The passage emphasizes that leaders should shepherd their congregation willingly and enthusiastically, not out of obligation or for dishonest gain. The author reflects on personal leadership experiences, acknowledging a desire to improve oversight skills and serve God better. They express gratitude for God's guidance in refining their leadership abilities.
Judgement
The passage emphasizes that judgment begins with followers of Christ, raising questions about the fate of those who disobey God's message. The author reflects on personal judgment, accountability, and the seriousness of God’s evaluation. They express a desire for loved ones to experience transformation and surrender to God's will through prayer and example.
Resting Glory
The passage from 1 Peter 4:14 highlights the blessing of being insulted for one's faith in Christ, indicating that God's Spirit rests upon those persecuted. The author encourages Christians facing attacks to reflect God's glory in their responses, offering prayers for strength and empowerment during such challenges.
His Glory
Passage - Rather, to the extent that you share the fellowship of the Messiah’s sufferings, rejoice; so that you will rejoice even more when his Sh’khinah is revealed. 1 Peter 4:13 Restated in Your own words - If you are suffering for Christ, rejoice because His glory is revealed in you. When it is finished, you will... Continue Reading →
Met by Attitude
I was struck with the attitude in responses I heard in this passage this morning during my quiet time. One day as Jesus was preaching on the shore of the Sea of Galilee, great crowds pressed in on him to listen to the word of God. He noticed two empty boats at the water’s edge,... Continue Reading →
I am
I am a native of my community. I was born and raised in the same local place. Then so moved away and spent a little more than a decade out of state before finding my way back home. That also describes my relationship with God and church. I grew up in church, from the time... Continue Reading →
Time to…
The hills of Santa Maria are teaming with rolling acres of farmland. Even in June, there were fields in different stages of harvest. It was far from what I expected, but as I listened to the stories from my aunt about the work that her family of origin did in the fields, it took on... Continue Reading →
Bold Requests
Passage - But you are a chosen people, the King’s cohanim, a holy nation, a people for God to possess! Why? In order for you to declare the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9 Restated in my own words - I declare the praises of the Lord who took... Continue Reading →
Stalled
The word leaped from the reading that I was listening to this morning, Christine Caine's new book Unexpected "Stalled." I don't remember if the word following was faith or hope, listening while I get ready for work often means I listen to some books over and over to get the full impact; but the... Continue Reading →
Doing Culture
I hear a lot about culture in my life. I live in what is called a melting pot area as we have people from all different nationalities pour into our community on a regular basis. Many people want those moving in to the community to conform to our culture. At work we talk about the... Continue Reading →
Restoring Voice 