A simple thank you

“One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan” (Luke 17:15-16).

A culture of entitlement is slow to say thank you, but the grateful are honored to express appreciation. Ungrateful people expect, even demand, good things with no gratitude in return. But grateful men and women are humbled and give God the glory for His blessings. The most gratefulness comes from those who least expect the Lord’s lavish love. It is the mercy of God that heals our heart and causes us to exclaim, “Praise the Lord” with a loud voice.

Is it your regular routine to sincerely thank God for His power working in and through your life, as well as on your behalf? Do you bow at the feet of Jesus when the body of a friend or family member was cured by God’s hand? Have you celebrated Christ’s blessing of keeping your body whole from infection and disease? Humility is a thank you waiting to happen.

Listen to David’s prayer for healing, “Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am faint; O Lord, heal me, for my bones are in agony” (Psalm 6:2). You can pray boldly for your physical healing. Pray depending on God, and with great faith ask the Great Physician to bring His healing power on your body. Your Creator understands how to bring wholeness to His creation. It is not a question of if He can, but if He will.

However, whether He heals in this life or in the life to come, give Him thanks. “Pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:17–18). Furthermore, gratitude to God expresses gratitude to people. Make it a goal to write a thank you note before you cash the check. Look a friend in the eye and express your thankfulness for his or her friendship. Show your gratitude to your server with a generous tip. Appreciate others and you invite appreciation into your life and work.

Mostly, thank the Lord Jesus Christ for His death on the cross for your sin and salvation. Jesus came from living with sinners to die for sinners. “The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me’” (1 Corinthians 11:23–24).

Ask yourself today the following: Do I thank God often for His incredible gift of grace and forgiveness? Do I thank Him during the bad times as well as the good times? Am I quick to appreciate others?

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby rd. Mclean Va.  Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) every third Friday (7:30pm) We are "Disciples making a Kingdom impact".  Tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.


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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Holy Ghost Power

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth... They all joined together constantly in prayer. Acts 1:8, 14

The very last words Jesus spoke to His disciples before He ascended to Heaven focused on the Spirit’s power, not man’s power. Human power builds kingdoms on earth, while the Holy Ghost’s power builds God’s kingdom in surrendered hearts. Issues out of our control defer to trust in God’s timing and do not distract us from being a witness for Jesus Christ. The Lord will come back to establish His kingdom on earth, in the meantime we are to be His Spirit-filled. Spirit-led witnesses in all the earth.

A witness for Jesus can strive in their own strength or thrive in the Spirit’s strength. So, how do we know if we are witnesses empowered by the Holy Spirit? Prayer precedes power. Prayer positions us in humble expectation to receive the Spirit’s fullness. By faith, we confess and repent of sin and embrace our Lord’s love and forgiveness. The Holy Spirit fills our hearts once we have emptied ourselves of dependence on our gifts, talents, abilities and experiences.

After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God  boldly. Acts 4:31

Once we experience the Spirit’s fullness, we are compelled to speak God’s word with boldness, clarity, and wisdom.  Indeed, witnessing is a supernatural exchange with the Trinity: the Father loves the lost to Himself, the Spirit convicts a heart of sin and the Son freely forgives a soul in salvation. Our part is surrender and submission, the Holy Spirit’s part is fullness and power. Yes, it is necessary to both live the gospel and speak the gospel. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17).

Furthermore, look for ways in your church and community to champion evangelistic training and teaching. Witnesses of Jesus need to know what they believe and why they believe what they believe. Perhaps you enroll in a class and be prepared to equip others. Just be wise not to substitute the Holy Spirit’s power with superior arguments. Most of all, moment by moment pray for opportunities to speak boldly about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As a Spirit empowered witness of Christ, you can’t help but help others understand the good news of Jesus.

come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesday (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm). We are "Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact".  Tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Audience of One

“I love the Father and do exactly what my Father has commanded me” (John 14:31).

I struggle playing to an audience other than God. As it creates an unnecessary tension causing me to ask myself, “What will they think? How will they respond?” Yet the only question that the heart of Jesus asks is, “What does my heavenly Father want? How can I obey Him with my whole heart?” It is an audience of one my Lord that requires my focus.

So I ask myself, “Whom do I love more? Do I love my Savior more, or do I love the praise of people more?” If I truly love the commendation of Christ more than the approval of people, then I will obey His commands, even when I am misunderstood and mistreated. A life that loves God longs to grow in a relationship that faithfully follows His ways.

Caution is required not to become proud in our obedience. In a distorted way, a disciplined life can play into impressing people instead of pleasing God. It is false humility to be proud of our humility and wish others could attain our level of maturity. False humility on the stage of life acts out its spirituality for the world’s accolades.

“These rules, which have to do with things that are all destined to perish with use, are based on merely human commands and teachings. Such regulations indeed have an appearance of wisdom, with their self-imposed worship, their false humility and their harsh treatment of the body, but they lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence” (Colossians 2:22–23). True humility seeks only to deflect glory back to God.

However, when all is said and done, living for an audience of one insists on intense intimacy with Jesus, so that we naturally follow His lead. It is like an eloquent dance rendition, where He leads and we follow. Some steps are new and awkward, while other moves are comfortable and unconscious. If we dance with Jesus before others, He will amuse them most, as He leads us into His will. True humility follows Christ’s lead.

Lastly, learning to live for an audience of one means giving away recognition and resisting taking credit. For example, at work give the team credit for success, and take responsibility for failure. At home quietly serve behind the scenes without a worry about who gets the recognition for the household chores. Most of all, minister for Christ’s kingdom, so your kingdom fades away and His becomes full center. An audience of one pleases the One.

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.  Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm)  coming soon Saturday evening worship.  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Kingdom Mentality

Teacher,” said John, “we saw someone driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.” “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “For no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us. Mark 9:38-40

The disciples argued over who would step into the leadership vacuum after Christ’s death. They debated who was the greatest based on their experiences with Jesus. Ambition and power drove them to want great positions in the coming Kingdom. However, Jesus confronted their egos and put them in their places by calling them to serve as one who cares for a child. He defined greatness as being a servant to all. Christ is inclusive in His call to the church and care for humanity’s needs.

The disciples also struggled with religious pride. They told a stranger to cease ministry in Jesus’ name because the perceived competitor was not part of their group, (sounds like the beginning of denominations if you ask me). Jesus on the other hand, urged His followers to not slow down works done in His name (The example of a Kingdom mentality). He sanctioned them as good. A cease and desist to these good deeds for His sake was like tying a big rock around the neck of a child and causing them to drown. Other Kingdom workers need to be empowered, not stopped. We are to support, not exclude, others outside our denomination who minister in Jesus name, as the advancing of the Kingdom is for the body of Christ not a particular denomination, as there is only one Lord, one faith, and one baptism according to Ephesians.

But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” Numbers 11:29

Our particular belief system is not a stick to beat others into submission, or expect them to conform to our way of doing ministry. If someone is not a part of our evangelical group, we are not to automatically be suspect of their unique ministry methods and beliefs. Jesus is inclusive not exclusive with groups who give Him the glory. As long as ministries and churches embrace the deity, death and resurrection of Christ for our sins, we have much in common.

Each legitimate Christian group has their own distinctive, emphasis, expression of worship, and service. There are several compelling categories of focus in our family of faith: Bible teaching, worship, service, evangelism, discipleship, healing, miracles, worship, missions, the Eucharist and prayer. Thus, our motive is to encourage and empower other Jesus followers in their ministry. A unified Body of Christ is inclusive in its make up and its ministry to the world. Our risen Savior Jesus is our rallying cry for those lost in their sin and sorrow. Grace includes all who hunger for God’s love.

Worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.  We are "Disciples making a Kingdom Impact" feel free to join us Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) every third Friday (7:30pm).  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.

--

 

Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Manipulation vs. persuasion

Do you want me to release to you the king of the Jews?” asked Pilate, knowing it was out of self-interest that the chief priests had handed Jesus over to him. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead. Mark 15:9-11

Emotional manipulation can be subtle or not so subtle. The Jewish leaders, in fear of losing their power, preyed on the fear of the crowd in losing their rebel leader Barabbas. In a mob-like environment the hearts of the masses were motivated by jealous religious leaders to free the guilty and punish the innocent. Yes, fear is the favorite method of those who are afraid of losing control over people and circumstances. Like a bully club, they use fear as an intimidation tool.

Beware of those who manipulate your emotional pain for their gain. Guilt is a ‘go to’ tactic used to get your attention and coerce you to make a foolish decision in the moment, forgetting the fall out of long term consequences. The pressure from peers needs to be filtered by your prayers. A friend’s agenda is probably not the Lord’s plan for your life. So, allow the Spirit to calm your emotions and give you His outlook. Holy Spirit persuasion trumps unholy spirit manipulation.

This is what the Lord says about Shemaiah the Nehelamite: Because Shemaiah has prophesied to you, even though I did not send him, and has persuaded you to trust in lies. Jeremiah 29:31

On the other hand, it is good to be persuaded by the Holy Spirit and those filled with the Spirit. Listen to saints who love the Lord and learn from them. Be influenced by individuals of integrity, whose only goal is for you to enjoy God’s game plan. So, be wise. Wait to validate a person’s reputation. Total trust too quickly can be manipulative on your part. For example, you may crave a friendship, so during your first visit, you immediately share a confidential issue expecting a reciprocal response. But, healthy expectations give emotional space. Godly persuasion is patient. 

Finally, in the power of the Holy Spirit seek to persuade others of God’s love for them and of the judgment to come. The fear of the Lord compels us to urge the unsaved to fear God. The Lord is the beginning and end of wisdom. Jesus is King and Lord over all. His salvation is freedom from sin, self and Satan. God’s grace is good and life giving. Our Lord has risen from the grave. He is alive to live in and over all who call on His name in repentance and faith. We persuade, because someone persuaded us. Emotional manipulation is temporary, but spiritual persuasion is eternal

Worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby rd. Mclean Va.  Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm) We are "Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact".  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.
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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Everlasting Energy

“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint” (Isaiah 40:30–31).

There is a good weary. We can be weary in the Lord’s work and not be weary of the Lord’s work. Sleep is sweet knowing we have exhausted our efforts toward the will of God. Trust and hope in the Lord send us into a real rest. We grow weary, but our fatigue is bolstered by faith. Our smile may be faint, but our heart is full of God’s grace and joy.

In contrast, there is an unhealthy type of weariness that strives in the power of the flesh. It is the result of misguided motives. Perhaps we become driven by the fear of people. We are preoccupied with not wanting to let someone down. Our fear of people transcends our fear of God. We default into performance-based living. It saps our energy and leaves us feeling depleted. Worry is wearisome, fear fatiguing. “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace” (Romans 8:6).

Indeed, the Lord is your hope and strength. Even as you experience accomplishments, you can quickly lose faith because you have not cultivated a hopeful heart. Present practitioners of hope can extend hope to other fainthearted souls. “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life” (Proverbs 13:12).

An eagle soars somewhat effortlessly. He cannot create or direct wind, but he greatly benefits from its silent effect. He is hopeful that the wind will blow again tomorrow. But if it is boisterous or too mild, he may wait in his nest, positioned in the cleft of the rock. He experiences rest and renewal while he anticipates the energizing power of the unseen wind. In the same way, the Holy Spirit lifts those who wait to be empowered by Him.

You can run God’s race with patient endurance, but it comes through the process of hope and renewal. Hope in God expands your capacity. You can run harder and farther in the renewed strength of the Holy Spirit. This is eternal energy that comes from God. Hope in the Lord renews your strength in your weariness. Thus, rest in God. Let the wings of your faith carry you as you wait on the wind of the Holy Spirit to empower you.

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. where we are "Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact" Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Timing is everything

Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him. Mark 8:30

Timing is everything. It is the difference between a strike and a home run in baseball. It determines if a cake is moist and baked perfectly, or hard and dry. Timing in conversation can solicit receptivity or invite defensiveness. It may grow or hinder relationships. When and how we move forward with a decision to change determines the degree of success. Yes, timing in telling the truth is best when anger has subsided and hearts are comforted. Prayer leads to the right time.

Jesus knew His disciples and their audience could not yet handle the extent of who He was and what He was to do. They were ready to follow a reigning King, but not prepared for a Savior who suffers and dies. In the same way, we as modern day disciples are fast to follow our risen Savior, but slow to follow our suffering Savior. However, both are required for us to be authentic followers of Jesus. We truly follow the Lord, once we are abandoned to our Lord.

As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus instructed them, “Don’t tell anyone what you have seen, until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead. Mark 17:9

Have you prayerfully prepared your heart to comfort and confront your child in love? Is your decision making process in the workplace collaborative and infused with wise counsel? A mistimed decision based on a pure motive still makes for an ugly outcome. Better to wait and work out the details before you offer an idea or plan. People fill in the blanks of ambiguity with a worst case scenario. So, a mind that marinates in prayerful reflection gives the wisest response. 

Thus, seek the Lord first, before you seek a sensitive conversation with a friend or foe. Trust the Holy Spirit to lead you into His timing. But when the time is right, be confident of what’s right. Be like Peter at Pentecost, prepared, bold and full of the Holy Spirit. Prayerfully proclaim the gospel of Christ to those the Lord brings into your life, those He has prepared beforehand. Now is the time: surrender to your risen Christ Jesus and embrace your suffering Savior Jesus

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm)  Tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel music.
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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Interruptions

Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him, they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”Mark 1:35-37

Life is full of interruptions. Car maintenance, a sick child, divorce, death, financial surprises, a friend’s crisis, government shutdowns, home repair, health questions, and job issues all interrupt our regular routine. If we have perfectionist tendencies we can stress out over control slipping away or we can learn to embrace Christ’s control. Ironically, expectations of a stress free life only create stress. As long as we live, life will interrupt, so how shall we respond?
Jesus was interrupted in His prayers and He was interrupted by the leper, but He used them both for God’s glory. Is the Lord in on our life’s interruptions? Many times, yes He takes distractions in our prayer time and uses them to lead us into His will. On occasion while praying, my mind races with a mental list that longs for immediate attention. So, I stop praying, jot down the items and then offer the items in prayer as a sacrifice to Jesus. The Holy Spirit leads me in how to manage the needs I’ve jotted down (thank you lord for the note app on my pad and phone). So, I seek to lean into the Lord when interrupted by life.
Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”James 4:13-15
We are all needy to one degree or another. Needy people need to have their needs met. Therefore,  when someone interrupts your life with their need, look for the Lord in the interruption. Pray for a way to meet their need in Jesus’ name so they are attracted to His love, and have an opportunity to deepen their relationship with God. Furthermore, you are not called to meet everyone’s needs all the time. There are others God wants to engage as His benevolent blessing. Be available, do what you can, and trust the Lord to add more resources.

There is no shame in being needy. This is the human condition. It is what draws us to God. So, we first seek Christ Jesus to meet all our needs in Him. His love, His patience, His mercy, His rest and His care are a treasure trove of spiritual invigoration, emotional healing, and mental stamina. The Lord is with us in the middle of life’s interruptions. We also seek those who love us when we need love. We ask for prayer in our pain. We need each other and we need our Savior Jesus when life interrupts our plans. Yes, life’s interruptions direct us to God’s better plan.

 

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm), and every third Friday (7:30pm).  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Transformed by teaching

When the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority. Mark 1:21-22

Jesus taught as none other: clear, compelling and authoritative based on Himself, the living Word. He also explained the Scriptures with clarity and conviction in a way that caused demons to tremble, shriek, and depart exiting the body of the one they possessed. The religious leaders were jealous of this new younger teacher whom they feared as competition. Yes, Jesus ministered the Word to crowds with His Holy Spirit inspired anointed teaching and then loved them individually.

Transformational teaching handles the Word of God with humility. There is a reverence of God that points to Christ as the author and finisher of our faith. It’s out of a loving relationship with the Living Word (Jesus), that we are able to compassionately communicate the written Word of God. As we love the Lord with our hearts and minds, our teaching engages the heart and minds of our hearers. Thus, we bow before God in prayerful preparation, before we stand for God to teach.

The Teacher searched to find just the right words, and what he wrote was upright and true. Ecclesiastes 12:10

Furthermore, we are challenged to walk fresh in our faith and to invite His words to transform our lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. If you teach, teach what God has taught you, one broken person to another broken person. Speak openly where the Lord has brought you. Exhort and teach transparently out of your weakness, and Christ will show Himself strong. What you teach instructs and inspires, but how you live is a transformational model for others to follow.

Lastly, we are wise to sit under the teaching of teachers who instruct from the authority of God’s Word. However, make sure to learn from those whose heart and head are engaged with Christ’s heart and mind. Learn from men and women whose hearts have been transformed by God on their knees in humble prayer, before they sit behind their desks to prepare their minds for teaching. Transformational teaching comes from the Spirit’s conviction and instruction. Learn from Him

Come worship me Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.

Take the time to tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.
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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Be diligent

Therefore, since I myself have carefully investigated everything from the beginning, it seemed good also to me to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may know the certainty of the things you have been taught.  Luke 1:3-4

Simply put, due diligence is a process of gathering the facts. It is designed to validate assumptions and expose wrong thinking. Due diligence is necessary for wise decision-making. You go through due diligence when you buy a house. You explore comparable home prices in the neighborhood to affirm or deny the asking price of the house for sale. A home inspector is probably hired to check out the nooks and crannies. He is an objective third party that looks for roof leaks, foundation damage, electrical hazards, safe plumbing, and the overall sound structure of the home. His or her harvesting of information is vital to the final decision of the home purchaser.

In some ways, you apply due diligence to a prospective husband or wife. You observe his attitude toward his parents. You look for love and respect. The same can be said for their reverence of God. Are they submitted to Christ and in love with Him? First impressions may be positive, but more is required to be a wise decision-maker. Due diligence can take time, depending on the complexity of the issue or the deal. When hiring someone, you look at past career success and the opinions of references. A credit check reveals a lot about the responsible or irresponsible handling of money. Purchasing a business requires a lengthy process of poring over financial audits, researching market trends, interviewing employees and customers, and defining the criteria needed to value the enterprise. Due diligence is required in all levels of life to be a wise steward. So what has been the extent of your due diligence on God?
   
God deserves a thorough investigation, and your intellectual integrity requires a due diligence on God. Then you can have peace of mind knowing you objectively examined all the facts that relate to God. You may read books written by former atheists, such as C.S. Lewis, that document their struggles with truth and lies surrounding God. Their life experiences become a road map for your own search. More importantly however, is to read and research the Bible. Let the Scriptures stand alone. Do not depend on the conjecture and assumptions of others who may or may not be objective in their evaluation of Holy Scripture.
    
Read the Bible with an open mind and ask God to speak to your heart through His Word. Yes, use sound rules of interpretation such as context and cultural implications. It is necessary to understand the immediate audience for whom the Bible was intended, but consider Scripture’s timelessness. What applied yesterday, often applies today. The commands and principles of the Bible transcend civilizations and centuries.
   
In your due diligence of the Bible, explore the prophecies of the Old Testament. Consider the predictions that occurred hundreds of years before Christ and were fulfilled with mind-boggling accuracy. His place of birth, His method of death, and His provision of salvation are all embedded in the text. Study closely the life of Christ; begin your due diligence in the book of John. Jesus claimed to be God and the only way to God. If that is true, then it holds life-altering implications. Do not let the bias of another lead you down the path of least resistance. Your due diligence may very well lead you into a divine encounter, which is what all of us are to pursue and make our goal.

 

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am), Tuesday (11am), Wednesday (7pm), and every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. Mclean Va.  Take time to listen to www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming. 

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Humble and Gentle Spirit

After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. Mark 1:7, 10

Jesus was introduced by a humble man and a gentle dove. One came from earth as a reminder of the need for our confession of sins, and the other came from heaven as a reminder of God’s forgiveness of sins. People from all walks of life came to be cleansed of their sin. Revival spread across the villages into the towns, as John and Jesus were lightening rods for the Holy Spirit’s energy. Indeed, their humble and gentle attitude invited the Trinity’s trust and favor.

We are drawn to preachers, leaders, and teachers who proclaim and teach truth from a humble heart and a gentle spirit. Truth is convicting enough without the pride of man adding insult to injury. Yes, with humility we can say something hard with a smile and still solicit the trust of our friend. Our gentle words carry with them the blessing of God’s Spirit. Humble men and women point people to Jesus, not to themselves. Gentleness gets people to God. Here they feel His love and approval.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I (Jesus) am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29

Do you submit to God moment by moment so the fullness of His Spirit bears the fruit of humility and gentleness in your life? Union with your Lord brings out His best in You. Because He is gentle, you become gentle. Since He is humble, you become humble. You grow in support of your relationships by being available to satisfy their needs. Patience is your fuel for gentleness and prayer powers your humility. Your Heavenly Father is well pleased when you grow in these disciplines.

God graced the globe with a gentle and peaceful dove. We felt His love as He pronounced His pleasure in His son Jesus.  Like Noah, who knew the storms were over when the dove’s beak clenched an olive branch, so Jesus was God’s olive branch to mankind’s mishaps. Grace is God’s rainbow of redemption to a world flooded with fear. Glory in the salvation of a forgiving Trinity. Rejoice, we are invited into the humble and gentle community of the Kingdom.

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.

Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for the best in Christian and Gospel programming.

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Good things come to those who can wait patiently

Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.    Psalm 27:14

Life is normally lived waiting. We wait in lines; a teenager waits for his or her next birthday; we wait for job promotions; we wait for news from the doctor; we wait for the next meal; we wait for our future spouse; we wait for a meeting to conclude; we wait for those who have yet to keep their commitment. Every time we turn around we have an opportunity to wait. Why wait? Because most of the time, it’s what’s best and most beneficial. A vegetable gardener is a prisoner to waiting, but this an asset, not a liability. A tomato is much tastier when it is red, large, and juicy, rather than green, small, and hard. The smart gardener will wait for the vegetables to ripen, while nurturing the soil along the way and keeping the weeds out.
   
There is a waiting cycle that must be completed before there is worthwhile fruit. If you didn’t have to wait, you may have been satisfied with how things had always been done. Now you have the opportunity to think differently. Maybe there are other people or resources that can contribute to your project or plan. So, when things do not go as planned, see it as an opportunity to improve the plan. Or the very thing may be to provide help to another, as waiting is a lesson in loving others in spite of themselves; even providing valued assistance during this parenthesis in your own life.
   
Most importantly, learn how to wait for the Lord. What a valuable asset to wait upon. The Lord God Almighty is worth the wait. It is worth waiting for His joy because it comes to uplift you and bring a smile to your face; it is worth waiting for His peace that calms your soul and allows you to sleep at night; it is worth waiting for His wisdom that provides discernment in the middle of conflicting options; it is worth waiting for His strength that propels you through adversity and gives you confidence and perseverance for life’s journey; it is worth waiting for His hope that lifts you up and out of your despair and depression.
   
People camp out to see a rock star or pay big bucks to wait and meet the President; so waiting on God should be a cinch. Waiting is being fundamentally patient with God. He is running the universe, He knows what is going on, and He knows what is best for you. He knows. He knows. He knows. You can trust Him in your waiting. Use this sabbatical-like time to get to know your heavenly Father more intimately. Use this time to love your family and others, like no other time in your life. Allow Him to mold your character so that others will comment to themselves that you are somehow different. You are different because you have been with Jesus. Waiting is not just a passage to God’s blessing, it is God’s blessing. Wait for the Lord, because He is worth the wait.

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.  Also tune into WWW.WBGRonline.com for the best in Gospel in Christian programming.
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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Familiarity

“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Hebrews 13:17).

Leaders can become so familiar with their team that they dilute their effectiveness to lead. They are not one of the boys or one of the girls, they are the leader. Parents have to learn this. They are not the child or teenager’s friend, they are first the dad or mom. Friendship can come later with adult children; in the meantime, they need leadership.

So how familiar are you with those you lead? Are you respectful of others so you invite their respect? Do you lift them up with commendation or tear them down with coarse kidding? Joking around on the job is not a pattern great leaders model. This may have been your behavior in the past, but in the present your role requires more maturity.

Does this mean leaders are not transparent about their weaknesses? No, because humble leaders are the first to confess their struggles and blind spots. But it does mean that wise leaders approach their God-given role with solemn responsibility and serious resolve. People need leaders they can trust and look up to as the Lord’s leaders for this season.

We do not want those we lead to pray as David did: “May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership” (Psalm 109:8). Followers want to be led by a wise leader.

Moreover, when we become too close to a team member, it creates jealousy, rivalry, and resentment. This happens with children. If we play favorites with a child, other siblings will notice and spew out their frustrations on the parent’s pet. We can reward good behavior and praise obedience, but we should not overdo it by crossing the line of becoming too familiar.

Leadership can be lonely, but we are not alone as followers of Jesus. Wise leaders keep their emotions under the Spirit’s control in the presence of their team, but in the presence of the Lord they bare their soul. You cannot become too familiar with your heavenly Father. He already knows more about you than you do. Pour out your frustrations and fears to Him, and He will listen, forgive, and lead you in the way you should go.

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am) Tuesdays (11am) Wednesdays (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.  Also tune into www.WBGRonline.com for the best in Christian and gospel programming.

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Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Nothing but opportunity

“The Lord said to Moses, "Send some men to explore the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelites… Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." But the men who had gone up with him said, "We can't attack those people; they are stronger than we are." Numbers 13:1a, 30-31

As we face life, we can be overwhelmed by its giant obstacles, or be inspired by its giant opportunities. Challenges and uncertainty tend to corrode our confidence. It is in the face of the unknown that we can move forward by faith, or backward in disbelief. What giant obstacles are you facing? How can your obstacles be converted into opportunities? Obstacles are stepping stones for obedient feet to follow.

Therefore, with aggressive patience, stay focused and you will eventually see some obstacles dissolve, and others transformed into treasures. Maybe a financial giant is looming large as an intimidating obstacle. If so, stay true to your integrity by not selectively suspending your core values for much needed results. Instead, remain faithful to wise stewardship and honesty, and the right results will follow at the right time. Trust God to use scary giants for His glory.

God orchestrates giant opportunities for His greater good. He told Moses that He was giving His children the promised land; all they had to do was show up and receive His gift. Giant opportunities do require faith, planning, perseverance and hard work, as the reward of obedience and trust in the Lord is enough. So how are you facing the giants in your life; as obstacles or opportunities?

Leaders look and pray for opportunities, and then explore them with energy, passion, perserverance, and enthusiasm. Your relentless leadership inspires your family, friends and work associates to remain faithful and not freak out. Therefore, take the land of opportunity the Lord has given you. Difficult days and economic challenges are greater opportunities for God to get the glory. So be aggressive, increase your efforts, pound heaven in prayer and by faith receive what Jesus has already given you. Go after the giant opportunities empowered by God's Spirit and grace.

Come worship with us Sunday (10:45am), Tuesday (11am), Wednesdays (7pm), and every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.

Also tune into WBGR online for the best in Gospel and Christian programming.

--

 

Rev. Todd A. Brown, Pastor
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101

Worship with us Sundays at 10:45am
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

Listen to "Life Notes" with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at 11:55am on WBGRonline
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com