tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13861910554703054352024-03-13T02:37:21.499+03:00Whiteboards and PulpitsInfluencing Hearts and Minds to Share a Passion for Better Speaking, Teaching, and Preaching John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.comBlogger118125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-52002903969675609072017-07-25T21:55:00.000+03:002017-07-25T21:55:43.287+03:00Be Patient. Sermon.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout; position: relative; z-index: -1895793664;"><span style="height: 116px; left: 609px; position: absolute; top: -29px; width: 127px;"><img alt="18th FAB Patch.jpg" height="116" src="data:image/png;base64,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" v:shapes="Picture_x0020_1" width="127" /></span></span></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">23 JUL 17</span></span></i></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Be Patient and Establish Your Hearts, on the Lord’s
Return</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">James 5:7-13</span></span></div>
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<span style="height: 5px; left: -10px; mso-ignore: vglayout; position: relative; top: 0px; width: 728px; z-index: 251659264;"><img height="5" src="data:image/png;base64,R0lGODlh2AIFAHcAMSH+GlNvZnR3YXJlOiBNaWNyb3NvZnQgT2ZmaWNlACH5BAEAAAAALAIAAADUAgUAgAAAAAAAAAJ5RIynyesNn4x02oqvznz7Dn5iSI5miZ5qyq5uC79yTM92ja+AEfT+DwwKh8Si8YhMKpfMpvMJjUqn1Kr1is1qt9yu9wtu7sLksvmMTqvX7Lb7DY+3efK6/Y7P6/f8vv8vliN4QzhoWIh4qJjIuOjYCPkoGUk5aWlSAAA7" v:shapes="AutoShape_x0020_2" width="728" /></span><u><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span></u><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><sup><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">7 Be
patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer
waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it
receives the early and the late rains. 8 You also, be patient. Establish your
hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 Do not grumble against one
another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing
at the door. 10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the
prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those
blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and
you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and
merciful.</span></sup></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><sup><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">12
But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by
any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may
not fall under condemnation.</span></sup></i></div>
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<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout; position: relative; z-index: 251669504;"><span style="height: 5px; left: -6px; position: absolute; top: -1px; width: 728px;"><img height="5" src="data:image/png;base64,R0lGODlh2AIFAHcAMSH+GlNvZnR3YXJlOiBNaWNyb3NvZnQgT2ZmaWNlACH5BAEAAAAALAIAAADUAgUAgAAAAAAAAAJ5RIynyesNn4x02oqvznz7Dn5iSI5miZ5qyq5uC79yTM92jcvBzvf+DwwKh8Si8YhMKpfMpvMJjUqn1Kr1is1qt9yudwkwfMfksvmMTqvX7Lb7DV+L4/S6/Y7P6/f8vh+cE3gzKFhIeGiYiLio2Mj46BgJOSlZOQJQAAA7" v:shapes="AutoShape_x0020_11" width="728" /></span></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Introduction</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">A wrong doing has occurred to you, this is not just a
skinned knee. Your heart is broken and thoughts of compassion have left long
ago. You want action. You want justice. As a matter fact, you want the return
of Christ this very hour. You are not necessarily longing for just redemption
and glory, but the vindication of all that you have been wronged. Of course,
you would also enjoy being rescued from this miry situation, but you would much
rather see the destruction of the wicked. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Is that a wrong desire of your soul? You long for justice,
but also understand that mercy also must coexist somewhere. The people that
James are speaking to right now, have been wronged financially. They have been
exploited and robbed by the rich scoundrels of 5:1-6. And now its PAY BACK!
There prayer is that Jesus would return immediately…and James says,… “BE
PATIENT,…ESTABLISH YOUR HEARTS…”! How can I do that? I want your Justice! I
want these wrongs to be paid back in full. James says, “BE PATIENT, THE LORD IS
AT THE DOOR.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Christian, how do you establish your hearts in the midst of
this suffering and wrong doing? How do you cry out to the Lord in the midst of
this? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">II. </span></span></span></u></b><b><u><span style="line-height: 115%;">Get a
long-suffering Love for your enemies.</span></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">How can you remain patient and establish your hearts first
in regards to the Lords return, find a passion for your enemies. This is not a
short term, say a short prayer, but followed by action. James shows that this
enduring is from the EARLY RAINS till the LATE RAINS. This is not a short
endurance, but is LONG-SUFFERING. This sounds so bizarre to the persecuted or
broken person, and sounds even more complicated to a congregation of people,
who trained to implement God’s justice in this world by wielding the sword.
However, Jesus says, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>“Love
your enemies. Pray for them that persecute your. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so
that you may be sons fo your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise
on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.” <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MATTHEW 5:43-48</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">But John, this a lot. Hear you are saying that I should pray
for these guys,…I am not Jesus is. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Following Jesus is not easy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Paul, even writes in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Romans
12: 19-21</b>, BUT Listen, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is
thirsty, give him something to drink;…”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">This continually loving and serving them, may turn your
prayers for GOD’s VINDICATION into a prayer of intercession on their behalf. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">How else can you BE PATIENT and ESTABLISH YOUR HEARTs for
Christ Return to vindicate you,</span></div>
<b><u><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">II. BY Getting a biblical view of eternal destinations. </span></u></b><br />
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<div style="line-height: 107%; margin: 0in 0in 8pt 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Sure its easy to talk or sing songs about
the MIDNIGHT CRY, when Jesus calls his children home to glory. Its easy to sing
songs and have romanticized views entering into to heaven and meeting all your
passed loved ones and walking the streets of gold. Etc. etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of this is good and wholesome things to
meditate, but we may be missing something…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As just as much as Heavens/New Earth will
be the CREATED eternal residing place for the redeemed, there is also a created
eternal place for those who will experience a eternal justice for their wrongs.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Oh but is for evil people John, it
is true. I do not deny that, however:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Verses: on Hell: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;">2 Thess 1:9,</span></b><span style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span lang="EN" style="color: red; font-size: 12pt;">They will be punished with <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">everlasting destruction</b> and shut out from the presence of the Lord
and from the glory of his might</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Matthew 13:50</span></b><span style="color: red;">, angels will separate the righteous and evil, and throw them
into the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">fiery furnace.</b> In that
place there is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">weeping and gnashing of
teeth.</b> </span></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span></div>
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<div style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Mark 9:43</span></b><span style="color: red;">, if your hand causes you to stumble,…better to cut it off,
than go to hell, to the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">unquenchable
fire.</b> </span></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Jude 1:7</span></b><span style="color: red;">, punishment by <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">ETERNAL
FIRE.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Countless more:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri";">The creative of mind of
Michangelo’s The Last Judgement is a COMICBOOK illustration in comparsion to
the coming judgement of those who do not know Christ. </span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Great and terrible day. </span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">OS GUINESS: After detailing a long
list of human atrocities, Os Guinness asks the painful question, “What does it
say of us as human beings that the people who do these things are the same
species as we are?”[1]</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">To see the face of evil, we need
only look in the mirror. If we don’t see evil’s reality in our lives, it’s no
surprise. Evil people typically don’t.</span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-indent: 0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Had it not been for the Cross of
Jesus Christ to say us from our sins, we will be destined for the same eternal
Justice. Jesus Christ paid our ETERNAL JUSTICE on the cross, so that we would
not be punished in Hell. </span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">When we get a Biblical view of hell and heaven, we should
turn to 2 Peter 3:9 and pray that this our heart to. Do we long for ALL people,
even those who are not our buddies…go to heaven. Or are we like JONAH,…who is
reluctant to go share to people because they are not his people. </span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Oh
how a better view of Hell, and Heaven…will draw us to BE PATIENT and ESTABLISH
OUR HEARTS for those on the DAY OF LORD </span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.75in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></div>
<b><u><span style="font-size: 18pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-no-proof: yes;">III. Get a Good
attitude and a Godly Example to follow, (v. 9-10) </span></u></b><br />
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<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">So, James points us to a Godly Example for us to follow by
pointing us to the Prophets and to Job.</span></div>
<br />
<ol style="direction: ltr; list-style-type: decimal;">
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><div style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
They were righteous and were persecuted.</div>
</li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><div style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
They were long suffering through it all. </div>
</li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><div style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
Although they complained, they did not give up.
Job probably not the stellar example, however. </div>
</li>
<li style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;"><div style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%; margin-bottom: 8pt; margin-top: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2;">
Douglas moo writes about Job: “Job is no
goveling, passive, unquestioning submission; Job struggled and questioned, and
sometimes even defied, but the flame of faith was never extinguished in his
heart.”</div>
</li>
</ol>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">How can I be patient and long suffering in the midst of
these trials of wrong upon me, not only do I look at Job/Prophets….BUT I GO TO
THE LIBRARY.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Corrie Ten Boon, Elizabeth Elliot, William Tyndale, Here I
stand MARTIN LUTHER, Saint Thomas Aquinas by GK Chesteron…and many more. John
Piper’s Sermon series on Biographies. These will stir your heart to BE PATIENT,
AND ESTABLISH YOUR HEART.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Groveling and Complaining</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">As we wait for anything, especially as we long suffer…we
love to complain. Resist this temptation, God will deliver you in his timing. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout;"></span><br />
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<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span></span></div>
<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span><table align="left" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr><td height="5" style="background-color: transparent; border-image: none; border: rgb(0, 0, 0);" width="0"></td></tr>
<tr><td style="background-color: transparent; border-image: none; border: rgb(0, 0, 0);"></td><td style="background-color: transparent; border-image: none; border: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"><img height="5" src="data:image/png;base64,R0lGODlh1wIFAHcAMSH+GlNvZnR3YXJlOiBNaWNyb3NvZnQgT2ZmaWNlACH5BAEAAAAALAIAAADTAgUAgAAAAAAAAAJ2RIynyesNn4x02oqvznz7Dn5iSI5miZ5qyq5uC79yTM92jbvBzvf+DwwKh8Si8YhMKpfMpvMJjUqn1Kr1is1qt9yu9wsOi8fksvmMTqvX7LbbaHjL5/S6/Y7P6/f8YO5/Ewg4KFhIeGiYiLio2Mj46BgJOTlSAAA7" v:shapes="_x0000_s1026" width="727" /></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
</span></span></div>
<span style="mso-ignore: vglayout;">
</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";"> </span></span></i><b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "calibri";">CONCLUSION:</span></u></i></b><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /><span style="font-family: "calibri";">
In revelation it speaks of the MARTYRS before the throne of God crying out,
“HOW LONG HOW LONG! WILL YOU NOT VINDICATE US.” Revelation 6:10; </span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "calibri";">Be
Patient. Rest a little while. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></i></div>
</div>
John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-17118989823568092132017-07-25T21:30:00.003+03:002017-07-25T21:49:06.551+03:00Your Sermon Tanked. Now what?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">You finished, and you know it. Your sermon sucked. Whether
you bored them to tears, talked way too long about a point that was not
important, or you failed to prepare. Whatever the reason, what do you do now?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>Repent.</strong> I am serious. Recognize you were called to lead
sheep, not confuse them. If you made a couple of poor decisions that ended with
this result, then take the time first to ask God to forgive you. Then resolve
in your heart to address issue and safeguard from it happening again. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>Resist self-deprecating</strong>. “So, I know that wasn’t my best,…but
what did you think?”; “Had a rough time preparing this one.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This a polite way of keeping people from
truthfully critiquing your sermon. You will get a pat on the back, but keep
using these excuses and your sheep will lose trust in you. However, you can
find a reliable straight-shooting friend, who can give you honest feedback.
They can also keep you accountable against ‘dud’ Sundays. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>Revisit your call.</strong> Be encouraged, if you have preached and
taught more than once…the dud will come. Don’t let your own pride work against
you. You will rarely bat with a 1.000 avg. However, remember God called you,
dust yourself off and get back into the Word. Your sheep need you keep moving. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>Rejoice.</strong> Have fun in the pulpit. Joy is contagious. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
</div>
John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-57855748954121486732017-07-17T17:16:00.001+03:002017-07-17T17:16:26.557+03:00Monday Musings: Being Affectionate During Church<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<em><strong><span style="color: red;">Monday Musings</span></strong> are a simple break from the norms of this blog to address or arm-chair quarterback an issue.</em> <br />
<br /><br />
<strong>Being Affectionate During Church</strong><br />
<br /><br />
As a child I remember my dad sitting pretty close to my mom throughout the service. She would even lean in on him periodically during the sermon and share a Bible. They would even hold hands walking into the sanctuary. This wasn't every Sunday, but I do many remember many young couples would comment that they wanted to be like my parents when they got older as a couple. <br />
<br /><br />
So, I have found myself doing the 'yawning-technique' many times to draw Jessica a touch closer during the exposition of God's Word. I often get her hair caught in my arm, and I have to do delicate dance to make sure I don't turn a move of affection into a move torture. However, I grab her hand at times and she rubs my back when I lean forward in the pew to listen. I do not think I am being distracting or feel that I am over doing it either. I love my wife. I love her affection. I want my kids and others know, this is my woman. <br />
<br /><br />
Thinking contextually and socially, I also fully understand that I am not on a romantic dinner or in my bedroom. There are clear unspoken rules of this affection. I do not think God is glorified or is being worshipped when I am being distracted or distracting my spouse, or another onlooker. <br />
<br /><br />
However, aren't we also saying something when we 'are not ' affectionate to our spouses? What message are sending when we sit pews apart from each other? What preventive measures are established when we simply put our arms around our spouses? What reassurance are we giving?<br />
<br /><br />
At a concert long ago, Jessica and I stood close together during a climatic worship service. I leaned over and kissed her, and said. "<em>I know we will not be married in heaven, however I really want you standing close to me there too!"</em> <br />
<br /><br />
<br /></div>
John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-73574243762095493822017-07-14T20:30:00.003+03:002017-07-14T20:34:10.136+03:00How to be Creative and Precise, while Preaching: Step Two, Know Your Text.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Know Your Text.</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I get pretty excited when I am given a particular Scripture
passage I must preach through for a congregation. Some free willy guys might
think they are so how restraint by this manner of preaching, but I really think
it gives me a precise target to hit. My goal from the point I am given my text,
is to be the expert on that passage when I walk up the pulpit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do you become the expert?</span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Read it multiple
times</b>. Yep. Believe it or not, you kind’a need to take the time to read it
and I mean out loud. How long does it take to read five or fifteen verses? Am I
focusing on a portion of this passage or a particular teaching in a larger
portion? I like to read it from the ESV and then turn around and find my kid’s
Bible and read it from there as well. Why read it so many times? Simply,
because I want to know the passage. I want to know what the author is trying to
say and possibly hear it in his voice. Also, why not get a good audio version on
your iPhone and listen to the Bible passage read by someone else before you go
to bed several times. When you have heard it and have read it many times, you
will definitely be confident when you preach it. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Memorize it.</b>
Sounds a little ridiculous or is it? Awanas kids memorize two verses and get a
plastic toy,…what would it say to your congregation if you read it so many
times, that it naturally flows from your lips or in your thoughts as you
prepare. What I am not saying is,…standing up on Sunday and sounding like a
robot so you can impress the crowd. That is arrogance and just plain
distracting…what I am saying is you have it so in your head that when writing
the outline or progressive exposition, it flows so naturally because you know
where the story is going. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Visualize it.</b> So
I am huge visual and auditory learner, but nothing helps me more to expertly
learn a passage, but to DIAGRAM the sentences. Yes, I am talking 7<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
Grade Mrs. Helms class diagraming. No helps, just start drawing your subject,
verbs, and prepositions. Suddenly it has simplified the whole passage to a few
words, you can see on a single sheet of paper. Last thing, I draw a picture.
Ok, you aren’t an artist like me. I got it. You draw stick figures and arrows.
Who cares?!?! See if you can actual put the concepts you are talking about
through the scrutiny of a whiteboard drawing. Use colors to represent ideas or
nouns. Use arrows to show action or movements. As you connect these in your
brain,…explain the passage to yourself by just using the imagery. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Teach your kids
before Sunday Morning.</b> At the dinner table share the passage in a dinner
time sharing time WITHOUT your BIBLE. Talk through the concepts and ideas, or
the story. See if you can take the questions and inquisitiveness of young
hearts. They quite possibly have never heard any of it. Plus, they see you
investing in them, BEFORE the congregation. </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Experts are not born, they are developed.</span></div>
</div>
John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-61172527594828900152017-07-13T20:18:00.000+03:002017-07-14T02:41:51.491+03:00How to be Creative and Precise, while Preaching: Step One<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><strong>Step One: Know Your Weirdo Congregation.</strong> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Speech Class 101: You must know your audience. Jesus talks
about how his sheep know his voice, and how he knows them. John 10:27. I like this 1990's move quote,..</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">“Find out what the people you are playing against are interested
in, and pretend you're interested in it, too. They start running off at the
mouth and don't pay no attention to their cards. Medivac crew love to talk
about their choppers.” ~Monfriez, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Courage
Under Fire</i> (1996).</span></blockquote>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">If you truly want to connect the actually studying and
laboring of your textual criticism/exposition to the congregation, you better
stink’n know them. I am talking about really knowing them. You know their name.
Quit using, “Buddy”. You know their children’s name. You know what makes them tick.
You know what they laugh, (Not the weekly jab at the opposing football team),
you know what ticks them off (see previous parenthetical). You know what is
currently going on in the world around them. So much so, that every point in
your outline has FACES attached to them.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">You not only know
them, but you know how they think</b>. You must acknowledge their way of
looking at life, and use this way of thinking to channel your message. For
example, if they detest the injection of government or politics into the world
of religious thought or your hometowns greatest football season,…then using
illustrations or metaphors that draw from these areas, may be defeating. Your
wonderful sermon could have them distracted because you mentioned your
accolades as a football stud, while the congregation is thinking about the new
local colleges Athletic Director. They may not have your same passions for scuba diving, in fact they may hate swimming.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">ASK: Does your illustration fit?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">You not only know
them, but you know what’s going on around them. </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How much sleep did they get last night? Is it
hot in the room? Did the Pope make a statement last night about the sanctity of
life,…would my congregation even know or even care if I mentioned it? The
miscarriage that everyone knows about, but know one is addressing is important.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Before you arrogantly take the pulpit, with no regard for
those people you about to talk to, check yourself. Your hours on an exposition,
may be wasted if you do not take the time to connect with them. You learn this
close and intimate conversation by listening and observing, and being careful
of agendas or priorities.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">ASK: Is this pertinent for them today?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">You not only know
them, but you know how to motivate. </b>What button do I push on this
individual to see them light up? Do I talk about family? Do I address military
pride? Do I address impending judgment? Do I talk about the glory of God? Find
that point of pressure and hone your sermon to use this. Quit talking about
1960’s television shows that inspired you as a child,…no one cares…this is not
about you…know your congregation!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">ASK: How is encouraging them toward holiness?</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">These are individuals…they have lives. God put YOU in THEIR
lives, know that!</span></div>
</div>
</div>
John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-15365722370767612332013-11-27T18:19:00.004+03:002013-11-27T18:26:30.717+03:00Infertility and Why Husbands Should Lead in Comforting and Counsel.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> <b>The Introduction: </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> Theological precision has its rightful place, and with equal
footing, the serving of these truths must be compassionately timed, especially within
intimate relationships. Eclipsed by my own pride and ignorance, I stumbled in
this area many times early during my marriage. Desperately wanting to convey
Godly leadership within my family, I found myself weighing every conversation
to guard against baneful theological regurgitation and the impact it might have<span style="color: red;"> </span>without thoughtful consideration. Oftentimes I would
be paralyzed by own frustrations and excuses. On one hand never fully trusting
the Lord to give wisdom on certain situations and on the other hand never truly
knowing how or when to present what I believed to be the woman I loved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This became fully realized on an autumn
morning during our first year of marriage. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">A chilling wind rushed into our lives
in August, which left me staggering for theological balance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I received a call in my office to come to
where my wife was teaching preschool. Jessica had passed out while cleaning up the
floors after the children’s lunch. Lying on the floor, through tears, she began
to describe the incredible pain she was having. Helplessly I knelt beside her
held her hand and listened. Little did we know, our first child was already in
the hands of The Creator. Prior to that moment I thought I knew how to lead,
but the winding road ahead was quickly becoming foggy and more treacherous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">A few more difficult months and years
went by for us. Doctor visits. Hospital visits. Calendar marking. Testing.
Surgery. Build up excitement and expectations on the foundation of professional
direction and faithful prayers, would crumble every 28 days. There was no
longer a point of the denying the fact: Jessica and I were infertile. In spite
of all the evidence that showed we were capable of having children, the Lord
had closed our womb. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; line-height: 200%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Now, how was I supposed to begin to
navigate the multitude of decisions and questions that we had. Are we to
embrace our infertility with joy in light of the commands in the Scripture to
procreate? Are we now disobedient to this charge? To encourage and comfort my
wife, should we pursue all courses of fertility treatment? Even when we may have
moral/ethical dilemmas with some treatments? How do I know when I should risk
emotional hurt for a greater good for us both? How can I compassionate love my
wife in this season and at the same time speak truth and direction when it
seems antithetical to our situation?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These questions were just the beginning to our journey in infertility. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-20128286220136031142013-02-20T01:51:00.000+03:002013-02-20T01:51:26.900+03:00Healing after a Failed/Disrupted Adoption<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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To the Reader,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
You may have gone down this path or know someone who has. If so, I pray that this ceremony can bring comfort in such times. ~John</div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Ritual of Healing for a Disrupted
Adoption<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Chaplain John L. Craven<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">18 FEB 2013<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
ritual of healing is primarily for a couple that has recently experienced a
disrupted adoption. Due to the nature of the event’s intimacy, I recommend that
this ritual be performed with just the couple experiencing the grief and loss. A
recommending place for this ritual would be an open park with view of the
skyline toward the west. A place where the couple can see the sunset would be
fitting and beneficial as well, but not necessary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Place: </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
neutral (preferable not familiar) secluded place/park with view of the western
skyline. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Time of ritual</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: A
few minutes before sunset, <i>10 minutes.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Items:</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> A
helium-filled balloon with weight, picnic blanket, flashlight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Instructions:
Place the blanket on the ground comfortably. Place the balloon and attached
weight in the middle. Couple may wish to sit side by side facing the sunset
with the balloon as a center-piece. Begin the ceremony when both of you are
comfortable and ready. There is absolutely no reason to rush this moment. This
is between the two of you and the Sovereign Lord. He knows your heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Opening Our Hearts to You<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">(Holding hands in prayer)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Husband:</span></u></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> “</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Lord, you say in
Isaiah 41:10, “…fear not, for <b>I am with
you</b>; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help
you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">…Lord, I need you now with me..<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">[pause
in silence]<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Wife:</span></u></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> “</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Christ Jesus, you say
in Matthew 28:20, ‘And behold, <sup> </sup><b>I am with you always</b>, to <sup> </sup>the end of the
age.’<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">…Lord, I need you now with me.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">[pause in silence]<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Husband:</span></u></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> </span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">“Lord, David writes
in Psalms 23, ‘Even though I<sup> </sup>walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,<sup> </sup>I will fear no evil, <b>for
you are with me</b>; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">…Lord, we need you with us. Please meet with us. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Our Confession, Your Assurance<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wife</span></u></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: God,
we don’t know what will happen to precious [insert child’s name].<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Together: But You know.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Husband</span></u></i></b><b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: </span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">God,
our friends and family don’t know how to comfort us right now.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Together: But You know.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wife</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: God, we don’t understand your hand in
all this right now.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Together: But You know.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Husband</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: God, we don’t know the answers right
now.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Together: But You know.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wife</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: God of heavens, in my brokenness and
hurt how will I be able to strengthen [husband’s name] right now.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Husband: He knows.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Husband:
</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Lord of all creation,
in my heartache and grief how will I be able to lead [wife’s name] right now.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wife: He knows.<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">[pause in silence]<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Husband:</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Your Word says, “Blessed are the poor
in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Blessed are those who mourn, for they
shall be comforted.” God hear our prayers not only for ourselves, but for
[insert child’s name.]We will treasure the short time you gave us with [her/him].
We recognize that as we let go symbolically of this balloon, only You truly
know the final destination. We will watch and pray as it leaves our hands, and
we will trust You alone for its safety. In the same way that [insert child’s
name] left our hands, only You know where [he/she] will go. God please grant us
your comfort as we watch [him/her] leave our side.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">[Wife unties weight, and together they
let the balloon go. Watch the balloon until it is out of sight.]<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">[pause in silence]<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<i><u><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Our Continued Hope<o:p></o:p></span></u></i></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wife</span></i></b><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: Right here. Right now, As the
sunsets,…Lord our only hope is in you. You say in your Word, “The steadfast
love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new
every morning; great is your faithfulness.” May tomorrow’s dawn bring new hope
to us. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-53834487137588573272012-09-13T03:54:00.000+03:002012-09-13T03:54:33.587+03:00Writing Your Theology, from memory only.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p><em>In a requirement at CPE, I was asked to write theological response to the bold statements [3 paragraphs]. In the notes we were told to use our personal thoughts without citing particular passages. I think this was a good challenge to see how much you could formulate from your own heart/thought. Here is what I have so far:</em></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">1.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">God is…<o:p></o:p></i></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;">God is a Spirit and does not have a body like man.[our children's catechism question] He is the Creator of all things. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He exists in three persons united in one essence as: God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. His qualities and attributes are perfect. Some of these he shares with his creation (goodness, love, mercy, justice, knowable, personal). Some of these he does not (all-knowing, all-powerful, all-present). God masterfully created a universe full of his beauty which reflects his attributes and we (creation) can learn a great deal about his goodness by observing it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>God also saw it fit in his divine wisdom to allow/permit evil to exist in his plan without being the author of it. He allows evil to exist to fulfill his plan by showing his otherwise unknowable attributes to his creation, (i.e. mercy, grace). In this allowance, humanity of their own freewill chose to follow their own desires and glorify themselves rather than honor God. Therefore, before the foundations of the world in His divine wisdom he also purposed to save his people from their sin, by sending his own Son, Jesus, to be the perfect image of God. Christ Jesus, fully God and fully man, would fulfill the entirety of the Law that God would require. Christ Jesus would then lay down his own life as substitutionary atonement for the people for whom God would save, thus propitiating the wrath of God on his people. Christ Jesus would save these fallen image-bearers. Christ Jesus resurrected from the dead, as his work was completed and ascended to sit at the right hand of God making intercession for his people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The Holy Spirit would come to convict and counsel those for whom the work of Christ is applied through faith. He works the miracle of salvation in the fallen sinner by granting faith and repentance. As the individual operates in this faith given by the Spirit, they are redeemed from the curse and counted righteous. The fallen image-bearer is then adopted into the family of God and sealed till the final day of redemption. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">2. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">People (in relationship to God) are…</i><o:p></o:p></span></span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>People are the masterful grand-finale of creation. All people have been created in the image of God. Although humanity has been given such an ability to know God and to reflect his goodness and kindness, the first humans willfully chose to rebel against God and sinned. This dishonoring of God created a separation between God and humanity. A continued result of this sin rippled throughout creation with a curse, nothing was left the same. Not only was our relationship to God changed, but also our relationship to other parts of creation (even ourselves). All humanity has inherited the sin nature/fall/curse from Adam, but also willfully participates in their own personal sin as well. Therefore, all humanity stands guilty before God. In addition to this guilt, no human seeks restoration with God, instead we seek out crafting idols and would rather glorify a corrupted image than restore our relationship with the one true God. No action of an individual will ever rectify this problem. It is only by the work of the Holy Spirit to grant a new heart to an individual that they will pursue God out of faith. As the individual places their faith in Christ Jesus as their only true gift, is this relationship fully restored as an image-bearer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>It is at this point that they pursue a life of properly bringing God glory through a process of sanctification incrementally. Their life is a daily constant struggle with mortifying the old self and cultivating holiness. Each individual with gifts given by the Spirit seeks communion with other believers to fulfill the commands of Christ, thus glorifying God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>3. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I am (in relationship to God)…<o:p></o:p></i></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;">A fallen creature that has been saved by grace through faith and this is nothing of my own. It was a gift of God. By grace, God has called me to the work of the Chaplaincy to bring him glory. Daily I wrestle with my ability to justify my own sins and craft fanciful idols. I long for holiness, but often find myself comparing myself to my neighbor and feeling ‘holier than them’, which satiates this desire. I find myself many times asking, “Why have you shown me grace? I know how dark my thoughts go. What good can I do that could bring you glory?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;">Thankfully, God continues to pursue me even now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-80955601156730029162012-03-28T18:46:00.000+03:002012-03-28T21:10:34.702+03:00The After-Sermon Effect.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v1JQxmVEnWo/T3Mxegp_YNI/AAAAAAAAAJc/Bhc9WXfqy1U/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" dea="true" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v1JQxmVEnWo/T3Mxegp_YNI/AAAAAAAAAJc/Bhc9WXfqy1U/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Reformed Chaplain's Study/Playroom/Small Group Zoo</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The final "Amen." has been said. The music begins and people begin gathering their belongings. Kids are showing parents their Sunday School artwork, while bulletin inserts decorate the trampled floor. You take your mic off, untangle the wire from your sweaty collar. Grab the notes off the pulpit and ease into the sea of people, who you have talked to for the last 30-40 minutes. But now,...its time for them to talk back. The monologue is now a dialogue.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">It is at this point I have found my old self emerging from his dying slumber. I hate it, but it happens. I have two clear reactions, but both grow out of my pride. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red;">My first inclination</span> is to tuck my head down and stiff-arm my way to the audio booth, spin move and toss the mic. While at the same moment, I bring my keys out...unlock the truck...crank and make the great Get-A-Way. Untouched. I know why I do this. It is not because I am shy guy. Its because I do not want to hear what people thought. I don't want to hear a bit of thoughtful criticism or insight that might confirm my fears of 'John Craven is flawed.' I want to live in my own guarded fortress of mirrors that praise me as the 'Fairest Preacher of them all.'</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span style="color: red;">My second response</span> is just as dark. It is the lingering around or baiting questions that long for the approval of men. It is subtle, but revealing. It is the reassurance that John Craven still has the 'right stuff'. Its the Pharisee in me, that says, "I sure hope they heard that articulate well-crafted sentence." It shows up at home or in the car en route. Its longing for more than the 'help' of my wife, it is longing for the aggrandizement of my skills. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The After-Sermon Effect is such a lure for me. So, easy for me to preach Christ for 30 minutes and suddenly long for people to worship me after its done. I have learned the scheme and lure. How many times will my eternal reward be summed up with, 'Good Job, John.' spoken by a peer...when what I should be longing for is 'Well done, my good and faithful servant.' spoken by my Savior, Christ Jesus.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><strong>Final Thoughts:</strong><br />
1. If you are a layman, do not stop encouraging your pastor due to this blog,...continually be supportive. But please keep Christ as the center of all your praise. This helps us as preachers/teachers not to gloat.<br />
2. Brothers in ministry, let us fight to keep Christ as the object of all worship. The Gospel does not need anymore stumbling blocks, especially pride-soaked, no towel, puddle-making pastors. </div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com1Americas (null)31.089556 -97.841747tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-34014257052162209652012-03-12T18:10:00.003+03:002012-03-12T18:10:36.625+03:00Sunday Worship as Preparation.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #990000;">(13 Days to go) </span></div>
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After a crazy weekend with the Crisis Hotline Chaplain phone, I managed to grab a few hours of shut eye before Sunday morning. (Few, meaning 2). Therefore heading to church Sunday morning was a little tiring seeing that I wondered if I would pull my composure together in order to even listen to anything. I think we have all been there before.</div>
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The music started. I labored to pay attention. Then at some point during a song, a verse of Scripture during the midst of the chorus spoke to my heart. I remember thinking: How merciful a God to be speaking to my heart, when even now I feel (truly mean that) not-present. It wasn't the McDonalds coffee that spurred my butt to holiness at that moment, it was the kindness of God.</div>
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Our teaching elder began to preach from Mark. It was familiar, but nourishing. It was amazing that after the service,...I was assured of some issues that I had to resolve that had been bothering me all weekend. I had the confidence to deal with them because I was convicted of my sin in the matter and needed to repent and move forward. Humbled at lunch I addressed our family and made it right.</div>
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I didn't look at the passage at all. BUT, I did think of something. I have 3 sermons that I must preach on Sunday, 900, 1030, and 1700 (5pm). I have three sections. If I do my math correctly,...instead of polishing a sermon throughout the day, what if I prepared 3 separate sermons? What if 0900 got Part A, 1030 got part B, and 1700 got part C? The dependency on each section is not too heavy so what if I took this approach? Could this be too cumbersome? Apart from this blog forum, no one would even know. </div>
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Just a thought. Today, I look at the Tax section. Hmmm. Wondering why I get this passage so close to April 15? </div>
</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-52029691835075514012012-03-11T00:47:00.002+03:002012-03-11T03:57:56.092+03:00Let the Commentaries Begin.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tEnjKMoYjrw/T1vL2fvj8QI/AAAAAAAAAJM/oyYPGHNtHlY/s1600/jc-ryle5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tEnjKMoYjrw/T1vL2fvj8QI/AAAAAAAAAJM/oyYPGHNtHlY/s320/jc-ryle5.jpg" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Day 4: JC Ryle & IVP New Teestament Background</span></b><br />
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Today, I took the first section of the sermon regarding the Tenants and started reading some extra material that may help me understand some of the growing questions that I have with that section.<br />
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Some of my questions are:<br />
1. Do people in NT times build vineyards and then just lease them out to tenants, then ask for fruit from them? Is this a Middle Eastern practice?<br />
2. What is the social relationships between tenants and landowners?<br />
3. Is it possible that Jesus is saying that the 'vineyard' is Israel/ blessings of being his people? (I am guessing that is probably the case).<br />
4. Can tenants be the rightful heir of a property if the rightful heir (the beloved son) is killed or dies? <br />
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Those are some of the questions at this point. JC Ryle wrote a commentary on Mark, as well as a more well known book...Holiness. I am not very familiar with JC Ryle outside of these two books, but after reading his commentary today. I felt like he gave a simple 3-4 point sermon on this section that was really helpful. Nothing too precise or outlandish...no Greek or Hebrew language references. Just a very concise exposition.<br />
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InterVarsity Press, New Testament Background is one of my favorite books as it gives me the insight I need into the cultural nuances that as a 21st Century American would have no idea what I am reading. It helped to show that Jesus was truly making a case that the tenants were REALLY idiots, regarding the inheritance issue. (which was one of my questions) This book is a must for the little blurbs in the passage that have to do with that 'time period'; not much exposition beyond that.<br />
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Total reading today about: 10 pages, a little note taking for section I. About 1 hour today thinking about it.<br />
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</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-36098147594115978602012-03-09T23:46:00.000+03:002012-03-09T23:46:04.179+03:00The World Doesn't Stand Still for Prep: 16 Days to Go.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>DAY 3: If the Lord Permits...</strong></span></div>
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My life and your life does not stop just because you have a sermon to write or an assignment on a calendar. From the time I step foot in my office this morning, I have had a laundry list of things to accompish before I could get to my sermon prep time. </div>
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Currently I am working on a NANC certification in counseling, a CCEF class, and also preparing a lesson on Sola Scriptura. I love all it. The problem is making sure that in the midst of the academic/study time that I am fostering a good relationship with people in my life (soldiers, staff, and family). <br />
I say all of this because at the end of this two weeks of preparing, God still holds me accountable for the way I treat my 6 year old little girl, if I 'listened' to the DOD Civilian in a counseling session, and whether I encouraged a brother-in-Christ at lunch today as he seeks career direction.<br />
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If the Lord permits:<br />
Therefore, my goal today is rather simple. I can clearly see after looking at the passage that I have THREE major parts that I am going to focus on primarily. Today, is the first section. I am going to read it today, then try my best to see if any other of the Gospels have a parallel passage that may bring more information into the parable. At the end of the simple reading today, I will formulate a one line sentence with what I believe the author/Jesus was trying to say. This meaning will then be the basis for applications later on next week. But before I get ahead of myself. <br />
Todays Course of Action (COA):<br />
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<strong>1. Read the section (Mark 12:1-12) that I believe is going to be point 1.</strong><br />
<strong>2. Look for other passages in the Gospels that may have more information regarding context/content.</strong><br />
<strong>3. Write a basic 'meaning' sentence that will anchor my thoughts later on in developing the 'application' and call to respond.</strong><br />
<strong>4. Pray that God will honor this time with granting wisdom and illumination.</strong><br />
<strong>5. Humbly live my life.</strong><br />
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</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-7950717840968322852012-03-08T18:43:00.001+03:002012-03-08T18:43:23.047+03:00How to Slow-Cook a Sermon (17 Days to Showtime)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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As Jessica and I begin to wrap up our last couple of months here in Fort Hood, the church that we attend has asked me to preach. As a Chaplain I typically keep my distance from extra curricular activities that might interfere with my primary job, but I have to admit "I love to preach and teach". Therefore, this will be one of the final highlights of our time serving in Killeen.</div>
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">So, how do you prepare for a sermon?</span></strong> This day by day blog for the next two weeks will show YOU exactly what I am doing in preparing for the sermon. I hope you will see the labor that is involved. I hope you will see the questions that come up. I hope you will gather resources that you will never hear announced from the pulpit. Finally, I want you to hold me accountable. Feel free to ask questions if you desire, and as I walk in and out of the study...I will address them as I go. </div>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><strong>DAY ONE: THE EMAIL ARRIVES (18 Days to go)</strong><strong></strong></span></div>
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Email hits my gmail account at 0800, March 05.</div>
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John, </div>
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Would you be willing to preach ....on this particular weekend? (Mark 12:1-27)</div>
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<strong><em>My Response:</em></strong></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Yes. I would be delighted to do so. </span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #990000;">DAY TWO: JUST MY BIBLE, NOTHING ELSE (17 Days to go)</span></strong></div>
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As soon as I agreed to it my heart raced as it always does not knowing what this passage is completely about. I was shocked by how many verses and how I would even be able to work through 27 verses in the time allotted. In a previous sermon assignment in Germany, one of my good friends gave me just 1 verse in Psalms 23. I preached for 45 minutes. Now I have 27 verses,...yikes could this expand 20 hours and 15 minutes. Let's hope not. :)</div>
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I grabbed my ESV Bible from across my desk. Thumb to the passage and notice that I have already marked this passage up from previous teachings or sermons or Angie's scribbles. I make notes of anything that I can currently see on the page that might help me remember discussions I have had about this passage. THEN,...I pause and skim the headings. OH MY! I have a parable, a teaching of Jesus on taxes, and is there marriage in heaven? My pulse races,...I sense the ignorance in all the categories. I can't wait.</div>
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Then on March 5th, I read the entire passage. No note taking, just listening. What is Jesus addressing here? What came before this passage? What will soon happen after it? I don't know. Resisting the temptation to run to commentaries...just me and the Word for a couple more days.</div>
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</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-81938429034501819142011-12-07T01:43:00.001+03:002011-12-07T01:43:37.024+03:00Small Groups: Resist Shallow Relationships.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Have you ever been the new guy or gal to a small group Bible Study? You walk in and before long you begin to see relationships and friendships that obviously look much deeper than what you have with them. These feelings may be somewhat reasonable, but I would be willing to argue today that most relationships that we perceive at this level are not as deep as we think, so therefore we should not be put off by these perceptions but do our best to find a common meeting ground and dive in. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.) I would argue that most relationships in a small group setting are typically pretty shallow, especially in this culture that we live in. We love to have 1000’s of friends on Facebook and really no friends of significance. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As one of my good friends just said, we have a lot of breadth but little depth. I would agree. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.) I would also suggest that most relationships are self-seeking endeavors as well. I think the reason we want this breadth without depth is the exposure that we do not have it all together like we think. We do not want people to really know our hearts and desires. We effectively want to seek to scratch our ‘popularity’ itch, and move on…and never truly convey our hearts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Small groups are effective, dissolve this level of superficiality as quickly as possible. They may place you early on in a level of discomfort due to the need to be vulnerable, but this vulnerability will lead to mutual trust and intimacy that will be much more beneficial than trivial weekly conversations about ‘lawn care’ or ‘diets’ or ‘latest news crisis’. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Relationships built in this environment will be much more beneficial and lasting. Do yourself a favor and resist the temptation to move around a room to meet everyone…build a conversation…and if the Lord permits…you may find yourself, “sharing each other’s load of burdens”.</span></div>
</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-69900450728317599362011-12-01T22:24:00.001+03:002011-12-01T22:26:39.589+03:00A Military Christmas<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A Military Christmas Story</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">By CH (CPT) John L. Craven</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The typical family is pulling out Christmas decorations just as soon as the turkey leftovers are being put up from Thanksgiving. The calendar is filled with rituals and routines that could be decades old. The route from Grandma’s house to the downtown lighting of the town Christmas Tree is streamlined to the minute, in hopes to optimize Daddy’s time to watch every Bowl game in High Definition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Please note: That is typical. BUT….for everyone who wears the uniform or has a family member who does…the TYPICALLY ain’t TOO TYPICAL. This year my wife and I took the Christmas tree box out November 12<sup>th</sup>. We made the ever evolving schedule to visit our families 1700 miles away. We filled out two sets of LEAVE FORMS as we tried to buy the cheapest tickets home. We have reserved the Kennel for our dog, …which makes us all sad to leave behind. Not to mention, the opening of presents??? Do you open them before the trip or after??</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The military family has challenges that most families will never see. These sacrifices are rarely mentioned at Veteran’s Day events or other honoring events. Yet,…How does your family make these otherwise CRAZY events enjoyable for your family? How do you turn these chaotic travels into a good memory? The key is CREATIVITY and RELATIONSHIP. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Some Ideas: </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On your Christmas Tree Box, sign and date the location of this Christmas. (i.e. Baumholder Germany 2010, …etc.) This looks pretty cool when your kids write it too!! </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Pick a day during the Holidays and make it a family-centric event. Go see the lights at BLORA. Bring some Hot Chocolate or Coffee. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">3.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Buy Ornaments from that DUTY STATION or LOCATION, don’t forget to date them.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">4.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Take Holiday pictures, take tons of them. Make a digital book online for that year.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Have a Holiday Party at your house. Be a host, and invite your closer friends over for a grill out and maybe present exchange. Some of your work buddies might really like to see you with the ACU’s.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">6.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Adopted a single soldier and make sure they have a ‘family’ here. Buy them a Itunes card. (Never a bad deal)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">When it all is said and done, we must make these years enjoyable. Don’t wait till 10-15 years down the road to start making memories …START NOW.</span></div>
</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-3711200000390665182011-11-16T20:31:00.001+03:002011-11-16T20:57:46.285+03:00A Quote from John Calvin: Evil our reward for Kindness.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my kind of Stamp.</td></tr>
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As I was preparing for my study of Exodus this year in our Community Group, I came across this quote by John Calvin in his Commentary on Exodus:</div>
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(<strong>Background</strong>: writing in regards to the Israelites being quickly switched from friend to slave in the early verses of Exodus)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em>"...;and certainly it is good for us that <span style="color: #990000;">evil should ever be our reward from men for our kindnesses</span>, that we may learn in the performance of our duty to look to God alone, since otherwise we are unduly addicted to conciliate favour and applause for ourselves, or to seek after more earthly advantages." </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><em>[John Calvin Commentary Exodus I.8, p.25]</em></span></div>
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I am not writing a exposition to this passage or a formal response to John Calvin's quote. I was just humbled this morning as I read this. That our good, hard work, sacrfices, tears...can be rewarded with evil. Wow...that is not what you would think. I know I want a stink'n 'prize' at the end of my labors. But in reality, our prize is not necesarily here...but in Glory with Christ. </div>
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<strong>Bottomline Prayer</strong>: God teach me to do good and kindness not for the praise of others. God also teach me not to be so shocked when the world bombards my soul when I labor in your name. May all this make clinge to the 'not yet' to come. <span style="color: #990000;">Amen.</span></div>
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</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-43866902053206127362011-11-08T18:20:00.006+03:002011-11-08T18:20:59.476+03:00How To Train Your Dragon? (or Spouse)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">How To Train Your <strike>Dragon </strike>Spouse? </span></div>
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<em><span style="color: #990000;">Lesson One: Clear Communication</span></em></div>
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Just started a new series for married couples. I pray this will help you smile a little, maybe even laugh, and ultimately build a stronger relationship with you and your spouse.</div>
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We all know that clear communication is key to any good relationship. Notice that I did not say 'communication', I said 'clear communication.' Let me explain. I have a white lab that I simply love. He has a mind of his own and does just about anything. I can give communication to him...he may or may not listen. He may even turn and look at me and stare. He may even wag his tail. BUT, he may also turn and go right back to doing what I ask him not too (i.e. clean the dishes in the dishwasher). Then, I get frustrated and begin yelling and waving my hands...possibly pull off the Croc and do a little corrective training. ;)</div>
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Of course the analogy instantly breaks down, your spouse is not a dog. But we all know there are some clear parallels. </div>
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1. We talk and give thoughts. THEY may look at us.</div>
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2. We offer our hearts. THEY may look interested and laugh (wag their tails).</div>
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3. We think they heard us. THEY turn and go back to doing what they wanted.</div>
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4. We respond with shoe throwing. ;)</div>
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This is not communication. </div>
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Couples that wish to experience a more peaceful home should consider the faults in the above situation. So what is wrong with the above situation? Well, as the adage goes: It takes two to tango. </div>
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Things to help:</div>
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1<span style="color: #990000;">. Talk with your spouse and allow them to give input into your thoughts.</span> Example ("I have been frustrated with x for some time,...if you were in my shoes what would you do?" or "I am really excited this new class,...is there any classes you would like to take?") You must not make every conversation about you.</div>
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2. <span style="color: #990000;">Learn a little more about their interest and be teachable with them</span>. Be a pupil, let them teach you. Example ( "I don't completely understand why you use Greek yogurt instead of Sour Cream,...tell me why?" or "What is it about Star Wars that makes you want to watch so many times? Is it childhood good memories or the plot?")</div>
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3. <span style="color: #990000;">DEBRIEF DAILY</span>. Never let days by in your relationship that you have not sat down and shared about your day. Let your spouse tell you all about. Turn off the TV. Give the child an activity, and give attention to your spouse. It may not be much, but 5 -15 minutes a day can keep your marriage fresh and up to date. This will keep you from being blindsided issues.</div>
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4. Finally, <span style="color: #990000;">compliment your spouse</span>. Give a clear communication of personal pleasure in your spouse. Tell them something that encourages or gives them hope. (Example: "Dinner,...that's a keeper for special guest."; "I am so glad you provide for our family."; "Would you like me to get you a glass of tea?" </div>
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Bottomline: Marriage is not difficult. You don't have to be a guru to survive. You do need to be patient, be selfless. Do more than just wag your tail,...listen and speak. ;)<br />
</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-55309953214250860242011-11-02T19:14:00.004+03:002011-11-02T19:14:51.166+03:00Saying, "I am Sorry." Is Not Enough.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The blood pressure is finally normalizing. Your hands regain heat and your nose is no longer cold. The rush of adenaline has now causing you think a little more rational and you are gaining composure. Words have been said. Doors possibly have been slammed shut. Long rides to the gas station have ended with garage door being shut and both parties are finally breathing normally. THE FIGHT IS OVER.</div>
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No matter which side of the argument you are on. This is not the best moment for any marriage or friendship. But what is vital ....what is ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL...is not to respond in a minimizing of the situation. What does that look like you might ask?</div>
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<strong><u>Resist Statements like:</u></strong></div>
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<em>1. "Sweetheart, I am sorry. But..."</em></div>
<em>2. "Sweetheart, I am sorry."</em><br />
<em>3. "It has been a rough week, and I am sorry."</em><br />
<em>4. "You just made me angry,...I am sorry."</em><br />
<em>5. "Its ok baby. Let's just don't worry about it."</em><br />
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These statements sound very good on the surface, but can gloss over the problems that are really going on. By minimizing the situation in Example <strong>#5</strong> you are not addressing that an issue has happened. In addition, the issue could be SIN. This permissive approach to sin is not the Biblical response. Sin should always be taken seriously as an offense to God, then an offense to others. Example #2 is also not acceptable as it reflects a very easy statement to voice, but with no heart action. The offender takes no responsibility for the offense, but can merely walk away. <strong>Examples 1,3,4</strong> are all ways we blame-shift. <br />
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<strong>BOTTOMLINE:</strong> Instead of pressing to solve the conflict quickly with a "I am sorry." Take responsibility for the action. Address the individual with the 'facts' of what YOU did. Example, "Sweetheart, I know that by spending beyond our budget I jeorparized our finances and also was dishonest in my marriage commitment." or "I apologize for what I said to you. Those were hurtful words I should have never said. Will you forgive me?"<br />
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TRY THESE STEPS:<br />
<em>Take responsibility for your actions.</em><br />
<em>Be specific in your confession/apology.</em><br />
<em>Ask for forgiveness.</em><br />
<em>Ask for support in pursuing holiness.</em><br />
</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-32859155908811376082011-10-28T19:55:00.001+03:002011-10-28T19:55:25.015+03:00Good Listeners Alone, Are Not Good Counselors.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LZy_eXbgWDM/TqreB8N5rSI/AAAAAAAAAII/EvJiaeCbiwo/s1600/2010-12-01-earphone-listening.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ida="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LZy_eXbgWDM/TqreB8N5rSI/AAAAAAAAAII/EvJiaeCbiwo/s1600/2010-12-01-earphone-listening.jpg" /></a>We have been told many times over that "Good Listeners are good counselors." This is somewhat true. Let me explain. I think it is vitally important for people to have good listening skills. If you are wanting to solve any type of conflict in a marriage or any numerous types of situations,...you have got to listen. Shut your stink'n trap and listen. Several times in the Bible we are see examples of God telling people to listen. </div>
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Job is probably a classical example, Job 40. </div>
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Either way, a good listener is valuable. But it is not the only thing you need. </div>
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A counselor is just that, it is a person who through a gift of God has wisdom to impart, primarily through Scripture. They listen intently. Engage in the issue. Prayerfully consider, and then...RESPOND. This doesn't mean that the counselor then rants or points out all flaws and shows no mercy to the counslee, but let's not kid ourselves in believing that a 'good venting session' is all we want. If that is the case, Major (my lovely white lab) is a certified counselor. </div>
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We all need more than just a wall to bounce our complaints. If our own counsel is what desire, I think we can see the folly of this logic. This leads to two major decisions:</div>
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<em>1. When you go to see counsel or advice: Share your heart. Expose your fears and limitations. Tell the truth of the facts that have lead you to this point. Understand that you are limited in scope. Then shut your trap.</em></div>
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<em>2. As the one someone comes to for advice: Listen intently. Engage appropriately, but do not be the lazy counselor who only 'bounces' their feelings back. <strong>MAN UP</strong>! and say something that has Scriptural integrity. Give the wisdom that they seek. Understand that you are not infallible and humble yourself to help. </em></div>
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<strong><u>Bottomline:</u></strong> Seek advice from those you know who are kind enough to truly care, but tough enough to speak truth to you.</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-15063546511166340842011-10-26T22:03:00.000+03:002011-10-26T22:03:50.665+03:00How to Make a Tough Decision?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJgFsZW-Fw0/TqhZQ-nDs8I/AAAAAAAAAIA/5-PFd3ewJ9I/s1600/article-page-main_ehow_images_a08_8r_jf_make-own-bubble-answer-document-800x800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ida="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJgFsZW-Fw0/TqhZQ-nDs8I/AAAAAAAAAIA/5-PFd3ewJ9I/s1600/article-page-main_ehow_images_a08_8r_jf_make-own-bubble-answer-document-800x800.jpg" /></a>Probably everyone has come across and issue where you have to make a decision. It boils down to two distinct directions that are the options. You must choose between A or B, not A and B, or C. I think you understand what I am getting at. So, how do you make that decision? Here are few helpful tid-bits.</div>
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1. By choosing one or the other am I violating any ethical or moral law? Would it be a sin to choose one? Is it explicitly taught in Scriptures?</div>
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2. Am I placing myself as the lone decider or have I sought out counsel with others who may bring a perspective that I am not seeing (Blind spot helpers)?</div>
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3. By choosing one or the other am I placing a relationship in jeopardy? Family? Loved ones?</div>
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4. What is the chief end that is driving the conflict in choosing? Could you be choosing a particular side because of pride or fear? If that were taken away, which would you choose?</div>
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5. Are you being manipulated by someone outside to make a particular choice that you would otherwise not make if that were not present? </div>
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6. Is your relationship with God calling you make a sacrifice or decision? Is your faith Self being a distraction? </div>
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7. Will the effects of the choices make you more like Christ or less?</div>
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Bottomline: The World in which you and I live make decisions very different than confessing Christians. You might want to make sure when you are pursuing a decision point to navigate the 'wisdom' of the world with the wisdom of the Spirit. Seek counsel, be patient, and pursue holiness above all.</div>
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</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-81291884384243948002011-10-25T16:58:00.001+03:002011-10-25T16:59:01.166+03:00Campfires, Raccoons, and Psalms 19.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colorado Bend State Park, home of Mutant Raccoons, Deer, Possums, Armadillo...</td></tr>
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If you know me, you know that I love four things probably too much. 1. Theology Books, 2. Xbox 360, 3. White-Labs, and finally...CAMPING. Yes, I admit that I often daydream at work on various State Park websites of what it would look like to camp/hike in that area. I have more gear than I can manage. I probably have two or three of everything. Winter/Spring/Summer/Fall accessories...stoves/gas & propane...even Grizzly Spray. Yes....I have it!</div>
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Now this past weekend Jessica and I take the lovely kiddo down to Colorado Bend State Park, just south of Lampassas (sp). It was truly out in the middle of NOWHERE. 18 miles of no gas stations. Once you get inside the park, you drive an additional 10 miles on a dirt road, further up and further in.</div>
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It was on that road that Jessica and I began to discuss if Special Revelation (God's Word) is infallible and sufficient for all things. This then led into a discussion regarding General Revelation (Nature) and whether it has the same authority. Yes,...believe it or not...we discuss theology all the time. </div>
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We arrived at the campsite. Put up our tents. Thwarted several barrages of mutant attack raccoons. I felt like I was at Helms Deep (LOTR reference). Nevertheless we woke up...and Angie and I took a walk down on the riverside with Major. It was glorious. A cool morning,...frogs jumping around. I was in heaven.</div>
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BOTTOMLINE: Psalms 19 talks about how the heavens and earth declare the glory of God. I think in many ways, I love to go camping because its like sitting on the front row of a great orchestra. I don't worship creation. I love to sing with it, and praise God for His work in Christ Jesus to me.</div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-10724452487491286372011-10-24T05:14:00.000+03:002011-10-24T05:14:17.808+03:00What I am learning right now?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JiUqrDuA19A/TqTJhL1OCEI/AAAAAAAAAHw/9wEFApb_-PY/s1600/BiblicalCounseling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JiUqrDuA19A/TqTJhL1OCEI/AAAAAAAAAHw/9wEFApb_-PY/s1600/BiblicalCounseling.jpg" /></a>So, a couple of years out of formal education and I am have a joy buying books and studying. The difference now is that I am not fighting against my personal cynicism with the local church, I am trying to keep myself focus on Kingdom building. (It is too easy to be a critic!)<br />
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As you may or may not know, I counsel a great deal of soldiers and their families. I have found that I love it. Yet, seminary does not give you a huge deal of classes in the MDiv program to prepare anyone for the casework load that a Chaplain has. Of course, this is not like a Minister of Counseling at your local church. I rarely have follow-ups or continued counseling appointments. Usually it ends with smile, 'Thanks Chap!' or a referral out. Therefore, I have decided for that one solid appointment...I want to be the most effective 45 minutes possible.<br />
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I began looking for ways to sharpen my skills in counseling yet keep a solid Biblical approach that would seem to model my desires to be 'Reformed' in methods. I found a Biblical Counseling book by John MacArthur in my library and began my research. Before long had crossed over NANC (National Association for Nouthetic Counselors), CCEF, and several other sources that sparked my desires. My heartstrings were plucked. I felt the rich Biblical centered approach. The SUPER-high view of Scripture authority and sufficiency. I loved it. Not long after, I talked to my wife and the book buying began.<br />
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Now, <i>David Powlison, Ken Sande, Jay Adams</i>, and many more are sitting on my coffee table, while others wait in my CBD or Amazon 'wish list'.<br />
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This year, I am working on getting my certification from NANC. It should be about 6-8 months of work, but I love the way its teaching me right now. I have never thought I would desire to counsel so much, but when I see the fruit of solid Biblical truths...its definitely moving me that direction. </div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-80353947993757466452011-09-01T18:07:00.000+03:002011-09-01T18:07:51.351+03:00Giving to the Ungrateful: A Difficult Command to Follow.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l1oLCsevjZE/Tl-fsJoZxWI/AAAAAAAAAHs/djBV-4pGE0s/s1600/gift-box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266px" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l1oLCsevjZE/Tl-fsJoZxWI/AAAAAAAAAHs/djBV-4pGE0s/s320/gift-box.jpg" width="320px" xaa="true" /></a></div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am impressed by C.S. Lewis every time I read a paragraph. In <em>Mere Christianity</em> many times he makes a statement like, "personally I find this almost impossible to perform" or "this could be the most difficult thing in Christianity." </div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Therefore, in this same thought I would like to put forward my personal, "I find this quite difficult to do." The subject is loving the ungrateful. In Luke 6:35 just after the Beatitudes, Jesus says,</div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> <span style="color: red;">"</span><span closure_uid_2ir2mq="253" style="color: red;">But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the <strong><u closure_uid_2ir2mq="259">ungrateful</u></strong> and the evil. Be merciful, evne as your Father is merciful."(ESV, Luke 6:35)</span></div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Several commands in this passage that cause me to quiver. Some of these commands are hard even when you like people. But what clearer example to the world can you give, than to do something like this. Give and forget. ...AND give again, when they ask. Give when they don't say, 'Thank you so much!" Give when you know that they might pawn it two days later. Give to your enemies. This type of living is what constitutes radical Christianity in our material driven culture. </div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_2ir2mq="219">This without a doubt is the most difficult thing in my life. I feel my hands open freely to those I love and cherish, but to those who have horns and smell of cabbage or worse..........uh.......uh....the Command still applies. :)</div></div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-44236843740698648632011-08-25T09:00:00.005+03:002011-08-25T09:00:04.038+03:00Blog Dots. Which One Is You?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xGrEYnTdSQg/TlVPvQs6LnI/AAAAAAAAAHo/cbvVux1kCs8/s1600/Who%2527s+looking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442px" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xGrEYnTdSQg/TlVPvQs6LnI/AAAAAAAAAHo/cbvVux1kCs8/s640/Who%2527s+looking.jpg" width="640px" /></a></div><div closure_uid_yj3yir="281"><div closure_uid_cy0odh="249">Bottomline: Don't be discouraged. You are never alone. Other believers around the globe are praying that the Lord might work in your life today. </div><div closure_uid_cy0odh="249"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_cy0odh="249">**The red dots represents a reader of the blogger and their estimated location.</div></div></div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1386191055470305435.post-25724304803077334442011-08-24T22:16:00.000+03:002011-08-24T22:16:31.522+03:00The Chicken or the Egg: A Discussion of Origins<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EoHRHrnecGM/TlVNv_qJtdI/AAAAAAAAAHk/PKOoX5-fLJo/s1600/15661_chicken-egg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qaa="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EoHRHrnecGM/TlVNv_qJtdI/AAAAAAAAAHk/PKOoX5-fLJo/s1600/15661_chicken-egg.jpg" /></a></div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Currently reading: God, Revelation, and Authority Vol.VI. by Carl F.H. Henry. As I was reading this morning and later this afternoon, I came across a legitimate discussion regarding the nature of Adam's belly button. Yes,...believe it or not...I was reading a lengthy discussion on whether Adam had a belly button, while sipping some coffee out of my Stanley.</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Where we came from and how we understand the first book of the Bible is very important. The Evolution and Creation debate will always be a discussion somewhere. But for the Christian, who doesn't want to discuss long geological formations of fossils or whether it was a literal twenty-four hour, 6 day creation ...I pose a simple formulation that might help you in curious discussions about the sort.</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Question: Which came first the chicken or the egg?</strong></div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">The chicken came first. A fully functioning adult chicken...with an accompanying Rooster somewhere to keep it spicy. No eggs,..well not for a couple of weeks atleast.</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Adam was a fully functioning man, marrying-age. He wasn't an infant. There were forest of thick tall trees..loaded with rings. Rivers had smooth stones. There were stars in the sky, ...it wasn't black...as we waited for years of light to travel. </div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div closure_uid_foihxg="224"><strong><u>Bottomline:</u></strong> I am not a incredibly smart dude, but I don't mind making conversation with people about my views about Christianity or creation. A goofy question like: Which came first the chicken or the egg?,...will probably not lead someone to follow Jesus, but it may be the seed of truth that the Lord plants to have water with more revelatory conversations about the Creator, and not just his Creation.</div></div>John L. Cravenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17922739792696899798noreply@blogger.com0