Author: Stephen Trammell

Categories
Faithfulness Life Changes Storms

The Cone of Uncertainty

(Today’s Devotional Submitted by Guest Writer: David Upchurch, Associate Pastor of Young Married Adults, Champion Forest Baptist Church) “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalms 91:1 (NIV) It has dawned on me that I’m getting older because I can’t wait for the weather forecast. One night during this hurricane season I heard an interesting term, and it made me say, “hmmm.” The weather man noted that there was a hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean and then used the phrase “the cone of uncertainty.” As it related to hurricanes and storms, the phrase describes that general path and area ahead of a tropical storm or hurricane. The forecasters are using all of their knowledge and technology to guess at what direction the storm might go. Included in all of those calculations are all of the weather variables and shifting conditions. What a great phrase to describe all of the possible scenarios! Life has some pretty crazy storms at times including job cuts and downsizing, natural disasters, relationship stressors, prodigals, economic downturns, terrible housing markets, and doctor’s diagnoses. There is not much certainty in the seasons of life. Think about the many possibilities for these “cones of uncertainty” to make landfall. And imagine the number for each year of life in a lifetime. Add to that number the vast variables within each circumstance. Forecasting those storms is impossible. Talk about uncertainty! However, there is a constant. There is One who is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8), whose word will stand the test of time (Isaiah 40:8), and who doesn’t change with the season or economy. His love is unchanging and his plans for you are certain (Jeremiah 29:11). God makes the uncertainty live-able and worthwhile. Choose to know Him and He will be your shelter in the storm. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Blessings Praise Thankfulness

Thank God for the Little Things

(Today’s Devotional Submitted by Guest Writer: Scott Riling, Pastor of Missions and Ministry, Champion Forest Baptist Church) “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thess 5:16-18 (NIV) Families and friends come together on Thanksgiving Day to enjoy one of the most incredible meals all year. Even many families who would not consider themselves particularly religious will most likely begin with some sort of an acknowledgment of the Divine One before going after the turkey or ham. When that time comes, I am sure the Lord will hear some very interesting prayers. Many will probably contain the all-inclusive statement, “Thank You for our many blessings!” However, the Lord will hear other prayers that will be a little more specific and will include actually naming some of those blessings. Can you name some specific things that you know God has brought into your life? In her book The Hiding Place, Corrie ten Boom tells about an occasion that taught her to always be thankful. She and her sister, Betsy, had just been taken to the worst concentration camp in Germany in WWII—Ravensbruck. The barracks were cold, overcrowded and flea-infested. Early one morning, they read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, which reminds Christians to always rejoice, pray, and be thankful. Betsy told Corrie to stop for a moment and give thanks to the Lord for all of their circumstances. At first Corrie refused, but then Betsy insisted. As the months passed in the camp, they were a little surprised at how they could openly hold Bible studies in the barracks without guard interference. They finally learned why—the guards did not want to enter the barracks because of the fleas! Let’s be truly thankful to God for how richly He has blessed us—even for the little things! Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Blessings Contentment Thanksgiving

Giving Thanks in All Things

(Today’s Devotional Submitted by Guest Writer: Adam Watson, Associate Pastor of Worship Ministries, Champion Forest Baptist Church) “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” Phil 4:11-13 (NIV) How many of us can honestly agree with Paul and say that we have learned to be content whatever the circumstances? Around Thanksgiving, many of us gather a list of things to be thankful for, and speak them as a reminder of God’s blessings. This is a great exercise and a discipline that we should practice all year round. But what is it that keeps us from living in a lifestyle of constant thanksgiving for every circumstance? Personally, I let life’s big and little annoyances crowd out the things for which I should be thankful. If you’re a problem solver like me, you focus on how to fix all the tough things going on before you feel like you can rest and really be thankful for the good things. That’s not how Paul approached his life. He was thankful all along the way. Sure, Paul still faced more than his share of challenges, but he didn’t wait to start his thanksgiving until things got better. The choice we have today is to see our lives in spiritual terms. The physical things we can thank God for will come and go. The spiritual aspects of our lives are what last. Abundant life with Christ is the secret to constant contentment. What worldly and physical things are keeping you from seeing God’s blessings in your life? What problems are postponing your life of thankfulness? Ask the Lord for help to see your life through spiritual eyes. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Acceptance Love

Giving Thanks for the Best Thing

(Today’s Devotional Submitted by Guest Writer: Adam Watson, Associate Pastor of Worship Ministries, Champion Forest Baptist Church) “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.  This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 1 John 4:9-10 (NIV) Have you ever had a day where it feels like nothing you do is right, and everyone is upset with you? Those are the days where it’s hard to have a good perspective on thankfulness. I was having one of those days recently and came to the point of deciding the rest of my day didn’t have to be plagued by self-pity. I made the hard decision to turn my focus away from myself and turn it toward God. When I foolishly felt like there was nothing to be thankful for, God reminded me to look back at the top of the list. The best thing to be thankful for always remains true:  God loves me, and not just a little bit. He loved me enough to go out of his way to have a relationship with me. God created us to be in relationship with Him, and when we mess up, He pursues us still. He loved me enough to sacrifice Himself to remove the sin barrier between us. He loved me when I didn’t love Him. This truth is foundational for living as a Christian. How long has it been since you thanked God for loving you? Do you ever feel like God’s love for you is dependent on your circumstances? Go back to the top of the list and remember God loves you unconditionally. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Faith Holy Spirit Victory

Fruit Inspection

(Today’s Devotional Submitted by Guest Writer: Louis Miori, Pastor of Pastoral Care, Champion Forest Baptist Church) “‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.’” John 15:5 (NIV) If you go to the local bookstore, you will find hundreds of book titles in the “self-help” section. While some of these books offer practical solutions to life’s problems, many of these books center on changing one’s outward behavior in one’s own strength. Most of these books encourage intense self-reliance to become a better person and to have a better life. While our culture places a primary emphasis on SELF:  self-reliance, self-improvement, and even self-indulgence, Jesus speaks to the contrary by telling us that apart from Him, we can do nothing! To attain a life of victory, a life of true joy, peace, and purpose, a life where we successfully overcome our hurts, habits, and hang-ups, Jesus endorses a life of complete surrender to Him and complete dependence on Him. As we daily surrender ourselves to the Lordship of Christ, and as we daily declare our dependence on Him rather than ourselves, then He will enable us to live a fruitful life. What kind of fruit is produced when a follower of Christ chooses to totally surrender to and totally depend on God? On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the highest, take a few moments to evaluate the evidence of each of the nine fruit of the Spirit in your life (Gal. 5:22-23). If you truly want to see how the fruit of the Spirit is manifesting in your life, ask your spouse, another family member, or a trusted friend to “inspect your fruit” with this same 1-10 scale. Be encouraged, God loves you so much and wants you to live a life of surrender, dependence, and victory! Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Initiative Love Redemption

God’s Initiative

“Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the LORD God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the LORD God among the trees of the garden. But the LORD God called to the man, ‘Where are you?’” Gen 3:8-9 (NIV) God demonstrated His selfless and sacrificial love in the Garden of Eden. As Adam and Eve were trying to hide from God due to their willful disobedience, God asked Adam a question that revealed the heart of God and the sinfulness of man. God called to Adam, “Where are you?” The truth is that God knew exactly where Adam was both physically and spiritually. God did not need Adam to identify his location. God wanted Adam to consider and contemplate his own personal spiritual state. God wanted Adam to recognize his disobedience and rebellion. God demonstrated sacrificial love as He killed an animal that He created in order to provide covering and cleansing for Adam and Eve (Gen. 3:21). God’s provision taught Adam and Eve that the shedding of blood was necessary for the removal of sin. The demonstration of selfless and sacrificial love also taught Adam and Eve that sin comes at a high cost. Adam and Eve received God’s forgiveness, but had to suffer the consequences of their sin. They were banished from the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3:23). God’s selfless and sacrificial love includes tough love. Think of ways in which God has demonstrated His selfless and sacrificial love in your life. You may want to revisit the spiritual markers in your life and assess them based on God’s selfless and sacrificial love. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Mind of Christ Purity

Take Every Thought Captive

“We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” 2 Cor 10:5 (NIV) What’s going on in your mind? How’s your thought-life? What have you been thinking about lately? God has given you the ability to think, reason, and make decisions. God has given you the ability to know and understand. You have the wonderful ability to contemplate, consider, and calculate. You are blessed with the capacity to ponder, prepare, and to produce. How are you harnessing the potential God has placed within you? “Test me, O LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind; for your love is ever before me, and I walk continually in your truth.” Psalms 26:2-3 (NIV) “You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3 (NIV) Is your mind at peace? Write down the specific items that are bothering you. Think through the issues that are pressing up against you. Now place those items before the Lord in prayer. Give each issue to the Lord. Release them! Now receive the Lord’s provision of grace to be single-minded. Focus your thoughts on Jesus and His Lordship. Allow Him to be your source of strength and your anchor of stability. De-clutter your mind by unloading the hurtful thoughts and the anxious thoughts that perplex you. Write them down! Speak them aloud! Release them to the Lord! Replace those toxic thoughts with healthy reminders of who you are in Christ. You belong to God. You are His treasure and His masterpiece (Eph. 2:10). You have everything you need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). You are more than a conqueror (Rm. 8:37). You are complete in Christ. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Faith God's Agenda Grace

Grace Works

“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Cor 9:8 (NIV) Doing God’s work God’s way requires God’s grace each day. Good works will not produce salvation, but good works are the fruit of salvation. You can flourish in good works because God’s grace always matches your assignment. God will grace you with all you need to accomplish His mission. “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Eph 2:10 (NIV) “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” James 2:17 (NIV) Activate your faith by doing the good works God created you to do. What is it that God wants you to give your life to? Where does God want you to allocate your time, energy, and resources? God has good works that He has prepared in advance for you to do. God is able to give you the grace you need to live a life of instant obedience. His grace is more than enough. Are you willing to respond to God’s invitation to join Him in His activity? Are you willing to be used of God to benefit His kingdom and to bring Him glory? God still chooses to use human instrumentality in fulfilling His agenda. God will make it possible for you to abound in every good work. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Jesus Rest Restoration

Rest for Your Soul

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Mt. 11:28-30 (NIV) Jesus is always on time. He knows just what we need right when we need it. His invitation to join Him and to find rest in Him is the antidote to our fast pace lifestyle. As one person said, “If we don’t learn to come apart, we will come apart!” Why do we feel guilty when we slow down? Why do we gravitate toward the performance trap and end up equating productivity with spirituality? Sometimes the most spiritual move we can make is to slow down and experience the rest Jesus offers. Be sure to notice in our verse for today that there is a prerequisite to encountering His rest. We must be willing to come to Him. We must be willing to take the initiative to respond to His invitation. That just doesn’t fit our adrenaline addicted society. We tend to long for the next high or the next rush. Maybe we can just capture a few more sips of caffeinated coffee. Will that deliver what we need most? Perhaps the invitation is to come to the place of total reliance upon God. If I yoke up with Him, then I will have to be willing to go where He goes and embrace the pace He sets. Remember, His yoke is easy and His burden is light. Sounds refreshing! Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Fearing God Holiness Purity

Living a Life of Moral Purity

“Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.” 2 Cor 7:1 (NIV) Imagine a bride, adorned with her beautiful white wedding dress, choosing to march down a muddy road before uniting with her groom. Purity and filth are not compatible. As the bride of Christ, we were made ready for our union with Christ through His atoning work on the cross. Positionally, we are clean and made fit for heaven. However, practically, we are still working out what God has worked in. The muddy road of life requires that we purify ourselves from the contamination of our fallen world. We must guard our hearts and protect ourselves from the flaming arrows of the evil one. Staying clean while living in a dirty world mandates making wise decisions about what we say, think, and do. Our conversation and conduct must be consistent with the character of Christ being formed in us. A clean life begins with receiving the nature of the Lamb of God at salvation. Upon conversion, we take on the nature of Christ and His desire for purity. That clean life is preserved as we purify ourselves from the filth of this world and embrace a healthy reverence for God. Fearing God means that we hold His opinion of us above all other opinions and expectations. Fearing God means to orient our lives to please Him above all others. Are you living a life of moral purity? How’s your thought-life? Evaluate your conversation and your conduct. Are you living a life pleasing and honoring to God? Is there anything in your life that contaminates the life of Christ in you? Are you perfecting holiness through revering God? Confess known sin and embrace the life God has for you. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Abundant Life Enemy Jesus

Having Abundant Life

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 (NIV) Are you living the life God has for you? Have you come to experience life to the full? Jesus came to give you that kind of life. However, the full life Jesus gives does not come without opposition. There are three agendas competing for your devotion. Satan has an agenda for your life, the world seeks to lure you into its agenda, and your flesh has an agenda. The enemy strives to derail your devotion to the Lord. He desires to rob you of your joy and to rid you of your passion for the things of God. The enemy does not want you to experience the abundant life that is found in Christ alone. Living in a fallen world provides countless opportunities to inhibit the abundant life Jesus came to provide. The gravitational pull of sin permeates life on planet earth. Staying clean while living in a dirty world will be a perpetual battle. Jesus demonstrated that a life of purity is possible. Jesus was tempted just as we are, yet was without sin (Heb. 4:15). He overcame the cravings of His flesh and did not yield to temptation. Jesus came to bring you life complete and abundant. What is hindering your love relationship with Christ? What is keeping you from enjoying the life Jesus came to give? There’s more to explore in this life Jesus gives. You will get a taste of heaven on earth as you allow Jesus to live His life through you. He wants to help you know and experience abundant life. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Assessment Consecration Prayer

Getting Your House Right with God

“’Is not my house right with God? Has he not made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part? Will he not bring to fruition my salvation and grant me my every desire?’” 2 Sam 23:5 (NIV) These were the last words of King David. His life was decorated with a colorful past and a perpetual reaping of what he had sown. David was known as a man after God’s own heart. His question is worthy of our consideration. Is not your house right with God? Let’s think through that question in two layers. The first layer reminds us that your body is a house. In fact, your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19). Is your body right with God both spiritually and physically? Are you feeding your house spiritually? Are you walking with God and giving evidence to a growing relationship with Christ? Examine your life physically. Are you embracing a healthy lifestyle including diet and exercise? Let’s transition to the second layer of this question. Is not your house right with God? Think in terms of your family. How’s your marriage? How’s your parenting? Is your home a holy place where God is honored and where your family is encouraged to grow spiritually? Is your house in order spiritually? Getting your house right with God begins with your daily intimacy with Christ. Your private time alone with the Lord is the secret to getting your house right with God. In the solitude of daily intimacy with God, you will learn to hear His voice and respond to His prompting. When something in your life or in your family is out of order, the Holy Spirit will bring that to your attention specifically. Consecrate yourself before the Lord and allow Him to illuminate the areas of your life and your family that need adjusting. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Prayer Revival Spiritual Awakening

Praying for Revival & Spiritual Awakening

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone–for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” 1 Tim 2:1-4 (NIV) Revival is for believers who have become apathetic toward the things of God. Revival is designed by God to restore a believer’s passion and hunger for God and His agenda. When revival comes, it produces a byproduct known as a spiritual awakening. While revival is for believers, a spiritual awakening impacts unbelievers and brings them to the place of transformation. You can pray for a spiritual awakening to occur by praying evangelistically. You will personally be revived as you renew your passion for lost souls. As your soul consciousness is elevated, your awareness of God’s Presence and your awareness of His redemptive activity will be heightened. Pray for everyone, including national leaders and those in authority, that they may come to know the Lord personally. The only way for our nation to genuinely change is for the lost to get saved and have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Be sure to pray a prayer of thanksgiving for those who are already following Christ and leading our nation with character and integrity. This pleases God and brings Him glory. God wants everyone to be saved. He has provided the only way for men, women, boys, and girls to be born again. Jesus is the way! Can you imagine our nation fully yielded to the Lordship of Christ? Can you envision our nation passionate about pursuing God daily and living for His glory? Join me in praying for that vision to become a reality. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
God's Word Prayer Promises

Claiming God’s Promises

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chron 7:14 (NIV) What moves the heart of God? Have you ever thought about that? Consider the portrait of God’s family living in harmony with each other and with Him. Picture God’s people embracing the posture of humility, employing the privilege of prayer, enjoying a daily pursuit of His presence, and eliminating the indulgence of sin. Now that would be considered revival. God is the ultimate Promise Keeper. God promises to bless obedience. God’s definition of success is not the accumulation of possessions but the application of obedience. If we will humble ourselves, pray, seek His face, and turn from our sinful ways, God promises to hear our prayers, forgive our sin, and heal our land. What is keeping you from obeying what you know? Are you willing to move the heart of God through a consistent lifestyle of obedience? God does not expect you to live the Christian life in your own strength. God has empowered you with His abiding Holy Spirit to enable you to live the life He has for you. Do you have unconfessed sin in your life? Sin grieves the Holy Spirit. Sin hinders your fellowship with God and impedes the fruit of the Spirit. Confess your sin and receive God’s forgiveness (1 Jn 1:9). Start running from sin and choose to run to Jesus. Do not think about how to gratify the cravings of the sinful nature (Rm 13:14). God will hear your prayer, forgive your sin, and heal your land. Claim God’s promises and walk in victory! Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Confession Prayer Repentance

Confessing the Sins of Our Nation

“When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.” Neh 1:4 (NIV) Nehemiah was a slave in Babylon and served as cupbearer to the king. Once he received word about the Jewish remnant that survived the exile and about Jerusalem, Nehemiah was gripped with a tremendous burden to pray. As he fasted and prayed, Nehemiah confessed his own sins and the sins of the Israelites.  He prayed, “I confess the sins we Israelites, including myself and my father’s house, have committed against you. We have acted very wickedly toward you. We have not obeyed the commands, decrees and laws you gave your servant Moses”(Neh. 1:6-7 NIV). Did you notice how Nehemiah said “we” Israelites? He took ownership for his own sins and for the sins of his people. Is it possible to confess the sins of our nation? Can we pray for our nation and actually confess the sins of our nation? When you are gripped with a burden to pray for our nation, it will mandate confronting and confessing the sins of our nation. You cannot spend time alone with God in prayer for our nation without being cognizant of the national sin that breaks the heart of God. Our nation is made up of fallen and flawed human beings who sometimes selfishly seek to gratify the cravings of their sin nature. God wants us to be a holy nation. God wants us to be a nation that fears and reveres Him. We can cry out to God on behalf of our nation and confess the sins that God brings to our attention. We can pray for revival and spiritual awakening to come to our nation. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Evangelism Missions Prayer

Changing the World through Prayer

“The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations.” Psalms 98:2 (NIV) You may not have the opportunity to travel to every continent on the planet, but you can touch every continent through prayer. Choose to pray strategically by employing a weekly prayer plan for the continents. Pray for Africa on Monday, Asia on Tuesday, Australia and Oceania on Wednesday, and Europe on Thursday. Pray for North America on Friday, South America on Saturday, and then pray for the church you are connected to on Sunday. Our natural proclivity is to be individualistic in our praying. We get so self-absorbed and self-centered that we bypass the joy and delight of praying for those outside of our sphere of influence. Go global with your prayer life. “’Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.’” Acts 4:12 (NIV) “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV) Embrace God’s heart for the nations of the earth. God loves every people group and provides salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus. You can participate in God’s redemptive activity through the powerful avenue of prayer. Pray for the softening of the hearts of the people throughout the earth. Allocate some time each day to pray for one of the continents. Would you be willing to go on a short-term mission trip to one of the continents that you pray for? God has saved you so that you can invest your life in bringing others to Christ. It all begins with praying for those not connected to Christ. Yes! You can change the world through prayer. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Evangelism Intercession Prayer

Praying Specifically for Others

“We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true–even in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life.” 1 John 5:19-20 (NIV) What if the content of your prayers this week were transcribed and put into book form and placed on the end table in a doctor’s office waiting room for others to read? What would your prayer life reveal to others? What would the content of your prayers reveal about your walk with God? Choose to pray specifically. Instead of articulating generic requests and ambiguous petitions, begin to pray with specificity. For example, begin pray for others to know and enjoy the personal presence of Jesus. Pray for lost people by name. Write their names down and pray specifically for these individuals to become children of God. If the whole world is under the control of the evil one, then who will rescue the perishing? Who will do spiritual battle in prayer for the lost souls on this planet? Pray evangelistically and be willing to be used of God in the process of bringing others to Christ. Jesus has given us understanding so that we can know Him personally and make Him known intentionally. Jesus is the true God! There is no other! Jesus is eternal life! Jesus is the hope of the world. Jesus has saved us so that we can continue His ministry on the earth of bringing others into His kingdom. As a kingdom citizen, you have a kingdom assignment. Pray specifically for the salvation of individuals by name. Pray expectantly by making yourself available for God’s use in His redemptive activity. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Intercession Prayer Vision

Praying Beyond Your Skin

“After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.” Rev 7:9 (NIV) God loves variety. When you observe His creation, it doesn’t take long to comprehend the variety that God infused into everything He made. God delights to display His glory through the variety of His creation. People matter to God. Currently, there are just over 12,500 people groups within the 6.8 billion people on planet earth. Every person in each of the people groups is a unique creation of Almighty God. Every individual has an eternal destiny. God’s desire is for every person to spend eternity with Him in heaven. However, God will not allow sin into heaven. The only cure for the cancer of sin is Jesus. We must bring God’s plan of salvation to every person on this broken planet so that each one will have an opportunity to receive the gift of eternal life. Pray selflessly. Pray beyond your skin. Begin to pray for those who aren’t just like you. Pray for those who do not have a personal love relationship with Jesus. Pray for those who do not have the same background as yours. Pray for those who do not have the same skin color as yours. Embrace God’s vision of having a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne in heaven. Pray to become a participant in making God’s vision a reality. You can pray for the salvation of other people groups. You can go on short-term mission trip to engage an unreached people group. You can give so that others can go. Pray for Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Gratitude Ministry Motives

Doing God’s Work God’s Way

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Col 3:17 (NIV) Everything matters to God! Everything you say and everything you do and everything you think, matters to God. Nothing is hidden from God’s sight. Even when others may overlook your contribution, God never misses a moment of your life. God is omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent. Nothing slips through His comprehensive view. So whatever you do, whether speaking words that build others up or extending a helping hand, do it all under the authority of Jesus. You are saved and filled with the Holy Spirit to continue the ministry of Jesus upon the earth. Your conversation is vital to fulfilling the Great Commission. Your conduct is of utmost importance in living out the Great Commandment. As you share Christ with others and express His love to others, you will be doing God’s work God’s way. The motive behind your ministry to others is just as important as the benefits that your ministry produces. What compels you to put others first? What propels you to place the needs of others before your own? Are you motives pure? Speak and serve as a representative of Jesus Christ. You may be the only Jesus others see in their lifetime. Your conversation will either point people to Christ or repel them from Christ. Your conduct will either give evidence that Jesus is Lord of your life or demonstrate that He is not enthroned. Be sure to give thanks to God the Father as you serve Him by serving others. May your life be a portrait of gratitude for all that God has done and continues to do in you and through you. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Christian Conduct God's Activity God's Word

Making Room for God’s Word

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.” Col 3:16 (NIV) Is God’s Word at home in your heart? Are you reading and feeding on God’s Word? Your daily intake of God’s Word will help you grow spiritually and develop relationally. God’s Word will help you know the nature and character of God and His plan. Henry Blackaby shared in a message at the Gideon Convention the following insight: “God is the center of His own activity and He invites us to join Him in His activity.” As you read God’s Word, you come to learn how to detect the activity of God. Constant intake of God’s Word increases your awareness of His activity and heightens your sensitivity to His redemptive activity. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalms 119:105 (NIV) “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Tim 3:16-17 (NIV) Do you have room for God’s Word? You must place a high value on spending time in God’s Word. Don’t rush your daily reading. Slow down and meditate on God’s Word. Be discipline to journal what God is saying to you through His Word. Seek to write down specific application steps that you will incorporate in your day. Align your life with God’s Word and embrace His agenda. Make room for God’s Word to take root and to bear fruit through your life and your lips. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Character Conduct Peace

When Peace Rules

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” Col 3:15 (NIV) God created us to be relational, not robotic. His designed us for relationship. Sin damaged our relationship with God and He took the initiative to provide for our reconciliation and restoration. In Christ, we have been positioned as righteous before God. Now that our relationship with God has been restored, we are to ensure right relationships with others. “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.” Romans 5:1-2 (NIV) “Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” Heb 12:14 (NIV) Our lives have a vertical and horizontal dimension. We are to have a right relationship with God and with others. We cannot have a right relationship with God unless we have a right relationship with others. Also, we cannot have a right relationship with others unless we have a right relationship with God. Once you have received the peace of God by being justified through faith, seek to live at peace with others. Let others see Jesus in you. Love others the way Jesus loves you. Gossip is when you say something about someone you would not say to his or her face. Flattery is when you say something to someone’s face that you would not say behind his or her back. Let the peace of Christ find lodging in your heart and be evident in your conversation and your conduct. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

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Glory Jesus Prayer

Beholding His Glory

“Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.” John 17:24 (NIV) Where is Jesus right now? Jesus is at the right hand of God making intercession for us (Rm. 8:34). He lived a sinless life, died a sacrificial death, and rose victorious from the grave. Jesus is in heaven engaging in the ministry of intercessory prayer on our behalf. In His prayer in the Upper Room with His disciples, Jesus affirmed that He wanted us to be with Him in heaven and to see His glory. If you have experienced the glory of salvation, then you will behold the glory of Jesus in heaven upon your arrival. Jesus has provided the way for you to have eternal life and enter heaven (Jn. 14:6). “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:3 (NIV) “He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” 1 John 5:12 (NIV) How many people will behold the glory of Jesus in heaven because of your life on earth? What kind of influence have you been for Christ through your conversation and your conduct? Are you sharing the word of life with those who do not have a relationship with Jesus? Now that you have been adopted into God’s family, commit to share your faith with those who are hell bound. Don’t withhold the cure for the cancer of sin. You are an ambassador for Christ (2 Cor. 5:20). You have been reconciled to reconcile others to God through Christ. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Glory Trinity Unity

Unity in Diversity

“I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one: I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” John 17:22-23 (NIV) Jesus prayed that believers would be brought to complete unity. Jesus reconciled us to God through His atoning death on the cross. Every believer has been adopted into God’s forever family. Our unity in the midst of diversity is a witness to the watching world that Jesus has loved us just as the Father has loved Him. Unity is not natural. Displaying unity in the midst of apparent diversity is supernatural. Our new identity in Christ enables us to experience authentic community with other believers. As we deny ourselves and seek to consider others better than ourselves, we will exhibit the unity that brings glory to God. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Gal 3:28 (NIV) “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” Eph 4:3 (NIV) In Christ, we are one with other believers. The Trinity, namely, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit model unity. We are to exhibit that same unity with those who are children of God. Are you seeking to keep the unity of the Spirit in the relationships you have with other followers of Christ? Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Faith Gospel Prayer

Sharing the Salvation Story

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17:20-21 (NIV) Jesus prayed for your salvation and for your spiritual maturation. Jesus prayed that you would believe in Him through the gospel message someone would share with you. Think about the impact of Jesus’ prayer for you. Over the past two thousand years, the salvation story has been communicated to individuals. Many of those who received the message and believed in Jesus alone for salvation were instrumental in sharing the salvation story with others. The prayer Jesus prayed in the Upper Room in the presence of His disciples continues to impact the eternal destinies of every people group. Receiving the message of Jesus and reciprocating the message of Jesus is vital for advancing the Gospel. To withhold the Good News is fatal. “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Romans 10:14 (NIV) “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.” 2 Cor 4:3 (NIV) Jesus prayed for those of us who would believe in Him. Jesus prayed for those who would believe in Him through your message. God has given you a message to share that will change eternity for those who believe in Jesus. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

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Rest Sabbath Soul Nourishment

Finding Rest for Your Soul

“My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” Psalms 62:1-2 (NIV) Soul rest has come to mean more to me since turning forty. For so long, I focused on physical rest and making sure I got ample rest each night. But soul rest is different. Soul rest has to do with how you are doing on the inside. Soul rest has to do with your relationship with the Lord and with others. Soul rest has to do with your level of morality, godliness, and purity. When your load exceeds your limit, you get tired physically and experience soul exhaustion. During these seasons, you will have nothing to give because your soul is empty. Spending time with people who replenish you and spending time doing activities that refresh you will promote soul renewal. Guard your daily intimacy with God. Practice His Presence throughout the day. Soul rest comes as you feed on God’s Word and as you enjoy unhurried time alone with God in prayer. Your soul will find rest in God. He is your salvation. He is your rock. Come to the Lord and experience a perpetual refreshing. Anchor your life to Rock of your salvation. You will never be shaken because God is your fortress. You can take refuge in Him. Are you caring for your soul? Do you seek to employ a weekly Sabbath? Are you creating margin in your life to be still and know that He is God? Incorporate a weekly pit stop into your week to allow the Lord to refuel your soul and to renew your vision for life and ministry. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Jesus Love Unconditional Love

True Love

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Cor 13:4-7 (NIV) Can you imagine life without love? Can you imagine doing life as a family without love? Can you imagine being part of a church where love is absent? God made us to know His love and to make His love known. God created us to building meaningful relationships with others in response to His love for us and in us. What does that kind of love look like? That kind of love looks just like Jesus. Jesus is patient and kind. Jesus does not envy, He does not boast, and He is not proud. Jesus is not rude, He is not self-seeking, He is not easily angered, and He keeps no record of wrongs. Jesus does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. Jesus always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. Will your name fit there? Are you living in such a way as to embody God’s love? God has placed you in a fallen world to continue the ministry of Jesus. You are here to know God’s love and to make His love known by building meaningful relationships with others. Will those who know you, but don’t know Jesus, come to know Jesus because they know you? Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Love Unconditional Love Unity

Unifying Love

“And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Col 3:14 (NIV) Have you put on your spiritual wardrobe in order to be on mission with God today? Remember to clothe yourself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Also, employ the discipline of forgiving others just as the Lord forgave you. Now it’s time to put on the most important garment of all, namely, love. Love is the fuel that ignites compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness. As you experience God’s love personally, you will unleash His love freely. Loving others will be a byproduct of your personal encounter of God’s love for you. God is not asking you to do anything that He has not already done for you. His love in you is available to express to others. Love keeps your spiritual wardrobe in unity. “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35 (NIV) “Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.” 1 John 4:11 (NIV) Is it clearly evident that you are a fully devoted follower of Christ? Are you loving others the way God loves you? Your discipleship is demonstrated through your treatment of others. When you love others the way God has loved you, the reality of your love relationship with God becomes obvious. Portray God’s love by expressing God’s love to every person you come into contact with. You will find that some people are very easy to love and some people are more challenging to love. Choose to love people based on God’s love for you and in you. Place the same value on others that God does. God loves them perfectly and completely. Allow His unconditional love to flow through you in this love-deficient world. People need to know God’s love. God has chosen you to be the conduit of His love. Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Atonement Comfort God's Love

God’s Unfailing Love

“May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant.” Psalms 119:76 (NIV) We are made for love. Loving God, loving people, and being loved by God is our privilege and responsibility. God’s love sustains us through seasons of uncertainty. God’s love preserves us in the storms of life. The fluctuation of our circumstances cannot disrupt, nor hinder the love of God. Nothing can separate us from God’s love (Rm 8:38-39). God’s love is unfailing. God’s love does not ebb and flow. The love of God is not conditioned by our performance. God loves us unconditionally. There is nothing we can do to cause God to love us more. There is nothing we can do to cause God to love us any less. God’s love is perfect! “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” John 10:10 (NIV) “This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 1 John 4:10 (NIV) We must combat the enemy and his attempt to distort God’s love for us. The enemy cannot attack God, so he attacks God’s children. Remember, Jesus came to give us life abundant and complete. Jesus came to enable us to experience God’s love personally and eternally. God demonstrated His love for us by sending Jesus to be the atoning sacrifice for our sin. Receive comfort today through God’s unfailing love. Even when you fail, God’s love never fails. God will love you through your pain. God will love you through your valley and mountaintop experiences. God will love you when you have nothing to give and when your cup is overflowing. May His unfailing love be your comfort! Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

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Compassion Forgiveness Jesus

Releasing Unforgiveness

“Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” Col 3:13 (NIV) Motion causes friction. Doing life with real people can generate feelings of irritability and agitation. Real people in real life can get on your nerves at times. Our self-absorbed society elevates relational strife. Our proclivity toward selfishness accelerates the relational turmoil. The Body of Christ is not exempt from relational challenges. Every church family experiences tension, jealousy, and relational drift. We combat the world, the flesh, and the devil. We combat the tendency to turn inward and neglect relationships. Self-preservation prevents us from experiencing the depth of meaningful relationships God has for us. Perpetual forgiveness and bearing with each other are required for maintaining unity in the Body of Christ. If you have a grievance against someone, release it! If you have been fertilizing a spirit of un-forgiveness, renounce it! Forgive others just as the Lord Jesus has forgiven you. Don’t forget about the forgiveness you have received in your lifetime. Calculate the grace, mercy, and compassion that Christ has lavished on you. Think about where you would be without His abundant forgiveness. Your sin has been placed as far as the east is from the west. Your sin has been placed in the sea of forgetfulness. You are totally forgiven. You have been set free! Now, choose to forgive others as the Lord has chosen to forgive you. Let others experience your forgiveness in the same degree upon which you have experienced the forgiveness of Christ. In prayer, visit the scene of the cross. Picture for a moment the Lord Jesus on the cross paying the penalty for your sin. Consider the weight of taking on the full wrath of God for your sin. Jesus did that for you. Would you be willing to extend forgiveness to others in response to the forgiveness Jesus extended to you? Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell

Categories
Compassion Ministry Sensitivity

Taking Care of Others

“But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him.” Luke 10:33-34 (NIV) Hurting people saturate the landscape of life. Living in a fallen world generates pain, suffering, and sorrow. People are shouldering harmful habits, hurts, and hang-ups. Detours and disappointments frequent our daily existence. The reality of living on a broken planet necessitates a deep abiding compassion for others. The Good Samaritan was willing to see the needs of an unnamed individual and to seize the opportunity to meet his needs. The Good Samaritan was willing to put his compassion in action by getting personally involved in the solution to this wounded man’s unfortunate situation. He had been left for dead. The Priest and the Levite were too preoccupied with themselves to care about someone else in need. If we are not careful, that can be our tendency. We get so caught up in our own lives and consumed with what we want to accomplish in a given day, that we can neglect those God brings into our path. Busyness and selfishness blur our vision to the reality of pressing needs around us. We might even begin seeing people in need as an interruption rather than an opportunity to display the compassion of Christ. What is keeping you from putting your compassion in action? Have you lost your love for people? Has your heart become numb toward the individuals in need who come across your path? Slow down and allow the compassion of Christ to flow through you to a world in need. Continue the ministry of Jesus on the earth. View others as sheep without a shepherd. You are the shepherd! Go help some sheep! Pursuing God, Stephen Trammell Executive Pastor Follow me on twitter at: http://twitter.com/stephentrammell