tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2500239531426502862024-02-22T14:03:38.226-08:00mike tedderMike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-85729929869405813392014-12-01T07:41:00.003-08:002014-12-01T07:41:47.121-08:00To: Us with love; From: The Lord All Powerful<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God sent us the best Christmas present ever! No doubt in the commercialization of Christmas and the questions that surround the actual date of the celebration, we can loose the real opportunity we have to recognize that God sent us the greatest gift in Jesus to give us an opportunity to have a real relationship with Him. It's on this understanding that I will take a few moments to highlight the gift of God to us.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><em>"A child has been born to us; God has given a son to us. He will be responsible for leading the people. His name will be Wonderful Counselor, Powerful God, Father Who Lives Forever, Prince of Peace. Power and peace will be in his kingdom and will continue to grow forever. He will rule as king on David's throne and over David's kingdom. He will make it strong by ruling with justice and goodness from now on and forever. The Lord All-Powerful will do this because of his strong love for his people."</em> Isaiah 9:6-7 (NLT)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">God has sent "to us" a great gift. This gift is the Prince of Peace! This peace will be in his kingdom and will continue to grow forever. We recognize that the Kingdom would be established in the hearts of men and women who would follow Christ. Thus, this peace is to rule and grow in us. Wow - a gift that keeps on giving and growing!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">We may feel like that peace is not residing or resonating in our lives. We may wonder where is that peace. It may seem we have an unopened gift. We may need a better understanding of how to open God's Peace package.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">I offer to us today the consideration of how to open this peace in our lives. Here is a simple journey to opening this gift...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">don't worry about anything</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">pray about everything</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">tell God what you need</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial;">thank Him for all He's done.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">This may seem all too elementary. Some times we skip right over that things we need to do in an attempt to find a magic moment. It really is this simple to open the gift of peace.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><em>"Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 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."</em> Philippians 4:6-7</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">To experience God's peace, a peace that exceeds our understanding, we must not worry about anything, pray about everything, tell God what we need and thank Him for all He's done. This peace will guard our hearts and minds as we live in Christ. WOW! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;">As you may exchange and open gifts during this Christmas season, my prayer for you is to open the greatest gift God has given to you - the Prince of Peace!</span><br />
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-16792298024579798882014-01-24T21:18:00.003-08:002014-01-24T21:18:24.662-08:00And it begins<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mark 14:36, “‘…Father,’ he said, ‘everything is possible
for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This prayer of Jesus is one
of the most profound prayers ever offered. He was struggling through the
moment, knowing what was coming. Overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,
He prayed – knowing - His friends were sleeping, one would betray Him any
moment, His friends would deny Him, His country would reject Him, He would be
tortured, He would take on the sin of the world, and in some manner, He would
be separated from the Father. Any one of these could have been reason enough to
quit His journey. Yet He settled it before it would happen when He prayed – Yet
not what I will, but what You will.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Settle it now. Begin an
intentional journey of growth to be like Jesus – to love God and others as He
does. Develop a made-up mind. Pray like Jesus – yet not what I will, but what You
will. He will empower you for your journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">His plans for you are far
better than you could ever imagine. Trust Him in the journey. Not only will you
be overwhelmed with joy but many others will be impacted too. Your destiny is
changing. Go with Him! And it begins…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-58296638781601409562014-01-24T13:44:00.004-08:002014-01-24T13:44:52.796-08:00Everything!<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mark 9:23, “‘If you can?’ said Jesus. ‘Everything is
possible for him who believes.’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Some journeys are longer
than others. This is a short one designed to get you on a longer one. Hopefully
that longer one will get you on many more to come. Our hope is that you never
stop growing spiritually. That’s His hope too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In this story in Mark 9 when
Jesus is asked if He can help, He seems to take exception to the question. They
did not realize whom they were talking to. They asked for pity, and He had
power. The possibilities with God’s power is in the realm of impossibilities
for us. So everything is possible for him who believes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We cannot redeem ourselves.
We cannot change ourselves to be what God wants us to be. We must have His
help. Spiritual growth is dependent on God’s Spirit working in our lives daily.
He is working for us not against us. He will help us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Our part is to just do it.
Do what He gives us to do to grow. Our next step is ask Him what to do. He may
direct you to a Bible passage, a plan for growth or someone to walk with you. So,
just do it. It will become possible!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-4174979293442783342014-01-23T12:10:00.003-08:002014-01-23T12:10:19.511-08:00What does your journey look like?
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mark 8:34, “Then he called the crowd to him along with
his disciples and said: ‘If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself
and take up his cross and follow me.’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus is expecting His
followers to follow Him. He paints a precise picture. This 21-day journey is
intended to reveal specific expectations Jesus has given us. It is not an
exhaustive list, but is a foundational one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus speaks of hypocrites –
those who act like something they are really not, - “These people honor me with
their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their
teachings are but rules taught by men. You have let go of the commands of God
and are holding on to the traditions of men.” Mark 7:6-7. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Our goal in this journey is
to be real - real with God; real with one another and real with ourselves. We
should take the challenge to plan for intentional growth following this 21-day
journey over the course of this year. Set a plan in order to read the Bible through
this year. Evaluate your life spiritually and target areas for growth. Find
someone to be accountable to, just like the disciples were accountable to each
other and to Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you ready for this? Map it out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-3288782043999527172014-01-22T06:29:00.004-08:002014-01-22T06:29:29.196-08:00You're it!
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Mark 1:17-18. “…Jesus said, ‘and I will make you fishers
of men.’ At once they left their nets and followed him.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The disciples were
immediately responsive to the call Jesus issued them. Jesus intended to train
them to lead others as He led them. He was clear about that from the beginning
– I will make you fishers of men.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">As a part of their training
Jesus sent them out to communicate the good news to others with the expectation
of bringing others to faith in Christ. He was just as clear on how to present
this gospel. In Luke 10, Jesus told them to pray blessing first, then build a
relationship perhaps over a meal, then meet any “felt” needs (like praying for
healing), and then proclaim the Kingdom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">If the way is paved with
prayer, friendship and service, most anyone would be ready to hear about the
hope we have in Him. It would create an openness to receive what we have to say
and a desire to have the same.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus is intentional in all
He does. We should be the same: Praying, building relationships and meeting
needs with the intent of leading someone to faith in Christ. Who are you
praying for? What pre-Christian are you building relationship with and meeting
needs for? It’s our turn!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-34691581752856481222014-01-21T14:38:00.001-08:002014-01-21T14:38:05.500-08:00The Billboard
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">John 21:19. “…Then he said to him, ‘Follow me!’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">After spending over three
years with Peter, Jesus tells him the same thing He told him when they first
started their journey together. Peter had learned a lot during the three years,
but during the time Jesus may have needed him the most, he ran another
direction. So Jesus restores him to fellowship after the resurrection and reminds
him of the simple call He gave him at first – follow me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus had a plan for Peter
to represent Him in word and action. Jesus believed in Peter as he believes in
us today. He wants us to live His story in word and action. Peter got it. This
is confirmed when he wrote in his letter, “Live such good lives among your
neighbors that…they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He
visits us.” 1 Peter 2:12. And then he wrote, “Always be prepared to give an
answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.”
1 Peter 3:15.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Have we got it? Do our
actions speak as loud as or louder than our words? Are we living with such good
deeds and hope that others ask about us? <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can honor Him and attract others with what
we say and do! We can do this if our actions and words - Follow Him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-77127187807787582182014-01-20T05:57:00.002-08:002014-01-20T05:57:18.516-08:00the story God is writing<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Luke 19:5-6, “When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up
and said to him, ‘Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house
today.’ So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Zac was just trying to watch
the parade. Because of his physical size, he could not see over the crowd. He
climbed a tree for a better view. Little did he know he would get a personal
moment with the Son of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We all seem to stumble onto
moments with God that forever change our lives. We just need help, maybe even enough
to cry out for it. He hears and here comes the parade. We really had no idea of
what it would mean to encounter the King. He certainly is like no other king we
have ever heard about. This King, born in a stable, will stay at our house. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We are a story that God is
writing. When we recognize another moment of our life is a God story, we should
write it down and share it with someone. These stories have incredible impact
in the lives of others. As they hear them, faith is awakened and they begin to
ask Him to help them too. These God stories will give others encouragement and
empowerment. What is God writing about you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-86585402585144368042014-01-19T17:23:00.001-08:002014-01-19T17:23:03.303-08:00Getting to it...
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Luke 19:17, “’Well done!’ the king exclaimed. ‘You are a
good servant. You have been faithful with the little I entrusted to you…’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In the scope of history, we
can seem like a spec in the universe. Why would God be so concerned with me and
whether I use what He has given me? Because just as He pursued you (the spec)
He is pursuing every human spec ever created. He wants to use you, the redeemed
spec, to redeem another spec. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">So God expects us to be
about His business with the tools (gifts) He has given us. A “good servant” is
a faithful servant who is employing the gifts given to honor the gift giver. A
“good servant” is an active servant. A “good servant” is a trustworthy servant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">A “good servant” takes the
initiative to increase the family business. A “good servant” operates in good
faith. A “good servant” is ready to release the gains to his Master.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We must not overlook the
fact the Master rewards all “good servants” for their service. Their reward is
to serve even more. If God values serving so much that He makes the opportunity
to serve the reward, then we should be getting to it…serving with the gifts
He’s given us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-57360746848935499142014-01-18T18:35:00.001-08:002014-01-18T18:35:19.312-08:00There is more...
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Luke 18: 22, “When Jesus heard this, he said to him, ‘You
still lack one thing…’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus was always helping
those who would follow Him to understand who He is, who they are and who they
need to be. It is so easy to be thankful and comfortable with who we are. This
is especially true when we have achieved another level of growth or
accomplishment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus challenged this young
man who said he had kept all the commandments to do one thing more. He will
always help us to see the next step. He will always expect us to take the next
step. And He will help us to take it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">He has given us gifts to use
for the expressed purpose of serving others His love. These gifts will need
development in our understanding and use of them. We may need to ask Him what
the next growth step is. As we take it; we develop the areas of serving He
gives us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">The young man went away sad after Jesus told him his next step because
he was not willing to take it. According to Jesus, that would have been his
step to victory. Let’s get stepping.</span>Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-86895948354942518462014-01-17T05:00:00.000-08:002014-01-17T10:53:31.976-08:00A New Life, A New Opportunity<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Arial;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Matthew 20:26, “…whoever wants to become great among you
must be your servant...”<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus said of Himself that He
did not come to be served but to serve others. He illustrated this in many
ways, but perhaps in none more powerful than when He washed the disciples’
feet. He commanded them to serve others in the same way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus not only expects us to
serve others but He equips us to do it. He gives us passions and gifts to serve
others. Paul wrote in his letters that “each” one of us have gifts given by God
to serve others. So we have a call to serve, a gift to serve with and a people
to serve. The only thing holding us back from this opportunity for greatness –
is us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Have you discovered your
God-given gifts for serving others his love? You can study New Testament teaching
about gifts He gives and ask the Holy Spirit to give you a discovery of your
gifts. You can ask a spiritual leader in your life to help you on this
discovery journey too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">God doesn’t give us gifts to
display on a shelf. He gifts us to be a blessing to others. May His grace be
displayed through your gifts as you serve others today. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-41075819800350503952014-01-16T05:00:00.000-08:002014-01-17T10:53:19.234-08:00Living Full...<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"></span></b><br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">John 14:26, “…the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send
in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have
said to you.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus said an expression of
our love for Him is obedience to His commands. This would mean we would need to
empty the parts of our lives that do not honor Him and fill it with the things
that do. These things can be called spiritual disciplines. He has taught us what
these disciplines are with His teaching and examples. These disciplines open
the door for a more intimate relationship with Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">As this intimacy grows in
our relationship with Him, we begin to grow fruit that is attributed to the
continued cultivating work of the Holy Spirit. This is not something we can buy
from a spiritual market and add to our lives. It is grown from our intimate
relationship with Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">These fruit are mentioned in
Paul’s letter to the church at Galatia: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness,
goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruit grow when we
make room for intimacy with Him. What fruit is growing in your life? Allow the
Holy Spirit room and time to cultivate your relationship with Christ. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-4357782081849471622014-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:002014-01-17T10:53:06.906-08:00Who do you say?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Matthew 16:15, “’But what about you?’ he (Jesus) asked,
‘Who do you say I am?’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The apostles only
similarities with one another were that the majority of them were fishermen
from Galilee before following Jesus. It was following Jesus that gave them a
new identity. Those with whom they came into contact would recognize them as
someone who had been with Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">What distinguishes us today
from anyone else in our community? The only real distinguishing factor must be
that we have been with Jesus. The more we are with Him we begin to think, act,
serve and love like Him. Our identity changes. Our old way of living fades away
and a new way of living takes us to a new destiny.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The new identity begins with
the surrender of our lives to God and is expressed in water baptism, communion,
and connection with the body of Christ. It continues with growth in our lives
as we take on the disciplines and character of Christ. It is complete when we
graduate into the next life time – eternity – with Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Identity change is always
challenging – ask the butterfly. Yet the struggle is well worth the effort –
Keep the faith!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-17973933490658840782014-01-13T21:43:00.004-08:002014-01-13T21:43:55.934-08:00Who uses the instructions?
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">John 8:31-32, “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus
said, ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will
know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus carefully made a
distinction between those who believe in Him and those who are His followers.
The distinction is made based on whether you hold on to His teaching. Real
followers take on the knowledge and wisdom of their teacher. We learn of Jesus’
knowledge and wisdom in his book, the Bible. We might call it an instruction
manual.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">When we are not willing to
follow instructions, we believe we already know the “how to”. We may believe we
know how to be like Jesus from many sources, however, the Bible is the primary
source and authority that frames who Jesus is and who we should be. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Natural growth happens
daily. Spiritual growth does too. Spiritual growth can be nourished or starved.
We should nourish it daily with a balanced diet of Bible reading to understand
who Jesus is and who we should be. With this, you can know truth and live in freedom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It’s hard to hold on to what
you do not have. Do you have a personal diet plan – a Bible reading plan?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-36426652239927820002014-01-13T05:09:00.001-08:002014-01-13T05:09:23.201-08:00Family Relationships
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Family Relationships</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Matthew 19:6, 14, “So they are no longer two, but one.
Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate…Let the little
children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs
to such as these.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus places a God-given
value on family that we must develop in our lives. From marriage to raising
children, He developed His plan to be woven into the fabric of our lives. The family
unit - the father, husband, mother, wife, son, and daughter - is what God
designed to illustrate His love for us. This is one reason the devil fights so
hard to break up and destroy the family. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The family is the
illustration the apostle Paul uses to describe the relationship God has with
the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Husbands love your wives as
Christ loved the church; wives come under the mission of your husband as to the
Lord; and kids obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Godly family
relationships can only be developed with the help of the Bible, not our culture
or traditions. As we try these Biblical principles on for size, we learn that this
is better than anything else we have experienced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Can you prayerfully consider becoming a Biblical model of the family God
has created you to be? What is your role? Remember He who calls also empowers
you!</span>Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-6141873062129444322014-01-13T04:59:00.004-08:002014-01-13T04:59:53.679-08:00Where friends become family<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Friends become family</span></b><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">John 11:3, “So the sisters sent word to Jesus, ‘Lord, the
one you love is sick.’”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus built great
friendships with those around Him. Lazarus was recognized by his sisters as
someone special to Jesus. Jesus wept at his graveside. Then He raised him from
the dead. Wow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus even called those He
was teaching His family if they did God’s will. He valued relationships with
those around Him. He invested in those relationships with His time. He built close
friendships with those who ministered with Him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">He challenges us with the
statement, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Greater love has no one than
this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”</i> Real relationships need
real commitment to give each other our best. Those friendships become more than
friendships, they become family. In many regards, these God friendships that
become family are stronger relationships than our earthly family. These
relationships provide us love, forgiveness, acceptance, help, encouragement and
accountability. These are real relationships. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Do you have any God-given
friends in your circle? Can you find a new friend this year? Start by making
yourself friendly! Enjoy the adventure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-16365028956691475252014-01-11T08:35:00.001-08:002014-01-11T08:35:27.377-08:00Connecting with Them<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“When he came to the village of Nazareth, his boyhood
home, he went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath and stood up to read the
Scriptures.” Luke 4:16<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus models the values He
wants us to have. As you read about His life in the gospels, notice He valued meeting
together in the synagogue on almost a daily basis. He would participate in the
teaching, worship and relationship building at each gathering. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The writer in Hebrews <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">(10:25) </i>says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“You should not stay away from the church meetings…you should meet
together and encourage each other.” </i>He shares what Jesus models: encourage
one another, motivate one another to love and good works to make a difference
in the lives of others, strengthen one another to hold tight to the hope we
have from the promises of God and be empowered to go into the presence of God
with sincere worship. Can you make it your usual custom to join with other
believers to encourage, learn and worship?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It is difficult to connect
with others when you are not around them. Jesus promised a special visitation
every time believers are together in His name. Let’s get together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-83575229685198428542014-01-10T08:24:00.001-08:002014-01-10T08:24:37.686-08:00Connecting Changes Things
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Luke 12:31, 34, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and
he will give you everything you need…Wherever your treasure is, there the
desires of our heart will also be.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We live in a world where we
are often learning how to take care of number one – us. It’s all about us. We
can have it our way. We have rights. As we grow in our relationship with God we
begin to realize it’s not about us, life is about Him; we must become less and
He must become more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The focus of our life
becomes seeking Him, His plan and purpose for our lives above all else. This
means our investing strategies change. We do invest in us but by investing in
Him and what he is investing in. We learn our finances reveal a lot about us: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“wherever our treasure is, there the desires
of our heart will also be.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We learn to be a Christ
follower is also to be a giver. For God so loved the world He gave... We learn
to be a giver of our time, abilities and even our finances. God gives us
direction throughout the Bible on these giving areas. It’s His expectation of
us as we grow. What will we learn to give this year that we may not have given
before?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Being a giver comes from a
thankful, loving relationship!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-12504457073871090902014-01-09T16:01:00.003-08:002014-01-09T16:01:52.913-08:00Connecting with Conversation
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Luke 11:1, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“One day Jesus was praying in a certain
place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to
pray…’”<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“Can you hear me now?” was a
slogan for a cell phone company that gained notoriety. It may also be a
question many Christ followers would like to ask God when they don’t feel like
they are getting through to Him with their prayers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Prayer is communication with
God. Jesus responded to their request with guidance on how to have a direct
conversation with God. He said don’t make of show of your prayers to try to
convince others you are spiritual. Don’t repeat the same words again and again.
It does not get you any closer to God answering. But He does say to keep on
asking, seeking and knocking and then you will receive, find and the door will
be opened to you. He also says if we as sinful people know how to give good
gifts to our kids, “how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to
those who ask Him.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Real connection takes
consistent conversation. Consistent conversation builds real relationship. An
intentional daily conversation with God is needed to keep you growing, Let’s
take the next few moments and spend time talking and listening to Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-40212215614132627002014-01-08T05:04:00.002-08:002014-01-08T05:04:24.365-08:00Connecting with Him<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">John 4:23, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“…a time is coming and has now come when the
true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the
kind of worshippers the Father seeks”<o:p></o:p></i></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Connecting with God has
always seemed challenging and even mystic for mankind. It’s not that challenging
for Him. He created us to connect with Him. He created ways for us to connect
with Him. His grace is the key to open the door for that connection. His love
and forgiveness are the passage ways for us to connect.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span> </div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So with all that God offers
to us for the connecting, the next step is ours. He commands us to love Him
with all our heart, mind and strength. What are we to do? Let me try this on
for size…Love Him! Not in a limited way like Sunday morning only kinda love,
but love Him every day of the week kinda love. Love Him with our work, study,
play and family life. This is real worship – in spirit and truth. It’s what He
seeks.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When each Christ follower
lives their life as worship to Him during the week we can gather to worship as
a symphony of worship at the weekly church gatherings. Spend time worshipping
Him today!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-47093491033690627942014-01-07T04:03:00.000-08:002014-01-07T04:03:48.884-08:00Looking for a Traveling CompanionDay 3 of 21 of Spiritual Growth Journal<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Luke 4:1,14, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Jesus…was led by the Spirit in the desert”;
“Jesus returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit…”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus never traveled alone.
He traveled with His friends and family. But the times He seemed to be
separated from them, He had a traveling companion in the Holy Spirit. As
valuable as the people around Him were, He gained so much more traveling with
the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">As you launch out for the
next few days in the discovery of Christ in you, we have arranged for a
traveling companion. Okay, well the truth is God arranged for Him to be with
you even before you started your journey. That’s right, the same Holy Spirit
that led and empowered Jesus will be with you. He will be available to lead,
teach, empower, encourage, comfort, illuminate and help you. He is available to
you the entire journey – these 21 days, this year of your life as you grow to
be like Christ and every year after. He is available night and day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">In his journey to the desert
with all that the journey included, Jesus followed the help of the Holy Spirit.
Will you travel with the Holy Spirit too? Take a few minutes right now and just
get to know Him with a simple conversation (prayer). Tell Him about your hopes
in this journey and listen for Him to share his.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-43841498075527247042014-01-06T05:05:00.000-08:002014-01-06T05:05:02.728-08:00To Get Where We’re Going, Start Up
Day 2 of 21 Spiritual Growth Journal Devotional<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Matthew 5:1-2, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a
mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach
them, saying:’”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">We find Jesus pulling away
from the busyness of ministry and the popularity of the crowd to invest in the
lives of those who would come after Him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He went up on a mountainside and sat down. We don’t have a record of
Jesus sending an invitation to the class or ringing the school bell. We do see
the hunger in the disciples to come after Him, to sit with Him, to learn from Him
– to grow in this new family business. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">It seems their eagerness to
learn from Him and not just about Him is demonstrated much like when they left
their nets. Of course they would have no way of knowing what He was about to
share with them. But we do. Wow! This teaching on the top (found in Matthew
5-7) would lay the foundation for every Christ follower to build their
understanding and life on. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">The disciples would in time
move from just knowing about Him to living for Him. We have to make the same
decision. What will we decide? Let’s make these 21 days a time of coming after,
sitting with, learning from and growing in Jesus as He leads us in our journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-34153423033544508682014-01-05T12:13:00.003-08:002014-01-05T12:13:26.697-08:00The Invitation is a Declaration
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Matthew 4:19, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“’Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will
make you fishers of men.’”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus’ first invitation to
those who would become his disciples (and the apostles) is really more than an
invitation - it’s a challenging declaration too. Most invitations give you an
option of refusal. Jesus’ invitation gives you the option of a transformation
to live life with a cause that is bigger than yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Jesus was very clear. First,
He said <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Come”</i> – which means a directional
change toward Him and not away from Him. Second, He said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Follow me”</i> – which means an understanding that the leadership of
their lives will not be left to them alone. Third, Jesus said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I will make you”</i> – which calls for the
submission and humility in the student-teacher relationship. Last in His
invitation, He says they would become <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“fishers
of men”</i> – this would mean a commitment to change <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and be in His family’s business.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">This invitation, and
declaration, is still a clarion call to every Christ follower today. What will
we choose? His hope is that you respond much like those first disciples did, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“At once they left their nets and followed
him.” </i>Leave what you must, choose today, and follow Him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-74962768134504555242014-01-03T10:58:00.000-08:002014-01-03T10:58:42.750-08:00<h2>
a 21-day journey is coming...</h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's been way too long since I have blogged. I have written a 21-day devotional I will post daily beginning Sunday, January 5 on my blog for your reading pleasure. My hope and prayer is that it will encourage you to grow as a Christ follower. If you are not a Christ follower now, then I encourage you to read and learn from these snapshots what being a Christ follower is supposed to be. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Today I was reading Acts 2:42, <em>"All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Supper), and to prayer."</em> (NLT). I prayed for the Lord to keep me devoted to these same things to which the early church was devoted. They are very relational - all under the same teaching, fellowship, sharing in meals, the Lord's supper, prayer. I also prayed for Bethel Church, where I serve, to be the same. A precious retired pastor that attended a church I once served said to me, "Pastor, if everyone in the church had their oar in the water rowing, they would not have time to complain." His nuggets of truth were so encouraging. So in this new year we can be devoted to rowing.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It is encouraging to me that when Jesus is the center of the church, He is the unifying factor. When we keep our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects of our faith, we become a unified bunch. (Hebrews 12:2). When our eyes are focused on Him, it's difficult to look at others who can distract us. My prayer for all of us is to stay focused and devoted and not be distracted with any spiritual ADD - attention deficit disorder.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">On a personal level, I choose to make Jesus the center of my life (and not a top priority). If He is a top priority, it is a challenge to involve Him in all the priorities down the list. However, if He is the center of my life, then everything I am and do comes from this relationship I have with Him. This is a paradigm shift for many of us. In making Jesus the center, I encourage you to follow me as a I follow Christ.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Jesus, may those who read this blog today hear your voice calling to them, "Follow me." Let them walk in your blessing and favor this year. Help them to keep their eyes on You! Amen!</span>Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-27240296203628344562011-12-12T07:19:00.000-08:002011-12-12T07:40:31.818-08:00Make the most of it...<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;">It's amazing how fast a year can speed through our lives. Does anyone realize I am writing this blog just 13 days before Christmas? And if I remember correctly just seven days after comes a new year. Unbelievable. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;">Paul (the apostle) told us to make the most of every opportunity. How do you slow the opportunities down long enough to make the most out of them? They keep flying by. Just last night I experienced one of the greatest opportunities to date in my work with the great Bethel church in Tampa. We celebrated Christmas with various arts sharing the wonderful story of God's plan for our salvation. With over 800 people in attendance, I personally had the privilege of inviting our guests to have the great gift of Christmas, Christ himself. After asking them if they knew what God wanted for Christmas, I shared with them it was their lives. Many responded. It was awesome. Pray with us as we continue to reach out to the precious friends and invite them to become family. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;font-size:130%;">How about you? What are you giving God for Christmas? Make the most of it...</span>Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-250023953142650286.post-10978572237453877592011-10-24T07:43:00.000-07:002011-10-24T09:56:03.760-07:00daily bread<div><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-family:arial;">in a prayer we often call "the Lord's prayer" we find a phrase He teaches us to pray. This phrase is give us this day our daily bread. A great friend in the ministry shared in a meeting last week about this phrase. He shared some challenging thoughts. This is a one day at a time prayer. God does not advance money to our accounts until we need it. He is our source. As God calls us to a place of ministry, service and opporunity, He will provide. Just a great reminder... Enjoy your daily bread</span>!</span></div>Mike Tedderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08241311388029675767noreply@blogger.com0