It will put us in our grave...

Do you know what "charismatic" and "conservative" have in common? They are both NOT found in the Bible. Those who draw battle lines in the name of the Holy Spirit so miss the point. All that is needed is an honest look at scripture. The Bible clearly states that the Holy Spirit indwells all believers and empowers them to live for Christ. They are endowed with gifts of His choosing that enable him/her to become like Christ and assist others in becoming like Christ as well. The gifts haven't ceased and not everyone gets every gift. The Bible (authored by the aforementioned Spirit) also clearly states that the gifts must be used within Biblical parameters so as to keep the focus on the Giver of the gifts and the priority of love and unity of the body. Is there room for intelligent biblical discussion on the minor points? Yes. Is there reason to divide over this? Only if someone goes beyond the truth of scripture. In the end we must be people thoroughly committed to knowing and living God's Word AND fully surrendered to and open to the power of the Holy Spirit as He fills, leads, empowers, endows, and transforms us. Suspend your biases about "charismatics" and "conservatives" and be guided by the Word and empowered by His Spirit.

When You Believe...

Jesus held those who exhibited radical faith in high regard. He made statements like "your faith has made you well", "your faith is great", "be it done according to your faith." He also corrected by saying, "Oh you of little faith." In another place it says that He didn't do many miracles in one region because of unbelief. Jesus seems to be saying that God is willing to work as much as we are willing to believe. When you truly trust God...it activates His presence and power in your life.

Then....everything changes.

You now do life moment by moment with respect to the God who now fills you and leads you. You walk with humble confidence and a deep sense of peace rooted in His almighty power and infinite love. God is so real to you...you see everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, in view of God's ability and not your own. It's this faith that turns shepherd boys into giant killers, simple fishermen into world changers, and every disciple of Christ into an irresistable force on the spiritual battlefield. Jesus said it this way..."if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you. (Matt. 17:20b) Kill a giant or move a mountain today for God's glory.