Throughout November, we’re exploring four ways that God wants to change our perspective about finances. These life-shaping values include contentment, stewardship, generosity and - I’ll be honest - what we’re talking about today may be the hardest lesson to learn. I know it was for me. What is it? It this: We grow spiritually by learning to rely more on God. On the surface, it seems obvious. No one could grow spiritually by decreasing their dependance on God. But it's easier said that done. I believe God created us with free will. But what exactly does that mean? In practical terms, it means we have the ability to choose our path, priorities, and pursuits. And for many years, that’s exactly what I did. I chose MY path, MY priorities, and MY pursuits. As a result, I often operated in MY OWN power. Rather than solve MY problems, it often created…
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Paul closes by asking the Colossians to pray for him. He specifically asks that God open a door for the gospel message and that Paul will proclaim it well. We should be praying the same things today. One way God opens doors is through our interactions with “outsiders” – those who do not believe in Jesus. Our interactions will either lead to further conversation and the opportunity to share Jesus or they will close the door. Therefore, Paul commands us to have conversations that are full of grace (including social media). Through prayer and spiritual development, we will be able to provide helpful answers.Watch more videos at the Mountainview YouTube channel. Looking for a Speaking Coach? The most successful people are not always the smartest people. But they have one thing in common: they communicate well. I'd love to help you become a better communicator. Click here. Professor at Warner…
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How we deal with one another is a direct reflection of our relationship with God. 1 John 4:20 says, “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen.” The relationships are husbands and wives, parents and children, slaves and masters. While Paul gives principles specific to each relationship, his underlying principle is this: “It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” The key to having God-honoring relationships is to always be mindful that Christ is present.Watch more videos at the Mountainview YouTube channel. Looking for a Speaking Coach? The most successful people are not always the smartest people. But they have one thing in common: they communicate well. I'd love to help you become a better communicator. Click here. Professor at Warner University church…
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Stories are powerful. Parents tell stories to help their children find their place in the world. Coaches tell stories to inspire their players. Leaders tell stories to rally their teams to tackle a project or navigate a change. Jesus is widely recognized as a great teacher. While he certainly had "lectures" that he delivered to audiences, he is perhaps best remembered as a master storyteller. Religious or not, many people can retell the basic meaning of parables (stories) such as the Good Samaritan or Prodigal Son. Jesus understood the power of stories. A good story is more than entertainment; it has the ability to shape and form the hearer. It has the ability to introduce a new perspective or challenge an outdated one. Stories are also sticky. A well-told story can stick with us long after we first hear it. Given the power of stories, I find it interesting that…
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While some may downplay the importance of theology, theology at the most basic level is the study of God. What we believe about God will shape our decisions, influence our priorities, and impact our relationships. When we are properly rooted in Christ, our faith will be strengthened, and our gratitude will increase. Paul contrasts being rooted in Christ with being taken captive by “hollow and deceptive philosophy” – ideas that depend on “human tradition” and the “elemental spiritual forces of this world.” It’s important to remember that Paul is issuing this warning to Christians, not non-Christians. It’s a reminder that we need process ideas from a biblical, Christ-centered perspective.Watch more videos at the Mountainview YouTube channel. Looking for a Speaking Coach? The most successful people are not always the smartest people. But they have one thing in common: they communicate well. I'd love to help you become a better communicator.…
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