On this last night of our nine weeks of gathering together as an all-volunteer community of worshipers, I need to tell you something.
I worship the Lord and I need the Lord—but I also need YOU. Through your own worship and need of the Lord, you enhance and clarify his presence to me.
Through you, I’ve seen more of Jehovah these past nine Wednesdays. He’s been all over your face as you’ve sung praises to him with the totality of your voice and heart.
I’ve beheld his passionate grace for us through your stirring conversations with him.
I’ve heard him in your readings as you’ve put voice to his holy words with your personal emphases and accentuations.
I’ve been touched by his Spirit through your enthusiasm, sensing his movement unquestionably among us.
I’ve felt his heart beat through the music you’ve loaned us, music that’s moved you to worship and thus influenced me to expand my own experience.
This class has not been for spectators. Through mutual participation of our public yet personal worship, you’ve helped me turn my face towards his for this sweet hour together, as we’ve lived out our purposeful design of honoring our Creator.
So as I praise the Master tonight for his worthiness, now and forever, I also praise him for you. Thank you for sharing your worship of the Almighty with all of us. I have been blessed from your overflow.
To God be the glory!
Good night,
Lisa
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Week 9 Assignments (Heaven)
Home, Sweet Home
1. Think about favorite memories from your childhood home. Write down a comparison between those memories and your expectations of heaven. Then thank God for his promise of a perfect “home, sweet home.”
2. Look up “heaven” in a concordance, studying several verses before and after each reference for context. Allow the information to deepen your appreciation of God’s care for you.
3. Initiate a conversation with an elderly Christian to gain their perspective on heaven. How does it challenge your own perceptions?
4. Log on to the blog to encourage others with your insights on heaven. Include favorite scriptures.
1. Think about favorite memories from your childhood home. Write down a comparison between those memories and your expectations of heaven. Then thank God for his promise of a perfect “home, sweet home.”
2. Look up “heaven” in a concordance, studying several verses before and after each reference for context. Allow the information to deepen your appreciation of God’s care for you.
3. Initiate a conversation with an elderly Christian to gain their perspective on heaven. How does it challenge your own perceptions?
4. Log on to the blog to encourage others with your insights on heaven. Include favorite scriptures.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
My Citizenship Is...Where???
"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ."
PHILIPPIANS 3:20
Philippians 3:20 tells us our citizenship is in Heaven.
This earth is not our home.
When people whose citizenship in another country come to live in the U.S., they must apply for and be granted a visa.
Make your own visa (type R for regular, H1/B for Non-Immigrant Worker type: Temporary Visitor for Business). Fill it out with your information, then cut it out and carry with you to remind you that you are a citizen of Heaven, with temporary living privileges in the U.S.
When Christ comes, you will no longer need your visa. You will be going HOME!! To YOUR country – the home prepared for you by Christ! Are you excited about His return? Are you ANTICIPATING it? Is there someone you know who is not ready for His return? What will you do this week to prepare them for His return?
PHILIPPIANS 3:20
Philippians 3:20 tells us our citizenship is in Heaven.
This earth is not our home.
When people whose citizenship in another country come to live in the U.S., they must apply for and be granted a visa.
Make your own visa (type R for regular, H1/B for Non-Immigrant Worker type: Temporary Visitor for Business). Fill it out with your information, then cut it out and carry with you to remind you that you are a citizen of Heaven, with temporary living privileges in the U.S.
When Christ comes, you will no longer need your visa. You will be going HOME!! To YOUR country – the home prepared for you by Christ! Are you excited about His return? Are you ANTICIPATING it? Is there someone you know who is not ready for His return? What will you do this week to prepare them for His return?
Week 8 Assignments (Anticipation: The 2nd Coming)
How Do You Wait?
1. Start a new tradition. What do you do as you build anticipation for…Christmas? (decorations, baking, music, shopping) A coming child? (baby showers, budget, nursery) Vacation? (plan, pray, pack) Birthday? (invitations, parties, gifts)
How can you build anticipation for the coming of Christ?
Brainstorm ideas with your family for starting a new tradition to celebrate this great expectation.
2. Spend time in the Word with James 5:7,8; 1 Corinthians 16:22; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11; 1 Corinthians 15:50-58; 2 Peter 3:10-13.
What encouragement do you gain from these words?
How can you encourage others with them?
3. Don’t waste the wait! Get your head out of the sand; spend your “waiting time” for the Second Coming productively. Try these ideas (adapted from how to pass time while waiting in line at Walt Disney World!).
* Initiate conversations with those next to you in lines (in stores, on planes, in doctor’s offices). Ask them if they know Jesus. Many new friendships begin this way.
* Bring your Bible with you to the ball field, to the lunchroom, to the playground.
* Listen to Christian music on your iPod or walkman—and sing out loud so others can hear the words.
* People-watch!—and pray for those you see.
* Play I-Spy with works of God’s creation, then praise Him for them.
1. Start a new tradition. What do you do as you build anticipation for…Christmas? (decorations, baking, music, shopping) A coming child? (baby showers, budget, nursery) Vacation? (plan, pray, pack) Birthday? (invitations, parties, gifts)
How can you build anticipation for the coming of Christ?
Brainstorm ideas with your family for starting a new tradition to celebrate this great expectation.
2. Spend time in the Word with James 5:7,8; 1 Corinthians 16:22; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11; 1 Corinthians 15:50-58; 2 Peter 3:10-13.
What encouragement do you gain from these words?
How can you encourage others with them?
3. Don’t waste the wait! Get your head out of the sand; spend your “waiting time” for the Second Coming productively. Try these ideas (adapted from how to pass time while waiting in line at Walt Disney World!).
* Initiate conversations with those next to you in lines (in stores, on planes, in doctor’s offices). Ask them if they know Jesus. Many new friendships begin this way.
* Bring your Bible with you to the ball field, to the lunchroom, to the playground.
* Listen to Christian music on your iPod or walkman—and sing out loud so others can hear the words.
* People-watch!—and pray for those you see.
* Play I-Spy with works of God’s creation, then praise Him for them.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Whose Life Is It Anyway?
Mine?
Or His?
When we sign our life away on the dotted line of Christianity, there is something we give up. Something big.
Our rights.
We give up the right to remain silent. The right to please only ourselves. The right to do what we want with our time. The right to spend our money however we please. The right to read whatever we want, watch whatever we want, listen to whatever we want.
But we also give up something much bigger: our eternal death. By voluntarily laying down our lives for Christ, he removes the real killer, the deadly consequences of our sin.
After the Word became flesh, the flesh would never be the same. Christ’s willingness to humbly compact his Deity into the shape of a human body was the bottom-line trade-off of his life for my life. An unbelievable bargain for me, but an absolutely unsurpassable sacrifice for him.
So when I live for me, that’s not genuine life—just an imitation of life. But when I live for Christ, I get the real deal—abundant, eternal life.
[Christ Jesus] made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death
—even death on a cross! Philippians 2:7, 8
Or His?
When we sign our life away on the dotted line of Christianity, there is something we give up. Something big.
Our rights.
We give up the right to remain silent. The right to please only ourselves. The right to do what we want with our time. The right to spend our money however we please. The right to read whatever we want, watch whatever we want, listen to whatever we want.
But we also give up something much bigger: our eternal death. By voluntarily laying down our lives for Christ, he removes the real killer, the deadly consequences of our sin.
After the Word became flesh, the flesh would never be the same. Christ’s willingness to humbly compact his Deity into the shape of a human body was the bottom-line trade-off of his life for my life. An unbelievable bargain for me, but an absolutely unsurpassable sacrifice for him.
So when I live for me, that’s not genuine life—just an imitation of life. But when I live for Christ, I get the real deal—abundant, eternal life.
[Christ Jesus] made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death
—even death on a cross! Philippians 2:7, 8
Week 7 Assignments (My Life in Christ)
What’s Next?
This week, experiment with one or all of these ideas about LIFE:
1. Take a survey of your current devotional life. Nonexistent? Sporadic? Consistent? Ask yourself: Would my life be different if I spent more time with God? Then try it and see.
2. Got Life?
Don’t be destroyed by lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). Do some investigative work in the Word this week on what “life” in Christ really means.
3. This is your life.
Think about 3-4 significant spiritual events in your life. Write a paragraph about one of the events, detailing its effect on who you are today.
4. Memorize this pivotal verse about Christ’s sacrifice:
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
This week, experiment with one or all of these ideas about LIFE:
1. Take a survey of your current devotional life. Nonexistent? Sporadic? Consistent? Ask yourself: Would my life be different if I spent more time with God? Then try it and see.
2. Got Life?
Don’t be destroyed by lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). Do some investigative work in the Word this week on what “life” in Christ really means.
3. This is your life.
Think about 3-4 significant spiritual events in your life. Write a paragraph about one of the events, detailing its effect on who you are today.
4. Memorize this pivotal verse about Christ’s sacrifice:
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14
Thursday, October 12, 2006
"Will You Pray for Me?"
Intercessory prayer is going to bat for your brother. Or neighbor. Or stranger halfway across the world. Maybe they’re talking to God, too. Maybe they’re not.
It’s one of the most important things you can do for someone. So don’t take it lightly when someone asks you to pray for them. And certainly don’t DO it lightly.
Intercessory prayer is serious stuff. It takes diligence. It requires patience. It demonstrates love.
* WHO can do it?
Only priests. Do you qualify? Ask Peter and John. (1)
* WHAT do I ask for you?
Paul wrote (2):
That He will give you the Spirit
of wisdom and revelation
That you will be filled with fruit of righteousness
That you will know Him better
That He will enlighten the eyes of your heart to know hope
That your love will abound in knowledge and insight
That Christ will dwell in your heart
That He will strengthen you with power
That you will know Christ’s love
That you will be filled with knowledge of His will
That you will please Him in every way
That you will overflow with love for others
That you will be worthy of His calling
That He will fulfill every good purpose of yours
That you will be strengthened in every good deed
That He will give you peace at all times and in every way
* HOW OFTEN do I ask?
Always. Night and day, most earnestly. Constantly. Don’t stop. Keep asking. (3)
The Lord sincerely desires for me to pray for you, and for you to pray for me. So let’s approach the throne confidently and expectantly that not only will He hear us, but that He eagerly awaits the conversation and is most ready to act.
(1) 1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6
(2) Eph. 1:17-19; 3:16-19; Phil. 1:9-11; Col. 1:9-11; 1 Thess. 3:12-13, 2 Thess. 1:11; 2 Thess. 2:16-17; 2 Thess. 3:16
(3) 1 Thess 1:2; 3:10; 5:17; Phil 1:3,4; 2 Thess 1:11; Col 1:9; Eph 1:17
It’s one of the most important things you can do for someone. So don’t take it lightly when someone asks you to pray for them. And certainly don’t DO it lightly.
Intercessory prayer is serious stuff. It takes diligence. It requires patience. It demonstrates love.
* WHO can do it?
Only priests. Do you qualify? Ask Peter and John. (1)
* WHAT do I ask for you?
Paul wrote (2):
That He will give you the Spirit
of wisdom and revelation
That you will be filled with fruit of righteousness
That you will know Him better
That He will enlighten the eyes of your heart to know hope
That your love will abound in knowledge and insight
That Christ will dwell in your heart
That He will strengthen you with power
That you will know Christ’s love
That you will be filled with knowledge of His will
That you will please Him in every way
That you will overflow with love for others
That you will be worthy of His calling
That He will fulfill every good purpose of yours
That you will be strengthened in every good deed
That He will give you peace at all times and in every way
* HOW OFTEN do I ask?
Always. Night and day, most earnestly. Constantly. Don’t stop. Keep asking. (3)
The Lord sincerely desires for me to pray for you, and for you to pray for me. So let’s approach the throne confidently and expectantly that not only will He hear us, but that He eagerly awaits the conversation and is most ready to act.
(1) 1 Peter 2:9, Revelation 1:6
(2) Eph. 1:17-19; 3:16-19; Phil. 1:9-11; Col. 1:9-11; 1 Thess. 3:12-13, 2 Thess. 1:11; 2 Thess. 2:16-17; 2 Thess. 3:16
(3) 1 Thess 1:2; 3:10; 5:17; Phil 1:3,4; 2 Thess 1:11; Col 1:9; Eph 1:17
Week 6 Assignments (Intercessory Prayer)
Can we do it?
1. Take a prayer walk. Pair up with a friend or Life Talk and take a walk around the neighborhood. Pray over the families that live there and the activities that go on. Don’t do it to be seen, but to see.
2. Collect-a-Prayer. Set up a prayer area in your home with a small basket, a pen, paper, Bible, and notecards. Place names in the basket of “the one” non-believers that you are praying for this year. Light a candle to remind you to pray for Christ to light up their lives.
3. Today’s prayer is…. Focus on one group at a time.
Allocate your Sunday prayer time for our church family.
Monday—your immediate family.
Tuesday—extended family.
Wednesday—close friends.
Thursday—neighbors, co-workers, acquaintances.
Friday—the lost around the world.
Saturday—yourself!
4. Memorize this verse for those you pray for:
I pray…that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
Ephesians 1:18,19
1. Take a prayer walk. Pair up with a friend or Life Talk and take a walk around the neighborhood. Pray over the families that live there and the activities that go on. Don’t do it to be seen, but to see.
2. Collect-a-Prayer. Set up a prayer area in your home with a small basket, a pen, paper, Bible, and notecards. Place names in the basket of “the one” non-believers that you are praying for this year. Light a candle to remind you to pray for Christ to light up their lives.
3. Today’s prayer is…. Focus on one group at a time.
Allocate your Sunday prayer time for our church family.
Monday—your immediate family.
Tuesday—extended family.
Wednesday—close friends.
Thursday—neighbors, co-workers, acquaintances.
Friday—the lost around the world.
Saturday—yourself!
4. Memorize this verse for those you pray for:
I pray…that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.
Ephesians 1:18,19
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Excerpts from the Worship Blog
Grace is complex yet simple…Although I tell Him how thankful I am every day, believe me, I welcome the opportunity to tell Him one day face to face.
* * *
I don't really have a "favorite" name of God…I just like that He has so many! He's so…BIG that one name isn't enough- he needs a whole bunch.
* * *
Many have influenced my Christian walk: Sandra, Sharon,..
* * *
My favorite name of God is "The Creator"…has all the elements of an ambitious talented entity. It brings together nature and the arts. Just look around. God's creativity is everywhere.
* * *
We were asked last week to think of a quality of God. I thought a lot about the sovereignty of God…. I read this article today…an example of a complete trust in our God, El Shaddai (God Almighty)!
* * *
To humble ourselves before God without reservation, this is the goal and struggle of worship.
* * *
Alive..approved..built up ..chosen..standing firm..in Christ.
* * *
When I hear the word "worship" I think about the word "freedom".
* * *
There were improvements in strength and stamina…but also spiritual growth that come from spending time together on a consistent basis.
* * *
Sitting alone in the swing, Grandpa’s old hands open a tattered shape note songbook. “When I look down from lofty mountain’s grandeur… Then sings my soul, my Savoir, God to Thee…” It is his time of worship and thanks to Abba.
* * *
It really felt like I was looking right into the face of Jesus. It was one of those moments that should never have to end!
* * *
When we get those occasional glimpses into what it really means to know the Creator of the universe, (what we really have in Christ right this very minute!) the only appropriate response is thankful worship.
* * *
No matter what is going on in my life and no matter how bad things seem, there is only one answer --GOD!!!
* * *
* * *
I don't really have a "favorite" name of God…I just like that He has so many! He's so…BIG that one name isn't enough- he needs a whole bunch.
* * *
Many have influenced my Christian walk: Sandra, Sharon,..
* * *
My favorite name of God is "The Creator"…has all the elements of an ambitious talented entity. It brings together nature and the arts. Just look around. God's creativity is everywhere.
* * *
We were asked last week to think of a quality of God. I thought a lot about the sovereignty of God…. I read this article today…an example of a complete trust in our God, El Shaddai (God Almighty)!
* * *
To humble ourselves before God without reservation, this is the goal and struggle of worship.
* * *
Alive..approved..built up ..chosen..standing firm..in Christ.
* * *
When I hear the word "worship" I think about the word "freedom".
* * *
There were improvements in strength and stamina…but also spiritual growth that come from spending time together on a consistent basis.
* * *
Sitting alone in the swing, Grandpa’s old hands open a tattered shape note songbook. “When I look down from lofty mountain’s grandeur… Then sings my soul, my Savoir, God to Thee…” It is his time of worship and thanks to Abba.
* * *
It really felt like I was looking right into the face of Jesus. It was one of those moments that should never have to end!
* * *
When we get those occasional glimpses into what it really means to know the Creator of the universe, (what we really have in Christ right this very minute!) the only appropriate response is thankful worship.
* * *
No matter what is going on in my life and no matter how bad things seem, there is only one answer --GOD!!!
* * *
Week 5 Assignments (Psalms)
1. Share a Psalm. Handwrite a verse (or a whole Psalm!) and give it as a gift to a friend this week. It will be treasured.
2. Spend 5-10 minutes daily this week reading in Psalms.
3. Personalize Psalm 145. Read it aloud, inserting your name and your personal circumstances as appropriate. Give this offering of praise to the Father from you.
4. Memorize as much of Psalm 34 as you can! You won’t regret it. (And you may know more than you realize.)
Here are a few verses to get you going:
7The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.
8Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! 9Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack! 10The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
2. Spend 5-10 minutes daily this week reading in Psalms.
3. Personalize Psalm 145. Read it aloud, inserting your name and your personal circumstances as appropriate. Give this offering of praise to the Father from you.
4. Memorize as much of Psalm 34 as you can! You won’t regret it. (And you may know more than you realize.)
Here are a few verses to get you going:
7The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.
8Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! 9Oh, fear the LORD, you his saints, for those who fear him have no lack! 10The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
A Prayer from Our Class
To: Our God
From: The Wednesday Worship Class
Dear Lord,
Again tonight we bow before your brilliance. We bring our two mites, multiplied by 30+ voices and 30+ hearts. How gracious you are to accept our offering of worship! We desire to bring you pleasure, to make you smile.
Yet we are weak, so you empower us. We are dirty; you make us pure. We are empty; you flood us with fullness.
See how we need you? And you never disappoint.
You pull us into your arms, hold us close, and love us just the way we each need.
When we walk out of this room tonight, our worship is just beginning. Reveal to us still more ways this week to show and tell that we love you…and your goodness and your holiness and your mercy and your….
For we are believers.
And we are worshipers,
of the one true God,
by the power of the Spirit,
through the grace of our Savior Jesus.
We love you, Abba Father,
Your children
From: The Wednesday Worship Class
Dear Lord,
Again tonight we bow before your brilliance. We bring our two mites, multiplied by 30+ voices and 30+ hearts. How gracious you are to accept our offering of worship! We desire to bring you pleasure, to make you smile.
Yet we are weak, so you empower us. We are dirty; you make us pure. We are empty; you flood us with fullness.
See how we need you? And you never disappoint.
You pull us into your arms, hold us close, and love us just the way we each need.
When we walk out of this room tonight, our worship is just beginning. Reveal to us still more ways this week to show and tell that we love you…and your goodness and your holiness and your mercy and your….
For we are believers.
And we are worshipers,
of the one true God,
by the power of the Spirit,
through the grace of our Savior Jesus.
We love you, Abba Father,
Your children
Week 4 Assignments (Prayer)
Try one or all of the following suggestions this week:
1. Commit the next 7 days to consistently pray about the requests in the bulletin, if you don’t already. Keep the list in a convenient spot so you won’t forget. Follow up next week by asking the requestee, when appropriate, how things turned out, or send them a note to let them know you held them up to the Father this week. That’s one way to worship God and show love to each other!
2. What are your greatest difficulties in praying? List three, and then pray several times this week for help in overcoming them.
3. Practice meaningful conversations. When you’re with a friend this week, take a break from talking just to each other, and include God in the conversation. Pray together to Him about the very things you were sharing with your friend.
4. Memorize:
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us–whatever we ask–we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 JOHN 5:14,15
1. Commit the next 7 days to consistently pray about the requests in the bulletin, if you don’t already. Keep the list in a convenient spot so you won’t forget. Follow up next week by asking the requestee, when appropriate, how things turned out, or send them a note to let them know you held them up to the Father this week. That’s one way to worship God and show love to each other!
2. What are your greatest difficulties in praying? List three, and then pray several times this week for help in overcoming them.
3. Practice meaningful conversations. When you’re with a friend this week, take a break from talking just to each other, and include God in the conversation. Pray together to Him about the very things you were sharing with your friend.
4. Memorize:
This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us–whatever we ask–we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 JOHN 5:14,15
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
My Whole Name
What’s your middle name? Who knows it? Who calls you a nickname?
While our names are not who we are, they do represent who we are. Hearing our name, we always turn and look, regardless of who is calling it. We choose our children’s names with much deliberation. We bestow names on our animals (and even inanimate objects!) befitting their personalities or looks.
Names matter.
What about God? Do we know his whole name? What does he call himself? What does he want us to call him?
Does he turn around and look when he hears his name, regardless of who is saying it, and regardless of how they’re using it?
The distinctive name God gives himself is the tetragrammaton (“word with 4 letters”) YHWH, which we translate as Yahweh, Jehovah, and LORD (all capital letters).
It means? “I AM” (Exodus 3:14-15). “He Who Is,” or “the One that Exists.”
But to us, it also means that through His holy name, we exist. We are. And we are made holy. And whole.
Our whole name then represents more than who we are; it also reflects Whose we are.
Speak His name often—He will always turn around and listen.
His name is definitely a name that matters.
While our names are not who we are, they do represent who we are. Hearing our name, we always turn and look, regardless of who is calling it. We choose our children’s names with much deliberation. We bestow names on our animals (and even inanimate objects!) befitting their personalities or looks.
Names matter.
What about God? Do we know his whole name? What does he call himself? What does he want us to call him?
Does he turn around and look when he hears his name, regardless of who is saying it, and regardless of how they’re using it?
The distinctive name God gives himself is the tetragrammaton (“word with 4 letters”) YHWH, which we translate as Yahweh, Jehovah, and LORD (all capital letters).
It means? “I AM” (Exodus 3:14-15). “He Who Is,” or “the One that Exists.”
But to us, it also means that through His holy name, we exist. We are. And we are made holy. And whole.
Our whole name then represents more than who we are; it also reflects Whose we are.
Speak His name often—He will always turn around and listen.
His name is definitely a name that matters.
Week 3 Assignments (Names of God)
1. “Hi, ____!”
People are flattered when you recall their name. It shows you care enough to invest energy in remembering.
So do it! Be a blessing. Instead of “Hi”, this week say “Hi, ___” when you pass someone in the halls at Central or in the cafeteria at work. Notice how many people you address by name this Sunday. Make it at least 5 (family members/close friends do not count!).
Remember: God knows YOU by name!
“And the LORD said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”
Exodus 33:17
2. Spend some time this week reading the scriptures in “Portraits of God.” Think through the questions and share your answers with your spouse or a friend.
3. Choose a name of God that speaks to where you are this week. Use a concordance and look up related verses. Thank God for revealing himself to you in such a personal way.
4. Memorize:
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11
People are flattered when you recall their name. It shows you care enough to invest energy in remembering.
So do it! Be a blessing. Instead of “Hi”, this week say “Hi, ___” when you pass someone in the halls at Central or in the cafeteria at work. Notice how many people you address by name this Sunday. Make it at least 5 (family members/close friends do not count!).
Remember: God knows YOU by name!
“And the LORD said to Moses, “I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.”
Exodus 33:17
2. Spend some time this week reading the scriptures in “Portraits of God.” Think through the questions and share your answers with your spouse or a friend.
3. Choose a name of God that speaks to where you are this week. Use a concordance and look up related verses. Thank God for revealing himself to you in such a personal way.
4. Memorize:
“Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11
Saturday, September 16, 2006
W*W*J*S or What Would Jesus Sing?
I Surrender All?
I Offer My Life?
Amazing Grace?
All the Psalms?
We have inspired records of words he spoke. But what about words he sang?
Certainly of the same value, they must have been true, noble, right.
I Offer My Life?
Amazing Grace?
All the Psalms?
We have inspired records of words he spoke. But what about words he sang?
Certainly of the same value, they must have been true, noble, right.
Pure, lovely, admirable. Excellent and praiseworthy.
While we have no written record of what he sang, we do know that he did sing.
When they had
sung a hymn,
they went out to
the Mount of Olives.
MATTHEW 26:30
What was that hymn he sung?
Do we sing it these days?
Did we sing it tonight?
Actually, it was probably more than one hymn. Tradition indicates that Psalms 113-118, known as the “Hallell,” were sung or chanted at Passover, so scholars suggest
While we have no written record of what he sang, we do know that he did sing.
When they had
sung a hymn,
they went out to
the Mount of Olives.
MATTHEW 26:30
What was that hymn he sung?
Do we sing it these days?
Did we sing it tonight?
Actually, it was probably more than one hymn. Tradition indicates that Psalms 113-118, known as the “Hallell,” were sung or chanted at Passover, so scholars suggest
those were most likely what Jesus sang that night.
Look up Psalm 113-118.
Look up Psalm 113-118.
Imagine Jesus singing these words on the eve of his own sacrifice….
Then the next time you sing “From the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, the name of the Lord shall be praised” (Ps 113:3) or “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Ps 118:1) or “This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24), remember the context in which Jesus sang those same words.
And sing with inspiration.
Then the next time you sing “From the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, the name of the Lord shall be praised” (Ps 113:3) or “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Ps 118:1) or “This is the day that the Lord has made; I will rejoice and be glad in it” (Ps 118:24), remember the context in which Jesus sang those same words.
And sing with inspiration.
Week 2 Assignments (Singing)
It Is Your Turn
Next Week!
God has numerous qualities that make him worthy of worship. Choose one to share with the class next Wednesday. Bring a scripture and/or a personal experience to illustrate your thought.
THIS WEEK
Choose one:
1. Using a hymnal, look up “Worship” songs in the topical index. Sing or read the words to one hymn a day for a week.
2. Memorize a new scripture via song. Choose one already set to music or create a tune of your own.
3. Ask each member of your family to submit 2 or 3 song suggestions from their favorite CD’s. Compile this music into a new CD or tape for your everyday travel time.
4. Commit to memory:
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD,
my Rock and my Redeemer.
PSALM 19:14
Enjoy listening to a new song on your borrowed CD this week. When you return it next Wednesday, ask the owner which tune is his favorite and why, then compare that to your favorite.
Next Week!
God has numerous qualities that make him worthy of worship. Choose one to share with the class next Wednesday. Bring a scripture and/or a personal experience to illustrate your thought.
THIS WEEK
Choose one:
1. Using a hymnal, look up “Worship” songs in the topical index. Sing or read the words to one hymn a day for a week.
2. Memorize a new scripture via song. Choose one already set to music or create a tune of your own.
3. Ask each member of your family to submit 2 or 3 song suggestions from their favorite CD’s. Compile this music into a new CD or tape for your everyday travel time.
4. Commit to memory:
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O LORD,
my Rock and my Redeemer.
PSALM 19:14
Enjoy listening to a new song on your borrowed CD this week. When you return it next Wednesday, ask the owner which tune is his favorite and why, then compare that to your favorite.
"Why I Don't Worship"
Part 1:
Why I Don’t Worship
Okay, I admit it. Often on Sunday mornings, I’m just not in the mood to worship. And if I don’t feel it, there’s no point in faking it, right? But hey, it’s not my fault! I just can’t get into the music. Sometimes too slow. Sometimes too fast. And I don’t always like the style. So there goes my worship; what else is a guy to do? Isn’t that all worship is about—singing at church on Sunday?
I usually have a lot on my mind, too, so I can’t be expected to pay close attention. I’ve probably heard it all before anyhow. Same ol’ stories—how many times can you read the same book and expect to hear anything new?
And the prayer requests, well, I don’t usually know those people anyway. As long as the guy up front is praying, that’s good enough, right?
Oh, when I’m at home? Or at work during the week? What in the world does that have to do with worship?
Part II:
Why I Do Worship
Okay, I admit it. Often on Sunday mornings, I’m just not in the mood to worship. But what does my mood have to do with who God is?1 It’s not about me—it’s about him.2 So I share my “joyful noise” with the church, offering him music from our hearts.3 Tuning into the lyrics, I thank God that he’s among us, accepting our sacrifice of praise. Strange how that shifts my mood….
Another odd thing…regardless of what’s on my mind, God uses his timeless words to speak to my situation.4 His words are so alive and fresh.5
And the prayer requests—every week they reveal how much we need God.6 Others desire that I pray for them—what an awesome opportunity and responsibility to have conversations with our Father.7
The rest of the week? The two hours I see God at Central are short compared to the rest of the hours and many ways I see him all week long.8
So why do I worship? Because when I look for him, I find him.9 And when I find him, how can I not worship?10
REALLY?
Look it up yourself!
1. Psalm 100:3; Rom. 11:33-36
2. Acts 17:28; Rom. 9:20
3. Psalm 98:4; Col. 3:16
4. Isaiah 55:11; Heb. 4:12
5. Isaiah 40:6-8; John 1:1,14
6. Psalm 62:5-8; Phil. 4:19
7. James 5:16; 1 Sam. 12:23
8. Psalm 145:1-3
9. Psalm 63:1-5; Jer. 29:12-1310. Matt. 28:9; John 20:28
Why I Don’t Worship
Okay, I admit it. Often on Sunday mornings, I’m just not in the mood to worship. And if I don’t feel it, there’s no point in faking it, right? But hey, it’s not my fault! I just can’t get into the music. Sometimes too slow. Sometimes too fast. And I don’t always like the style. So there goes my worship; what else is a guy to do? Isn’t that all worship is about—singing at church on Sunday?
I usually have a lot on my mind, too, so I can’t be expected to pay close attention. I’ve probably heard it all before anyhow. Same ol’ stories—how many times can you read the same book and expect to hear anything new?
And the prayer requests, well, I don’t usually know those people anyway. As long as the guy up front is praying, that’s good enough, right?
Oh, when I’m at home? Or at work during the week? What in the world does that have to do with worship?
Part II:
Why I Do Worship
Okay, I admit it. Often on Sunday mornings, I’m just not in the mood to worship. But what does my mood have to do with who God is?1 It’s not about me—it’s about him.2 So I share my “joyful noise” with the church, offering him music from our hearts.3 Tuning into the lyrics, I thank God that he’s among us, accepting our sacrifice of praise. Strange how that shifts my mood….
Another odd thing…regardless of what’s on my mind, God uses his timeless words to speak to my situation.4 His words are so alive and fresh.5
And the prayer requests—every week they reveal how much we need God.6 Others desire that I pray for them—what an awesome opportunity and responsibility to have conversations with our Father.7
The rest of the week? The two hours I see God at Central are short compared to the rest of the hours and many ways I see him all week long.8
So why do I worship? Because when I look for him, I find him.9 And when I find him, how can I not worship?10
REALLY?
Look it up yourself!
1. Psalm 100:3; Rom. 11:33-36
2. Acts 17:28; Rom. 9:20
3. Psalm 98:4; Col. 3:16
4. Isaiah 55:11; Heb. 4:12
5. Isaiah 40:6-8; John 1:1,14
6. Psalm 62:5-8; Phil. 4:19
7. James 5:16; 1 Sam. 12:23
8. Psalm 145:1-3
9. Psalm 63:1-5; Jer. 29:12-1310. Matt. 28:9; John 20:28
Week 1 Assignments (Worship)
WARNING! WARNING!
The suggestions below should be attempted only by professional believers (that’s YOU!), under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and are thus recommended to be undertaken at home/work.
TRY THESE:
1. Choose one day this week to consciously offer your daily routine to God. Do everything you do out of love for HIM. Bring him honor while communicating with co-workers, cooking meals for your family, answering the telephone. Be nice even when you don’t feel like it. See the difference it makes in your attitude!
2. Take 5 minutes each day this week to do nothing but thank God for who he is and what he’s done for you. Then choose a worship scripture to read and meditate on.
3. Prepare for worship with the church. Get organized on Saturday to eliminate the Sunday mad dash. On the drive in, examine your heart and pray with your family. Thank God for the privilege of worshiping with believers. Ask Him to help you bring him honor. Pray blessings on the leaders/teachers (by name, if possible) who will guide your thoughts. Commit to being attentive and participative. On the drive home, share ways that you encountered God.
4. Memorize me! “I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” PSALM 34:1
The suggestions below should be attempted only by professional believers (that’s YOU!), under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and are thus recommended to be undertaken at home/work.
TRY THESE:
1. Choose one day this week to consciously offer your daily routine to God. Do everything you do out of love for HIM. Bring him honor while communicating with co-workers, cooking meals for your family, answering the telephone. Be nice even when you don’t feel like it. See the difference it makes in your attitude!
2. Take 5 minutes each day this week to do nothing but thank God for who he is and what he’s done for you. Then choose a worship scripture to read and meditate on.
3. Prepare for worship with the church. Get organized on Saturday to eliminate the Sunday mad dash. On the drive in, examine your heart and pray with your family. Thank God for the privilege of worshiping with believers. Ask Him to help you bring him honor. Pray blessings on the leaders/teachers (by name, if possible) who will guide your thoughts. Commit to being attentive and participative. On the drive home, share ways that you encountered God.
4. Memorize me! “I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” PSALM 34:1
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