What is my part in building community? -Ep.252 – Run With Horses Podcast
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What is my part in building community? -Ep.252 – Run With Horses Podcast
Take responsibility for your community.
1. Know your Purpose.
Build your community by keeping your purpose in mind and reminding yourself of how your contribution matters.
As a leader, provide people with vision and line of sight so they are crystal clear about the broader purpose of the organization and how their work fits into the whole.
2. Help others know that they Belong.
Plato said, “The part cannot be well unless the whole is well.” Communities take care of their members and vice versa. Stay in touch with people. Invest time and energy in maintaining your relationships.
As a leader, Have frequent meetings with your team so you can coordinate tasks and ensure people are making meaningful connections. Encourage relational ties.
3. Face Challenges well.
Strong communities adapt and become stronger as they cope together. Embrace conflict and diversity—working through differences of opinion and making space for civil discourse and the learning that occurs from appreciating multiple points of view.
As a leader, support people if they try something new and fail. Don’t let perfection get in the way of progress. If you’re not seeing some mistakes or missteps, your team may not be reaching high enough.
*Reference
Tracy Brower, PhD
https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2020/10/25/how-to-build-community-and-why-it-matters-so-much/?sh=57cd6675751b
How to build community in your church.
1. Cultivate and support small groups.
The key is to build a time of prayer, a devotion and fellowship into each meeting.
2. Train small group leaders to do the work of pastoral ministry.
No pastor, no matter how caring, can provide personal attention to more than a dozen or so people at a time.
3. Be willing to give up expediency. Take time.
If we want to build authentic community, sometimes the labor-intensive choice is the best choice.
4. Preach and teach regularly on the importance of caring.
Caring means reaching out to new people in meaningful ways, like sharing a meal with them or inviting them on an activity.
5. Set a good example.
Be the first to show up at events and the last to leave. It takes time to build community.
It takes hard work, vigilance and a commitment to training laypeople to do the work of ministry (Ephesians 4:11-16)
*Reference
Lisa Price
https://influencemagazine.com/Practice/Five-Ways-to-Build-Community-in-Your-Church
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Why is the Church Community so Important? -Ep.251 -Run With Horses Podcast
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Today we explore community and why the church community in particular is so important in the life of a disciple of Jesus.
Welcome to Run With Horses, My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a follower of Jesus. It is difficult enough to go through this life without attempting it on your own. We were created to live in community with others. It may not always be pretty and sometimes it gets downright ugly. But God created us to live in fellowship with Him at the center. And it is beautiful when the bride of Christ is in harmony.
We talk a lot about communities. But often, we struggle to live in them.
What is Community?
“A community is a social unit wherein its members share a common network. Common networks that unite communities include networks of values, interests, goals, and kinship.
It is common to classify communities into the following categories:
Communities of place
Communities of interest
Identity-based communities
Communities of need
Communities of practice”
*Reference
Chris Drew - https://helpfulprofessor.com/types-of-communities/
Why is Community Important?
1. Support and safety -fight feelings of hopelessness, supporting others also gives us a boost.
2. Connection and belonging - feeling we are part of something bigger can help give meaning to our lives
3. Influence - stop us from falling into unhealthy habits or thoughts
4. Sharing - Sharing activities, ideas and feelings reinforces not only our sense of self, but also adds worth and value to the community
5. Learning - can help us reach insights that we may not have reached on our own
6. Acceptance - acceptance doesn’t necessarily imply agreement
7. More connections, more chances of success
*Reference
https://www.happiness.com/magazine/relationships/the-importance-of-community/#:~:text=Finding%20others%20with%20the%20same,with%20negative%20experiences%20and%20feelings.
Why we need the Church community
Reason #1: It meets our basic need for belonging
Reason #2: A strong church community is a place for discipleship
Reason #3: We are held accountable
Reason #4: We need to be fed a diet that will allow us to mature in our relationship with the LORD
Reason #5: We are commanded by God to be part of a strong church community
*From the Faith Island Blog
https://faithisland.org/faith/5-reasons-you-need-a-strong-church-community/
Thanks for joining me today! If you have questions or comments, feel free to contact me on the Run With Horses FB page or write me at norman@runwithhorses.net . How is your church community doing at keeping Jesus at the center?
The struggle is real but keep running.. .
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What is “the ministry” of Eph. 4? - Ep. 250 -Run With Horses Podcast
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Today we look at the question, “What is “the ministry” of Eph. 4?”
Welcome to Run With Horses. My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a disciple of Jesus. Following Jesus means serving others and Ephesians Chapter 4 gives us some imporant insight into what that means and why it is so important.
Eph. 4:11
First, who is doing the work of the ministry?
Answer – The Saints – Christians!
Pastors and teachers are equipping the believers for ministry.
Second, What is the purpose of ministry according to Eph. 4?
Answer – Edifying the body of Christ
Edify – Defined as: a: BUILD; b: ESTABLISH
Ministry is helping the church grow to maturity and unity.
There is an expectation of growth for the follower of Jesus.
Jesus really values unity in His family!
1 Cor. 1:10
John 17:20
Eph. 4:1
A Royal Priesthood
1 Peter 2:9
“In sum, the priests played the significant role of standing guard in God’s house, making sacrifices for God’s people, and instructing the people so that they could enjoy God’s blessings.” David S. Schrock. https://www.crossway.org/articles/10-things-you-should-know-about-priesthood-in-the-bible/
Third, How do we edify each other?
Live out the one anothers.
Serve
Galatians 5:13
Teach
Col. 3:16
Bear Burdens/ Care for
Galatians 6:2
Fourth, Ministry outside the church.
Gospel
Paul – Gospel ministry to Gentiles
Romans 15:15
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A Few More Questions about the Church – Ep. 249 – Run With Horses Podcast
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Today we look at a few more questions that people sometimes have about the church. I am sure we aren’t going to cover every question you have so write norman@runwithhorses.net if you have a question!
Welcome to Run With Horses. My name is Norman and my goal is to help you thrive as a follower of Jesus. Life is often a crazy mess but in the middle of the chaos, Jesus offers to meet us with peace that isn’t tied to our circumstances. How great to know that there is more, and better, in store for us in the future!
All of us have questions at times. I have more than my share, believe me! The church is one of those groups of people who have drawn a lot of attention through the years, and rightly so. Often for good reasons, and just as often for bad ones. Either way the church has been a big part of history.
I am not a historian and tend to look more at today than the past. Preparing for tomorrow always seems like a better use of my time than complaining about the past. If you are looking for a deep dive into church history, you are in the wrong place, at least for today. If you are thinking about the church and your place in it, maybe, just maybe, you are in the right place.
Who is the church for, just Christians?
Church membership is limited to those who have placed their faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Attendance is open to all in most churches for most meetings.
Is church attendance required if I am a Christian?
The answer is No! We have freedom in Christ and there are few requirements for Christians, we are not under the law. However, while no one will hunt you down for not attending church, Jesus is building His church and does want you to be part of it. We are told not to avoid getting together but to use our gifts to build up His church.
Are politics important in church life?
They should not be! Politics only are of value in the here and now. If we really believe that we should be working for eternity, politics have a very minor place. Not to say completely irrelevant, just minor.
Should I go back if I have been hurt by church?
Yes, but . . .
Why is it so hard to find a healthy church?
Good question!
Real answer. Sin.
Teaches Bible, Promotes loving relationships, is focused on being and making disciples, The Gospel is celebrated, etc
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What is the Purpose for the Church? -Ep.248 -Run With. Horses Podcast
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Today we are answering a few commonly asked questions about the church.
Welcome to Run with Horses. My name in Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a follower of Jesus. None of us live life perfectly, but if Jesus is at the center of our relationships, we definitely live life better.
One thing that is certain in life is that changes are coming! We have had a few changes this week that will cause a few other changes! Susan's mom fell!
What is the purpose of the church?
evangelism, discipleship, ministry, worship and community
What is the churches mission?
What specific objective is the church devoted to accomplishing through those purposes? In other words, what is the church trying to do through evangelism, discipleship, ministry, worship and community? Fulfill the Great Commission Matt 28:18-20 - Ministry of Reconciliation, Ambassadors for Christ
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What's Wrong With The Church? -Ep.247 - Run With Horses Podcast
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It has been said that christianity can be summed up in one word – relationships. Today we look at the relationships that make up the church.
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a disciple of Jesus. You have a lot of choices to make every day. Thanks for including me in your journey of following Jesus.
Recently I have been thinking about the church and particularly the relationships that make it up. Regularly I have seen news and info about church relationships that are broken on an almost weekly basis. From pastors and leaders in the church to ,members who are behaving badly, we seem to be struggling to get along and to act like Jesus with each other.
It is really a matter of spiritual growth and maturity at it’s core. Our sin nature aggressively drives us from God and unfortunately wins many of the daily battles. The result is that the church, instead of being the beautiful bride of Christ, is a soiled mess that looks almost identical to the world. The world expects the church to be different and is either surprised and disappointed or overjoyed when it is not.
Our relationships don’t look like God intends for them to look. And the problem begins with the primary relationship that we have, our relationship with God Himself.
Our relationship with God is possible because of the blood of Jesus, applied to our lives, removing our sin, providing us with the righteousness of Jesus Himself. The result of receiving such an underserved gift should be a heart overflowing with Thanksgiving. That thankful heart lifts up the name of Jesus and praises the God from whom all blessings flow. Worship is a natural outflow of the Thankful heart. A heart turned to God glorifies Him through heartfelt obedience and pursuit of holiness. We long to be like Him when we see Him as He is!
This heart, in tune with God, pursuing His righteousness and holiness, is filled with a peace and joy that cannot be explained outside of the work of Jesus. It is incredibly calming to know that God is in control. To know Him is to know His love, His grace, as well as His patience and long-suffering. A true relationship with God requires for us to KNOW Him, not just know ABOUT Him.
Paul challenges Timothy to pursue godliness and righteousness. We are invited to pursue God in all His glory. He invites us into His presence.
A genuine relationship with God changes us in many ways but one of the most important is the way in which it changes our relationship with other people. Our relationship with the church, like our relationship with God Himself, is only healthy or even possible in Christ.
The church is a special group of people who are united by a special bond through the power of the Holy Spirit. Unfortunately this bond doesn’t prevent us from sinning against each other time and time again!
A relationship that should be marked by a deep and abiding love, is severely tested by our selfishness and focus on our own desires. The world looks at the church expecting to see a kindness and grace that is missing in their own lives but instead see a mess that looks a lot like the one they are in. Why is it this way? In part, many in the church struggle to really know God personally. While weekly sermons give information in abundance, a genuine relationship with the True and Living God is more difficult to find. So we struggle.
And we take that struggle to the world. Our relationship with the world, rather than being marked by grace and loving truth, is always tainted by our own sin and make more difficult because we struggle to see God as He is and see His hand at work in the world. And we really struggle to BE His hands at work in the world. Rather than bringing grace and truth to the world and seeing Him change people into His image, we go into the world and take on the characteristics of the world rather than our Savior.
How do we change that?
1. Release control of your life to God. He bought you with a price! What does it mean to live His life? If you aren’t wrestling with that question, you might not be living the life God intends. It’s not easy though. God isn’t making cookies so there is no cookie cutter approach to following Jesus. My guess is Peter and Matthew were vastly different in their personalities, gifts and ministry. You and I will be different too.
2. Pursue Jesus. Really seek to get to know Him. This is the path to righteousness, godliness and holiness. To really KNOW Jesus. Not just about Him. Are you wrestling with how to know Him better? You should be, it is one of life’s greatest joys and journeys!
3. The humility of Jesus asks us to consider others better than ourselves. We are asked to submit to one another. Are you wrestling with how to do that in your home, in your church, and in your community? You should be. It does not come naturally for sinful hearts.
I will stop at these three for today. They are all huge if you take them seriously and really attempt to live them out. Jesus didn’t call us to an easy life. He called us to a meaningful one. You choose every day how you will live. Choose real value that lasts. Choose to follow Jesus and learn from Him. Choose to help His family be what it can be.
Thanks for joining me today. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net with your questions or comments or just to say hi. I would love to hear from you. My prayer is that you reflect the glory of God into the world around you every day. The journey is worth the effort, keep running!
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The Body Of Jesus, The Church - EP.246 -Run With Horses Podcast
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Today we are thinking about the church and who is responsible for it.
Welcome to Run With Horses! My Name is Norman and m goal is to help you grow as a disciple of Jesus. He invites you to follow Him and there is no choice you can make that is more worthwhile.
After a summer of travel and never ending upheaval in our lives, we may have the end of this stage in sight. Part of that transition is working on an office for me to use as a home base for the next year or so. I am in the space I will be using today and it is mostly empty and very large so if you hear an echo, it si the natural reverb of a large space, much like an empty warehouse. But it is a blessing to have access to it so I am not complaining. A room is in the planning stages and a generous supporter is working to make it happen as soon as the next few weeks. More info to come!
The church is something we talk often about and today I wanted to cover a few of the basics.
What is the church? A group of believers. Saved by grace through Faith.
Romans 15: 3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house.
Colossians 4: 15Greet the brethren who are in Laodicea, and Nymphas and the church that is in his house.
Ephesians 1:22 And He put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, 23 which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills all in all.
Acts 20:28 Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood. - NKJV
Jesus Builds His Church. - Matthew 16:18 - On this Rock I will build MY church.
Matthew 28:18-20 Jesus said, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations.”
Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to His disciples,“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
The church, as the hands and feet of Jesus in the world today, has an important role to play.
Gospel witness, Equipping of more workers ( the process of disciple making), bring worship of the True and Living God to every corner of the globe and every street in every village.
What is your part? Not always easy but always worth it!
Thanks for joining me today! Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net with your questions, comments or just to let me know you are listening. Keep your eyes on the prize and keep running after Jesus.
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Is your LIfe on Fire?
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When we were kids and went to mom to complain, she would sometimes say, "Into each life a little rain must fall." Although it is true it wasn't usually what we wanted to hear. What we wanted was an instant solution to our very immediate problem.
We don't really grow out of that temptation to run to someone bigger, God in our case as adults, and complain about our situation hoping for an instant fix. And God often responds just like mom. Sorry, you have to go through this one. But unlike mom, God is working in the trial to accomplish something that can't be done without the trial.
Check this out.
"Without the right kind of fire regimes, some trees simply can’t reproduce, and overall forest health can be negatively affected."
https://www.nationalforests.org/our-forests/your-national-forests-magazine/how-trees-survive-and-thrive-after-a-fire#:~:text=As%20opposed%20to%20serotinous%20cones,a%20fire%2C%20for%20several%20years.
Some seeds have a hard outer shell that needs to go through the heat in order to germinate. Others require severe cold. On the other side of the trial is new life. I personally believe that some of the gifts that God gives us require fire to be release to us. That fiery trial is a spiritual proving ground.
How does that work? In the same way that a seed covering is changed by the heat or cold. The trial in our life changes us in fundamental ways that make us more sensitive to God's work in our life. The fire helps us orient toward God in a new way. The heat softens the seed covering so that it knows it is time to grow. The trial breaks through spiritual hardness and God's Spirit lets us know that it is time to grow!
The trial is never fun but it is always profitable. Our problem is that we don't see what God is doing so we don't always see the growth until years later when we have had time to process the expierience through the more mature eyes of our future self. When we look back at our struggles, we often see how much we have grown because of the struggle. Many people have a new ministry because of their struggle.
2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. 6 Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. 7 And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation.
vs.6 If we are afflicted, it is for you! There is a purpose to all of our trials. Fire in your life leads to growth in yourself and others!
So don't give up. You may not see the purpose today. You may not know who will benefit from your trials down the road, but God does.
I know we don't process the struggles in our life this way as we are going through them. But when you come out the other side; and you will come out the other side. You will think about it, process it and begin to deal with the ashes and burnt material in your life. That is the time to remember that new growth comes from the fire. Seeds are now prepared to germinate and bring new growth and eventually fruit.
It won't be easy and probably won't be soon, but one day, just maybe, you will be in a position to thank God for the fire.
Thanks for joining me today! If you have come through a fire and recognized God's hand at work once you looked back, I would love to hear your story. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net and let me rejoice with you! If you are in the fire now, feel free to write and I will pray for God's gracious hand to guide you though the trial. May God bless you as you seek Him during this time. But whatever you do, don't stop pursuing Him!
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Questions People Ask Christians - EP.240 - Run With Horses Podcast
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Today we are going over some questions that unbelievers sometimes have about religion in general and Christianity specifically.
Welcome to Run With Horses. My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a follower of Jesus. The choices you make every day define you as a person and help you make spiritual progress or make it more difficult. Thanks for making the choice to include me on your spiritual journey.
If you are a follower of Jesus, you are probably at least occasionally asked a question or two about your faith. Sometimes by well intentioned friends who just want to know more about what you believe, other times by people who just want to tear you down.
Today we will look at a few questions that you might have already been asked or might want to think about for the future.
1. What religion do you believe in?
2. Do you believe in God or another deity?
3. When did you choose your faith?
4. What is your idea of whatGod looks like?
5. Is there a heaven?
6. Is there a hell?
7. What doesheaven look like?
8. What does hell look like?
9. Why should someone start believing in God?
10. What should a believerdo before they die?
11. Does your past play a role when joining a religion?
12. Does someone need to attend church to be spiritual?
13. What’s the difference between being spiritual and being religious?
14. Did you have to change your life before you started following a religion?
15. How often does someoneneed to say “amen?”
16. Should someone start attending a church if he or she doesn't believe in God?
17. Can someone believe in God but not attend church?
18. Should someone read a Bible before he or she starts believing in a religion?
19. What’s the best part of going to church?
20. What benefits can someone get from going to church?
Thanks for joining me today! If you have questions or would like to make a suggestion for future shows, send me an email atnorman@runwithhorses.netor look for the Run With Horses podcast on facebook and leave a message. We all have questions. Keep asking and keep looking to God for answers. And keep running!
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Change Starts With ONE Thing. -Ep.239 -Run With Horses Podcast
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Today I am challenging you to evaluate your life and do one thing to defeat inertia and get your spiritual life moving.
Welcome to Run With Horses. My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a disciple of Jesus. It is not always easy to follow Him in this life, but it is always worth it. Thanks for including me on your journey.
Most people at least occasionally get stuck. Maybe it is a rut that you can't get out of or maybe it feels more like a wall that you can't seem to get around, over or through! Either way, for some reason you can't seem to move forward. It can be a problem in your career but it is an even more critical problem when it is in your spiritual life.
A stagnant spiritual life will affect your career, your relationships at work and your relationships at home not to mention your relationships with God and His family! When you are stuck, it is a sign that something needs to change.
There is an expectation in Scripture that we will be growing. We have talked about it before many times. We begin our spiritual life as infants and children but we shouldn't expect to stay that way! God intends for us to move from the milk of the Word to the Meat, doing the Will of the Father.
I have mentioned the definition of insanity before, doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. IF you are stuck in your spiritual life, I say it again, something needs to change! God intends for you to be making progress along the path. He provides the resources needed, the power for change through the Holy Spirit and the promise the He will be with you every step of the way.
But HE has also chosen to give us a certain responsibility in this life to put in some effort. Where are you applying effort to your spiritual life now? How is it going? Feeling stuck? Ready to change?
IF that is you today. I want to encourage you to take one step. Be willing to make ONE change in ONE area of life. Often taking the first step is key to unlocking the door to further growth. I know I often find it hard to get moving but once I am doing better in one area, the success seems to pull me to put in more efforts in other areas. What is ONE thing you can work on today?
If you are genuinely stuck and aren't even sure where to begin thinking about making any changes, maybe this list will help. It is not exhaustive and you certainly can't jump in and make changes in every area at once but I truly believe that if you take one or two things and make prayerful efforts to move the needle in your spiritual life, God will meet you there and you will see fruit.
A little caveat. I am making some assumptions with this list. I am assuming that you are already having a meaningful time in the Bible daily and that your prayer life is in order. I am also assuming that you are part of a group of Christ-followers who are regularly meeting for fellowship, encouragement, and time together in God's Word. If any of these are NOT true of you. Start there!
Exercise
Read a book
Do that thing you have been dreading
Take a break from social media
Take a break from TV, Internet, Radio, MP3's, etc.
Call a friend you haven't talked to in awhile, be intentional about Spiritual conversation
Start a journal of your spiritual life
Start a prayer journal
Get up 15 minutes early and spend the time with God
Do a spiritual evaluation, what areas are in good shape and what areas need some attention?
Evaluate your prayer life, Bible reading, church relationships, service to others, opportunities for the Gospel, Disciple making relationships, etc
Take one of the spiritual disciplines and add it to your life over the next month. Need a refresher list? Here are a few to consider!
Solitude, Silence, Journaling, Meditation, Memorization, Fasting, Service -The Spirit of the Disciplines by Dallas Willard
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Maintain Your Motivation
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Rights, Pride and Humility. - Ep.237 -Run With Horses Podcast
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It seems to me that the discussion of entitlements and rights is very much wrapped up in the discussion of pride and humility. Our pride causes us to believe that we deserve something because of who we are. Humility helps us to give up our rights for the sake of someone else. All of us have an ongoing struggle in our hearts between pride and humility.
It also seems to me that it's wrapped up in the idea of loss. We are afraid that we will lose something if we don't get what we believe we deserve. If we aren't treated as we think we deserve we will lose honor or respect. If we aren't taking care of as we believe we deserve we may not have the comfort or safety that we desire. The problem is, God never promised us comfort, or safety, or honor, or recognition for anything that we can do or have done.
What is your heart answer when you think about the question, "What do you really want?" For most of us and probably all of us the answer is not God. What we want is focused on our creature comforts, our human desires , and mostly on this life, here and now.
We want to have a comfortable house, a nice car, a tasty meal and a lifestyle that we feel we deserve. It seems a far cry from following Jesus, who said that the Son of Man has no place to lay his head, and asks us to deny ourself, take up our cross, and follow him. I'm not sure where we get the idea of safety, comfort and all of these material goods as part of that package. Maybe it was in the fine print?
Why is there such a disconnect between what the Bible teaches and what we say we believe and how we think and live? I think it's the whispering of the serpent in the garden in our ear, telling us that we deserve more. The idea of sacrifice and service to others requires too much. Too much effort, too much sacrifice. We shouldn't have to give up our rights, our comforts, our safety, just because Jesus ask us to follow him.
Spiritual warfare is for others, sacrifice is for others, service is for others. Certainly we understand that the cause of Christ is important, that the world needs to hear the message of the gospel, but that's something that someone else is responsible for, not me.
Because thinking of others is so foreign to us, we can only only see what we want. Our hearts desires control us and drive us. Life is about us. And is life is about us, obviously we deserve a certain kind of treatment.
We feel that we deserve certain things just because we exist, but that's not true. What we deserve is to be eternally separated from God. Fortunately God has reached out and given us so much that we don't deserve. Everything we have is a gift from him. If we understand that we can live a life of Thanksgiving. Humility takes the place of pride, service and sacrifice seem reasonable in light of all we have received. We will have the ability to joyfully approach each day.
To fully follow Jesus means to give up our rights (not hard since we don't have any), accept his gifts, and join Him on a journey of Faith.
You have to give up the right to your time. It is important to understand that you have been given time and energy and a certain degree of health and now you are a steward of all you have received. You were an ignorant steward without Christ, but in Christ, you know what a gift you have. A weight of responsibility is lifted, you no longer have to "succeed", whatever that means. You only have to follow Jesus and use His resources to accomplish His purposes. He will succeed.
You have to give up the right to your relationships. Your relationships are given to you by God although we don't often think if them that way. Your ability to have a relationship is given to you by God. It is part of being made in the image of God. God is relational. He communicates. He desires fellowship.
You don't have the right to have enough, whatever that means. Instead of relying on enough, whether that's time, health or money, we learn to trust God to supply our needs. We don't have a right to have our needs met. But we often have the joy of having our needs met by an awesome God. Along the way He fulfills needs that we didn't know we had. Needs for worship. Needs to know our Creator.
We live in a society that doesn't value humility or self-sacrifice. But we serve a God who not only values it but modeled it for us in the life of Jesus. While most people search for significance and temporary fame in this life. Jesus leads to a path of eternal significance and true value that doesn't fade like the newest Youtube sensation. Youtube fame may be measured in the approval of millions of people. Real value is found in the approval of ONE. It is found following a path that few take. A path of humility and service. A path of sacrifice.
But on this path we meet others who travel with us. Family, united by a bond stronger than DNA, national pride, or culture. We are united by blood. The blood that was shed to remove the barrier of sin and give us access to our heavenly Father. We are united in a family that will be together for eternity. Each member loved and appreciated.
We live is a world that values rights. But I relinquish my rights and claim a promise. The promise of Jesus to never leave me nor forsake me. The promise that His completed work on the cross is sufficient. The promise that His resurrection will be my resurrection one day. The promise that He who started a good work in me will complete it.
I have chosen the ancient path. I want to live with my focus on the footprints of Jesus, leading me home. And I accept the challenge to deny myself, give up whatever rights I have and follow Him. Will you go with me?
Thanks for joining me today. You can always write to norman@runwithhorses.net with questions or comments or suggestions for future topics. All past shows are available at www.runwithhorses.net or rwh.podbean.com and on most platforms where you listen to podcasts.
Keep your eyes on Jesus and never stop running!
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Formats for a Discipleship Group - Ep.235. - Run With Horses Podcast
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Today we continue our discussion on How to Invest in someone by exploring some of the options for both one to one and small group meetings.
Welcome to Run With Horses! My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a follower of Jesus. There are a lot of ways you could spend your time so thanks for including me on your journey.
We have covered, lightly, Why you should be investing in people as you make disciples. And we covered Who you should invest in, answering the question about how to select a person to disciple. And finally we covered How you should invest in someone, considering the big picture of Character Development, General Spiritual Growth and Ministry Skills.
Today I want to give some examples of a format for meeting someone as well as some thoughts on materials you might want to use. First, there are three big categories to consider.
1. Using Book - study guide, book for men, etc
Shepherding a Child's Heart, Running Scared, etc
2. Going through a Book of the Bible - Mark, Nehemiah, etc
3. Studying a Topic - parenting, fear, etc
There is no wrong answer for which one should I choose! Over time you will likely use all of these depending on the people involved and the needs that arise. So pick one to get started and feel free to change midstream if it is not working for your group right now.
For a format, I recommend keeping it simple. Here is an example for a 1 hour meeting.
15 minutes - Start with fellowship. Catch up on the week and how things are going. Often a prayer request is first revealed or at least hinted at here.
15 minutes - Prayer. I like to put prayer early because it is too easy to leave it out if we keep it till the end. Sharing a prayer request and a praise or one thing God has taught you recently or even the One Verse One Thought One Minute from Simple Journaling are all great ways to give this time a little structure as well as put some sor fo limit on it.
30 minutes - Bible and Book discussion - It helps if everyone has read the passage or chapter ahead of time. Other than referring to key verses or sections in the book, there is no need to read the passage again during the meeting if time is an issue.
This is a super simple format. It can be expanded to fit longer time by adding things like sharing memory verses, reading the Bible passage together, etc.
For another possible format consider doing a Discovery Bible Study.
This is an example modeled on www.dbsguide.org.
1. Get Real - Community/ Fellowship
To begin the study, each person answers these questions:
What are you thankful for?
What is causing you stress?
Who needs our help? How can this group help them?
2. Look Back - A review (on session 2 and following)
Retell story from the previous meeting.
What did you do differently because of this story?
Who did you tell and what was the reaction?
3. Read & Re-tell - Focus on understanding what the bible says.
One person reads the Bible passage out loud, and the rest follow along.
Someone else retells the passage by memory, if possible. Others can fill in what is missing.
4. Look - A deeper look at what the passage is teaching.
Read the passage again.
Discuss what this passage says about God, Jesus or his plan.
5. Look again - A more specific look at the implications of the passage for us.
Read the passage once more
Discuss what this passage says about humans.
6. Personal Application -Stop and consider what the passage says to me.
According to this study, what am I doing well?
What do I need to change?
7. Who else?
Who needs to hear this story?
How can I tell them?
Who can I invite to study the Bible?
What do I like about this format? No teacher required! If you don't feel comfortable teaching you can still lead a bible study that aims to look at Scripture and simple explore what it says. No stress required.
What do I not like about this format? No teacher required! There is the potential for one person derailing the whole discussion and trying to teach their opinion about a passage rather than letting the bible speak for itself. The larger the group and the more likely this is to be a probably with a less than forceful leader. But you can use this one on one or in a small group with 3-4 friends and it has the potential to be very profitable for everyone. I think the risks are worth it!
There is no wrong format for a bible study or discipleship meeting. The only failure is the failure to try. Pick a format and try it, if it doesn't work, modify it until it does work. This is something you can do!
Thanks for joining me today! Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net and let me know how your bible study goes. Keep investing in others and keep pursuing Jesus yourself. It is often difficult but it is always worth it! Keep running!
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Where is your wall? A lesson from Nehemiah - Ep.236 - Run With Horses Podcast
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Where is your wall?
Today on Run With Horses we are looking at Nehemiah's project to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. I think there is a good challenge there for us to think about today.
My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrice as a Disciple of Jesus. There are a lot of things you could do with your life but none are more important than the call of Jesus to follow Him and be a disciple maker. Thanks for including me on your journey.
I have always been encouraged and challenged by the book of Nehemiah. There are so many lessons that we can learn from how Nehemiah approached the problems in Jerusalem.
Quick review for those who haven't been there in awhile. The children of Israel are slowly returning from exile in Babylon. The book of Ezra covers this same time period and gives a more detailed look at the spiritual side of things. Nehemiah is initially focused on the physical wall and civil responsibilities.
Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king when he got the news about Jerusalem that changed his life.
Nehemiah 1:3 And they said to me, “The survivors who are left from the captivity in theprovincearethere in great distress andreproach.The wall of Jerusalemisalso broken down, and its gates are burned with fire.”
This greatly distressed Nehemiah, he received permission to go to work on the problems.
Our focus today, the wall needed to be rebuilt. First Nehemiah did some reconnaissance.
Nehemiah 2:11 So Icame to Jerusalem and was there three days.12 Then I arose in the night, I and a few men with me; I told no one what my God had put in my heart to do at Jerusalem; nor was there any animal with me, except the one on which I rode.13 And I went out by nightthrough the Valley Gate to the Serpent Well and the Refuse Gate, and viewed the walls of Jerusalem which werebroken down and its gates which were burned with fire.
Nehemiah gathered the leaders of Jerusalem.
Nehemiah 2:17 Then I said to them, “You see the distress that wearein, how Jerusalemlieswaste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer bea reproach.”18 And I told them ofthe hand of my God which had been good upon me, and also of the king’s words that he had spoken to me.
So they said, “Let us rise up and build.” Then theyset their hands tothisgoodwork.
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Beginning Intentional Disciple Making. - Ep. 234 - Run With Horses Podcast
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Welcome to Run With Horses where our goal is to encourage you to pursue Jesus with all of your heart, soul, mind and stength. My name is Norman and I really want to see you Thrive as a disciple of Jesus. It can be a hard road sometimes but I truly believe it is worth it. Thanks for including me on your journey.
So you are stepping out and wanting to be intentional about helping someone around you grow in their spiritual life. Awesome! But hold on you say, where do I begin? Today I will give you some pointers to help you get started and hopefully make it a little less stressful if you are concerned or a little more structured if you aren't sure how to begin.
As a possibly too long introduction, let me start by saying the relationship is important so taking the time to build a solid relational foundation is worth the time it takes. Some of us are hyper focused and can be too quick to pass over the relationship building to get right to the heart of the discussion. But that may keep us from seeing real progress and growth in our own life as well as the life of those we are investing in if we don't have a foundation to build on. Particularly when the discussion appoaches heart issues and areas that are more central to our image of ourself.
Get to know the person you are working with well. Work, hobbies, family relationships, salvation testimony, etc. Lunch, fishing, anything is fine for your first few times meeting.
Once you build a basic foundation, talking about anything and everything along the way, you are ready to move on to more intentional conversations focused on spiritual growth. There are three big topics you may want to talk though as you get started to help set some expectations and let you know where you might want to head in the future.
One - general character and spiritual life
A few questions to ask. 1. Is there any one area in life that you know of now where God is asking you to grow? 2. What trials and temptations are you facing now? 3. How is your character? Are you seeking to grow as a person?
Two - Spiritual Growth
1. Where do you find yourself resisting God now? 2. Are you practicing any spiritual disciplines now, what spiritual disciplines do you need to develop? 3. What actions have you taken recently to make spiritual growth a priority in your life?
Three - Ministry Skills
1. What new ministry skills should you think about developing? 2. In what area should you be reading or studying more? 3. What can you do to improve in ministry right now?
Thanks for joining me today! You can find links to past shows at www.runwithhorses.net. Write me and let me know what you are doing to invest in others today, your questions and comments are always welcome.
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Who Should I invest In? -Ep.233 -Run With Horses Podcast
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How do you select a person to pour your life into?
They are always a lot of people around you who you could choose, so how do you find the right person that's worth the time and energy and effort that it's going to take to invest in them.
Faithful
Availability
A Learner
Willingness on their part.
Where do you find this person?
Always keep your eyes open and look around you for those who are ready for next steps.
Those who are asking questions.
Those who show up early and pitch in to help.
Newer believers, younger believers
People who are going through or have recently been though a transition, often see the need to grow.
Listen, who is talking about wanting to or needing to grow.
Be willing to meet them more than half-way. You make the offer. Not as a teacher but as a fellow traveler on the path toward Jesus. Let's go together!
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An Interview with Chloe Janelle
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What can we learn about Discipleship from CNA training?
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Today on Run With Horses, Susan shares a little about her CNA training and a few lessons we can apply to the spiritual life.
Welcome to Run With Horses, My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Thrive as a Follower of Jesus. I don't believe that there is anything more thrilling or fulfilling than joining Jesus on His mission to the world. Thanks for including me in your
journey.
Yesterday I was talking to Susan about her CNA training as we took our evening walk and we came up with some areas that overlap with the goal of being a disciple of Jesus in community with others.
She mentioned that they are learning skills that they need to be able to apply to get their certification as a CNA and you use dummies and practice with each other to learn the details of what to do in class, but then you don't always think about it when you show up at the nursing home. The nurses have to remind you, hey, you actually need to do this stuff you learned in class here. The different context throws you off somehow, you know the skill but don't have it connected to a practical situation yet.
*
So, there's a simile between learning a skill and practicing it in a certain context versus being able to use it in real life, under real circumstances.
Being in this CNA class, I'm learning educational stuff like knowledge of this is what we do, this is why we do it, and then we get a chance to actually practice it in the classroom, on each other, feeding each other, doing certain skills, and trying to remember all the steps.
But then when we go to clinicals, and we actually are in a nursing home, I've found that all my training just kind of goes out the window because that's not how they do it in real life. Or I'm not used to that setting so then I kind of forget. And after we come together and we have sort of a debriefing, I realize oh I'm still supposed to do those same steps in the real world as I've learned in my class. Just trying to figure out what that's like. And I kind of see that as a similarity between the Christian walk and being a disciple.
I mean because there's a lot of things we learn from the Bible -- truths, doctrines, what you're supposed to do, what you're supposed to look like -- and you can practice some of those things or watch other people do it and learn all these kinds of skills. But then in real life when you're in a situation, a lot of those things get left in the dust. You don't even think about how that training and how those truths are supposed to relate now here in this context
*
We have small groups or a discipleship relationship with other people to fill in the gaps between understanding theory and application. These relationships give a context where you can discuss these things in a low pressure environment.
Part of the purpose is debriefing. "Hey, I was in this situation and I totally didn't think about God. How can I bring God into my thinking, into my practice, in everyday life?"
It's like that as we grow spiritually. We learn the theory in sermons, books and reading the Bible, but small groups really help us to make it concrete. We learn that we need to live out those things and we get our questions answered. We have other people who are walking along doing it too.
Thanks for joining us today! Write us at norman@runwithhorses.net for questions or comments we can read on the show. Life is an adventure of faith and following Jesus. It is a marathon not a sprint, so keep running!
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Why Should I Invest In Others? -Ep.230. -Run With Horses Podcast
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Today on run with horses we're considering why you should invest in other people.
We have spent some time in the past few shows thinking about our priorities and how we spend our lives.
There are lots of things you can invest in but I don't think there's anything that will give you the return of investment that you will get when you invest in people. You can invest in the stock market ,you can invest in your career ,you can invest in your hobbies, you can invest in yourself, but when you invest in other people you change lives and you make a difference for eternity. There is nothing that compares to investing in someone else's life and seeing real life change take place.
Do you want to live a life of value and purpose that makes a difference here and now and an eternity? Then I suggest you look at the people around you and consider how you can use your gifts, talents, and abilities to help them grow in Christ likeness. It will be life changing not only for them but also for you. I believe that there is very little that changes you as much as investing in someone else. You are forced to get outside of your own head, to stop thinking about your own problems, and you really have to consider where someone else is and what they need more than yourself. When you do that you change at a very deep personal level.
Our goal is to walk worthy of Christ.
1 Thess 2: 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a fatherdoeshis own children,12 that you would walk worthy of Godwho calls you into His own kingdom and glory.
In the past few shows we've spent some time thinking about our priorities and how we spend our lives. But as we think about how we spend our lives, I don't think there's anything more valuable or important than investing in other people.
When you think about what will give you meaning at the end of your life, when you consider your priorities as a follower of Jesus, when you think about your values, if you are a follower of Jesus, I think they will best be represented by really encouraging and investing in other people.
So what does it mean to invest in other people? Go back to 1 Thess. 2, I think this is part of it. Paul is writing to the Thessalonian church, and he says that he did several things. We exhorted you, we comforted you, and we charged every one of you as a father does his own children.
So he's doing three things. He encouraged and comforted and challenged them to follow Christ well, to walk worthy. And along the way that they would put effort in to following Jesus. Not just "hey do well," try your best," or "be encouraged" - but he challenged them for something very specific: That they would walk worthy of God. That they would recognize that God has called them; He's called them to something great; He challenges them to actually apply real effort into following Jesus.
God has called YOU into His Kingdom! He has blessed YOU with every spiritual blessing! He is relating to YOU as a Father relates to His children! He invites YOU take part in HIS ministry!
Let us now walk worthy of THAT!
He goes on later in 1 Thessalonians chapter 5 verse 11 and says: "Therefore comfort each other and edify one another just as you are also doing." So he again repeats the idea that we need to be comforting each other, but he's also saying edify, build each other up. You want to invest in each other so that all reach maturity, so that you're all built up, so that in the future you're all stronger than you are today. That's part of his vision for the people he's working with - that they grow, they mature, and that they become more like Jesus.
The writer of Hebrews has some similar things to say in Hebrews chapter 3 verse 12 and 13: "Beware lest there be in any of you with an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God." So be careful that you don't get pulled away by your own desires; by unbelief; by the distraction of the world and all those things. But instead of being pulled away - and to make sure that YOU'RE not pulled away - exhort one another daily! Every day look for opportunities to encourage and challenge and exhort and build up and edify one another. It says: "While it is called 'Today,' lest any of YOU be hardened through deceitfulness."
We live in a world where our life really pulls us away from God. And one reason why it's worth investing in each other; really being involved in each others' lives is because it helps us walk this path better; follow Jesus better; more consistently.
We all have distractions! We all have days when we're going to do poorly! But if we are exhorting one another...walking together...encouraging EACH OTHER...if we're living this life together IN COMMUNITY then it's easier for us continue on without being distracted or pulled away!
Proverbs 27:17 is a very familiar passage which says: "As iron sharpens iron, so iron sharpens the countenance of his friend." And it speaks to the idea that we serve a valuable role in each others' lives. We help each other be better because we invest; because we contribute; because we intentionally put in the effort to build up, to sharpen each other. That's what biblical friends do.
Think about an axe: When it's sharp, it works better! If we're investing in someone else's life, then WE'RE helping THEM be better! And that's really our goal as disciples and disciple makers!
I would say it's really important that we invest in others because the result of not investing in others is often selfishness. You know, if you don't invest and think about others...it usually means you're primarily thinking about yourself.
You only have a couple options: You are working towards something - contributing effort and time and energy - either for yourself or for someone else. The life I think is well lived is a life that's lived meaningfully investing IN SOMEONE ELSE!
I think THAT'S where the greatest joy is! It's where the greatest satisfaction is! A lot of personal issues...personal things that we fear or worry about or are concerned about seem much less important when WE'RE investing IN SOMEONE ELSE!
When WE'RE seeking NOT OUR OWN GOOD but THE GOOD OF SOMEONE ELSE! When WE'RE seeking TO SEE THEM CHANGED...TO SEE THEM GROW...
That energy...that focus keeps us from dwelling on our own issues. Our own issues become too big in our eyes when were completely focused ON them. When were thinking ONLY ABOUT this problem THAT WE HAVE, IT becomes SO BIG, THERE SEEMS NO WAY AROUND IT!
But when YOU look at someone else’s life – one reason why WE NEED EACH OTHER – you can see THEIR PROBLEM IN GOD AND THE PERSON, YOU’RE NOT QUITE SO EMOTIONALLY ATTACHED TO IT…SO YOU’RE IN A BETTER PLACE TO see the real picture and offer needed HELP!
That’s also true when YOU’RE the one that needs help. You need people who are investing IN YOU…who are looking at YOUR issues and helping you see that, “Hey! God's still there! The problem is not as big as it seems like when you're in the middle of the mess!”
So we NEED each other! That's an important part of the spiritual life that we can never get away from.
Check out runwithhorses.net for show notes and past shows. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net if you have comments or questions. Join our facebook community and tell a friend if you have found this show helpful! Keep Running!
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An Interview with Cameron
Cameron recently returned from a medical missions trip to Bolivia with some thoughts and lessons to share.
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Following Jesus means Counting the Costs
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INTRO
Today on Run With Horses, I am continuing my discussion from last time on living a life that is worthwhile. We need to count the cost, but it is always worth it to follow Jesus.
My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Run Your Race Well, not just Surviving but Thriving as a Disciple of Jesus! There are a LOT of things you could do with your life, but I don’t think anything compares with following Jesus and joining Him on His mission of bringing Hope to the nations.
Thanks for including me in your journey!
On the last show I asked two important questions, First, What is your life worth? You are spending your time on something. Is it something worthwhile?
Second, What is 1 thing worth giving the next 5 years of your life to accomplish?
I want to challenge you to live an Intentional life. If you aim at nothing, you will hit it every time. But I’m not sure that Jesus really intended for us to live that way. Look at Luke 14: 25-33
My take is that Jesus is calling us to an intentional life and we need to consider what it will take to live it. John 8:12
I’m pretty sure that is a good thing! Jesus wants us to join Him on His mission, and He wants us to kow that it is a lifetime commitment that will cost us. But it is worth it!
So if you are tracking with me, you are considering what your life is worth, and thinking about what is worth your life. Maybe you are already committed to following Jesus and have a clear picture of the tower you are building and have your sleeves rolled up as you put in the effort to see God’s work in your life and through your life accomplished. If so, Awesome! Let me know what God is doing in your life, I would love to rejoice with you and pray for you as you live a life of eternal meaning and purpose!
Reach out and encourage those around you to join you and keep on keeping on!
But I know many feel stuck in a run and want to make some steps of faith. The tower they began working on years ago is still just a foundation that has sand blown across it and weeds starting to creep in along the edge. The busyness of life and the distractions of the world make it easy to leave the hard work of building a spiritual tower for another vague time in the future when “things settle down”. Hey, no judgment here, I have been there.
But it’s not OK to stay there. God really is doing something in your life and He wants to make you a better you, and give you a bigger purpose than just making it to the end of the week unscathed.
God never hides the fact that He has great plans for us. See Ephesians 2:1-10.
As you pray about what God is doing in your life and seriously answer the question about what is worth spending the next five years of your life to accomplish, remember that God already knows and has planned the good works for you. And He has prepared you for those good works!
There is no reason to fear or turn away, God Himself has promised to go with you and give you His strength to accomplish His purpose in and through you. Maybe the old Nike slogan, Just Do IT, would be appropriate here. We often hesitate and loose momentum or even sink into the mire of earthly things and get stuck in our spiritual life. And that carries over to all aspects of life. You can’t be the best YOU without being tied to God’s mission on earth and your part in it. He gave you gifts for a purpose and without using them, you are always out of step with your eternal purpose.
Know that you are created with a purpose and embrace God’s call on your life. But, count the cost. The work God has called you to will cost you. And it will be worth it.
As you look toward the future and consider how to invest the life that God has given you, along with all of your gifts, talents, abilities, and resources; consider how you can be intentional along the way. I believe God has given us intellect for a reason, Use it to plan out a path forward that is in line with His mission, uses your gifts, and builds up His church. Evaluate yourself and consider adding new skills to your list. What will help you be a more effective servant along the way? Similar question, Who should you be traveling with? As you build a spiritual tower and are counting the cost, consider how Nehemiah rode around the city walls evaluating and only then did he reach out and invite others into the work God had laid on his heart. He presented a clear plan of action and challenged everyone to do their part for the Glory of God. Who can you challenge to go with you as you intentionally pursue a life in Jesus’ footsteps?
OUTRO
Thanks for joining me today! Check out runwithhorses.net for show notes and past shows. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net if you have comments or questions. Join our facebook community and tell a friend if you have found this show helpful! Keep Running!
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What is your life worth? -Ep.227. -Run With Horses Podcast
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Website: www.runwithhorses.net
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INTRO
Today on Run With Horses, we consider the value of a life. You are trading your time for something, is I worth it?
My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Run Your Race Well, not just Surviving but Thriving as a Disciple of Jesus! There are a LOT of things you could do with your life, but I don’t think anything compares with following Jesus and joining Him on His mission of bringing Hope to the nations.
Thanks for including me in your journey!
Hey I have a question for you! What is the one thing that has encouraged you the most as you follow Jesus and grow as a disciple maker? I really want to know, please send me an email at norman@runwithhorses.net with your answer. I hope to do a show using some of your responses in the future so get in touch and let me know what has been an encouragement to you along the way. I know we all need it and it comes in many forms and through many people. What or who has encouraged you?
I have had a busy few weeks, months actually, with big changes in where I am, what I am doing and how I am able to spend my time. As I think through my options and consider how God is working in me, I have been considering the question, What is worth spending a life on?
Many options: career, family, pursuit of leisure activities, to become skilled at something, fame, etc. Certainly the world gives you lots of ideas to pursue!
In some ways the actual value of your life is the sum of all the activities that make up your life. What are you doing with the time you have? Have you ever wondered if it is worth it?
All the time, some people say, and yet they aren’t willing to do anything different to change things.
Here is my real question and challenge for the day. What is 1 thing worth giving the next 5 years of your life to accomplish? Your whole life is too big too think about. You change over time as your experiences influence you. But you do need to plan out a course of action that will give you direction in the neat future. You do have a plan for your future don’t you? ; )
For those who are lost already, here is my summary of life planning.
You need to see the big picture. You and Eternity. This life definitely has meaning both in the here and now and in eternity. Your choices matter. Big picture – where are you headed? What gives your life meaning and purpose? God needs to be front and center here and you want your life to be attached to what He has said is important.
Once you have the BIG Picture clear in your mind, you can begin to consider your direction in life. You have a standard to refer to along the way and to guide you as you make decisions. Are my choices leading me closer to the goal or further away? Are my choices consistent with what I say I believe or do they call me a liar?
Consistent choices lead you somewhere over time. Hopefully nearer to the heart of God!
With that BIG Picture as the context. I want to repeat my question from earlier.
What is 1 thing worth giving the next 5 years of your life to accomplish?
What is a here and now, this life challenge that is worth the time and effort it will take to see the needle move? Maybe it makes more sense to ask it this way. If you were serious about following Jesus daily for the next 5 years what would you do?
What choices would you make differently than you do now? How would you evaluate your progress? Success?
Who would you want with you on the journey?
I think too often we spend all our time focusing on the details of today without stepping back to consider the BIG Picture of what God wants to do in and through us. We fail to make the changes that would move us closer to Him and keep us on His pathway. Ministry becomes an afterthought it we think about it at all. Service is for others, we are too busy.
What would it take to change that for you?
Is it your desire to follow Jesus with your heart, soul, mind and strength? What is keeping you from it?
Do the people you talk to day after day motivate you to love God more and serve people more or are they helping you stay distracted and focused on your own plans and desires?
In light of eternity, in light of the call of Jesus for you to take up your cross and follow Him, What is ONE thing that is worth giving the next 5 years to accomplish? What moves you closer to Him and His mission of reconciliation?
Jesus has called you. Your life is the answer. What does it say?
OUTRO
Thanks for joining me today! Check out runwithhorses.net for show notes and past shows. Write me at norman@runwithhorses.net if you have comments or questions. Join our facebook community and tell a friend if you have found this show helpful! Keep Running!
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Are you preparing for ministry?
Podcast: rwh.podbean.com
Website: www.runwithhorses.net
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rwhpodcast
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RWHpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwh_podcast
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RWH_podcast
INTRO
Today on Run With Horses, today we look at some things you can be doing now to prepare for ministry in the future.
My name is Norman and my goal is to help you Run Your Race Well, not just Surviving but Thriving as a Disciple of Jesus! There are a LOT of things you could do with your life, but I don’t think anything compares with following Jesus and joining Him on His mission of bringing Hope to the nations.
Thanks for including me in your journey!
Five Foundations for Ministry
As a Christian following Jesus, contemplating the role of ministry in your life is essential. Regardless of whether you aspire to become a deacon, pastor, church planter, missionary or Sunday school teacher, it's vital that you grow consistently along the journey. Accepting these roles means embracing change in your life. Here are Five areas to consider as you build a foundation for future service.
First is Character Development; strive to emulate Christ’s character by getting to know Him and His teachings and allowing Him to transform you. We are changed by the people we hand around with. Spend a lot of time in God’s Word and it changes you. You see your selfish desires more clearly and desire true humility and godliness. Spend time with God in prayer, study His Word and make a special place in your life for fellow believers. Traits to develop? Compassion, Forgiveness, Humility, Patience, Gentleness, etc. Really the fruit of the Spirit should mark your life.
Gal. 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.
Second are Core Values: It’s essential that your core values align with Jesus. You need to learn what Jesus prioritized during His time on earth. You should develop the same priorities and consistently live out these priorities in all your choices. Your life is a series of small choices that reveal what you really care about. Your priorities form an integral part of your foundation as a Christian leader. Make sure they align with God’s priorities. Jesus valued Obedience to the Father, Peace, Relationships, Faith, A commitment to the ministry of Reconciliation, God’s Glory and the list goes on. Read the Gospels to see how Jesus spent His time and energy, and even His Life.
Third are Competencies or Skills: Identify the necessary skills for your chosen ministry path and devise strategies on how to acquire them. Engage with those already serving in such roles to gain insights on what skills you can be working on now. Every role has different requirements. As you grow spiritually you will gain new insight into ministry as well as new skills that will help you serve better. Public speaking, teaching, leading a small group effectively, leading music, or even using the churches riding lawnmower. These are all skills that might benefit you as you pursue God’s call on you life and make yourself available to serve.
The Fourth area revolves around Experience: If you aim to become a Sunday School teacher or Deacon for instance, prior participation Sunday School and church business meetings provides at least a small foundation to build on when you consider stepping into a leadership role. Being part of the church life equips you with practical knowledge which can be utilized when stepping into new roles. I encourage you to volunteer and help out in many different kinds of ministry as you are considering your gifting and role in the body of Christ. Serving in your churches food pantry to going with the youth group on a missions trip. All of these little things add up and help clarify your place in the body when you are looking for ways to serve others.
Lastly comes Commitment; Serving others requires sacrificing personal wants for the cause of Christ and his people. A leader of any kind will be demonstrating increased commitment along with increased responsibility. The willingness to make some sacrifices for the good of others is a key factor in choosing leaders. Commit to serving others in small ways now as preparation for greater service later.
These five area are all important if you're considering ministry because ultimately being like Jesus entails serving others like He did.
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