Farewell to Blogger - Hello to Self Hosted WordPress!

I have been using Blogger since 2008 and it has been a great place to post. However, we have now integrated the blog into the main website and would love for you to drop by and sign up for blog updates, devotionals, etc... I will share posts on blogger here and there, but will be phasing out of this blog.

All the archived blogs that are on blogger are there as well, so you wont miss a thing.

Come check it out at www.dailyinchrist.net

As many of you know, I have changed the name from "Daily In Christ Devotionals" to "Living Daily In Christ."

Hope you'll come by and join us!

Blessings,
Keith

Walking By Faith ~ Our Latest Update

Greetings friends,

Since Lori and I have returned home from Uganda we have been fairly quiet about future plans. Not because we don’t want to share them with everyone, rather, because we don’t even know them fully ourselves. Often in life we believe God is doing one thing simply to find out He is doing quite another. We believe that’s the case with our lives as well. It is a time where we can’t see the entire picture clearly. Rather, He is giving us snippets to keep us going and all the while encouraging and deepening our trust and faith in Him. It is a time of stretching, bending, pruning, and growing. I use the phrase, “we are in a time of nervous excitement.”

To read the rest of our update...
http://www.dailyinchrist.net/dailybible/?p=295

Killing Sin Means Living In Christ

Col 3:1-2  If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.  

(2)  Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

As I study through the book of Colossians I can't help but think of my early Christian life. Back when I believed that my efforts would get me in right standing with God and if I just tried harder to look like my life was in order I would be a good Christian. Coming to these verses in Chapter three I think about how easy it is to think it is all about trying harder. And nothing could be further from the truth. 

As one reads down through the chapter, there are a lot of don'ts. Or as the Apostle Paul states, "put to death." Being a Christian and killing sin is serious business. In our culture today the talk of the blood of the cross, killing sin, or putting ones self to death is offensive and often not discussed. Not only does Paul use such harsh language toward sin, but Jesus does as well. In Matthew he tells us to poke out our eye or cut off our arm if they cause us to sin. He warns people that they will be accursed and spend eternity in hell if they live as if they are Christians but are only doing it for any other reason than to bring glory to Christ.

Killing sin in our life is one of the central themes in the Bible. It is what separates us from the Father and thankfully Jesus gave us way to be forgiven by being killed for our sin. And not only did he take the punishment of death on our behalf, he was raised again on the third day. And that's where we see Paul taking us in the start of this chapter.

If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things of Christ. Set your mind on the pursuit of godly things not carnal things. As you read through this chapter and see all the sins we are to put to death it can be overwhelming. "How am I supposed to do all that?" you may ask as I have many times in my life. Put to death all that is earthly, sexual immorality, passions, evil desires, slander, anger, malice and on and on. And then to top it off Paul lets us know what to do instead. We are to have compassion, kindness, patience, meekness, love for one another and so on. As I walked as a new believer I was exhausted trying to keep this list of do's and don'ts. Until I discovered a true understanding of this chapter.

The first part of verse 16 is like the key to the kingdom here. "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly." Putting to death sin in our life is not about trying harder to kill it, it is about spending time with the One who already conquered sin at the cross. Paul instructs us that the key to Col 3:1-15 is to abide in the word of Christ. Then he tells us that whatever we do in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

As I meditate on these verses I can't help but realize that it is about being in Christ and not about doing for Christ. The killing of sin and the putting on of righteousness comes from abidance, not from obedience. Yes, we are to obey the Word, but that comes through our abiding in Christ. Jesus tells us that apart from Him we can do nothing. That includes putting to death the sin in our life. God provided the law to the Jews for 1500 years to show them that putting to death the sin in their life was not possible simply by the act of their own will, rather, they needed a Messiah. 

Are you struggling with putting to death sin in your life today? Is it a challenge to live righteous before God? I encourage you to stop trying so hard and start abiding in the Word of Christ. As you abide in Him the things of your life that hinder your walk will be replaced by the fruit the Spirit came to bring. Of course we need to repent and turn from our sin, but the power to do that does not come from willpower, but Holy Spirit power! I trust today that He will do a great thing in you as you turn to Him for all things. Set your heart and your mind on the things of Christ and you will see His power take hold of your life.

Blessings,

Keith

The Fruit of Discipleship ~ To Abide

Joh 8:31-32 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples,
(32) and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

For years as a young Christian I believed that in order to be a good Christian I needed to bear fruit. I would try very hard to produce lasting fruit and would get burned out, tired of trying, and eventually give up all together. Only to get some rest and try all over again. I was bound by the expectation that I was supposed to make disciples, live a good clean life, stop sinning etc. It made for a very challenging Christian walk... It was all about me performing in such a way that I pleased God and he would then be accepting of me. When I found myself returning to habitual sins I would try to cover them up. "Good Christians wouldn't do such a thing so I better not let anyone know," I would think to myself. Until one day I finally had enough.

So, what changed? I heard a message of grace. I learned that Christ came to set me free from performance Christianity and called me to rest in Him. To simply abide... So I did just that. Rather than trying to do good works for God, I simply began to rest in Christ. I poured over His Word and discovered so many wonderful truths that brought me peace and comfort in my walk with Him.

Joh 15:4  Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself,
unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.

I discovered that the fruit of discipleship came from my abiding in Him, not my doing good works for Him.  What I did for Christ came from my love for Him and my abidance in His word, not through good works or my own effort.

Today and every day I long for His Word. To simply rest in Him and find freedom from the sin that entangles us. To know that He is the one who produces fruit in my life. Apart from Christ I can do nothing. But when I abide in Christ I can do all He has called me to do. When I came to the understanding that a branch can not bear fruit on its own I was finally set free from the burden I placed on myself to be a good Christian and do a lot of good things for God.

If you can relate to this post, then today I encourage you to quit trying so hard... to stop performing for Christ and simply rest in Him.

Be Blessed,
Keith

Proclaim The Gospel

Mar 16:15  And he said to them, "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.

Mat 28:19  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

As I read through the Gospel of Mark and come to the Great Commission, I can't help but wonder what Jesus was saying to His disciples. We here messages often from the Gospel of Mark and Matthew regarding the command by Jesus, and the first thing that we hear is... "Go!" We are told by the preacher that Jesus commands us to go. Get up and get going... Make a move toward missions here and share the Gospel as you go. And that seems partly fitting, and it is important,  but is it the most important?

If we really look closely at the words Jesus spoke we might just see something else here. Something that is as important, or maybe even more important than, "Go." It is the word "proclaim." Proclaim the Gospel, the glad tidings, the great news of Jesus. Since I'm just a regular guy and have a basic understanding of words and sentences, it takes me a bit of an effort to see some of the nuances in the scriptures. I scratch my head trying to hear what God is speaking to me and once in awhile I have that "a-ha" moment. So as I studied this recently, that moment came.

The word "go" is not the imperative... The word "preach" is. Just as in Matthew 28 the word "disciple" is the imperative. So if we take the two verses and single out the imperatives from the participles we get the command to "proclaim" or "disciple." Not the command to go...

So, rather than thinking of this verse as missional (which it is as well) we realize the imperative is to make disciples. Whew! Now that I got that cleared up it makes perfect sense.

So here's my take on Mark 16:15 and Matthew 28:19...

We are commanded to make disciples of the nations. The command to make disciples can be in our neighborhood, workplace, families, or wherever we are every day. The command isn't to go, that is the means to an end. It isn't exclusive to those who go over seas as missionaries or pastors or teachers. It is for simple people like you and me. Right where you are at today you have the opportunity to fulfill the great commission. All you have to do is step out in faith and make disciples... so go!

Have a blessed day!
Keith

Is The Good Life Enough?

Lori and I are in the preparation time for missions work in Uganda. We will be downsizing as we prepare to move to a place that will be completely foreign to both of us. New sights, smells, and adventures will be the normal part of every day living as we step out in faith and follow the lead of Christ.

As I prepare myself during my daily studies of the Word, I keep coming back to one question.

"Is living the good life enough?"

That question can have many meanings, but there are two specifically that are in my thoughts. The first one has to do with material things. Here in America, specifically the beautiful state of Oregon, we have many good things. Lori and I have great jobs that provide handsomely for our needs. We have health benefits, good income, great opportunities. So from the standpoint of work... we live the good life. We have the ability to travel the state and all around the nation and marvel at the beauty of creation. We can hike, bike, ski, surf, sight see... you name it, this area we live in is beautiful. We live the good life when it comes to recreation. And as far as relationships go, we have amazing friends and family. We fellowship at our local church with great people. We have connections there that will last our entire lifetime and into eternity. We have kids and extended family that we love and cherish the relationships we have with them. When it comes to relationships with people, we live the good life. But is that enough?

The second thought I have has little to do with the good life for me materially, but how I live my life as others see it. Is how I live my life in the lens of other people enough? I have heard it many times said, (and I have said it much myself) "Oh, they know I am a Christian... and if I live a good life in front of them, then that is enough."

I am discovering that this response to my faith in Christ, for me, is a real cop out. It is a way to not face the challenges that come from sharing my faith in Christ and "hoping" that people will see my life and that is enough. My thought process in my head goes something like this.

God: Keith, I want you to share the Gospel with your neighbor.
Me: I don't really need to share the Gospel. I live a good life, they will see the difference.
God: This person is going through some real challenges right now, they need to hear about the hope they have in Christ.
Me: All I need to tell them is I go to church. Maybe they will want to go with me and then they will see how awesome it is and they will get saved.
God: How will they hear if no one tells them?
Me: I don't cuss, I don't drink, and I don't sleep around. That is enough for them to see Christ in me.
God: I have asked you to share my love with everyone. To proclaim me to the nations... that includes those around you right now. Are you willing to do that?
Me: I live a good life. That's really enough!

What a sad testimony to the call of God we all have on our life to share the Gospel. To tell of the good news of Jesus Christ, not just attempt to live it. The truly sad part of this line of thinking is that most of us don't live any differently that our neighbor, so we are fooled into thinking that we can share the love God has for them through how we live.

So as I prepare for Uganda, God has challenged me to step out in faith and obedience and share the Gospel with those I encounter. To realize that living "The Good Life" is not enough. We must speak the truth of Jesus, not just live it. So I challenge you today. Are you just like me? Too fearful, too worried, or too concerned about what others may think to share the Gospel?

Step out in the power of Holy Spirit today and share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with those you encounter.

Rom 10:13-17  For "everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."  (14)  How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?  (15)  And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!"  (16)  But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, "Lord, who has believed what he has heard from us?"  (17)  So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.

May God's peace be with you as you step out in faith.

Be Blessed,
Keith

1 Thing That Has Revolutionized Writing My Daily Journal

So you want to write a daily journal? That's great! I have written in my journal for years... off and on! Unfortunately, more off than on...

The problem for me is that I often sit down to a piece of paper or my blank computer screen and then ask myself, "now what?" But I have discovered a secret that  I want to share that has revolutionized my personal journal.

Ok, let's be honest here... it is really quite simple. I have created a template. If you know me, you know my mind works fairly orderly. So the one thing I have done to revolutionize my time and organize my thoughts is to answer a few questions in the form of a journal template. I have tried a few different ways to do this and there are a couple of things I have discovered.

• First, keep it simple... Too many questions and too many options bogs me down so I just keep it simple. Of course I have the freedom to expound on my thoughts and ideas, but simple is best for me.

• Next, journal regularly... 

• And finally the one key that is best for me is the ability to sync between devices. I use android and I have to have my journal on all my devices (I hope all the Apple users keep reading) so I have a journal app that syncs to my nook, phone, and desktop computer.

What are some things that you have discovered 

to help you keep a personal journal?

Here is the current template I use for my journal. I hope you find it helpful. Feel free to copy it and use it for yourself as well...

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Yesterday:

- What did I do?
- What area can I improve?
- What impacted me the most?
- What did I learn?


Right Now:

- How do I feel right now?
- What sins do I need to confess?
- What am I thankful for?
- Who/what can I pray for?


Today:

- What Bible verse/story impacted me today?
- What am I going to do today to positively impact my marriage?
- What one thing must I accomplish today?
- Write down one book quote that inspired me.

Personal Notes:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Be blessed,
Keith

If you found this helpful feel free to share it with others.

4 Actions For More Intentional Living

in·ten·tion·al - adj - Done on Purpose; Deliberate

liv·ing - noun - the pursuit of a lifestyle of the specified type.

Intentional Living 

the pursuit of a deliberate and purposeful lifestyle.

Intentional living can be hard... let's face it! The demands of life are pulling us in all sorts of directions. Family, work, church, and friendships all play a part in the decisions we make. But it doesn't have control us. Living the intentional life is not only more fruitful, but allows you to do the things that are most important to you as well.

If you are anything like me, then you have so many choices to fill up your time. But the fact still remains... we are all given 24 hours each and every day to live life to the fullest. The question is, "What are you going to do with them?"

Here are a few ideas that can really help...

• Assess your current life

What are you currently doing that isn't allowing you to live the life God intended for you? I like to think of my time as a box that can only hold so much stuff. As we move into the different stages of life we have a choice to keep filling the box with more stuff to the point the box eventually busts at the seams, or we can prune away the less essential things and fill our box with the things that matter.

This step is where you get to decide what items stay in your box and which ones are the least important.

• Decide where you want to go

Now that you have decided what is important to you, here comes the fun part...Where do you want to go? We have lots of choices here, but the most important part of this equation for me is really, "Where does God want me to go?" I often share with people that if you are sitting on the sidelines watching life go by, then by implication you are saying to the world... "This is my calling." You have unique gifts and talents that no one else has. The first step for deciding where you want to go is to pray and ask the Lord for clear direction. Then start moving...

Spend time looking over your life and decide today where you want to go with it. Life is precious and we only get one shot at it. Are you living it to the fullest?

• Eliminate the less-essentials

What do you need to prune from your life to move forward? I can create a pretty good list for my less-essentials. Now, I didn't say "non-essentials" for a reason. Often our time is filled with really good things, but they may not be the essential thing that will allow us to live the intentional life God created us for. For some it may be extended time in front of the television or computer screen. Others the less-essentials may be removing something you enjoy doing simply because it takes too much time away from where you really want to go.

One example of this for me is photography. I am an avid hobby photographer. Recently I had to make the hard decision that my time being spent surrounded around my photography hobby was not productive and took away from my essentials. Tough decision, but best for me when it comes to where God would have me.

• Execute your plan

Take action. Take the necessary steps to eliminate those things that are taking you away from what God has for you and start walking daily in the things that matter.

Living an intentional life is not creating a list of do's and then setting out to accomplish them. This will lead you to eventually burn out. It is about deciding what you value most in life and setting yourself in motion to fulfill those things.

Can intentional living be hard? Yes...
Can intentional living bring challenges? Absolutely...

But most of all it is incredibly rewarding. When you finally gain control of your schedule and life rather than having it control you, it frees you up to be the person God created you to be.

I encourage you today to seek God for direction. Ask him today to help you live daily for him with the intention and desire He gave you. Not sitting on the sidelines watching life go by, but getting in the game and allowing those around you to see all the wonderful things God designed uniquely inside of you!

Be Blessed,
Keith

Me in Ishunga UG 2014

If you like this post, please take a moment and share it with others...

The Reason For Missions

2Co 4:15 For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and 

more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. (esv)

If someone where to ask me, "What is the reason for missions?" I would probably say something like this... "to reach the lost people of the world and share with them the good news (Gospel) of Jesus Christ and the redemption of sins in order to bring them into a right relationship with God." In fact, that is exactly what I believe the purpose of missions is. But as I studied in Corinthians recently I encountered this verse in chapter 4. I believe this is the true meaning of missions. "To extend God's grace to more and more people and in so doing that we increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God."

As I thought through this verse I came to the realization that missions, as with all of our Christian life, is ultimately about the glory of God. When we are truly alive in Christ, we long after God's glory. When I realize that my role in reaching lost people is not about them and all about God, it completely changes the way I look at it. Now I am striving for, hoping for, and praying for what He is most worthy of - His Glory! Rather than being compelled to only reach the lost for the sake of their eternal well being (which is still a vital part of missions) I am seeking sinners for the glory of God.

God is worthy of thanksgiving and glory from all mankind. Every one of us was created to glorify God. However, we have turned other things into the object of our glory. Rom 1:22-25 tells us that in our foolishness we have exchanged the immortal God for images resembling mortal man, birds, an other things. We have exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worship the creation rather than the creator. We are giving other things our Glory and missions is to bring people back to their true purpose... to bring Glory to God. Rom 3:23 says this:  for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. It doesn't say for all have sinned and aren't going to spend eternity in heaven. The ultimate issue with our sin is that it steals away the glory that is supposed to be reserved for God alone. Heaven is the reward for a faithful life on earth serving God and bringing Him glory. It is not the end in itself, it is the means for us, for all of eternity, to do what we were created for.

With an understanding of the true purpose of missions, for me, it helps with so many objections when I share my faith. Christianity is not a "private faith." When Jesus was resurrected from the grave he made himself public for all to see. He told his disciples to go and preach the good news. Paul reminds us, if we read all of chapter 4, that we are going to encounter hardship and trouble when we share our faith. Look at the outcome of the life of Jesus, it ultimately ended in his death for his claim of Deity. But the glory of God is our motivator. When we encounter an atheist, a Muslim, a Hindu, or anyone else who is not honoring God, it should motivate us to show them the way. If I believe that Jesus it the path to the One True God, then how can I stay silent and watch those giving false god's the glory and thanksgiving that is due Jesus knowing that their ultimate end is eternity apart from God in hell... forever? Forever is a very long time by the way.

So how do you view missions? As a believer in Christ, what is your role when it comes to reaching the lost people of the world? All of us should be concerned about the fulfillment of the Great Commission. (Mat 28:16-20) However, not all of us are called to go out and preach to all the nations. But I believe we are all called to participate and whether you are a sender or a goer, bringing thanksgiving and glory to God should be our ultimate purpose in everything we do.

Be Blessed,

Keith

Who Do You Say That I Am? ~ Mat 16:13-16

Mat 16:13-16 ESV  Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter replied, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Who do you say that I am? 

How we answer that question in our life is of the utmost importance. Often we read Bible stories of people who have turned away from God and traveled down their own path. They identify with the things of this world and leave God in the distance without a care or concern. I can be just like that. But when the question comes to me and I need to answer it, I hope to be able to identify with Peter. "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God."

Many people today will say that Jesus was a prophet. Others might say he was a good moral teacher or a great religious leader. Still others will tell you he was a made up person and never existed. It is a sad thing that we have come so far away from the truth.

The Bible reveals that Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the Son of the living God. And whether one believes it right now is crucial to their eternal well being. One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. (phil 2:10-11) So how we answer that question will truly determine the outcome of our eternity.

So, the question begs to be asked. If you answered today with Peter, "you are the Christ" - then how are you living your life? Do you live your life daily as if you really believe it? Jesus tells us that if we confess Him as Lord and are his disciples then we are to pick up our cross and follow Him. A true follower does everything he/she can to become like the one they follow. How are you doing with that today? Living Daily in Christ means we are to identify with Christ in all that we think, say, and do. It is more than an exercise in knowledge, it is how we live each day of our short life here on earth. Loving one another, praying for our enemies, serving those in need, giving of our resources, trusting in Christ for our forgiveness and salvation. Having the knowledge that Jesus is the Christ is futile if we live as if he isn't.

Who do you say Jesus is? If you say He is the Christ, then I pray today that you live your life as his follower and identify with him in all that you do.

Be Blessed,
Keith

What Does "Serving God" Look Like?

Recently Lori and I have been talking about what it means to completely "serve God." We ask each other all sorts of questions and go back and forth, sometimes feeling like our point hits the nail on the head while other times we feel like we aren't even hitting the target. Eventually, we realize that the conversation leads to more questions and we wind up on an endless circle of conversations that travel down many paths.

We enjoy these times together immensely. It is during these moments when the Bible pages are flipping back and forth faster than a deck of cards in the hands of a Vegas poker dealer and our thoughts and hearts are completely stimulated by God's Spirit. We are fully engrossed and united in one thing... discovering what God has to say on a particular subject.

So what does it mean to serve God? What does it look like in your life and mine? Often we think that if someone flies off to another country and gives up their normal way of living then they must truly be serving God. Or when a couple starts a church, or a ministry, or feeds the homeless... that's when they are serving God. Those things are good things and He definitely calls us to this or that. But, I see that the acts of service that many of us call "serving God" are really just a response rather than what the Bible teaches us about serving God. Let me explain...

Act 17:24-25 ESV The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in temples made by man, (25) nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all mankind life and breath and everything.

Though we may think just the opposite, God does not need our service. He doesn't enlist a man or woman to go forth because He can not get a task accomplished without them. The reality is that God desires our heart. He desires our affection and love. So to serve Him really isn't about going out and doing something to show God and others how faithful we are to Him. Serving Him is simply submitting your life to Him and seeking after the truth of the Gospel message in your life no matter where you are at.The Gospel is as much for the saint as it is for the sinner. When we look at the message of Paul to the Romans, in chapter one he is explaining to the brothers and sisters in the church that he is eager to preach the gospel to them. At first glance that seems a bit odd. Haven't they already heard the gospel and aren't they a part of the faith? The answer to that is absolutely 'yes.' But Paul realizes through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that salvation is not a one time decision after you hear the gospel message. It is not a get out of hell free card as many may believe. Rather, it is an ongoing process in the believer. Later in Romans 5, Paul tells us that "we shall be saved from the wrath to come."

Living the gospel is what "serving God" looks like. Eating, sleeping, breathing the gospel message is our service to God. We distract our hearts and minds with endless nonsense and wonder why it is hard to serve others. We try to find new techniques to free us from the fear of evangelizing when it would come naturally if our life looked different than the rest of the world and we were sold out ourselves. It is much easier to share a conviction when that in which you are sharing is already a part of you. We are constantly saying no to the next "big thing" because we are consumed with so many non-essentials.

Serving God is not about "doing" for God. It isn't limited to the select group of people who step out in faith and go beyond what looks ordinary. Serving God is simply seeking Christ moment by moment and giving Him the place of honor and glory in our life. When the Gospel of Christ is so intertwined into the fabric of our life, then going out and performing acts of service for God is just a natural response to the love that we have for Him.

Be Blessed,
Keith

Set Free in Christ

Romans 8:1-2 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.

Condemnation and Christian are not synonymous. Christ came to set men free from the law of sin and death. As we see in the previous verses (Rom 7:23-25), we have victory through Jesus Christ our Lord.

God condemned sin in the flesh by sending His Son to pay the penalty for sin through death. It was a once for all event that set men and women free from the need to be righteous by upholding the law. The law was never meant for us to use as a way to be righteous, rather, it shows us our unrighteousness and inability to be holy before the Father.

Many will try to keep the law and earn their way to heaven. But that becomes bondage to works and self righteousness. Paul teaches us that our performance is rubbish. (Phil 3:8-9) All of our accomplishments, all of our worldly desires, everything we do apart from Christ is simply garbage to God. Our righteousness can only be through faith in Christ Jesus.

Today I am reminded of the verse, "apart from Christ I can do nothing." (John 15:5) When I begin to think that I am accepted because of what I can do for God I fall back into the condemnation that holds me in bondage. Today I will strive to live in Christ and remember it is His work on the cross that set me free sin and death.

Praise be to God for providing a way to freedom and eternal life for all who believe.

Blessings....

What does it mean to be "In Christ."

What does it mean to be "In Christ."

There is a lot of Christian lingo that gets spread around in our culture and one of the phrases I hear quite frequently is the phrase "in Christ." I decided today to look into the phrase "in Christ" and try to understand what it means to me as a Christian.

I began by doing a word search for the phrase in my esword bible software and found the term to be throughout the New Testament at least 88 times. It is mainly used in the writings of Paul, but I also found it in the writings of Peter and Luke in the book of Acts (Acts 24:24).

So what does it mean to be "In Christ?"

The best place for me to begin is 2Cor 5:17. Just as I was a new creation at the moment of my human birth, I am now a new creation in my spiritual re-birth in Christ Jesus. 2Cor 5:17 tells me that I am a new creature, or creation. The old things have passed away and new things have come. Being one who is in Christ starts with us being transformed and living a new life from our old ways and habits. Christ died for us to have a new birth in His resurrection. Old passes away, new has come. But making the transition from old to new can be quite difficult from time to time since we are sinful and the old nature wants to creep back in and sabotage our walk with Christ.

Fortunately we were not left alone to accomplish our Christian journey on our own. God gave us the Holy Spirit as a pledge of our inheritance. (Eph 1:14, 2Cor 1:22, Acts 19:1-6) With the help of God through the Holy Spirit I am able to accomplish all things through Christ. Not by my own merit, talents, or ability, but because God has granted it to me. My faith comes from God through Christ. My grace comes from God through Christ, and all that I am is because of Christ. When we begin to understand that Christ is our source for all that we are, the fountain will never run dry. Too many times I try to love someone by my own strength. Eventually I get frustrated because I don't see love in return. When I forgive and the person offends again I find it quite easy to hold a grudge. When I rely on my strength and human ability I will fall short every time.

Being "in Christ" is to be intentional. One can not truly claim to be a Christian and not desire the ways of Christ. (Eph 4:1, 1Thes 2:12, Col 1:10)The old has passed away and the new has come. Being in Christ is coming to the throne daily and crying out to God for more of Him. More faith, more love, more grace... God gives abundantly according to His riches in glory in Christ. (Php 4:19)

For me to be "In Christ" means that all that I am, all that I have, and all that I do is done through and for the glorification of Christ. When I love someone I love them as Christ. When I show someone grace it is done like Christ. Even when I spend time at my job I am working as though I am working for Christ. (Col 3:23-24) Being "In Christ" is not just a pledge that hangs over one's door, it is a way to be. Christianity is not about following rules, doing the right thing, or trying to be good. It is about being one with the Savior and out of that oneness flows more blessings and love that one can imagine

1. Our faith is - In Christ (Acts 24:24)
2. Our redemption is - In Christ (Rom 3:24)
3. We are made alive to God - In Christ (Rom 6:11; 1Cor 15:22)
4. We have eternal life - In Christ (Rom 6:23)
5. There is no condemnation - In Christ (Rom 8:1)
6. We are set free - In Christ (Rom 8:2)
7. We can not be separated from God's love - In Christ (Rom 8:39)
8. We are all one body - In Christ (Rom 12:5)
9. I have reason for boasting in God - In Christ (Rom 15:17)
10. We are approved by God - In Christ (Rom 16:10)
11. We are sanctified - In Christ (1Cor 1:2)
12. I experience God's grace - In Christ (1Cor 1:4)
13. God chose me - In Christ (1Cor 1:30, Eph 1:4)
14. We are resurrected from the dead - In Christ (1Cor 15:18-21)
15. I am triumphant - In Christ (2Cor 2:14)
16. The veil has been lifted - In Christ (2Cor 3:14)
17. I am a new creation - In Christ (2Cor 5:17)
18. We are reconciled to God - In Christ (2Cor 5:19)
19. We have liberty - In Christ (Gal 2:4)
20. We are justified by faith - In Christ (Gal 2:16)
21. We are sons of God - In Christ (Gal 3:26)
22. We are all one - In Christ (Gal 3:28)
23. We are blessed with every spiritual blessing - In Christ (Eph 1:3)
24. We are raised to heavenly places - In Christ (Eph 2:6-7)
25. I am created for good works - In Christ (Eph 2:10)
26. I have been brought near to God - In Christ (Eph 2:13)
27. I can partake in God's promises - In Christ (Eph 3:6)
28. I have been forgiven by God - In Christ (Eph 4:32)
29. I place no confidence in my flesh - In Christ (Php 3:3)
30. My righteousness comes through faith - In Christ (Php 3:9)
31. My heart and mind is guarded by God's peace - In Christ (Php 4:7)
32. All my needs will be supplied according to God's riches - In Christ (Php 4:19)
33. I am complete - In Christ (Col 1:28)
34. My faith remains stable - In Christ (Col 2:5)
35. I will give thanks in everything - In Christ (1Thes 5:18)
36. I am called to salvation by grace not by works - In Christ (2Tim 1:9)
37. I endure all things for the sake of others - In Christ (2Tim 2:10)
38. Persecution will come to the godly - In Christ (2Tim 3:12)
39. Those who revile me because of my faith will be put to shame - In Christ (1Pet 3:16-17)
40. We will be strengthened and established after suffering for a little while - In Christ (1Pet 5:10)

Making Much Of Him

Making much of Jesus is the sweetest thing we can do in our walk with Him. Unfortunately, we often get distracted. The pursuit of riches and the cares and concerns of life can take our focus off of Him and put them back where we are prone to go... onto ourselves.

John 3:30 tells us "He must increase, but I must decrease." This isn't just when we are spending time in His Word or Sunday mornings at the church worship service. It means that in all things the pleasures and desires of the Lord are always on the rise in my life. I often have to ask myself, "Is what I am doing right now bringing glory to God or to myself?" If it is bring recognition and glory to me then I need to step back and consider what inside of me is after the glory that so rightfully belongs to my Maker?

Making much of Jesus is the first thing we should desire when our feet hit the floor each day. And the only way we can achieve this is by being in Him throughout the day. To make much of Christ requires an intimate relationship with Christ and that only comes from knowing Christ.

We are not our own, we were bought with a price. Jesus gave it all for us to have a relationship with Him. This relationship is for the purpose of bringing ultimate Glory to the Father. Are you stealing the glory today? Are you seeking the approval of men and not of God? Making much of God means that we die to ourselves and humbly and thankfully receive the new life in Christ that He has given us.

Today I will make much of Him. I will give Jesus the glory that is His and allow His righteousness to become mine. Thank you Lord for allowing me to be one of your own. For calling me into this relationship with you so I can spend the rest of my days making much of your glory.

The Problem With Unbelief

They say that it takes a lot of faith to walk the Christian walk. And whoever "they" are, they are correct.

Living a life of faith can be one of our biggest challenges. Often I have thought that if God just sent me a message through an angel, then I would believe what He was about to do in and through me. Well, as we read in the book of Luke, this may not be the case at all.

Elisabeth is about to have a baby. However, she is completely unaware of this. Not only is she unaware, but her husband is as well. Zacharia and Elisabeth are two of the good ones. They are righteous in the sight of the Lord. They are a couple who walked blameless and kept the commandments. So, you would think that they would have the kind of faith that moves mountains.

God sends not only an angel to inform Zacharia about the good news of the forthcoming child, but he sends Gabriel himself. They top dog of God comes down to give a message of hope to a man of God... Sounds like a great story that has a great ending... And it does. John the Baptist is born and his entire life is spent heralding the good news of the coming Messiah. However, there is one little glitch. Zacharia doubts the angel and questions him because of his age. Zacharia is an old man and Elisabeth is no spring chicken herself, so maybe we can say, "give the guy some slack here."

God takes faith and unbelief quite seriously. Because of the unbelief, Zacharia becomes mute until the birth of his son. Read the story for yourself...

Luke 1:18-22 And Zechariah said to the angel, "How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years." And the angel answered him, "I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time." And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute.

So what does this message from Luke teach me today? Well, the main thing I see here is that there are consequences to my unbelief. And, in spite of it, God's plan will still be fulfilled. Zacharia was praying to the Lord for this very thing and when it is announced he doesn't believe it. He was praying without conviction. How often do we throw up a prayer to the Lord and when it is answered walk around in disbelief? I know for me it is far too often.

Today I am going to learn from the unbelief of Zacharia. Lord, I pray that you will open my eyes to your truth and help me to believe you when your hand is moving in my life. Help me to believe your promises... Thank you for using broken vessels and not turning us away because of our unbelief. Amen

Where Does Your Value Come From?

There is a lot of talk these days about one's self image or self worth. We read books, listen to talk show doctor's on television, and even attend churches in an attempt to feel better about ourselves. It has almost become an obsession in our culture. Having the right clothes, driving the right car, and living in the perfect neighborhood are all contributors to how we feel about who we are and what we are all about. If we have everything just so on the outside then we will certainly feel better on the inside. Our schools even teach kids that if they put forth the effort, then that is often good enough to get the grade simply based on trying to build up the student and make them feel worthwhile.

The Bible however has a different view on our worth. It isn't because of our status, our job, or how much money we earn. Who we are is not based on anything external, but simply on the fact that we are made by God and in His image.

 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. 

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. 

Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.

Psa 139:13-14 ESV 

When we understand our value, we can speak the way the apostle Paul speaks of himself in Romans. He calls himself a "wretched man." Now that doesn't sound like the most famous evangelist known to man. Paul was the greatest apostle and he considers himself to be wretched. How can that be? It is because he saw himself the way God sees us apart from Christ.

Paul knew the condition of his heart. He understood that apart from Christ he was nothing but a wretched sinner deserving the condemnation of God. His value didn't come from his possessions, his status with the churches he served, or even his knowledge. His value came from Christ alone.

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the 

Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 

Rom 8:1-2 ESV

Though he did the things he hated and had difficulty doing what was right, he knew that he was delivered by the blood of Jesus Christ. When we place our value in the cross of Christ, the things we seek of this world for our sense of worth become vain idols. But when we know who we are in Christ, repent from our self focused ways, and seek Him for our worth then we will be free to live life to the fullest.

Are you seeking the things of the world to bring worth to your life? Or are you seeking Christ alone? Only He can satisfy that place in your heart that longs to be valued.

CCSE Uganda Short Term Mission 2013

Our video from Uganda...

Have a blessed day!
Keith

About My Father's Business

About My Father's Business

Luke 2:49 - And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?

I went on my first short term mission trip last month and this theme was prevalent in all that we did during our stay in Bukere, Uganda. "I must be about my Father's business." Since my return the lenses I see life through have become quite different. I have been transformed by Christ in a whole new way.

The weeks leading up to the trip were filled with anticipation and preparation. I had many uncertainties and concerns. On occasion I was challenged with thoughts of not wanting to go because of these concerns, but once I arrived, I was filled to the brim with the Love of God and fulfilling His business there. Shortly into the trip I was now not wanting to return home to the everyday life I so reluctantly left behind.

The Lord spoke many things to me during my time away. The most clear instruction came during a devotional we had on about the 10th day of our trip. It came from both the books of Ecclesiastes and the book of John. Ecc 1:3 asks "What does a man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?" And in John 6:27, Jesus instructs us to not labor for food that perishes, but for food that endures to eternal life.

As I prayed over these verses I felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit speaking to me. "What is all the toil you are doing in your life... you are spending much time taking care of your wants and desires and My work is going undone." As I continued through Ecclesiastes I was struck by another key verse. Ecc 6:7 says, "our toil is for our mouth, yet our appetite is never satisfied." That is exactly where I have been over the past many years that I have been serving Him. My day is spent toiling after food that perishes and yet, I am never satisfied. The blessings that were coming to me through the Holy Spirit while serving in Uganda was far more satisfying than what my everyday toil was and is bringing me. So I sought Him to help me know what to do next.

As I listened to what He was speaking to me I heard the word... "downsize." Not just the things I have stored away in my attic, basement, closets, and garage :) but to downsize my responsibilities and time. To cleanse myself from the things that are distractions. Extra work loads, entertainment, down and idle time that is beyond the necessary rest the body requires. To downsize my life in material and other ways.

So here I go... downsizing my life to free up not only my resources, but my time as well. To do what the Lord has called each of us to do. To be "about my Father's business" rather than my own.

Who's business are you about? Is the Lord calling your to be about His business and trim a few things from your life like He is mine? If so, what are you doing to answer that call?

While in Uganda we encountered much poverty. The belongings I have in my bedroom alone are worth more than most families worldly possessions. As we were digging our trench to feed a water line to the village one of the villagers said to a companion of mine, "All we need is water. We have electricity some of the time, but we don't need it for life. We need this water for life."

What a basic concept and a life lived in simplicity. The message, "All I need is water to survive!" God spoke to my heart and I will never be the same. To live here on this earth is temporary and I must be simply about my Father's business. So that is what I will be about.

Have a blessed day,
Keith

Uganda Update... Lots of hard work and much blessing

Day 2 on the ground of Uganda is finished! More importantly, day 1 of work projects is completed! Thankfully prayers were answered and everyone survived for the most part. With the exception of a few dehydrated and worn out workers, everyone is just exhausted.

Jim, Mickey, and Bob worked hard on carpentry projects today. They are in the process of building shelves and finishing up some closets for a couple of the orphanage's houses. When their projects are done, the team house as well as a couple of unfinished children's houses will have a lot more much needed storage space.

The rest of the guys worked very hard on digging a trench for a new water line. What is so awesome about this new water line is that it doesn't benefit the Agape Children's Village, it benefits the Bukerere community! This has proven to be an incredible way for the community members to see God loving not just the orphanage, but everyone, including them - the community. One lady, a witch doctor who lives very close to where the new water line will go, has actually said that if we put a water tap by her house, she will accept Jesus into her heart! Therefore, the team decided at tonight's meeting that we will be putting in a water tap for her. So pray for her salvation, please! Another example is a man named Chris. Chris is the plumber who is helping our team and community members lay down the piping for the water line. Bill James has been witnessing to Chris for quite awhile, and today 2 of our team members got to speak to him about Jesus as well. Everyone who has spoken with him seems to see his heart softening very quickly. A big reason for that is this water project. It shocked him that the orphanage and our team wanted to do this new water line for the community without asking for any money or aid in return. He definitely is seeing God all over this project. Please keep his salvation in your prayers.

I know I've talked a lot about this water project, but I can't move on without speaking on the enormity of this project physically and the toll it is taking on our men's bodies. The trench they are digging is at least a foot deep and it is going to be at least 500 yards long! They put in SO much hard work today, yet they still have a long way to go so...PLEASE PRAY!

Jan worked on helping the village ladies and children with their laundry and also tutored some kids in their reading. Seeing her with these kids and seeing the way they learn with her is amazing. Illiteracy is one of the biggest and most common problems with these children, because it hinders their school work tremendously. A lot of them can hardly read at all, so God is definitely using Jan and Colleen in productive and moving ways.

Colleen and I were blessed to spend a lot of time with the children today. We began the morning with walking around the village with the younger children and Katie (the Katie that lives and works here) and then spent the afternoon running water and granola bars to the hard working diggers. After that, we each spent more individual time with the kids. We talked with them, laughed with them, learned new things from them, and Colleen took on the challenge of teaching them as well.

Today was definitely extremely long and exhausting for everyone, but as always God provided. He provided strength, endurance, energy, time, and plenty of water to go around! It isn't even 9 pm yet here, and for the most part we are all either in bed or in the house chilling quietly. Before I head to bed, here is our prayer request list:

- Ryan experienced a little dehydration today while digging. He's very much okay now, but please pray that he and everyone here stays hydrated and healthy.

- Natalie James worked extremely hard today while digging as well. She expressed some ill feelings and pain tonight, so please pray for rest for her tonight.

- Please pray for Chris and the witch doctor's salvation, as well as anyone and everyone else around us who needs the Gospel.

- Jim had some stomach pains tonight. He went to bed early not feeling well so please keep him in your prayers.

- Please continue to pray for Saturday's carnival outreach.

- The men will continue their projects tomorrow. Please continue to pray for good health for all of them, as well as spiritual fruit to continue to come out of their physical labor.

*Praise report!* Bill James is feeling much better. Thank you very much for all the prayers!

Goodnight and God bless!

Uganda Update

Uganda update from team member Katie:

"Toto, I've got a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore."

This seems to be the ongoing quote in the last 24 hours. We are all so shocked that we are finally here, in this beautiful and very different place, that we have to keep commenting on God's amazing miracles that brought us all here.

At this moment it is 6:30 pm here in Uganda, (8:30 am in Oregon) and we are wrapping up our first day in the Agape Children's Village. The team is currently eating dinner and tonight the menu I believe is posho and beans. (Hope I spelled that right!) The best way to describe this meal is that it is very similar to mashed potatoes and beans. This meal, we have been told, is a staple here in Uganda.

told, is a staple here in Uganda.

Reflecting back on the day we had makes me smile from ear to ear. For the most part it was a very relaxing day filled with meeting everyone, touring the village, and playing with all the beautiful kids! I don't think I ever saw a team member not smiling. It is impossible to not be filled with God's peace and joy when surrounded by all these children and their contagious smiles as well as their infectious love for the Lord.

I saw team members doing everything with the kids, and the kids loved it! Keith, Jan, and Kevin all played volleyball, which seems to be a village favorite, with the kids at different times; Mickey, as well as many other team members, had a child's hand wrapped around his own almost every moment, and Colleen and I spent some very precious time reading the Bible with a group of about 8 kids at their request!

I have to say, Colleen and I were almost teary eyed at the experience we shared together with a small group of kids. About 5-8 kids came running up to Colleen and I asking us to bring out our Bible, because they wanted us to read it to them. Honestly I was very stunned and confused. At first, I wasn't sure that I had understood them correctly. Seconds later we were all sitting on the steps outside the team house reading God's Word! However, Colleen and I were definitely not doing the reading. Once I opened my Bible, one by one they started shouting out passages they wanted me to flip to. Once there, they'd all recite the verse! They must have referenced and recited about ten verses. It was incredible. I really don't think I've seen Christ more clearly than when I heard these children recite John 3:16 together in the most loving and sincere voices. I honestly don't know why I didn't break down in tears when a couple of the children told Colleen and I they loved us when we were done.

I think I can speak for the whole team when I say all of our lives were changed today, even if just by a little, and we still have 2 weeks to go! We are all definitely enjoying the people, the food, the environment, but most of all, seeing the Holy Spirit all over this village. Like a lot of things in this world, God's fingerprints are very evident and seen here in Uganda and especially at the Agape Children's Village.

As for prayer, we are always appreciative for it, but here are some specific prayer requests:

- Bill James has been sick since last night. He thinks it might have been something he ate, but whatever it is, please pray for a quick recovery.

- Kevin burst a blood vessel in his wrist today while playing volleyball with the kids. He's ok and his hand is functioning, but it's definitely sore. Please pray for his pain to go away.

- Tomorrow we start the work projects. Some people will be digging a trench for a new water line. Some people will be doing carpentry work around the village. Some people will be painting and helping Danyal with the kids. Please pray that everyone stays safe and hydrated, as well as for the work to go by quickly and productively.

- Finally, the village is putting on a carnival this Saturday as an outreach to the community. The girls will start preparing for that this week. Please be praying that the outreach is what the Lord wants it to be, that many people come, and that many people hear the Gospel.