David LaFrance

Grow Up

Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 7; Ephesians 4; Ezekiel 37; Psalms 87–88

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. Ephesians 4:15-16

In both a “loving” and “non-loving” manner I have heard the phrase “grow up” on many occasions. I’m sure I deserved them all and if I had a quarter for each time I was told this my student loans would have been paid off by now. To those who shared these spontaneous heartfelt words with me I understand now and in most cases I’m sure you were right. I had a lot of “growing up” to do in Christ. Prayerfully, I continue this journey to put on a new self, created in a likeness of Him. Ephesians 4:24

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians and to us is to strengthen and encourage all believers. Ephesians 4:1 urges us to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which we have been called. Ephesians 4:4-6 There is only one body and one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God, and Father of all.

God has chosen us to be his representative on Earth. He wants us to live worthy of the name “Christian” meaning Christ’s one. For me, I know there has been plenty of times I fell and fall short of doing this. But, the phrase “grow up” in the the sense of speaking the truth in love is what I needed. In all my situations, faith based words didn’t always follow the word “Grow up David” but, I realize now their frustration with me. We can all make mistakes and need a little “truth in love” from others. In striving to be more mature Christians we need to also speak truth in love with others. This doesn’t come easy. Some people are good at telling the truth and some are good at being loving but can we do both. Speak the truth in loving manner.

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up…. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:29-32

Dear God, Thank you for our unity into your family. We pray that as examples of Christ we model truth and love to others. That we put away our evil desires and submit to your perfect will. help us to always continue to grow up to be more like you. Amen

Song for start of day. Resurrecting

We are All One in Christ Jesus

Today’s Readings: 2 Samuel 23; Galatians 3; Ezekiel 30; Psalm 78:38–72

²⁶for in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.²⁷For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.²⁸There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:26-28

I happen to have the TV on in the background and hear about the latest shooting that happens at a mall. A news feed comes across my phone of protests and people getting hurt elsewhere. I read an email about a child who is making bad choices and needs to be spoken to on Monday. It’s upsetting and I reflect on, ” How can I make more of a difference with others? How can we make a positive impact on our young adults and children? I read back over these verses and know I need to share God more with others. I know He will come like a thief in the night. Beyond this breath of life, I want us all to be together for eternity by our relationship with God. 1 Thessalonians 5:2

I heard a statement that was made by Baltimore Ravens players Benjamin Watson that says, ” Our current president or whoever is elected in the future can’t save us. The only one who can change the heart of man is the Lord!” I find comfort in this statement, I find faith, I find truth. Today, as I reflect on the last few verses of Galatians 3. I know that we need to all work together to change our hearts. God wants us to be prepared, there’s no time to fall asleep. Matthew 24:42

Trying to connect some dots I reflect on our small group study for last week on Baptism by Marcus Bieschke. It was a great reminder of the Almighty who is on our side how we can respond when we see everything unfolding around us. In reflecting on baptism it was the acknowledgment that we need to be washed and put our trust in Christ. For me it wasn’t baptism meant I had finally figured it out, but willing to make it a starting point to make a change my life. This change for you and for me will connect all people no matter our backgrounds.

We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4.

In times of uncertainty, know that God is our stronghold and any fear can be brought to Him. He has given us the duty to adhere to and share His commandments. Matthew 28:19-20. I know sharing our faith can be hard but I was hit with a gut check reminder Sunday when Pastor Mike Baker said to “Follow the Lord today like it’s your last…, because it could be! Joshua 1:9

So my prayer is to “put on” Christ all the days he gives me. If there are those who don’t know Him, I need to better to share his Love through my words and actions. We are in need of a lot of love. It’s a matter of us all sharing, doing, acting in a way that impacts everyone that you contact. Amen

We will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord. Psalm 78:4

For We Are ALL One in Christ.

(Watch this link on Baptism or on our last sermon on Unveiled)

The Cheerful Giver

Today’s Readings: 2 Samuel 16; 2 Corinthians 9; Ezekiel 23; Psalms 70–71

The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 2 Cor. 9:6

Great point, so why is it so hard some days to remember this point written by Paul? Why do I hesitate when it comes to my time, finances, love, listening, or wisdom? I want to piggy back of the authentic heartfelt words from Jillian yesterday called By His Poverty. This too is something that challenges me and my family. My best answer is to look to His word. God’s word continues with:

Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you my abound in every good work.

When my heart is truly committed that is when the cheerful giver emerges in my words, actions, and time. I would say much of my past life and still selfish current moments can leave me thinking that I can’t commit fully to something. My only answer is lack of faith, full of fear, and believing I won’t have enough left for myself. The truth is, God will provide all we need at all times. Amen. This faith and confidence changes your outlook of life. When I have this mindset my heart has decided to trust with all I have in God. I pray you walk into this day, week, and life with a heart focused on cheerful giving.

For myself there are many factors that can help me make excuses as to why I’m not a cheerful giver at all times. But I know these are excuses and that the Lord knows us, and he knows our hearts. Psalm 139:1 So, no matter your story beginnings, obstacles, hope, and future God is with you, he goes before you, and will provide anything that we need according to His will! The part where I have struggled is when I’m doing things for My will. I can often struggle with the idea of Needs vs. Wants and whether they are His or Mine.

One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Proverbs 11:24

Having a strong faith of God’s plan for my life needs to include my finances, time, words, wisdom, and actions. As I write this you should be encouraged to know the opportunities you will have today to give cheerfully whether that be financially or a listening ear or just love on someone. In any scenario God will know your heart. That the giving concept not only looks at our financial giving but our time. In the time we give to people we give love, we listen, we can give empathy, we can encourage.

Dear Lord, Continue to build a faith in us that portrays our faith completely in you. That in our sharing we do it with a love that exemplifies Jesus.Teach me that all we have to offer all day long is done for others because that is what you ask us. Help us not grow weary in doing good.

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

The Sweet Aroma of Christ

Today’s Date: September 13, 2016

The aroma of something can trigger memories or bring back thoughts in your mind that can alter a person’s emotions. Certain candles, fresh laundry, perfumes, coffee, and cooked meals can take me back to a specific time and/or place wanting to go back to that moment. What is one of your aromas that evokes a pleasant thought in your mind? When thinking of our five senses our smell is something that doesn’t require you to see the object or listen for a sound. Simply being in its presence will allow you to make the connections. So in 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 I reflect on “the aroma of Christ” Paul talks about and how our actions will give a “fragrance” that can be pleasing or send a person running.

For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing; 2 Corinthians 2:15

When referring to the “aroma of Christ” the truth is at times I can stink! No matter how many candles I burn, how much Febreaze is sprayed, cologne used, the smell comes through. Unless my thoughts, words and actions genuinely reflect Jesus this temporary aroma can turn out to be a foul fragrance that would clear a room. When doing things my way or not showing genuine love this sweet perfume I should always have can repulse even myself.

So I ask as “the aroma of Christ” what perfumes do I carry? What perfumes do Christians carry when they enter a room? What words am I using to allow a natural fragrance of life in Christ attract those around me like a bee to a flower? 2 Corinthians 2:16-17 our perfume shared through the message of Christ and our action will cause a reaction in others to stick around or leave. We attract others by His love and the love we have for Him. Not only are our lives an impact aroma but our prayer life is as well. Revelation 8:3-4 allows our sweet-smelling prayers to be lifted to God. Ephesians 5: 1-2 says to be Imitators of God and walk in love. That Christ sacrificed himself so we could live out of love. Proverbs 27:9 says that the oil and perfume make the heart glad. So the sweetness to others is from our genuine counsel.

But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere. 2 Corinthians 2:14

Dear Lord, We know that our Christ like aroma can have an effect on others. We pray for our words and actions are from genuine love like you give us even though we don’t deserve it. We pray that through our sweet aroma of You we attract others who want to know and be around you more. We pray Lord that you shape our thoughts and actions to exemplify and give off a fragrance of being close to You.

Today’s Readings: 2 Samuel 8–9; 2 Corinthians 2; Ezekiel 16; Psalms 58–59

Examine thyself

September 6, 2016

The last few weeks at church we have been reading in John and discussing the many many events that happened hours before the death of Jesus. Using figures of speech and talking plainly Jesus spoke so we can read today and have hope, faith, love for Him, ourselves, and others John 16:25. In these hours before a betrayal Jesus sat down with his disciples first showing how we should serve others John 13:16 , take heart in tribulations, be not of the world, and that God loves us with the same depth as His only son John 17:26.

Today’s Readings: 1 Samuel 31; 1 Corinthians 11; Ezekiel 9; Psalm 48

In the second half of 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 we read about the Lord’s Supper. This is a part that Christians have read and listened to every time we take communion. Starting at 1 Corinthians 11:24, Paul writes how the bread and the cup represents the body and blood is taken in the remembrance of Jesus. Verse 1 Corinthians 11:26 is that reminder to us that we proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

In 1 Corinthians 11:28 Paul talks about us examining ourselves. Yesterday, as Brandon Grant read and preached from John 17:20-26 he talked about The Oneness that Wins the World .This Oneness challenged me to be reflective in my desires and the oneness I have with others. I felt this examination run through my mind and in my heart. As I reflected on my prayers, engagement in others, and the sacrifices that I should make for God and His kingdom. These thoughts continued through the night as I read through this part of 1 Corinthians 11:28 into now. I asked myself how many times I have had the Lord’s Supper and not examined myself. Remembering that it is the Lord who truly knows our hearts and will judge us. In our time of communion, eating the bread and drinking the cup shows that we are remembering Christ’s death for us and renewing our commitment to serve Him. In this time of communion, instead of thinking of what plans I have that will follow that service I need to be thinking about what Jesus did and Why He did it! Taking the Lord’s Supper should be a time when I can examine myself for any unconfessed sin or resentful attitudes. What barriers am I hiding that affect my relationship with Him and with other believers.

Dear Lord, by Your grace do we get to be part of this special time where we can take this sacrament given by Christ to help strengthen our faith. Jesus, thank you for this time where we are at oneness with each other and completely focused on You. Thank you for the reminder that the Lord’s Supper is not to be taken lightly and this new covenant came at the cost of Your life. Amen

Imitators of me

August 30, 2016

im·i·ta·tor

ˈiməˌtādər/

noun plural noun: imitators 1. a person who copies the behavior or actions of another. 2. To use or follow as a model: Your brother imitates you because he admires you.

People imitate for many reasons. Some good, and, …some bad. Imitators of words, actions, and lifestyles. Currently, I will see this all the time with my two sons. Jackson the 5 year old will do something, anything, and Marshall our 19 month son will do his best impression of it.(good or bad) Likewise, I see these same actions carried out by both boys through my actions as well. (again, good or bad)

Today’s Reading:1 Samuel 23; 1 Corinthians 4; Ezekiel 2; Psalm 38

In today’s readings, 1 Corinthians 4 shares a message from Paul telling Timothy to be an imitator of him. (1 Corinthians 4:16) Paul was sent for Timothy as a model like a father with their child. Paul was sent for us to remind us of the ways of Christ that we need to model.

Each day God presents us with needs and opportunities to challenge us to do what is right. Is my “Christian conduct” that which Paul modeled for Timothy? My prayer is to grow in this desire and my behaviors daily until His will calls me elsewhere. As a husband, father, son, brother, and friend I know as I list some of these examples of Christ there is vast opportunity to grow. I can talk about faith, but if my actions don’t follow or I’m saying sorry all the time then I need to make some changes. This is the time where I can reflect on another reading from today Psalm 38:18.

I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin.

The days are long but the years are short. Let’s set our best example of Jesus for others. In my study bible it shares some great verses to help us along this path.

Matthew 11:29 – Jesus told his followers to learn from his example of gentleness and humility.
Philippians 3:17 – Paul urged believers to follow his example of enthusiasm, perseverance, and maturity.
1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 – The new Christians in Thessalonica received training in discipleship from Paul.
1 Timothy 1:16 – Paul used his unworthiness to receive Christ as an example of grace so that no one would hold back from coming to Christ.
1 Peter 5:3 – Peter taught Christians leaders to lead by example, not by commands.

Dear Father, We pray that we are examples of Christ. That we are examples of Christ in our children and in the world. That nonbelievers will be able to see the belief of Christ in us and be drawn to this salvation through our examples. Thank you God, we know this is only possible through you. Amen

Law of Love

Today’s Date: 8/23/2016

The Beatles were onto something when they sang the song All You Need Is Love . But Paul says it best in Romans 13:8-14

Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 15; Romans 13; Jeremiah 52; Psalm 31

Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. Romans 13:8

Being asked to Love others is the only way we even come close to showing God our appreciation for sending His own son to die for us. Let’s refer back to John 3:16 where we find out exactly how much God loves us. So as believers, we are asked to love one another.

How hard can it be? Honestly,.. hard, because naturally we attempt to make excuses as to why or what others do to not allow us to love them. We can gratify the desires of the flesh without understanding that the day could be on hand when our worldly bodies won’t be able to share this love.

God wants us to hold no debts except for the debt of Love to others. So as we work diligently to cut out our own or our children’s financial debt never lose sight of the debt of Love that doesn’t impact any bank statement. Our only obligation here is to love our neighbors.

Loving others as ourselves is a deep love that covers everything to make sure all needs are met. Helping and loving others means that your secure in yourself enough to make sure that you love your neighbors. James 2:8 says to love thy neighbor like thyself.

In order to show this love you need to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ“. There are many references to putting on a new self. Ephesians 4:24 talks about a new self created in the likeness of God; In addition Colossians 3:14-17. We can also show this in be baptized. Galatians 3:27. Second, we model the same qualities that Jesus had while on this Earth. (Love, Humility, Truth, Service) Here is where you could go with the acronym W.W.J.D. Ephesians 4:17-32

We must make sure we are getting dressed everyday – taking off sin and putting on the righteousness of Christ. It is an everyday love that we need to put on new each day. We need to keep God’s promise of a new self close to not allow worldly things invite us to enter into jealousy, anger, mistrust, being negative against others for whatever previous mistakes you or they made.

The night is far gone; and the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Romans 13:12-13

Dear Father, I am thankful that You are love. That You have woke us up from a sleep that only focused on ourselves. We rejoice that You demonstrated incredible love for us in the flesh through your son Jesus Christ. I pray that we share this great love with others. We are forever changed because of this love and I know that it extends to those around us because You have enabled us to love deeply. Today, I pray that You let Your love flow through us and touch those around us. May the love we give be a blessing and a light for Your kingdom. Amen

Love ~ Chris Tomlin

Victory in Battle

Today’s Reading:1 Samuel 7–8; Romans 6; Jeremiah 44; Psalms 20–21

Victory In Battle

Do you remember the song, Victory in Jesus? What a time tested song that has truth embedded throughout. As we read today in Psalms 20-21 I reflect on that victory song and the sermon Mike Baker did this past week on, Rider on the White Horse and being victorious. When we find our victory through Him, we need to praise Him.

Unfortunately, we can often find trouble based on our own desires to conform to certain desires of the flesh. Romans 12:2 reminds us not to conform but in the testing we receive in battle, it can can help us see the desires of the Lord. I pray we see the will of God in these moments.

Psalm 20:1 May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble! May the God of Jacob protect you!

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

Challenge upon challenge can come at you at any moment without any kind of warning. What is our response? Taking a trip down memory lane can reveal the many times I trusted in myself, chariots or horses. In these times I would struggle, make excuses, and continue the pattern. My prayer is that we turn to our Lord for everything and especially in our troubles. In the heat of a moment I still can fall back to this old selfish pattern. I will continue to pray for a faith that is present in all moments, has enough presence to change my heart, and present to the point it’s my first choice at all times.
So in our times of challenge by yourself, in your home, work, or community turn to God. Ask for Holy Spirit help and Psalm 20:4 says may he grant you your heart’s desire and fulfill all your plans!

Behind these deceptions is Satan who desires us to make bad choices and turn away from God. A spiritual battle that without God will sadly have one result. In this battle we need our Lord and Holy Spirit to bring us to victory.

Psalm 20:8 They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.

And when the victory is our Lord’s we will be like Psalm 21:13 Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power.

Romans 12:12 – Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.

It can be done, the short term victory is yours but the long term victory is HIS. God bless your Tuesday. If you missed last week sermon I have attached the message that shows how we can be victorious with HIM.

Godly Gleaning

Today’s Readings: Ruth 2; Acts 27; Jeremiah 37; Psalm 10

August 9, 2016

glean: ɡlēn/ verb extract (information) from various sources.
synonyms: obtain, get, take, draw, derive, extract, cull, garner, gather; More
collect gradually and bit by bit.
historical definition: gather (leftover grain or other produce) after a harvest.

What an amazing story we heard yesterday from Jillian that brought tears to my eyes helping me to take a breath and reflect on our own marriage in the midst of a busy household preparing for the start of school. I’m reminded to not take things for granted since we don’t know when God will call us home. Prayers for the McGriff’s and family throughout this week as they celebrate Elmer Newton.

The story of Ruth and the introduction of Boaz in today’s reading is a story I never really thought about until this time through. Ruth, through her genuine love stays with her mother-in-law Naomi and returns to the country of Bethlehem right at the beginning of harvest season. What love, honor, and dedication to another person.

Humbly, Ruth realizes she can’t remain idle at home and goes out to the field to glean for her family. (Ruth 2:2) Ruth’s example of diligence, humility, and love is an example for us today. Diligently she goes off and takes on a job to provide for her family. Even though her previous lifestyle didn’t include gleaning fields she does it because it’s what she has to do. Today, the desire by some to seek only glamorous high paying positions or that a job will come to them can leave many just waiting and jobless. Here is an example from Ruth that honest work is better than no work when you are trying to help yourself or others taking initiative makes a difference. Diligence promises well and there is nothing wrong with honest employment.

When Ruth goes to the field you hear an amazing work environment. Imagine when your employer starts the day with, “The Lord be with you!” and you answer with, “The Lord bless you.” Boaz came out to his field to greet his crew in a loving and praising way grateful for what they are doing. (What a great reminder for myself and others to praise all employees.) We can bless them, even if for some reason you can’t say it out loud?! Pray for this courage and follow through with the way you treat people. This has allowed me to reflect on ways that I interact with those I work with. Is there opportunity to share this love and blessing from our Lord? (Ruth 2:4) Boaz notices Ruth gleaning and inquires with his foreman. After hearing that she has been there since sun up and worked all day with minimal breaks Boaz takes heart and recognizes her work ethic and love for Naomi. Boaz has the crew watch out for her and remembers the story that has been shared with him about the loss of Ruth’s husband. (Ruth 2:17) How are we looking out for those we work with? Is it a kind word or recognition? Boaz is sensitive to her needs and shows a genuine care for Ruth.

How often do we go beyond the accepted patterns of providing for those less fortunate?

It’s amazing some of the stories I’ve heard at registration for school that include a very adverse circumstance. Where parent, grandparent, or relative is trying to get their child signed up for school. School provides many students an opportunity to be surrounded by love and attention in the midst of many things going on in the current place they are calling home. Pray for our students, families, and school staffs to get to know these stories and through the all the curriculum, first and always show love:)

Ruth gives Naomi her gleaning and what she had for left overs from earlier that day. Naomi is grateful and blesses Boaz and gives advice to Ruth to stay close with Boaz and his young women. Naomi recognizes in Boaz an honest loving person who is dedicated to the Lord.

“May he be blessed by the Lord, whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead!” (Ruth 2:20)

Reflecting on this story is also an example of how God always provides for us. When Ruth goes to glean she ends up in Boaz’s field. (All part of God’s plan that will continue tomorrow.)

So if you are in Ruth’s shoes where are you gleaning? Are you taking initiative looking out for others?

If you are in the shoes of Boaz how are you treating others at work? How are you treating those less fortunate at this current moment?

Dear Lord,

Help us to do what is right similar to the story with Ruth and Boaz today. Help us to recognize those who need support and reach out to them. When faced with challenges help us to make the right choice and not just the easy choice. Thank you for our faith believing you are always directing our lives for your purpose.

Amen

Powerful Planning

August 2, 2016

One of my favorite verses that I read today is Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare, and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Today’s Reading: Judges 16; Acts 20; Jeremiah 29; Mark 15

I’ve read, written, and quoted this verse many times to myself and to others. At first to me it was a reminder that God has a plan for all of us. In His plans, and according to His timing, we will be taken care of in both good and bad moments. These encouraging words can provide you with boundless hope you need to conquer any agenda, task, or adverse circumstances that at first may seem impossible. You can rest on the fact that God is with you the whole time. In our stress, pain, and hard times God has a glorious conclusion for us.

Jeremiah 29:12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.

These next two verses is a reminder about us calling upon Him. That the plans we want may not always be the plans He has set for us. So in our minds when we’re asking, “Why did this happen?” submit to the plan God has given to you and find ways to bless others. This is a tough one for me to swallow since I spent most of my life to this point doing everything for me. Self confession, its not about me its about God.

In researching various interpretations to Jeremiah 29:11 I’m sent back to Jeremiah 29:1 where you will see these verses were part of a letter Jeremiah wrote to surviving elders, prophets, priests, people who had been exiled. This exile based on their disobedience lasted for 70 years. Imagine the wait now. In our instant gratification world its hard to wait 70 seconds let alone 70 years. It also is a heart check to see where our obedience is. In today’s reading God has a plan for Samson and the Philistines, Paul and Eutychus, Nebuchadnezzer and all the exiles in Babylon, Joseph of Arimathea, and us. Jeremiah 29:11 can be a reminder.

These Israelites were sent to exile because of their idolatry. Exodus 20:5 tells us that he is a jealous God and how we should only focus on Him. – God is Just

Despite the fact of their sins and ours God gives us hope that he will take you out of your current situation when we call on Him and according to His time. – God is full of Grace

Through history you can see all the promises our Lord has fulfilled. We can trust that God will follow through on the promises made to us. The promise that we can receive the forgiveness of our sins and the gift of eternal life. – God keeps His Promises

So today…

Ask yourself, Do I continually seek Him?
How do I respond when God’s plans are not always the plans I desired?
Am I still being a blessing to others when His plans are not according to my timing?

Dear God,

You alone are our God. Please help us to focus on this throughout our days. You go before us and have divine plans set for us. Equip us to continually bless others in the midst of this day you have set before us. Help us to grow closer and closer to you as we seek you continually. Allow our responses to be full of Grace just like you have given to us. Thank you God for this day, let us follow the plan you have set for us. Amen