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Tuesday, 06 March 2012 18:13 |
A little perspective on Fear
I was recently traveling in the tumultuous Middle East, and honestly fearful for a number of reasons. I read Psalm 46 and I had to sketch this out to grab hold of some great truth: - God is our Refuge and we shouldn't fear:
- Natural Disaster
- Shifting boundaries
- War
- Power struggles, Coups, Uprisings
- Because:
- Our real home is in heaven
- He is in complete control
- There will be an end, and he will bring it about
- He is with us
- He will be exalted no matter what
Now, I understand this was written in a Jewish context thousands of years ago, but the truth is there for us to bank on as 21st century Christians. I love the verbage in vs. 1... God is our refuge and strength, he is a very present (or 'well proved') help in trouble. In light of all this what is our responsibility? The Psalmist says: - We shouldn't fear
- We should 'Behold' what God has done (remember)
- We should be still and remember that God is God (and we are not)
Try applying this armful of truth next time you're tempted to fear. It worked for me. |
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Welcome to the Outer CourtThe story of the money changers in the temple courts catches Jesus in a rare moment of rage. Quoting the prophet Isaiah, Jesus shouted "My Father's house shall be a house of prayer for all nations!." That sentiment is what I echo here.
My passion is specifically for Muslim people groups around the globe that are questioning their 7th century prophet. Is our representation of a 21st century Jesus any more appealing? Western Christians have a large role to play in demonstrating authentic faith to the Muslim world, and are, in my opinion, responsible for their own lack of 'success' in convincing Muslims to follow the prophet Jesus. In this 'book in process' you'll be able to interact with the author's fresh perspective on the Muslim world, history, and current events.
I hope you'll join me in dialoguing about events related to Islam and the church, and what needs to change in order to reach the tribes of Ishmael. This experiment is intended to garner your feedback and opinions and be a place where change originates. My hope is that, with your help, we can publish a work that calls the Western church to a renewed effort to live out Jesus among the nations. Come add your voice and name. Come join me in clearing out the Outer Court. |
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