I Mean What I Do, Not What I Say
March 31, 2009
We all have deeply ingrained assumptions or generalizations that determine how we understand the world and how we respond and behave. Noted author Peter Senge calls these mental models. He says we quite often are not aware of these mental models or the effect they have on our behavior. We may say we believe one thing, then behave in a contrary fashion based on deeply held beliefs and assumptions we don’t even know exist.
For example, we may profess faith in Jesus Christ who conquered death, hell, and the grave; the One before whom every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord; the One who forever lives and now stands at the right hand of the Father in heaven constantly interceding on our behalf–and our professions go on and on. Yet we live our lives in constant fear and anxiousness as if Satan will, at any moment, overpower Christ and everything God has planned for us will be totally destroyed. With our mouths we say I don’t really believe Satan can do that, but the way we actually live our lives says we believe it much more than we can ever admit. Where does something like that come from? Why does it happen over and over?
Senge says, The discipline of working with mental models starts with turning the mirror inward; learning to unearth our internal pictures of the world, to bring them to the surface and hold them rigorously to scrutiny. This does not happen in isolation. It takes courage to allow caring friends to point out the inconsistencies we cannot see on our own. It takes courage to admit the lens through which we have viewed life is distorted. It takes courage to trust God as much as we say we do. Together we can find that courage. Let today be the day you allow God to bring all your mental models into alignment with His plans and His purposes for your life.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. –Proverbs 3:5-8
God Anoints His Children
March 31, 2009
God chooses to bless His children. When your allegiance shifts toward God his blessings extend toward you. The “anointing” is not an other-worldly demeanor, but it is the tangible sense of his real presence each moment of your day.
“You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” (Psalms 23:5)
Eternal Father, You are my great reward. I am more desirous of finding you in the details of my life, than achieving success in the eyes of others around me. Help me today to order my life according to the richness of your word so that I can experience your matchless presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
God is Bigger
March 30, 2009
God is the Creator. He is more powerful than every problem, identifies with each sorrow and trouble and patiently awaits our dependence to be placed on Him. He alone can solve our dilemmas, calm our hearts, defeat the enemy and bring victory each and every situation.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” (Psalm 23:4)
God, I know you are the Creator and everything is under your care. Help me to trust in you and to walk in the confidence that when I come to you in need, you will always provide. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Rescued – Part 4 – Eric Watt
March 29, 2009
God Prepares a Feast
March 29, 2009
God is not intimidated by evil, trials or even suffering. His commitment to be with you remains unchanged when life’s difficulties invade and even disrupt your routine. In fact, when trouble strikes God promises to prepare a feast for you.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.” (Psalm 23:4)
Lord, You are Joy. I choose to be with you today. I will not focus on the difficulties that surround me, nor the pressure of the day. Help me to find your peace in my day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
God’s Direction Brings Comfort
March 28, 2009
God is like a kind and gentle shepherd, guiding and directing his sheep down the safest and best path. He knows what is best and when you stray his “rod” gently nudges you back in line. When God is your guide you will never lose your way.
“I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)
Father, thank you for leading and guiding me down the right path. I trust you to gently nudge me when I wonder and to protect me with your loving correction. I ask that you would be my Shepherd. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
God Dissolves All Fear
March 27, 2009
God is more powerful than the worst of evil’s snares. Since God promises to never leave or forsake you, you can have confidence that God will lead you down the right path AND protect you from the onslaught of evil.
“I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)
Lord, I trust you today to erase my fears and to protect me from evil. I know that I am not alone and that you go in front of me to face my difficulties. Help me to experience your peace throughout my day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
inROUTE Paint Your Heart Out
March 26, 2009
It’s time to begin gearing up for the Chesapeake 17th Annual Paint Your Heart Out event. The Greenbrier Church inROUTE crew has been involved in this outreach for the last several years. We meet together, go to a home that has been selected for a mini-makeover (paint and landscape style), and work together showing the love of Christ in our community. We’re hoping to have as many of the 20′s and 30′s crowd as we can. Please strongly consider coming out to join us. Here are the details of the event:
Our Paint Day is April 18th.
Meet at 9 AM at the church. Breakfast and Lunch will be provided, as well as a BBQ afterwards if you wish.
We are usually there till 1 or 2 PM.
Bring yourself, we will provide the rest.
To sign up, email jasonbedogne@gmail.com or jniz77@hotmail.com (Jon Nisbett).
Please sign up by April 12 so we can have an accurate count for tee shirts.
God Walks with You
March 26, 2009
God is your traveling partner. He walks with you in the good times of life and will never leave your side in the “valleys.” Since no weapon formed against God will prosper, the closer you stay to his ways, the more protected you are from harm.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Psalms 23:4
God, I am grateful that you are with me every step of my life. Today I am choosing to be walk with you, according to your ways. I know that there is no reason to fear, because you are with me. Guide me and direct me according to your unfailing love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This Week @ Greenbrier Church
March 25, 2009
Water Baptism Class – Sunday March 29, 10:30 am, Room 400.
Water Baptism is Sunday April 5th (Palm Sunday), if you are planning to be baptized join us Sunday morning at 10:30 am for the Water Baptism Class.
Usher Team Meeting – Sunday March 29, 1030 am, Propel Room.
If you are currently serving as an usher or are interested in being on the usher team, join Pastor Curtis for an informational and training meeting.