Got Christ? Can others tell? – Romans 3:21-26
21 But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, 22 even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, 26 to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
How many times have I heard individuals laughingly say, “No church would want me. I’ve screwed up my life too much to go to church”? How many times have I also heard, “If I step inside the door of a church the baptistery would probably boil,” or “I’d probably be struck by lightning”? Unfortunately, WAY too many times! So many people out there feel they are beyond the chance of redemption; that there’s no hope for them…and honestly, why should they feel any different?
We live in a judgmental world and sadly, a large part of that judgment stems from the church and our view of the ‘unchurched’. We preach the scripture above, but in our daily lives cast our own personal prison sentences upon those who don’t look, walk, talk or act like us. Part of that, I think is just the sinful nature of man. However, the scripture says “ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” and that includes those who have already accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior. As Christians we have to be cautious not to bow down to the ‘holier than thou’ mind-set that Satan wants us to have. It’s that mind-set that allows the ‘unchurched’ to believe they will never belong in Christ’s body of believers and assists in the falling away from church of current believers. Christ taught us the meaning of loving unconditionally when He willing gave His life on that cross. As Christians, we need to display that love, not only to those who happen to attend the same church as us, but especially to those who do not have a church home. Can you imagine what this world would be like if those of us who claim to be followers of Christ actually showed on a daily basis the love and acceptance Christ offers…and not just by inviting someone to church? So, what prevents us from showing and sharing the LOVE and ACCEPTANCE of Christ?
ALL have sinned and are undeserving of God’s love…yet ALL are welcome to receive the free gift of God’s grace. Let us not forget WHO we represent to a lost and dying world!
To those who feel they have no place in God’s church or would ever be accepted, please know that forgiveness is available to ALL who are willing to receive it. God loves you regardless of your past or current situation. He’s GREAT at taking sad, misshapen lives and creating a work of art! If you’ve tried everything else and seemingly failed…give God a try! He will never fail you!
God bless,
Misty Clapsaddle
THE FRAZZLED WOMAN
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4
When I was asked to consider writing a devotional for the "Women's Ministry" at our church, I knew it had to be for a good reason. When I was informed of the topic, it brought a smile to my face, because God knows how frazzled I have been. I knew immediately God must want to speak to me, so I can work through some of these things. Realizing how persistent God can be, I decided to accept the offer. I wasn't sure what was going to transpire, but I was willing to put my faith in Him to lead me.
I've felt like there isn't enough hours in the day, week, or even in the month to handle everything. I try to be a good wife, mom, and grandma, take care of our home, be a friend, a prayer partner, sing with my family, etc. Now to add to it, I've got two of my closest friends and my first and foremost favorite cousin who are all battling Cancer. Sometimes you just feel so overwhelmed and helpless. It's like you can't be everywhere all at the same time. As I sit here and read what has been written, I can see that I'm no different than anyone else. We all have to face many trials throughout our lives, it isn't my first trial and I know it won't be my last, but the greatest common denominator is Jesus Christ. I guess it all comes down to I am trying to handle everything all on my own instead of asking Him to guide me through these trials. I always feel, if I'm always talking to Him, how does anyone else have their time to talk to Him.
Once again, He's coming through loud and clear. I know He will lift us up when we are at work or anywhere. He will be in places that we can't seem to reach. He will heal bodies that we can't possibly heal. He will reach down and comfort you "Until The Storm Passes By", bringing "Peace In The Valley" to a rather "frazzled time" in your life. The best part.
He's Only a Prayer Away.
Thank you Lord, I needed that!
Judy Clapsaddle
John 15:4 NIV:
"Remain in me, and I will remain in you.
No branch can bear fruit by itself;
it must remain in the vine.
Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."
Central Thought: Do not rely on yourself.
You must stay in the fellowship (church).
Although we are all guilty of trying to go it alone and be self-sufficient, God is clearly telling us that we need to remain in the fellowship of our Christian brothers and sisters.
The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. It is so easy to say, The pastor's on vacation this week and we'll have a guest speaker. I think I'll stay home and sleep in for a change. Or, I went to church this morning, so I think I'll take this evening off and catch the game. We can rationalize our behavior so that, to us, it sounds like we're doing the right thing. It's easy to become a part of this world.
If we allow ourselves to forsake the gathering together of God's people, we become weak in the faith and begin to rely on our own strength. "No branch can bear fruit by itself, it must remain in the vine". As we come together in worship, we regain our strength, commitment and desire to serve Him. Think of church as a service or filling station. It's like putting gas in the car. It gives you the strength or fuel to keep going.
When you allow yourself to stay away from fellowship with Christian brothers and sisters, your spirit grows weak and complacent. You begin to allow other interests to keep you from worship on a more regular basis. Maybe that day at the beach, boating, fishing, picnicking, etc. Before long, attending worship services become less and less frequent. Then not at all. "Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me". If we are to remain strong in our faith and desire God's blessing, we must continue to strengthen our walk with the Lord.
"Remain in me, and I will remain in you". He will never forsake or leave you. Don't leave Him! Be in church this week.
In His Service,
Don Clapsaddle