February 20, 2008 by Administrator.

“Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.” ~ Matthew 16:23 

A few weeks ago I was amazed as I read the latter part of this verse. In the past, I always focused on the “get behind me, Satan!” Yet all the while I hadn’t studied the following words.   This verse has really made an impression on me. How often do we as Christians set our minds on our own interests and not God’s. I believe as Christians we can try to honor God, but we are also doing it for our own interests. For example, maybe we serve others while inwardly we are starving for praise. Or maybe we witness in hopes that we will have another number to add to our list of converts. Maybe we desire to teach others the Word of God and try to gratify our pride at the same time. Maybe we long to do mission work where God does not want us to go. Though Peter was being the mouthpiece of Satan, he simply desired that Christ would not suffer and die. Satan wished for Jesus to be swayed by His love and attachment for His disciples. Peter’s wishes were against the will of God. That made him a stumbling block.  

As Christians are we trying to live a life consumed with our own interests, but still attempting to please God at the same time? Can we as Christians please God if we act outside His will and interests? Are we striving to live a life of holiness within the confines of our own interests? I am guilty of this. I seek to bring God glory, but I wish to do so my way. Could my endeavors to honor God while keeping my own interests at the forefront of mind be a stumbling block to others?  It is time to yield. It is time to submit. It is time for God’s interest.

Posted in Christian Living, Biblical Study | 1 Comment »

February 6, 2008 by Administrator.

“When I Survey The Wondrous Cross”

Isaac Watts

When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all. 

This would have to be my favorite hymn. I wanted to share this with you since it was on my mind a lot today. The verses express deep gratitude, humility, and submission.

Posted in Glory to God | 2 Comments »