April 21, 2004

• Promises, Promises

  Pam & I spent some time yesterday tracking Scripture that God has given us through the years confirming our calls to serve Him.  It was like walking back into each other’s pasts.  So fun seeing how God has spoken to the both of us in such clear ways.  (Disclaimer:  I know some of these verses might seem "out-of-context", but I believe that the Holy Spirit uses Scripture to speak to us in very specific ways, which may be “out of context” of the text but never out of context of the character of God.)  Here they are in the order they were given to me.  A great story behind each one.

   

  James 1:12  “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him.”  Call to full-time ministry.  It’s not going to be easy, but it’s going to be worth it. (March 1998)

  Luke 5  Obey Jesus even when it doesn’t make sense, and you will catch much fish.  (Spring 1998)

  Isaiah 41  “You are my servant; I have chosen you and have not rejected you.  So do not fear for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  (Feb 23, 1999)

  Isaiah 43  God loves me.  I am precious and honored in His sight. (Feb 23, 1999)

  Isaiah 42:5-7  I am called by God to be a light for the Gentiles and to set the captives free.  (Mar 4, 1999)

  Jer 42:5-22  Am I willing to be a missionary?  Will I trust God even when the way seems unclear and dangerous?  The first time I fully committed with a Yes.  (Jun 16, 1999)

  Mt 4:19  “’Come follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will make you fishers of men.’”  It is He who calls and He who will make me a fisher of men.  He will do it!  Not I.  (June 1999)

  Isaiah 6  “Whom shall I send and who will go for us?”  God is asking.  Am I willing to volunteer myself?  Dare I say, “Here am I.  Send me!”?  Yes, yes, yes!!  (Date Unknown)

  Jer 1 “’Do not say I am only a child.  You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you.  Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,’ declares the Lord.”  The Lord summons by name, and when He calls you to a huge feat, He never leaves you hanging.  He protects and provides.  (Date Unknown)

  John 21  Don’t compare yourself with others, just follow Jesus.  (Date Unknown)

   

  Jesus meant these things literally.  If you’re really a disciple, you must obey.  (2002)

  Mark 8:35, Lk 9:23-25  Get ready to die for Jesus; it's worth it!

  Mk 10:29-30  Leave family, friends and field behind (you will get a hundredfold return)

  Lk 14:25-33  Give up everything; it's worth it!

  Mk 12:44 Put in everything ($); it's worth it!

  Lk 6, Phil 1:29.  Suffering for Jesus is a privilege!  It's worth it!

   

  Note to Xanga Readers:  If God gives you a verse, write the date next to it.  I felt really sad about the “date unknowns.”

  • 2:30 pm
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