And in that day shall ye say, Praise the LORD, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Isaiah 12:2-4 (KJV)
Now, that’s some great news we need to pass on!
Principle #18 & Personal Application: The quality disciple desires to share the greatest invitation ever to the seeking unbeliever: taste and see that the Lord is good!
• The quality disciple’s relationship with the Lord is personal: On our own, we are to taste and see that the Lord is good.
• The quality disciple’s relationship with the Lord is passionate: Because we have experienced the goodness of the Lord, we need to invite the seeker to join us in having a relationship with Him.
• The quality disciple’s relationship with the Lord has purpose: Our lives are not our own but are given to invite the seeker to experience the Lord and to find their refuge (salvation) in Him.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
Who invited me to taste and see that the Lord is good?
Who are the seekers on my prayer list that I can extend a personal invitation and introduce them to the Lord?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You that someone invited me to taste and see for myself that You are good. Thank You for the refuge I have been given in You; a place of comfort and safety. May I be filled with boldness when I am given the opportunity to invite the seeker to also taste and see that You are good.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Psalms of Discipleship--Principle #17--Prayer--May 7, 2011
Hi there dear friends! Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a reminder of how prayer can be the very tool we need to help us not worry ourselves to death. Many of us know the Lord and have walked with Him for years, and yet, we are often prone to worry about things over which we have no control.
In addition to this week's Psalms of Discipleship devotion, I'm offering you a free podcast of a lesson I taught in April at my local church. I think you will find it to be a good companion study with this topic. You can hear the lesson posted on my website by clicking on this link:
http://bit.ly/iLyNts
Learning not to worry as much,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #17
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 4 I sought the LORD, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears. 5 They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces will never be ashamed. 6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him And saved him out of all his troubles. Psalm 34:4-6
Core Value: Prayer
Worry much? For many of us, worry seems to be the first order of business when we are facing a situation where we are “worried” about the outcome. Worry has been compared to a rocking chair where a whole lot of energy is spent while we are going nowhere. We know not to worry, and yet, we do. We worry about our health, our wealth (or lack of it), our relationships, our possessions, and our world. We worry about things we cannot control. Is there a way, a sure way, we can leverage our energies from worry into peace? Here are some good words from the apostle Paul:
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)
It is that simple. The antidote to worry is to pray about everything. What kinds of things do you need to share with the Lord today?
Principle #17 & Personal Application: The quality disciple not only seeks the Lord in prayer, but experiences His saving power too.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will answer us.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will deliver us from all our fears.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will grace our countenance.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will save us out of all of our troubles.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
When I get into trouble, is my first thought to cry out to God for help?
Can I recall any recent experience where my prayer was answered?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, how often I forget to come to You with my needs in prayer. Forgive me when I seek to solve my life’s dilemmas using my own strength. May I always seek You because You will answer me and deliver me from all of my fears. May I experience a transformation upon my countenance because of your grace at work in my heart. May I confess my poverty (I am poor in spirit and spiritually bankrupt without You) and cry out to You; beseeching You to save me from all of my troubles.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
In addition to this week's Psalms of Discipleship devotion, I'm offering you a free podcast of a lesson I taught in April at my local church. I think you will find it to be a good companion study with this topic. You can hear the lesson posted on my website by clicking on this link:
http://bit.ly/iLyNts
Learning not to worry as much,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #17
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 4 I sought the LORD, and He answered me, And delivered me from all my fears. 5 They looked to Him and were radiant, And their faces will never be ashamed. 6 This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him And saved him out of all his troubles. Psalm 34:4-6
Core Value: Prayer
Worry much? For many of us, worry seems to be the first order of business when we are facing a situation where we are “worried” about the outcome. Worry has been compared to a rocking chair where a whole lot of energy is spent while we are going nowhere. We know not to worry, and yet, we do. We worry about our health, our wealth (or lack of it), our relationships, our possessions, and our world. We worry about things we cannot control. Is there a way, a sure way, we can leverage our energies from worry into peace? Here are some good words from the apostle Paul:
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 (NLT)
It is that simple. The antidote to worry is to pray about everything. What kinds of things do you need to share with the Lord today?
Principle #17 & Personal Application: The quality disciple not only seeks the Lord in prayer, but experiences His saving power too.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will answer us.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will deliver us from all our fears.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will grace our countenance.
• When we seek the Lord in prayer, He will save us out of all of our troubles.
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
When I get into trouble, is my first thought to cry out to God for help?
Can I recall any recent experience where my prayer was answered?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, how often I forget to come to You with my needs in prayer. Forgive me when I seek to solve my life’s dilemmas using my own strength. May I always seek You because You will answer me and deliver me from all of my fears. May I experience a transformation upon my countenance because of your grace at work in my heart. May I confess my poverty (I am poor in spirit and spiritually bankrupt without You) and cry out to You; beseeching You to save me from all of my troubles.
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.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
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