3-5-16 “Greatest”

Posted on March 5, 2016 by cchrisholland

Pride is relentless. It can cause us to be self-deceived, blinded to the truth, and distorted in our view of the facts around us. Even though the disciples physically traveled with, saw the miracles of, and heard the words of Jesus every day, pride was a constant foe; and the battle was real. Consider this moment:

“Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, ‘What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?’ But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest. And He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, ‘If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.’” – Mark 9:33-35 NKJV

In what area of life is pride challenging you today? It can be “sneaky mean” and silently creep in where we least expect it. It’s been said that humility isn’t thinking lowly of ourselves, it’s simply not thinking of ourselves at all. Are you willing to let the Lord do an inventory of the “self-thoughts”? Victory starts with prayer…

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3-4-16 “Help!”

Posted on March 4, 2016 by cchrisholland

Admission of weak faith can be the beginning of moving forward.

For example, Mark records that a father brought his son to be healed from an evil spirit and the disciples couldn’t help him. Later, when Jesus arrived, the father asked Him to heal his son and they had this exchange:

Jesus: “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.”

Child’s Father: “Lord I believe; help my unbelief!”

( Mark 9:23-24 NKJV)

Mark also describes how desperate and tearful the man was. He was so concerned for his child, but admitted his shortcoming and asked for the Lord’s help. In a moment, his son was healed and his faith grew exponentially; not because of self-generated commitment, but because of his humble request.

Honesty with the Lord is always the best place to start. He knows every detail and secret thought of our heart already; and we’re in need of confessing them. Is there an area of life where your faith is faltering? If so, then perhaps an honest word with the Lord will be the beginning of victory today.

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3-3-16 “Listening”

Posted on March 3, 2016 by cchrisholland

Have you caught a glimpse of His glory?

When Jesus was transfigured on the mountain (in the presence of Peter, James and John), His heavenly glory burned bright as the sun. Excited by what he saw, Peter immediately began talking of his plan for monuments, but the scripture says while he was still speaking God interrupted and this happened:

“…a bright cloud overshadowed them; and suddenly a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear Him! And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their faces and were greatly afraid.” – Matthew 17:5-6 NKJV

Once again, Peter was talking when he should’ve been listening. Of course, Peter isn’t the only example of “Sudden Speech Syndrome”. We too can suffer from the urge to speak without listening. Part of seeing the glory was to truly listen; “Hear Him!” the voice of God commanded.

Have you caught a glimpse of His glory? Perhaps you did long ago, but the brightness of the moment has faded. If so, prayerfully look to the throne of God…see Him sitting beside the Father in glorious power…and listen. If you’ve never caught that glimpse before, today would be a great time to prayerfully look toward His majestic presence…and listen.

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3-2-16 “Christ”

Posted on March 2, 2016 by cchrisholland

“Who do men say that I, the Son of Man am?” – Matthew 16:13 NKJV

There’s always been various opinions of Jesus. Even during His earthly ministry there were many ways people described Him. When He asked the disciples what the “word on the street” was, they responded with several answers; John the Baptist (resurrected), Elijah, Jeremiah and others. However, when Jesus asked directly, “Who do YOU say that I am?” Peter spoke-up and got it exactly right. He said:

“You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.”– Matthew 16:16 NKJV

But the interesting part is Jesus’ response. He said specifically that the Holy Spirit revealed it to him. In other words, among the various descriptions floating around, He was the CHRIST. Yes Jesus healed the sick, yes He fed hungry folks, and yes He showed kindness to the downtrodden, but the ultimate reason He came was to deal with sin; and the two questions still apply today.

Who do people say that He is? Maybe a higher power? Maybe a great teacher?

But then the next question is, “Who do YOU say that He is?

Is He Christ to you, or something more along the lines of a great humanitarian-type deity? Yes, there is a list of wonderful things that come through knowing Christ (love, joy, peace, etc.), but His main purpose in coming wasn’t to help us feel better about ourselves; it was to make a way for us to leave “ourselves” behind…and follow Him.

He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God!

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3-1-16 “Heaviness”

Posted on March 1, 2016 by cchrisholland

Jesus sighed. On several occasions, the reality of sin’s weight on the world moved Jesus to express a heaviness through what we call a “sigh”. Even though a “sigh” isn’t verbal speech, we know what it means. It’s a pause that reflects something deep in our spirit that’s louder than words. When Jesus was preparing to heal a deaf-mute, He touched the man’s ears and tongue, then:

“…looking up to heaven, He sighed, and said to him, ‘Ephphatha’, that is ‘Be opened.’.” – Mark 7:34 NKJV

The moment so clearly forms a picture of our need for Him. As broken vessels, our only hope is in Christ. There was nothing the man could do in his own power to overcome his physical challenges. There are broken lives all around us needing the same thing…His touch, His healing, and His declaration of freedom! Are the ravages of sin causing you heaviness today? If so, you’re not alone in that emotion, but praise be to God-He has overcome sin and its destruction.

“…but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33 NKJV

If you’re redeemed, give thanks for His healing. If sin is crippling your walk with Him; repent and be healed. For those around you who need it, pray specifically for their hearts to be open to His life-changing touch.

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2-29-16 “Powerless”

Posted on February 29, 2016 by cchrisholland

The disciples knew empowerment, but they also knew weakness.

In Mark chapter 6, the story is recorded where they were sent out by Jesus with the power over evil spirits and to heal. They returned with stories of demons being cast out and people being miraculously healed. However, when the crowd looking for Jesus caught up to them, there was a crisis (thousands of people and no food).

When the disciples inquired of the Lord about the need, He said,

“You give them something to eat.”

Their response,

“Shall we go and buy two-hundred denarii worth of bread and give them something to eat?”

– Mark 6:37 NKJV

What happened next is the very familiar story of Jesus feeding the five-thousand, but consider the moment in light of where the disciples had just come from. They had literally just been the instruments of healing and casting out demons in dramatic fashion, but when it came to groceries, they were looking for coins. We do that sometimes. Jesus proves himself faithful in powerful, awe-inspiring ways, then a grocery crisis pops-up and we start digging through the “couch cushions” of our life for nickels and dimes.

In both situations (twelve being sent out, and feeding the five-thousand) the power was the Lord’s. The disciples were always powerless in their own abilities. It was the Lord’s authority that sent demons fleeing, the mention of His name that mended broken bodies, and His miraculous provision refreshing the basket each time bread was drawn out. They were “power-less”, but He was “power-full”.

In what ways will His power be displayed in your life today?

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2-27-16 “Perceptions”

Posted on February 27, 2016 by cchrisholland

Jesus was a carpenter. Compared to creating the universe, a hammer would’ve been easy to get the “swing” of. But for those who knew Him growing up, that’s all He was; a carpenter. They’d already decided who He was to them and that was all He was ever going to be. Consider what the people of Nazareth said:

“Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us? So they were offended at Him.” – Mark 6:3 NKJV

Imagine, Holy God literally standing there wanting to do great miracles while someone basically says, “That’s good and all, but my leaky barn roof could really use your attention.” If we’re not careful, our reaction and prayers can reflect the same type of attitude. God wants to do great things according to His plans, but our prayers are more along the lines of blueprints we’ve drawn up. Sometimes we even “spiritualize” self-centered pursuits with language that sounds right, but in the end is just a request to fix a “leaky roof”.

What perception do you have of Him today and how will your prayers reflect that?

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2-26-16 “Reaching”

Posted on February 26, 2016 by cchrisholland

Pride and fear can build walls of separation. There was a woman in the Gospels who’d suffered much from a bleeding affliction for twelve years. In addition to the obvious physical challenges, she would have also been considered perpetually “unclean” according to Jewish law, (limiting her worship activities).

When Jesus came near, she saw an opportunity to be healed. However, it was unthinkable in that day for an unclean person to expect physical interaction with a rabbi…so she sneaked a touch. Reaching through the chaotic, thronging crowd, she made contact with Jesus’ clothes and healing power surged through her body like a lightning bolt. When He turned to inquire about the touch, she fell at His feet trembling and fearful, but Jesus said this:

“Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.” – Mark 5:34 NKJV

Sometimes there is fear in the “reaching”. Sometimes pride prevents an extension of the hand to admit we need Him. But the truth is, we NEED Him! His healing power is available and His grace can cleanse a dirty life. What do you need to reach out for today? There is nothing like the touch of the Master!

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2-25-16 “Peace”

Posted on February 25, 2016 by cchrisholland

Storms can be scary and destructive. Hot/cold air collisions and seasonal change can produce some nasty weather. In our personal life, it’s also true that changing winds can bring a storm. In the Gospels, there’s a pivotal moment where the disciples sailed into rough seas while Jesus slept; and they were petrified. From their perspective, the crashing waves would rip their boat apart at any moment…but then Jesus spoke:

“Peace, be still!” – Mark 4:39a NKJV

Instantly there was calm…astonishment…gratitude…worship…bewilderment and a deep realization of the powerful presence of ALMIGHTY GOD!

Do you see dark clouds forming on the horizon of your life today? Perhaps you’re already in the midst of a raging storm and your boat is battered and taking on water. He alone can speak calm into your soul. The disciples admitted their fear. They even questioned His concern for their safety, but they were never in real danger because Jesus was in the boat. Is He in your life today? If so, He’s near. Call out to Him and listen for His powerful words of peace…

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2-24-16 “Tiny”

Posted on February 24, 2016 by cchrisholland

Big results in God’s kingdom often start very small. Jesus explained it this way:

“To what shall we liken the Kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds of the earth; but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.” – Mark 4:30-32 NKJV

The contrast between the size of the seed and the mature plant has everything to do with the Designer. Inside of the tiny seed is the complete information for large sturdy branches. It may start very small, but once placed in the ground, the process begins and growth follows. However, as amazing as it is, even a mustard seed must be actually sown in order to produce something. It can be something done, said, given-up, started, shared, prayed for, and more. What “mustard-seed” do you need to sow in faith today?

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2-23-16 “Sowing”

Posted on February 23, 2016 by cchrisholland

The seed parable is a powerful illustration. Found in Luke 8:4-15, it describes four different results of the same type of seed falling onto the ground. A combining of the story with Jesus’ explanation renders four pictures:

  • The Hard Soil-no fruit at all (seed stolen by the devil)
  • The Rocky Soil-grows quick, but soon withers (fell away during testing from lack of roots)
  • The Thorn-filled Soil-growth choked out by thorns (the cares and pleasures of this world preventing maturity)
  • The Good Soil-growth, maturity and fruit (a heart desiring to hear, respond, and endure)

Consider these three reminders today:

  • The seed contains life-Jesus emphasized the seed (the Word) and the soil receiving it, not the sower. The seed itself produces life, not the one handling it or the clever use of it.
  • The results aren’t up to the sower-It’s not productive to attempt forcing growth where it’s not happening, nor is it right to claim credit when it does (1 Cor. 3:6-7).
  • Time is the test-Eventually, the nature of the soil and the response to the truth will become clear; be prayerfully patient.

Be a sower. Whether it’s spoken, written, emailed or tweeted; God’s Word is life-giving. How will you share it today?

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2-22-16 “Labels”

Posted on February 22, 2016 by cchrisholland

We can be labeled many things by others; “nice”, “mean”, “attractive”, “talented”, “clumsy”, etc. Some are welcome-some aren’t. In the Bible, there’s a lot of people who knew about labels. One of them encountered Jesus while in a lifestyle so colorful the entire town knew of it. But when Luke introduces her to us, she had recently received a new label. In Luke chapter 7, it’s recorded that she went into a dinner gathering at Simon’s house to express her love and gratitude to the Lord. After washing His feet with her tears, she opened an alabaster flask and anointed Him with an expensive, fragrant oil (which of course, produced some discussion). After making a point through an illustration of creditor and debtor, Jesus turned to the woman and spoke the most important words any of us could ever hope to hear:

“Your sins are forgiven…your faith has saved you. Go in peace.” – Luke 7:48-50 NKJV

“Forgiven.” As broken, self-centered people, what could possible compare to that status as we stand before Holy God? Through gracious love, He’s given us something we couldn’t earn in a thousand lifetimes. Certainly, there are many wonderful things to talk about regarding the Christian life, but nothing more central to who we are than the invaluable label of “Forgiven”. How will you wear it today?

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2-20-16 “Burdens”

Posted on February 20, 2016 by cchrisholland

Sometimes the journey of faith is filled with “stumped toes” and “skinned knees”. Do you ever feel like sitting down, tending to your wounds, and giving up? If so, you’re not alone. Jesus understands the struggles we face. Think about that for a moment; He actually, literally, in a real-life-work-a-day-world understands your challenges. As a matter of fact, He may be the only one that really understands because He not only knows the circumstances, He knows you inside-and-out. For a disciple, it’s good to occasionally hear the following words:

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest in your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30 NKJV

The original word-picture is of a young ox being teamed up with a strong, experienced one for learning and support. Jesus encourages us to relax in our spirit and find true rest for our souls while still moving forward. Only He can provide that. If you’re feeling tired and beat-up today, lean into Him. His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

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2-19-16 “Humility”

Posted on February 19, 2016 by cchrisholland

Humility is different than weakness. A person can be in a position of weakness, or forced into submission, and still not have humility. Humility only comes when there is a decision of the will. A strong will can be a positive thing (such as a person deciding not to let difficult circumstances break them and standing strong in the Spirit), but more often than not, the challenge is on the negative side. It can be when pride encourages our will to resist the Lord’s authority in certain areas of our life.

Consider the Roman commander that sent messengers to Jesus with a request for Him to heal his servant. The officer said he wasn’t worthy for Jesus to enter his home, but asked Him to simply speak the words and it would be so. The interesting part is how he framed the request:

“Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word and my servant will be healed. For I myself am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one ‘Go’ and he goes; to another, ‘Come’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this’ and he does it.” – Luke 7:7-8 NKJV

The next verse describes how Jesus responded with a great endorsement by saying:

“I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel.” – Luke 7:9b NKJV

Even though the man had power, prestige and the authority to command hundreds, he recognized the Lord’s supremacy and ultimately that’s what he’s remembered for. How will you view the Lord’s authority today?

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2-18-16 “Rock”

Posted on February 18, 2016 by cchrisholland

Wise builders start with a solid foundation. If the substructure is faulty, what’s above will eventually crumble. Jesus said not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” shall enter the Kingdom. Consider His words:

“Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” – Matthew 7:22-23 NKJV

He goes on to connect that statement (“Therefore” in v. 24) to the picture of wise and foolish builders (v.24-27). He said the wise builder is the one who hears AND does. He’s the one who takes the words, and wisely establishes a foundation deep down on the rock. However, the foolish builder rushes out and constructs something that looks good, but lacks foundational integrity. When the wind and rain come, both structures are tested and only the one built on the rock survives.

Following Christ isn’t about being able to speak and use His name, it’s about what’s underneath. It’s about knowing Him and Him knowing us. Is your faith anchored firmly to the Rock? Hopefully it is. And if so, what will hearing AND doing look like today?

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2-17-16 “Fruit”

Posted on February 17, 2016 by cchrisholland

In several different ways, scripture points to fruit as the mark of a disciple’s life. For example, Jesus said:

“You will know them by their fruits.” – Matthew 7:15a NKJV

Sometimes fruit can be clearly seen (like walking through an orchard). Other times, it can be confusing, like a commonly planted ornamental tree with “pear” in its name that yields no fruit. The difference is the genetics of the tree. The decorative one will never produce fruit for human consumption, because its purpose isn’t fruit, it’s for aesthetic value. Even worse, the particular species of tree mentioned is easily destroyed by wind and is often cut down and replaced.

On the other hand, real fruit trees aren’t as attractive or symmetrical in shape, but they produce fruit. Year after year, through pruning, fertilization, and hands-on care, their valuable fruit satisfies and nourishes. Even their blossoms are desirable (which is why beekeepers place hives nearby for the bees to gather nectar). What does the fruit of your life look like? Perhaps you occasionally compare yourself to the “decorative” trees and feel oddly shaped. If so, be encouraged today. The Lord’s orchard it’s not about the look, it’s about the fruit.

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2-16-16 “Pathways”

Posted on February 16, 2016 by cchrisholland

The life of a disciple is not readily understood or embraced by popular culture. Consider how Jesus described the contrast:

“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” – Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV

Following Christ is a forward-looking mindset because it’s a different path than the culture around us. Simply put, this world isn’t our home. However, it’s easy to slip into a lifestyle that’s completely at-home here. It’s the equivalent of decorating a bus-stop bench while waiting for the bus to arrive (mentally knowing the time is short, but practically acting like it’s forever).

What does your path look like today, and what are the markers along the way? Are the checkpoints kingdom focused or have they drawn more influence from ads and social media? Naturally, all things in the culture aren’t bad (many are quite good), but there are significant points where the paths separate. It’s the defining moments of a life “in Christ” (priorities, attitudes, words, goals, and relationships). May your steps be sure today and your heart be set toward home…

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2-15-16 “Judged”

Posted on February 15, 2016 by cchrisholland

No one likes being judged; especially when it’s based on someone else’s standards. Jesus gave a rule we call “golden” that says:

 “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” – Matthew 7:12 NKJV

The struggle however is with the item He described leading up to the “therefore”; the plank in the eye (v.3). When vision is obstructed, we’re only able to see what we remember, imagine or perceive to be there. As He taught about the plank and the speck, He also mentioned the result of plank removal:

 “…First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” – Matthew 7:5 NKJV

Vision clarity can reveal things not previously known or appreciated. First, we see ourselves as we really are in the mirror of God’s grace. Next, we may discover a quality in someone not previously noticed, or gain an understanding of the underlying cause of their problems. It can also lead to better application of biblical instruction, guidance, and discussion. Plank removal can be one of the most difficult tasks in the life of faith, but it can also be one of the most liberating. How’s your vision today and by what standard will you measure?

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2-13-16 “Worry”

Posted on February 13, 2016 by cchrisholland

Do you ever get anxious and try to “look over God’s shoulder” to see if He’s “reading the instructions” correctly? Jesus spoke on several occasions about the subject of worry. As He pointed out the lifestyle of the birds and the serene beauty of the lilies, He said this:

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” – Matthew 6:33-34 NKJV

There’s an old saying that says, “Don’t borrow trouble from tomorrow”, which seems simple enough, but our minds can be restless. Tension can grow between our desire for surety and our trust in God’s sovereignty; however, it helps to remember that worry is not of the Lord. He doesn’t place worry in the heart of His child. Even though we may try to cultivate it from time-to-time, it’s not a fruit of the Spirit. Paul helps us out in Philippians 4:6:

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God.”

Instead of focusing on the circumstances, the scripture tells us to:

  • Pray through the many things we’re thankful for
  • Honestly discuss with God our anxieties (He already knows anyway)
  • Ask for His help with our thought patterns and not just situations

Once this mode of prayer is set in motion, verse 7 promises:

“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

That’s a great trade. We give Him our worry and He gives us His peace. What do you have to trade today?

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2-12-16 “Eyes”

Posted on February 12, 2016 by cchrisholland

What catches your eye? What draws your attention and focus? Jesus spoke of the eye as a lamp…or not:

“The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad. Your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” – Matthew 6:22-23 NKJV

True light comes from Christ. He is the “Light of the World” and following Him is to be “in the light” (John 8:12). He mentions the eye as part of three word-pictures describing focus (between ‘treasure in heaven’ (v.19-21) and ‘serving two masters’ (v. 24)). Darkness is the absence of light. It’s the natural state of “lightlessness”. Our eye can easily get misaligned and slowly shift away from the light; bringing an internal eclipse.

Where is your eye focused today? Is it toward the Light? Light reveals, but darkness hides. In low-light conditions there can be stumbling, falling, misjudgment, and directional challenges. In the Light there is illumination, steadiness, and directional clarity. What will draw your attention today?

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