Salt

Posted on February 13, 2018 by cchrisholland

In the ancient world, salt was a valuable commodity and used daily. Hundreds of heavily loaded camels in long caravans would traverse hostile territory to get the salt to market. It was such a necessary ingredient in the economy of the Roman Empire that soldiers were stationed at forts along the trade routes to protect the supply. So, while considering how the ancients viewed salt, hear these words:

“You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.” – Matthew 5:12 NKJV

Salt is not only a vital part of our body’s function, it also cleanses, preserves and enhances flavor. Jesus said without those functions, it’s “good for nothing”. As kingdom salt you have great worth, but what will your level of “saltiness” be today? Will your words add flavor, or will they be too salty for consumption? Will they cleanse and heal, or just sting? Will they help preserve, or cause rust? May our presence be the needed ingredient to bring Him glory today.

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Blessed

Posted on February 12, 2018 by cchrisholland

To know Jesus is to be blessed.

In other words, “supreme contentment” comes from knowing the King of all Creation and having the confidence inside that He’s in control. Consider the foundational truths from the beginning of His great sermon:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven…” – Matthew 5:2-3 NKJV

He went on to mention those that were mourning and hungry, those displaying meekness and mercy, and those that were being persecuted for the sake of righteousness. He gave forward-looking words of promise and comforting words for the day. His teaching was kingdom-focused and anchored directly to Him. It’s also important to note that it wasn’t a motivational speech related to a what-goes-around-comes-around idea or a pagan “karma reward”, but divine sufficiency coming only from Him.

People and circumstances can cause deep bruises, but there’s a contentment in Christ beyond the reach of the world. The Apostle Paul said he had “learned to be content”. He mentioned the many struggles of his life and then wrote these beautiful words:

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” –Phil. 4:13 NKJV

In Christ, you are blessed. His strength will carry you through this day…this very day.

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The Lord’s Day 2-11-18

Posted on February 11, 2018 by cchrisholland

“Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk O Lord in the light of Your countenance.” – Psalm 89:15 NKJV

In the presence of God, there is one posture; worship. Are you seeking to be in the presence of His glory today? To hear His voice is to sense joy deep in the soul. He’s worthy of worship!

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Touch

Posted on February 10, 2018 by cchrisholland

Jesus ministered with great power and people came from all directions to experience it:

“And the whole multitude sought to touch Him, for power went out from Him and healed them all.” – Luke 6:19 NKJV

There is a deep need inside of us to connect with Jesus. The crowd wanted to touch Him, and the incredible part is, He touched them back.

In the life of faith, we can touch Him through prayer. It’s no small thing that Jesus spent the night in prayer before He healed the multitude. It wasn’t a religious formality, He always prefaced ministry by connecting with the Father. His words, His actions, His reactions, His movements, all flowed from time with the Father. It’s how He was strengthened and empowered to do what He did.

Are you seeking His touch today? Perhaps your spirit is low and weary? If so, reach out to the Master. He knows your need…and He touches back.

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Made

Posted on February 9, 2018 by cchrisholland

God created everything with order and purpose. Some things have obvious functionality, some have stunning beauty, and others are not easily understood. But there’s one creation with a special label attached saying, “Made in the image of God.” When Jesus’ treatment of people conflicted with the customs of the Jewish leaders, He was often criticized. One example is in Mark chapter 2 (regarding the disciples picking grain on the Sabbath to eat as they walked). Jesus responded to the accusations:

“The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.” – Mark 2:27-28 NKJV

Next, He healed a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath (and was criticized), but He pointed out the value of kindness over Sabbath rigidity. The Jewish leaders had taken a gift (the institution of the Sabbath for rest and worship) and placed it above the recipients of the gift. The instructions given to Moses were designed for physical and spiritual benefit, (but they had been turned into a burden). Jesus’s ministry modeled many things, and one of the biggest was how He loved people. The value of life is more than just a point of political truth, it defines who we are. God made Adam unique by personally breathing life into a gathering of dirt, and that is all of humanity’s ancestry. We are “Made in the image of God.” What does that mean for you and those you will encounter today?

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Windows

Posted on February 8, 2018 by cchrisholland

Stained glass windows are beautiful in the sunlight, but they don’t allow you to see much on the other side. The view is limited to the colors and images the artist chose. In John chapter 5, there’s the record of on-going tension between the Jewish leaders and Jesus over His credibility. In their minds, Jesus didn’t fit the template. Like a stained glass window, a picture of the promised Messiah had been developed, but it was more of an artistic rendering than the real person. Jesus even presented powerful witnesses to His validity (John the Baptist v.32, the miracles v.36, God the Father v.37, the Holy Scripture v.39, and Moses v.46), but the “stained glass” was still their preference. It was a grand image of physical rescue, retribution, and kingdom glory; however, it was incorrect. He said they were looking in the scriptures, but only to support to their preconceived ideas:

 “You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me. But you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life.” – John 5:39-40 NKJV

In the life of faith, there’s a nagging temptation to construct our own image of Jesus. We want to pull some color in from one passage and a story or two from another to create a picture along the lines of our preferences. However, the real question should be, “Is it scripturally accurate?” Today, may our lives let the true image shine through; and not one limited to “stained glass”.

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Wisdom 16.25

Posted on February 7, 2018 by cchrisholland

“There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.” – Proverbs 16:25 NKJV

Be careful what you base your standards on. If we simply construct our own “ethical code”, we’ll set the bar no higher than as our own comfort level. When we look to God’s standards, we find the true spirit of right; and the way that leads to life.

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Reflecting

Posted on February 6, 2018 by cchrisholland

Jesus reflected the Father.

“Most assuredly I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, but what He sees the Father do; for whatever He does, the Son does in like manner.” – John 5:19 NKJV

Like a divine mirror, Jesus’ life revealed a perfect image of the Father in heaven. In John chapter 5, He was under fire for violating some Sabbath rules, but part of why He came was to clarify man’s understanding of God and His expectations. Consider how Paul described it:

“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.”

“For it pleased the Father that in Him all the fullness should dwell.” – Colossians 1:15 & 19 NKJV

As disciples, we’re to reflect Christ, but a lot can hinder a proper image. For example, there can be obstructions in the way (an issue or person), dirt on the surface of the mirror (unconfessed sin), or an improper pointing angle (focusing on the wrong things). That’s why prayerful, daily “mirror maintenance” is important. It’s a time for the surface to be cleaned and the angle to be adjusted. Jesus said He looked to the Father for His daily guidance and did everything in “like manner”. What image are you reflecting today?

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Well

Posted on February 5, 2018 by cchrisholland

“Do you want to be made well?” Jesus asked the man who’d lain sick by the Pool of Bethesda for 38 years. When the man explained he was trying to get well by getting into the pool, Jesus said:

“Rise, take up your bed and walk.” – John 5:8 NKJV

It’s interesting how Jesus often healed, because He often gave instructions to go with it. For example, He didn’t just administer miraculous regeneration and leave him lying there to figure out. He gave three actions steps, “Rise”, “Take-up”, and “Walk”. Later, when He saw the man in the Temple, He gave him further instructions as well:

“See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worst thing come upon you.” – John 5:14 NKJV

Has Jesus made you well on the inside? If so, then consider His words of action today; “Rise”, “Take-up”, and “Walk.” Don’t just relax and think about it; get up, throw the old bed in the dumpster, and walk freely. When God does a work in us, He also empowers us. May you walk in wellness today…

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The Lord’s Day 2-4-18

Posted on February 4, 2018 by cchrisholland

“But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation, I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me.” – Psalm 13:5-6 NKJV

What are you thankful for today? God shows great kindness to us in many ways. His provisions are supplied with love, and His forgiveness is given with grace. He’s most worthy of thanks, praise and worship!

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Risk

Posted on February 2, 2018 by cchrisholland

Friendship can involve risk.

One day while Jesus was teaching in someone’s home, word spread of His presence and a crowd formed. Soon the house became so filled that no one outside could see or hear Jesus (except for a paralyzed man with friends who tore through the roof to get in). The familiar story of the man lowered through the rafters is often mentioned to illustrate “faith-in-action”:

“When Jesus saw their faith, He said, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.”” – Mark 2:5 NKJV

It’s easy to forget that people in scripture (like those mentioned in Mark chapter 2) didn’t know the outcome beforehand. They had no guarantee Jesus would heal their friend. For all they knew they were risking exposure to ridicule, failure, and misunderstanding. However, as they executed their plan, Jesus saw their faith. He knew their motive was to help a friend, not to make a scene or become famous “party-crashers”.

Is fear preventing you from doing or saying something regarding a friend? If the motive and timing are both right, take courage and prayerfully go forward. If either one of them aren’t, then wait, continue to pray, and trust the Lord’s leading.

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Renewal

Posted on February 1, 2018 by cchrisholland

Spiritual power depends on daily renewal. In Jesus’ ministry, there was a consistent pattern. Consider the story of the leper’s healing and what happened next:

““Lord if You are willing, You can make me clean.” Then He put out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.”” – Luke 5:12b-13 NKJV

Afterwards, the leper spread the story (against Jesus’ instructions) and the crowds grew even bigger. And as they did, an important note is included in the narrative:

“So He Himself often withdrew into the wilderness and prayed.” – Luke 5:16 NKJV

There are many things Jesus modeled for us; one of which was taking time to be refreshed in spirit. He always made the effort for time alone with His Father. As a disciple, there must be time for spiritual renewal. It may look different from one believer to the next, but the components are essential for spiritual power and consistent living. There simply is no substitute for prayer and scripture reading, and the enemy will try to separate us from either or both. Endless distractions may come today, but a few moments set aside for refreshment will be worth it.

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Wisdom 16.18

Posted on January 31, 2018 by cchrisholland

“Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall. Better to be lowly of spirit with the humble than to divide plunder with the proud.” – Proverbs 16:18-19 HCSB

Pride is a peculiar ailment. While easily identified by others, it’s often denied by the one suffering with it. The scripture provides a remedy though; an honest, prayerful, self-examination. Once done, the recovery may have some short-term side effects, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the brief discomfort of repentance.

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Investment

Posted on January 30, 2018 by cchrisholland

Jesus ministered within reality.

For example, after Peter’s mother-in-law was healed, the whole town brought sick and demon-possessed people to be healed (late into the night). The next morning, while Jesus was in His early prayer-time, the disciples looked for Him:

“When they found Him, they said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.” But He said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.”” – Mark 1:37-38 NKJV

On several occasions, the disciples assumed that large crowds meant Jesus was going to “stay-put” for a while; but He rarely did. Jesus loved people with great compassion, but He always kept things in perspective. He knew the spiritual receptivity of those He ministered to and based His investment of time accordingly. Sometimes that meant staying a couple of days (like in Samaria), but other times it meant moving on when His presence simply became “free bread and healing”.

As a disciple, your time is precious and limited. Sometimes your sharing of the gospel is not welcomed or ignored; just keep moving. There are also many who’ll “wear-you-out” for little or no spiritual gain, just keep moving (fatigue isn’t a spiritual gift). Eventually, there are those who will respond and grow; that’s where the eternal “return on investment” is found and a good time to “stay-put” for little while.

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Confronted

Posted on January 29, 2018 by cchrisholland

Evil spirits love to intimidate. When Jesus encountered one in the Capernaum synagogue, the spirit lashed out saying:

“Leave us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did you come to destroy us? I know who You are-the Holy One of God!” – Luke 4:34 NKJV

However, Jesus wasn’t intimidated or taken by surprise. He rebuked the spirit and said:

“Be quiet and come out of him!” – Luke 4:35 NKJV

Once Jesus gave the command to come out, there wasn’t a sarcastic rebuttal, or dramatic standoff, because the demon knew Jesus was in charge. Luke then tells us the demon threw the man to the ground, came out, but didn’t harm him. The spirit may have been enraged, but was no longer empowered.

As a disciple, there are days when evil makes its nasty presence known with personal accusations and threats, but it’s good to remember that Jesus is in-charge. He isn’t anxiously wringing His hands on the sidelines, worried by the heckling of evil spirits; His demeanor is confident and steadfast. They can be intimidating to us, but to Jesus they’re former servants awaiting final punishment. He’s the One who’ll have the last word, He’s the One we serve, and it’s in His name that we overcome!

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The Lord’s Day 1-28-18

Posted on January 28, 2018 by cchrisholland

Right now, in Heaven these words are being repeated:

“Holy, holy, holy,

Lord God Almighty,

Who was and is and is to come!”

– Revelation 4:8b NKJV

The throne room is totally focused on God and filled with fire, smoke, music, singing, and praise on a grand scale! As you prepare to engage in worship, remember to pause and reflect on the scene going on simultaneously in heaven. John said, “…And they do not rest day or night saying:”

“Holy, holy, holy,

Lord God Almighty,

Who was and is and is to come!”

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Reception

Posted on January 27, 2018 by cchrisholland

The truth isn’t always welcome.

For example, in His hometown synagogue, Jesus read a passage from Isaiah regarding the coming Messiah. He said this to the audience:

“Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” – Luke 4:21 NKJV

Luke tells us they marveled at His gracious words and couldn’t believe this was “Joseph’s son”. But as He continued to speak, the mood in the room changed. He mentioned that prophets aren’t accepted in their own country, and reminded them that Elijah was sent to minister to Gentiles during the severe famine. At those words, the marveling went away and anger replaced it. The feelings were so intense they tried to kill Him, but He slipped through the crowd and left. What started out as an amazed audience, turned into a murderous mob.

Sometimes the truth does that. It starts out confirming and validating what we feel or hope (gracious words from the hometown son), but then the mood changes (ready to throw Him off a cliff). However, those moments are crucial in the life of a disciple, because the temptation is to only focus on the confirming things, and resist the points that challenge our complacency. Paul told Timothy the scriptures are profitable for;

“…reproof, correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” – 2 Timothy 3:17 NKJV

How do you receive the Word? Is it through a filter that sifts out the unwelcome parts, or is it with readiness? The truth can sometimes be tough, but also liberating, healing, saving, protecting, hope-giving and joy-making.

“Buy the truth and don’t sell it…” – Proverbs 23:23a NKJV

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Following

Posted on January 26, 2018 by cchrisholland

Jesus didn’t call the disciples to a new social experience, He called them to a whole new life. He said:

“Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men.” – Matthew 4:19 NKJV

…and they immediately left their nets. Even though fishing was the only “world” they knew, they left it for the beginning of an amazing journey. “Following” a rabbi in the first century meant being immersed in the teaching and views of the one you were apprenticing under. It wasn’t just hearing lectures and discussing ideas, it was a process of trying to become just like him…in every way.

The four fishermen probably still talked about fishing every now-and-then. For example, taking note of good-quality fish for sale in the market or telling a story around an evening fire; however, it wasn’t their primary focus anymore, following Jesus was.

In the life of faith, our flesh often wants to keep Jesus simply near; having Him present in certain areas like “quiet time”, church activities, and times of crisis. However, following isn’t about liking Him, it’s about becoming like Him; and our preferences must yield to His.

Are you struggling today with following in certain areas? Maybe at work, around family or with old friends? His call is still the same, “Follow Me”…and not them.

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Words

Posted on January 25, 2018 by cchrisholland

Never underestimate the power of the words “written in red”.

When Jesus was in Samaria, the woman at the well left her water-pot and told the people all about Jesus. They received her testimony and invited Him to stay for a while. But two days later as He was leaving, they said this to her:

“Now we believe, not because of what you said, for we ourselves have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the savior of the world.” – John 4:42 NKJV

In the beginning, her words may have intrigued them, but Jesus is the one who changed them. Her words weren’t clever, they were honest ones spoken as an invitation to come listen for themselves. And when the people heard, their hearts were struck with the realization that they were encountering the Son of God.

Giving a testimony, preaching, teaching and other means of communication are great, but only if anchored to the “words in red”. They are the power of God in pure form, and the very words of life. Have you read them lately? Have you felt them strengthening your spirit today? Have you shared them? “…for we have heard Him and we know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world.”

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Wisdom 16.2

Posted on January 24, 2018 by cchrisholland

“All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the LORD weighs the spirits.” – Proverbs 16:2 NKJV

Regardless of what popular culture considers acceptable, the Lord looks beyond actions to the motives of the heart. A self-written code of ethics usually accommodates our own habits, but God calls us to righteousness according to His Word.

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