Thursday, December 31, 2015

Just one thing

Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you. 1 Thessalonians 4:11
 
As we find ourselves on the eve of January 1st, we find ourselves in most cases filled with ambitions and dreams for the year ahead. During this time of year countless individuals set goals for themselves in hopes of improving and bettering their lives. Common resolutions include eating healthy, exercising more, getting out of debt, or taking up a new hobby.
 
If you’re anything like me, your ambition for these resolutions greatly exceeds what you’re actually able to accomplish, like the child who eyes get bigger than their stomach and have too much food on their plate and can't eat it all. we’ll set a dozen highly ambitious goals and faithfully pursue them for a few weeks, but by the time March rolls around we can barely remember what those goals even were, or like that child give up on what we put on the plate. 
 
As we look to the Scripture today, we’re confronted with a rather unusual resolution. We’re told to be ambitious, yet our ambition is to pursue a peaceful and quiet life. What a paradox.  On the one hand, we’re told to have great ambition, to strive and seek after the goal set before us. Yet unlike virtually all other resolutions, our ambition is directed towards a calm and gentle spirit that finds peace in the simple and the ordinary.
 
At the root of our ambition we often find discontent. We are unhappy with our lives, our health, or our jobs, so we seek new ways to expand our identities or enhance our lifestyle. Yet so often this striving fails to deliver what it promises, and instead of finding contentment and peace, we find ourselves stuck in a vicious cycle of unrest and anxiety.
 
This year, I challenge you to make one very simple yet profoundly radical resolution: be content to live a quiet life.
 
Look for ways to find peace and joy in who God has made you to be. Encounter His blessings in small and simple ways, finding satisfaction in His presence, purpose, and in time spent with those you love and are called to serve. Free yourself from the pressure to perform, to land your dream job, or to have a perfect body. Instead, take time this year to ambitiously pursue the peace and contentment that comes from leading a quiet and simple life with God and others.
Our Prayer:  Father help me to realize that being great is realized when I come to you as a child and find my dependence in what you have for me.  Allow the peace of God to be my covering throughout 2016 Amen.

--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
and Independent Travel Agent "Travel by Todd"

Tuesday, December 22, 2015

All about we

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 1 Corinthians 12:27
 
There is a much larger context to life than just living for oneself. A self-focused life is frustrated and unable to reach its full potential. Its demanding ways marginalizes wise counsel and only attracts insecure individuals. However, those who pray for what’s best for the whole, become whole. Everyone is honored in an environment where individual contributions are valued. “We not me” is the vocabulary of those who honor each other.
 
Every disciple of Christ is stronger when they are connected to other disciples of Christ. Isolation contributes to spiritual impotence, but community gives spiritual life and power. Encouragement and accountability are exalted in relationships that serve what’s best for the group. A leader who serves the team, sees other team members serve well. A man who serves his family, experiences a family that serves each other. “We overcomes me” with unselfish service.
 
Our spiritual birth engrafted us as a member of Christ’s body. We cannot detach an appendage of the Lord’s, any more than a member of our physical body can be disassociated from the other body parts. So, we pray for those around us who know Christ and we get to know each other. There is a joy of being known and knowing others who love Him. Life that is truly life is lived in the margins with those submitted to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
 
Are you motivated first by “He”, second by “we” and lastly by “me”? If so, you are set up for relational fulfillment. The sequence for successful thinking is Him, them and you. “Me” will try to squeeze in and monopolize relationships, cannibalize conversations and hijack heaven’s agenda. Thus, by God’s grace, put to death the “me monster” and replace it with love for the Lord and people. “We not me” is the motto of mature disciples.

Our Prayer:  Lord always allow me to see the big picture and that I am a part of a plan and purpose that is bigger than myself, and in need of those around me to help fulfill.  Let me appreciate all the unique parts of the body that you have assembled in the body of Christ Amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
and Independent Travel Agent "Travel by Todd"

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Don't let others opinions become your reality

When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me? Psalm 56:3-4
 
Have you ever feared doing something you know you should do because you where worried about the criticism? If so, be encouraged. Throughout Scripture, men and women alike who were called to act for God experienced criticism. When Moses led the children of Israel through the desert, he cried out to God because those who followed him blamed and criticized him (see Exodus 17:4). Paul was labeled as overzealous, unimpressive in person and insincere (see 2 Corinthians 10:10). Every one of the disciples was criticized  at some point, and were criticized to the moment of their deaths. Remember this: If we insist on being comfortable by avoiding the criticism of others, we won’t fulfill God’s purpose for our lives.  
 
In his book The Believer’s Armor, John MacArthur writes, “You have all the resources, power and principles to live the Christian life. . . Even though power is available to follow godly principles, the enemy wants to withstand any good thing that God sets out to do. He will attempt to thwart God’s divine purpose for your life.” The enemy of our soul likes to stop God’s children from fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives through the fear of criticism. But God wants to give you the courage to say no to the fear of criticism and yes to Him. 
 
Jesus is well acquainted with the battle we face with criticism. Can you imagine what His life would have been like if He had feared criticism and been self-protective? After being mocked by political groups, old and young men, and spiteful Pharisees, He would have determined who He would associate with and what He would say in His final hours on earth. And, rather than keeping His mouth shut when He was falsely accused, He would have defended Himself. When His enemies spit in His face, He would have retaliated. When they called Him names, He would have called down a legion of angels. When they marched Him to Golgotha, He would have run. And rather than laying down His life to give His all to those He loved, the redemption of the human race would have been lost in His misguided passion of self-protection and the fear of criticism.
 
If we allow the fear of criticism to rule us, we can miss out on being a gift to others because God’s plans for us aren’t just about us. They are about people God wants to influence and help through us. So, if we struggle with the fear of criticism and what others think, ask God to give you the courage to move forward in the face of criticism. And remember, you are living your life for the approval of just One.  
 
Our prayer:  Father God through the power of your Spirit continually assure us of who we are in you that we might serve, and live with confidence.  When criticism comes our way let us be reminded of how you handled it, and walk in the uniqueness of who you have called and ordained us to be as your children Amen. 

--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
Independent Travel Agent "Travel by Todd"

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Working faithful

He who works his land will have abundant food, but he who chases fantasies lacks judgment.  Proverbs 12:11
 
Routine work may not be sexy, but it is necessary. It is necessary to meet our needs and the needs of those who depend on us. The same work day in and day out can seem simple and even boring, but it is a test of our faithfulness. Will I continue to faithfully carry out uncomplicated responsibilities, even when my attention span is suffering? Is this God’s path to blessing?
 
The contrast to routine work is chasing after phantom deals that are figments of our imagination. Be careful not to be led astray by fantasies that lead nowhere. It is false faith to think a gimmick, or some conniving circumstance can replace hard work. Wisdom stops chasing after the next scheme and sticks instead to the certainty of available work. What does your spouse, or close friend/confidant say is the smart thing to do? Give them all the facts and listen.  
 
Furthermore, work is easily carried out when everything is going well, and there are no indicators of job loss, or an increase in responsibilities with less pay. However, it is during these uncertain times that disciples can step up and set the example. Your attitude of hope and hard work are a testimony of trust in the Lord.
 
Stay engaged in executing your tasks with excellence, and you will inspire others to their labor of love. Lastly, see work as your worship of the Lord. He is blessing your faithfulness to follow through with the smallest of details. Are you content to serve Christ in your current career?

Our prayer:  Father help me to be faithful to the daily duties of my job, and using my job as a platform to be a witness for you, and to give you glory through the work of my hands and mind Amen.
--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

God's exciting love letter

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” so that we can be equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16
 
In his book When I’m Longing for God, Dan Stuecher tells a touching story about the great composer Beethoven. The music man never married but was in love with a woman scholars have spent years trying to identify, a woman Beethoven called his “Immortal Beloved.” When he was forty-two years old, Beethoven penned a letter of affection to her. “Oh, why must one be separated from her who is so dear?” he wrote. “However much you love me, my love for you is even greater.”
  
After his death, the letter was found in a bureau belonging to Beethoven, undated and unaddressed. Some people have wondered if the woman ever knew how valuable she was to Beethoven because of this secret, undelivered note. Can you imagine being the recipient of such a love letter and never reading it?
   
A number of times over the years, I have heard people say God doesn’t speak to them through Scripture. One told me, “I just don’t hear His voice through the Bible. I hear from Him in other ways, like through signs.” When I hear something like this, my heart cries.  Beloved as the Word is His voice. It’s His love letter to us (See John 1) the greatest love letter ever written. But tragically, life (the Word of God) itself is sometimes left forgotten in a drawer. True love is denied and wisdom is ignored.
 
I do wonder where some people have gotten the idea God isn’t really speaking unless He speaks “supernaturally,” for example through a miracle, a vision, or a dream. Early in my own walk, I had a hard time believing God was with me unless I felt Him in some way. I thought I had to sense His presence to believe I had heard Him. When I read the Bible, I found myself sometimes bored. I even went through a time of feeling like there was nothing exciting in it.
 
As I continued to grow in mature in my relationship with the Lord I found that I was so wrong.  Now I look back and think, My Lord. Scripture is a never-ending well of refreshment and truth. God speaks through His Word, inviting us to find Him. And when we do, we may not always experience emotional fireworks, but our minds will be quietly and gradually transformed from glory to glory and faith to faith. God speaks in many ways, but the primary way He speaks is through His Word. It’s powerful. It’s life-changing. It’s refreshment for a thirsty soul.
 
Our Prayer: Father I pray that daily our thirst for you and your word grows, that we might daily experience and know the fullness of your love towards us Amen. 

--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Thursday, November 19, 2015

God-sized goals

Jesus replied, ‘What is impossible with men is possible with God.’ Luke 18:27
 
God-sized goals are meant to challenge our thinking and further our faith. These Holy Spirit inspired ideas are crafted by our Lord to spur us on to good works and transformational living. God-sized goals make us uncomfortable at times, because they always go beyond what we see in our own resources. They are not guaranteed to happen, but they position us to pray more and believe in God better.
 
It is through prayerful planning and implementation that gigantic goals move from mere possibility to a more certain probability. Huge objectives are a hedge against mediocrity and a prod toward perfection. God-sized goals are given to govern our thinking and determine our time, so we are intentional and focused on His big picture. Otherwise we drift around without a rudder of reality, destined for disappointment.
 
Best of all God-size goals get us to God. It is prayer and planning with significant progress that moves us from the realm of possibility to the place of probability. In most cases it is one individual’s passion and focus that proves catalytic to the creation and execution of the goals. The leader looks failure in the eye and extinguishes it by faith, wisdom, hard work, and the power of the Spirit which are all wrapped around a skilled and unified team.
 
Christ-centered possibilities far outweigh man-centered probabilities. Perhaps you need to get away in solitude for several days to ask the Lord to sear your soul with His goals. Think outside the box of small belief, for the Lord is unlimited in His abilities and resources. God-size goals arrest your attention, adjust your attitude and accelerate your actions.
 
So prayerfully set great goals and He will grow your character in the process while influencing others for His glory. Trust Him to teach you the way; to show you with eyes of faith way beyond the bounds of your experience, for His plan will prevail. The Bible says, “I know you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted” (Job 42:2).
Our Prayer:  Father help us to see each day the limitless possibilities we have in you and what you have called us to do.  Allow our faith to grow to the size of the vision that you have for our lives and the purpose of service you have called us to Amen.
--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.comwww.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Love strong

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. Mark 12:30
 
Love is the most powerful weapon in of our faith. Like the tip of an arrow love points us to God.  Love commandeers all other graces to engage the Lord’s affection and His eternal concerns. When Jesus defined love as the greatest command, He gave us a glimpse into what He wants for the world and His disciples. A life motivated by love is only limited by its capacity to love the Lord. Love is a muscle we exercise so it grows in stamina and strength. Here are four ways we can develop our love for God:
 
Love God with Your Emotions
Jesus starts at the heart of the matter, our heart. What captures our passions? Our heart is the seat of our feelings and affections. We are drawn to what we desire, what we value. The heart follows what it treasures above all else. In the same way an engaged couple each aggressively seeks to engage the heart of their lover, so as the bride of Christ we passionately pursue His heart. As our heart loves Jesus, He simultaneously settles and stirs our emotions.
 
Love God with Your Soul
In the beginning God breathed life into the soul of man (see Genesis 2:7). So our soul is our entire being brought into being by the Spirit of the Lord. It is here, deep within the recesses of our spirit, that we commune with Christ. Our marriage to Jesus was consummated when, He saved our soul. Prayer is our bedchamber of intimacy for us to love our Lord with all our soul. Christ is our companion and confidant. A soul in love with God seeks God by faith.
 
Love God with Your Mind
A mind in love with the Lord wants to do the Lord’s will. In the same way a noble idea captures our imagination so much that it drastically influences our actions, so to know and do God’s will is the goal of those in love with Jesus. Mental romancing with the mind of Christ marks the thoughts of those who trust and obey. Knowledge of God acquired out of love starves our pride and feeds our humility. 
 
Love God with Your Strength
Energy in eternal matters is what matters most. When our focused attention is on the important (like giving) and not the trivial (like worry) we thrive in our love for the Lord. What activity may be competing with your time with Christ? Avoid activities that create sideways energy. Our strength increases as we engage with other disciples. Like a bonfire ignited by gasoline, so the prayers and encouragement of God’s people flame our fire of faith and love for God. Being around people in love with Jesus grows our love for Jesus. So love strong.

Father I pray that each day my love for you grows stronger and stronger, as I deepen my devotion to you amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Thursday, November 12, 2015

Spiritual graduation

But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it--not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it--they will be blessed in what they do. James 1:25
 
I feel that the Lord is inviting us to graduate from spiritual kindergarten, when we thought we had already received our diploma of faith and spirituality. For too long, as we have walked with Christ, our understanding has often been like that of many believers who have been told, “Just ask Jesus into your heart and you’ll go to heaven.”
 
Certainly Romans 10:9 says, “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe with your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved”.  Truth is that confession is the beginning of belief and the salvivic journey. After this confession comes discipleship, which means following Christ.  Perhaps this is why Matthew 7:21 says “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of my Father in heaven.”
 
In this scripture, we are reminded that Christ isn’t here to serve us; we are here to serve Him. We are here to do His will. And it’s not just about saying we believe while we live our own lives. It’s sobering to think that Jesus asks those who know Him to live for Him, and nothing less. So it’s not about God making all my dreams come true and making me happy, healthy, and wealthy. It’s not about just saying I believe but not backing up my words with action that proves my love. It’s about Jesus being Lord.
 
I wonder if in our attempt to emphasize grace, which of course, is critical, we have missed the seriousness of “working out our salvation with fear and trembling” ( see Philippians 2:12). We must remember that yes, we are saved by grace. We can’t do anything to earn our way into heaven ( see Ephesians 2:9). It’s only Christ’s gift on the cross that has justified us by washing away our sin so that we experience eternal life.
 
Beloved we must also remember that faith without works is dead ( see James 2:20). In any relationship, including the one with Christ, action doesn’t prove love, but true love is always proven by action. That said, all genuine works for Christ begin with the motivation of the heart, in relationship with Jesus. Or, they are just dead works. The condition of our heart is central, and the beginning of, true discipleship. Knowing these things, is God asking you to graduate from spiritual kindergarten?

Our Prayer:  Father continue through the power of your Spirit to make your will known to us, and as we know your will Father help us to yield to it, and join you in the working of your will through humble acts of service and love Amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Grace and Peace

Grace and peace to you…from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. Revelation 1:4-5
 
Grace and peace are gifts from God that every heart craves. Grace for sustaining strength during sickness and peace in the process. Grace for repeatable forgiveness in a challenging relationship and peace that produces patience. Grace for ongoing gratitude and peace when things don’t go our way. Grace for generous giving and peace in God’s faithful provision. A heart governed by grace and peace is a heart loved by the Lord. Grace and peace come from Jesus.
 
John, secluded in exile, saw His Lord more clearly once departed than when he was with Him. Jesus Christ the faithful witness gives His children grace and peace. How? Because we know He is the faithful witness of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus offered testimony to the reality of who God is.  Jesus’ sonship gave His story veracity, so He stated the facts with humble authority. Jesus testifies to truth. His reassuring words extend grace and peace.
 
Moreover, grace and peace come to those who believe Jesus is the firstfruits of those risen from the dead. Others, like Lazarus, rose from the dead, but they died again. Jesus Christ was the first to rise, and never to die. Faith in the resurrection is essential for the Lord’s grace and peace. We cannot remove the supernatural from Jesus and just keep the natural. Trust in Christ’s resurrection is the key that unlocks the treasure chest of riches found in His grace and peace. Those who embrace miracles embrace Jesus. These hugs from heaven warm our hearts by His loving care.
 
Furthermore, we serve a benevolent King who freely gives His grace and peace. Tranquility only comes to a heart that trusts in Christ as their Lord. Crown Him conqueror over death, and enjoy His grace and peace. Crown Him Lord over fear, and receive His grace and peace. Crown Him all wise King, and learn how to make the best decisions. Crown Him Lord over sin, and apply His grace and peace when in need of forgiveness. Whatever we face, Christ has faced, and has overcome. Thus, we come to the One who is full of grace and peace that His grace and peace might rest on us.

Our prayer:  Father supply us with your grace and peace for this day that we might be strengthened to be the great witnesses and disciples you have called us to be Amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Mature disciples

Brothers and sisters, stop thinking like children. In regard to evil be infants, but in your thinking be adults. 1 Corinthians 14:20 
 
By historic standards, we are one of the most literate and educated societies to ever exist. What began with the printing press has now in many ways reached its culmination with the Internet. Knowledge and information is freely shared, easily accessible, and instantly distributed across the world to rich, poor, young and old alike. This shift has affected virtually every area of society, and Christianity is certainly not immune. Not only do most of us have hardbound copies of the Bible in our homes, we now carry in our pockets dozens of translations, commentaries, and devotional books, all a few simple clicks or swipes away on our smart phones with whatever bible app version one prefers.
 
Yet, has this increase in access and availability to Kingdom knowledge and Christian principles translated into genuine maturation in Christ and in faith?
 
If we limit our understanding of the faith to head knowledge about God and divorce it from Kingdom living, we will trick ourselves into thinking that we are spiritually mature while in reality we remain spiritual infants. It is entirely possible to know a great deal about God and yet be entirely unsure of how to live as a disciple of Christ. Put another way, it is one thing to know about Jesus, but it is something altogether different to be transformed by his love through relationship with Him. As one of the great authors and champions of the faith C.S. Lewis once said, “it is fatally easy to confuse an appreciation of the spiritual life with the life itself.”
 
Maturation in Christ is not instantaneous but a lifelong process of dying to self and being remade in the image of Christ. If you struggle in your walk with Christ, let these words be an encouragement to you. You aren’t expected to “get it right” overnight. Genuine maturity in Christ isn’t a one-week workout class but is more like months and months of training for a marathon.
 
When you go out of your way to love and serve your spouse, when you express genuine interest in the things your kids are passionate about, when you are transparent and vulnerable with a close group of trusted friends about your struggles and challenges in life, you are embracing daily practices that over time become life-long habits of virtuous living. It is here in the lived experience of our Christian faith that we move from mere knowledge about God to a genuine encounter of the living God, from spiritual infancy to maturity in Christ.
 
Our prayer:  Father help us each day to work towards becoming more mature in you, as we deepen our relationship with you Amen. 
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.comwww.fbcc-va.org

Thursday, October 29, 2015

Great Expectations

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
 
I love the quote that says, “Never put a period where God puts a comma.” It’s a constant reminder for me to stay flexible to God’s rule, way,  and to submit to His sovereignty over my life. This can be especially difficult when I have got big plans or hopes that have led to great expectations.
 
Expectations can be awesome. They have the potential to bring us great joy when fulfilled and focused energy when we need to complete a particular task. They also have the potential to usher in great disappointment when they are dashed. It’s then that we must remember to “never put a period where God puts a comma.” We must submit to His will if we want to live with joy. To continue to demand our way only leads to internal frustration.
 
There have been times in my life when my expectations haven’t lined up with God’s will: like when I wanted to receive a particular job offer. I have to admit there have been times when I have wanted to shut down hope, silence expectations, and never dream again when the pain of unfulfilled expectations pierced my heart. But a better way is to surrender to Christ and His way.
 
Surrender doesn’t mean giving up; it means giving in. It means giving Him control, and heeding His directions/guidance. We put our plans in His hands as we work. We give Him our children as we raise them. We surrender the outcome of our job search as we look. And, when things don’t go as we planned, we do not live as those who have no hope and become cynical and tell themselves, “Don’t dream because you’ll just be disappointed.” No, we remember that God has a plan, and it’s always a good plan, even if it’s not our plan.
 
Our Prayer: Father help us daily to put our trust in you, and to lay all our dreams and expectations at your throne, knowing and trusting that when we take on your plan for our lives you will always do exceedingly and abundantly above all we ask and think and can imagine Amen. 

--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Bringing out the best in others

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10
 
Some people bring out the worst in us. If they are insecure, we can feel insecure. If they expect perfection, we can feel disapproval. If they are demanding, we can feel guilty, even manipulated. But there are those who have the ability to bring out the best in us. If we are tired they give us energy. If we are discouraged they affirm who we are in Christ. If we forget the awe of God they remind us of His awesomeness. Yes, those who elevate our faith help us rise above our fears and bring out our best. Here are four ways we can help bring out the best in someone else:
 
Strengthen Strengths
When we strengthen others we strengthen ourselves. As disciples we are the body of Christ. So, to support one part of the body brings health to the whole body. For example, a person gifted in exhortation needs encouragement. A merciful person desires compassion. We strengthen another when we treat them how they prefer to be treated. Strengthen their strengths with words and deeds that encourage.
 
Forgive Weaknesses
People regularly disappoint. They show up late to a meeting. They back out of a commitment. They are dishonest. They are not thorough. They overcommit. They are ungrateful. They forget. They are insensitive. So, how will we respond to another’s weaknesses? Forgiveness doesn’t mean we enable bad behavior. We can still kindly discuss character flaws. Love lets go of resentment and offers another chance. We forgive. We allow opportunities to rebuild trust as that is what forgiveness is all about.
 
Serve Selflessly
Service shows we care. When we cook a meal, clear the table or clean the car we free another to engage in something they enjoy. A servant spirit does not wait to be told what to do, instead we look for opportunities to meet a need. We give a gift. We network colleagues. We mow a neighbor’s lawn. We sit with a sick friend. Indeed, the person served feels valued, appreciated, and loved. Service is contagious, as the one being served desires to pass on the blessing to others.
 
Pray for The Heart
When a person knows we pray for them, they know we love them from the heart. We pray for their heart to be joyful in the hope they see in Jesus. We pray for their heart to be guarded by the peace of God found in Christ. We pray for their heart to understand and experience the riches of God’s grace, mercy, and love. We pray for their heart to be led by the Holy Spirit. Heartfelt prayer for other hearts brings out their best. 

Our prayer:  Lord help me to be an encourager by admonishing others in their strengths, forgiving others for their weaknesses as you have done for me so many times, give me a heart and eye to serve others and my community and give me a heart to pray for others continually amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Our Refuge

Blessed are all who take refuge in Him. Psalm 2:12
 
Outside of Christ we are refugees in need of a refuge. Our soul seeks asylum in God. Our spirit is on a search for security and peace. Our deepest innermost desire is refuge in God. Otherwise we wander around earth un-tethered to truth. We need a secure place and Jesus is our sanctuary.
 
Even if our faith is as slender as a spider’s thread we can still trust in Jesus. It is the object of our faith that matters more than the amount of our faith. His refuge is not just reserved for the robust of faith but is especially available to those of us flailing away in faithless fear. We have lost our way and we need a wise weigh station to ferret out our faith. It is in refuge with Him that we are blessed with clarity. 
 
He is our refuge when hope seems extinct. He is our refuge when financial requirements are ravishing our resources. He is our refuge when people we depend on are nowhere to be found. He is our refuge when health issues hound our heart. He is our refuge when fear knocks at the door to bully our courage. He is our refuge when our marriage hangs in the balance. He is our refuge when work pressures pulsate in our mind awakening us at night. He is our refuge when all seems to be going wrong. He is our refuge when all seems to be going right. God is our refuge.
 
We are blessed when we find refuge with our Creator. The Lord aids us with wisdom and understanding when we take the time to listen to His instruction. Our prayer over His Word provides illuminating insight. This place of refuge holds up truth and casts out lies. Stability is another blessing from resting in His refuge. Our world rocks around us. But we have a rock in our Lord. 
 
Our prayer:  Thank you Lord that you are a refuge that provides strength, peace, encouragement, healing, shelter, and comfort for our souls Amen. 

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Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, October 20, 2015

He reigns

God reigns over the nations; God is seated on his holy throne. Psalm 47:8
 
God reigns over the entire earth. He is not just the God of the east or the God of the west. He is the God of the north, south, east and west. The arm of the Lord reigns over everyone. The sun never sets on the omnipresent shadow of our Lord. He is the greatest in power, high and lofty in dominion, and extremely eminent in wisdom. He reigns in war and in peace. He reigns in crisis and in calm. He reigns in economic catastrophe and in economic prosperity.  He reigns over evil and good. He reigns over nations and over individuals. 
 
He reigns from His holy throne. His is not a throne soiled with corruption and self-serving. His throne is full of grace, mercy, peace, love and truth. His throne is marked and defined by holiness. It is a throne that has never been stained with sin, corrupted by cover-up or defiled by injustice. God is seated on His holy throne. He never sits dismayed or in a dilemma, and nothing ever takes Him by surprise. God does not wring His hands in worry. He sits in serenity, for He knows His own power and sees that His purposes will not miscarry. He sits on a throne where He dispenses truth and wisdom. Therefore, approach His holy throne boldly but reverently.
 
He reigns over the human heart. It is here that we can submit to the Lord’s authority. We are wise to jettison the latter. It is in submission to our reigning King that we come to know His will for our lives. Obedience leads to opportunity. Because our God reigns, He can be trusted. His rules are for our good pleasure. His rules are inviting when we are in right relationship with our reigning King. It is when we resist Him that we foolishly push back from His gracious guidelines. Therefore, love Him and you will love to follow His statutes. He reigns in love and holiness. It is easy to follow an unconditional lover. He reigns lovingly.
 
Therefore, we have reason to celebrate Christ’s reign. His kingship brings praise and worship to our lips. Our Lord reigns. We have no real reason to worry or stress out because He reigns. We can put the kibosh on our complaining and murmuring because He reigns. We can rest in a peaceful sleep at night, not tossing and turning in distrust, because He reigns. We can let go of control and not be controlled because He reigns. We can give Him our grief, sorrow, and sin because He reigns.
 
He reigns for the purpose of His glory and His glory alone. It is all about Him and His eternal aspirations. He reigns for righteousness’ sake. He reigns for the sake of the gospel. Live like He reigns. Live free and by faith. Tell all whom you have earned the right to tell He reigns. Validate your words with your life of faith and faithfulness. He reigns. He reigns now and for evermore.
Our prayer:  Father God we give praise to you because you reign.  Help us to continually submit ourselves to your loving reign, and declare continually the goodness of our King Amen.
--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Monday, October 19, 2015

Learning Leaders

Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call understanding your kinsman. Proverbs 7:4
 
Leaders are learners, but when they stop learning they cease to lead wisely. Education is an enlightenment for leaders who think ahead and are engaged in effective management and stewardship. If a leader does not assess the facts of a situation and operate in reality, he loses any advantage he might possess. 
 
A leader continually asks questions like the following: “How can we better understand what the customer wants and needs?” “How can I get out of the way as the leader, supporting the team to be successful?” “How can our organization go from good to great by integrating and sustaining industry-best practices?” Leaders who learn ask the right questions, get the most accurate answers, and are able to make the wisest decisions.
 
Furthermore, leaders learn by listening to the Lord and to the wisdom found in His Word. Indeed, it is not a one-time educational event but the ongoing purging of pride, pretense, and prayerlessness. Wisdom becomes a beloved sister to whom you go for counsel. Humility grows into a trusted friend with whom you can confide. The Holy Bible is your defense and armor against the assault of unwise thinking.
 
Therefore read, study, and apply the Word of God regularly to your life. Read books that highlight bright examples of leaders worth emulating. Learn by listening to teachers who communicate truth with clarity and conviction. Learn from your mistakes, and do not repeat them. Learn forgiveness from your family, service from your friends, and love from your enemies.

Our prayer:  Father help me to grow in my discipleship of being a life long learner, and to embrace all the lessons you have for me this day to grow me and cause me to be effective in my leadership amen.
--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, October 13, 2015

Vision becoming reality

So God said to Noah, “I am going to put an end to all people, for the earth is filled with violence because of them. I am surely going to destroy both them and the earth. So make yourself an ark… Noah did everything just as God commanded him. Genesis 6:13-14, 22
 
It takes time for a vision to become a reality. God had a fresh vision for His people. Disturbed by their violent and disobedient behavior, the Lord drafted Noah to be the project manager over a new idea yet to be experienced by humanity. It was a God-sized vision that took two generations to fulfill. Noah was already a righteous man who walked with the Lord. He had been faithful with the everyday matters of life, so now he was called to build a safe haven for his family to persevere through God’s coming judgment. The reality of a vision is built over time by faithful disciples. Faith works and walks with God.
 
The vision of a mature marriage is defined at the wedding, but is built over years of serving, forgiving and loving. The vision of having a child starts at conception, but is built over decades of parenting. The vision of a work culture that is relational, respectful and profitable starts with energy and enthusiasm, but is built one engaged employee at a time. The vision of a church that loves and obeys Christ grows into a grace filled reality by Bible teaching, worship, prayer, service and missions. Vision is what can be. Reality is what is. Keep building a life for God.
 
Vision is hard. If we quit in fear or fatigue we may miss out on the fruit of faithfulness. Obstacles will come and the vision may morph into a different outcome. Regardless, stay in the process: trust and obey. Better to thoroughly build one thing than bounce around ending with only fragments of incomplete work. In one sense the work is never done. In another sense our work will be done. Remain faithful in the ordinary so you are qualified for the extraordinary. Stay the course in your faith, family and career. What you build with and for the Lord will outlast you.

Our prayer:  Father help us to be faithful to the vision you have given us Amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Friday, October 9, 2015

Salt & Light

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. John 3:17
 
We live in interesting times. A quick look at the news headlines from recent days and weeks reveals the speed and intensity with which the world is changing or has already changed. At times, these changes may bring with them great social advances or developments. Yet they can also bring confusion, frustration, and anxiety.
 
As disciples, how are we meant to respond and engage the world around us?
 
When we look at the life of Christ we see our Lord enter into a world that was at times hostile towards Him. We see a world that had turned away from God’s original design and rejected His plan for them and the whole of creation (See Genesis 1:26-27). Jesus didn’t come to the world because it was flourishing and simply needed his divine affirmation. No, He came into a world that was sick and in need of His healing. When He came, and walked and served among us, He didn’t come with hatred or disdain, but with compassion and love.
 
If we are to live out our Lord’s word to be salt and light (see Matthew 5:14-16), it is vital that we have his same heart of love for the world around us. We must remember that it was in our brokenness, when we were the most unlovable, that God showed His great love for us. We must remember that our Lord Jesus was accused of being “a friend of tax collectors and sinners” (See Matthew 11:19). Do our lives reflect the heart of our Savior for the lost that someone might make the same accusation of us?
 
When we see our culture departing from moral and ethical truths, there is a temptation to fight and dig in our heels. Yet we can get so caught up in fighting and defending the faith that we lose sight of our primary call as disciples: to love as Christ loved us (See Ephesians 5:2).  Jesus never shied away from calling people to repent (reconsider their way in light of the Gospel) and embrace the transformative grace of God, yet His invitation was always preceded by hospitality and love.
 
Jesus came not to condemn but to love the world, and for those of us who follow him, we must pray for the strength, grace, and courage to go and do likewise.

Our Prayer:  Father give us a heart like yours to serve others with humble compassion, hospitality, and love.  By the power of your Spirit provide us with the power to make changes in our lives, homes, friendships, and work places as we love others as you have loved us Amen.
--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Faith on Trial

These [trials] have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory, and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 1 Peter 1:7

Faith comes by the grace of God, and trials prove its authenticity. Fire exposes faith forgeries. So is your current challenge a test in faithfulness? It may be hard to hold your head up in faith because of the difficulties we are experiencing. It seems sometimes as if our Savior is on sabbatical, but we still must seek Him.  Fill in the blanks by faith, and love Him even though you cannot feel Him or trace His activity in the present moment. It is faith that facilitates fervent love for the Lord, so continue to believe in Him even though we are unable to see Him.

Furthermore, our faith under fire inherits inexpressible joy through prayer. That seems strange to the uninformed. People may become curious about or a little perturbed by the persistent peace and assurance that travels within the depths of soul that maintains and deepens its connection in the midst of the storms and trials of life. But you know you are saved by the grace of God, for this is your foundation of all things pertaining to God and His kingdom.

Because you have entrusted Him with eternity, you can trust Him with this present trial. Because you trust Him with your soul, you can trust Him with this situation. Do not fret that your faith is under fire and on trial, for this affliction is meant to stoke the fires of your affection for Christ. Turn the tables on trouble by diving deeper into your devotion. It takes trouble to tear off encumbrances to your eternal perspective. Lukewarm living tends to create cataracts in your spiritual eyes.

When you start out as a new disciple, your faith is fresh but you have infantile intimacy. You discover that growth in your faith (like all relationships) comes from resistance. Sometimes life pushes back with pressure and prickly circumstances. When Christ comes into your conflict, your faith increases. Your faith is the most valuable asset you own. Your money may move you closer or further away from faith but it cannot acquire it. Jesus purchased your salvation on the cross. Therefore, the currency that Christ accepts is faith. Yes, give generously to good works, but do not depend on your benevolent acts as a surrogate for belief. 

Your faith either diminishes or compounds in worth. Allow your current crisis of belief to increase your faith. As it grows in your mind and heart, its value increases. If your only faith experience is your salvation, then your faith is stunted. Stunted and immature faith is no match for the inconvenience and injustice of this world. God wants to grow your faith. His revelation is most compelling under pressure.

Therefore, see these tough times as a transition into deeper spiritual maturation, discipleship, and faith. Genuine and expanding faith can be the fruit of fiery trials. Moreover, your strong and authentic faith will be a springboard of comfort to others. Effective ministry is one incredible outcome of adversity. But genuine faith is God’s ultimate goal. Genuineness is like gold. It’s valuable, compelling, inviting, and everlasting. Above all else, it glorifies God.
 
Our prayer:  Father thank you for the trials and tribulations of life that are being used for the trying and developing of my faith.  Supply me with good cheer as I go through, that when I come out of these light afflictions which are but for a moment will produce in me a faith that is pure like Gold.  Amen. 


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Shaken yet secure

When I felt secure, I said, "I will never be shaken." O LORD, when you favored me, you made my mountain stand firm; but when you hid your face, I was dismayed. Psalm 30:6
 
Security rests in our Savior Jesus Christ not our stuff. Stuff comes and stuff goes it’s unreliable. But when Christ comes to dwell in our hearts He remains forever. Because He is secure we are secure. But we must beware lest we believe security resides anywhere other than with the Lord. Our security is not based on feelings, but faith. If our security depends on feeling secure we will be shaken by circumstances. But if our security rests on faith in Christ, no situation can shake us, as Christ will provide us with peace for every storm, trial, and tribulation. 
 
If our confidence is based on pleasant circumstances our security is at risk. Our life becomes a roller coaster of reactionary responses. If we feel good we are secure. If we feel bad we are insecure. If people like us we are secure. If they do not like us we are insecure. If we have money we are secure. If we lack money we are insecure. If we are healthy we are secure. If we are unhealthy we are insecure. We eventually grow weary and wither under the whiplash of insecure living and thinking.
 
Moreover, do not place your security in success or failure. The fumes of success can smother your faith as fast as failure can extinguish your hope. It is the security we find in Jesus that never changes. He is our rock and our refuge (see Psalm 62). He never moves. He is not shaken. Critics could not rattle Christ with their mockery and viciousness. Indeed suffering displayed His secure, peaceful, and pure behavior. Resurrection hope warmed His heart with calm assurance and peace.
 
When left to our own efforts, we are anxious people. Anytime the self seeks assurance outside of Christ it becomes uncertain and restless. The search for security results in insecurity when we marginalize our Lord. Relationships come and go, but our relationship with Jesus is to remain intact forever. Doubt arises when we add anything to our faith in Christ. Therefore, develop your fidelity of faith. You are secure because your security rests on the eternal. Shun earthly securities and embrace heaven’s. Faith in Jesus needs no outside help. By God’s grace and love the faithful are secure even when shaken.
 
Our prayer:  Father God you are our security and peace.  When the trials and tribulations of life seem to overtake us, Father give us the strength through your Spirit to deepen our connection in you and find peace by keeping our mind stayed on you Amen.


--
 
Pastor Todd A. Brown
First Baptist of Chesterbrook
1740 Kirby Rd.  Mclean Va. 22101
10am every Sunday
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"
Mission: Exalting, Evangelizing, Equipping, and Encouraging every soul in Christ
Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown
Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.fbcc-va.org