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.

--

 

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.

--

 

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

Evil for evil anyone? I don't think so

David had just said, “It’s been useless—all my watching over this fellow’s property in the desert so that nothing of his was missing. He has paid me back evil for good.” 1 Samuel 25:21

Sometimes, we receive the opposite of what we expect, as our good deeds can encounter an evil response. Some of those we have served seem to have forgotten our faithfulness, and gratitude has faded from their memory. They forgot the fantastic fruit from our labors, and it has become all about what might inconvenience them. You were there for them at their point of need but now in your need, they reject your request. It seems like a cruel joke. How could they forget your loyalty and the investment of some of the best days of your life? Yet, this export of evil is just what you are experiencing. There is a relational trade imbalance, as you are the brunt of an evil inequity.

So what do you do when you are repaid evil for good? What is your response? Our flesh screams foul and our anger wants to attack. How could someone show their appreciation for our good will with apathy and disassociation? We want to instantly repay their ingratitude by inflicting some type of loss or pain. How you respond in this moment of deep disappointment will reveal your true character. Anyone can act like a Christian as long as everything is going his way. It is easy to be nice when everyone else is nice. However, when supposedly mature leaders let us down, and even respond to our requests with hostility, what we do next defines our true self. This is a test of our dependence on God.
   
When evil intent is injected into a relationship, we must resist firing back with equally evil actions. We cannot lower ourselves to this kind of schoolyard revenge. The question is not, “What is the right thing for them to do?” The question is, “What is the right thing for me to do?” You can reverse the force of the verbal jabs by returning good for evil. When you choose not to fight false accusations by accosting your accusers, you repay good for evil. You trust the truth will come out at the right time, in the right way. When you choose to forgive the malicious actions of insecure and mean men, you repay good for evil. When you pray for ungrateful souls to see God, you repay good for evil.
    
Above all else, anchor your hope for justice to be done by the Lord. The Lord can take care of the business of dealing with evil people and their actions. Wait on the Lord to settle matters as He sees fit, especially if you have the power to crush someone. Trust Christ to take them down in His timing. Your window of reprieve is their opportunity to repent, so be patient. You would want this same grace extended to you. Evildoers may never change, but they might. It is a heart issue between them and God. In the meantime, when you encounter evil, repay it with good and then trust God. The goodness of God trumps evil, for evil is no match for good.
   
The Bible says, “If a man pays back evil for good, evil will never leave his house”
(Proverbs 17:13).

Come worship with us and Shiloh Baptist church this Wednesday at 7pm for our Christmas prayer and praise celebration at First Baptist Chesterbrook 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.
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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

Those with Some

Anyone who has two shirts should share with the one who has none, and anyone who has food should do the same. Luke 3:10

Those with none need those with some and those with some need to be generous with those with none. Our love for the Lord does not let us sit still when another needy soul is without. We pray for a need to be met, but we also offer our stuff in answer to our prayers. Like a holy offering to God we place our stuff on His altar of compassion. Christ can entrust more to those who hold an open hand. Our life is a canal for cargo ships of care to carry our stuff to others.

Instead of complaining of a single parent’s unkept yard, consider its anonymous care. Invest in a monthly bus or train ticket for a friend who needs transportation to look for a job. Take the children of a family out of work to buy school clothes and supplies. Create work around your house or at your work that gives others opportunity to work. Look up your local food bank and become a volunteer and/or contributor. Share your extra stuff with those in need in Jesus' name.

Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter,when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Isaiah 58:7

Helping hands are heaven’s call for those who have extra. How can we enjoy self indulgence and ignore one who has none? Thus, we pray for a couple we can give gift certificates to, so they can have their needs met. Those with none need our extra some.

Lastly, look to the Lord for who to help and how much to help. The Holy Spirit will lead you and your family in the creative care process. You could match every dollar a person invests to pay down their debt. Use your small investment in another to leverage a large feeling of being loved. A little bit of encouragement may be all another needs  not to give up and keep going for God. Jesus gave His all, so we could be forgiven of all. Those with none need those with some.

Come worship with us this Wednesday at 7pm for our Christmas prayer and praise Celebration at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.  Fellowship and refreshements afterwards.

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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

But God

We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. Acts 10:39-40

Jesus died on a cross, but God raised Him from the dead. Hope seemed to be extinguished, but God kept hope alive in a blaze of resurrected glory. Christ’s disciples deserted Him at His most critical time of need, but God reconvened them at Pentecost in the power of the Spirit. Peter was arrested and put into prison for preaching the gospel, but God answered the prayers of His people and Peter was set free. All can look dire, but God’s grace lifts us up out of our mire.

What are you facing that needs God’s tender care and encouragement? Has your vision died and is a candidate for the Lord’s resurrection? Perhaps your patience is challenged over an opportunity, but God wants you to learn to wait on Him. Maybe a child continues to follow hard after the way of the world, but God is calling you to unconditional love and compassionate prayer. You may feel out of control, but God has all things under His control.

In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:11-12

Praise the Lord there is the conjunction ‘but,’ after your serious situation. You are single and feel alone, but Christ is there for you and He has just the right person to uniquely love you. His plan is perfect, so you wait on Him, discern His best and remain faithful in the inbetween time. You may feel the need to lower your standards, but God will bless you for holding high His expectations. Persevere through the pain of rejection. Christ’s acceptance will see you through.

Our physical facilities fail us at times, but Almighty God’s strength is consistent and forever. Our faith can feel fragile in the face of unrelenting fear, but the faith of our God is a bridge of belief for us to trust. Man punctuates uncertainty with a ‘period’ of doubt, but Christ adds a ‘comma’ followed by encouragement. The Lord is writing your story, so let Him hold the pen. We all have a sentence of death, but God will raise us to be with Him. His power always prevails.

 

Come worship with us Sunday (10:45am) and this Wednesday (7pm) December 18th for our Prayer and Praise celebration with Shiloh Baptist Church of McLean at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. 


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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

Use your gift

I wish that all of you were as I am.But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 1 Corinthians 7:7

Our generous Lord uniquely gifts His children for His glory. It may be the gift of service, encouragement, teaching, mercy or administration. Regardless of one’s role, all gifts are necessary in the Body of Christ. One may quietly serve as a intercessor behind the scenes, while another may boldly proclaim truth through the preached/taught word in front of the faithful. Yes, the Lord specially equips individuals for His good works. God’s gifting is His distinctive stamp of value on each one of us.

What do you do well? How can you discover your sweet spot of service for your Savior Jesus? One way is to develop abilities that come natural for you and engage in activities that energize you. The Spirit wires you in a way that brings both of you pleasure when you exercise your gift. For example, a generous giver finds great joy in giving and an evangelist is ecstatic when they share the gospel. An administrator is not content until everyone and everything is in its place.

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10

You may be an analytical thinker who loves crunching numbers, managing data and interpreting trends from both. Your gift of linear deduction is critical for business, finance and engineering. Perhaps you are great with people. People love your company, because they sense you know, understand and care for them. Thus, your ability to network, convene and lead others is valuable for accomplishing a big vision or executing a strategic initiative. Yes, steward well God’s gift.

Moreover, seek to marry your passion with your giftedness. For instance, if you love to see someone encouraged, use your gift of writing to convey God’s love to their hungry heart. If you love children, use your ability to nurture and train, as a conduit for Christ’s truth. If you love sports, use your teaching gift to lead athletes in Bible study. If you love travel, use your aptitude for business to help entrepreneurs here and abroad. Be who God has uniquely gifted you to be and fulfill your purpose.

 

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am) fellowship breakfast every 2nd and 4th Sunday, Tuesday (11am), Wednesday (7pm), and every 3rd 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.

--

 

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

Teachable

“Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying God is one and there is no other but him.”   When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him,
“You are not far from the Kingdom of God…”    Mark 12:32, 34a

Jesus affirms a teachable heart, for He knows it has potential to learn and understand the things of God. Thus, a teachable heart is positioned to receive truth, and has an attitude with more questions than answers.
   
However, a teachable heart does recognize truth when it comes knocking. It invites truth in to be examined, understood, and applied. Truth invigorates the teachable heart, and there is a rush of spiritual adrenaline when it intersects with an open mind and heart. Pride plateaus in its learning, but a teachable heart continues to scale the mountain of truth. Thus, when God discovers someone who is teachable, He calls him wise. Wisdom comes from God; therefore, a teachable heart learns the ways of God.  God is not offended by being teachable, though there is a tension that arises when truth begins to facilitate changes in behavior and attitude. This change of heart seems somewhat innocuous from the outside looking in, but most of us do not like to be told what to do.
   
Change doesn’t come easily, even as you understand that God has your best interests in mind. But the transformation is telling. Your character and behavior fall more in line with Jesus' and your friends, loved ones, and associates notice something different; your patience, rather than your intimidation, becomes dominant; your bad beliefs are replaced with good ones; so let your teachable heart start first with God.
    
God is one. He is not many gods, but one God. He is not a mini-god, but the great and glorious living and true God. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are all one God. His oneness is to be worshipped and celebrated. Thus, our love relationship with the one true God is not to be rivaled by any other gods. Any acceptance of other gods is unacceptable to God. He is jealous for you. Our love for anyone or anything will pale in relation to our love for Christ.
   
To love God is to make room for God in all aspects of your life. You love Him when you love others, when you give sacrificially, when you strive for excellence in your work, and when you pray for and forgive others. Love is action; therefore, love Him and allow Him to love you.
   
Let His expectations mold yours, because what God thinks trumps any other thinking. The Holy Spirit within you has the answers to the questions that consume your thinking. Follow His internal promptings, not the external clamor. What you believed yesterday will be dwarfed by what you learn tomorrow. Know God, love God, and learn of Him. He affirms a teachable heart as one who fears the Lord.  As the word of the Lord declares, “Assemble the people—men, women, and children, and the aliens living in your towns—so they can listen and learn to fear the LORD your God and follow carefully all the words of this law” (Deuteronomy 31:12). Stay teachable in your understanding of God.

Come worship with us Sunday (10:45am) breakfast served every 2nd and 4th Sunday, Tuesday (11am), Wednesday (7pm) and every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.

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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.

Inadvertant Sin

“If the entire Israelite community sins by violating one of the Lord’s commands, but the people do not realize it, they are still guilty.” Leviticus 4:13

Unintentional sin still has very real consequences. For example, I can forget to report extra income to the Internal Revenue service, but I still owe the taxes and interest on the overdue obligation. Or, I can make a flippant remark to my spouse or children as a weak attempt at humor  not realizing how badly I hurt their feelings. My good intentions mean well, however the consequences of sinful actions still need genuine forgiveness.

It’s not enough to say, “I didn’t mean to”, or “That’s not what I meant”. Inadvertent actions that bruise relationships, question our integrity, or violate the Lord’s commands require a response of confession and repentance. It’s woefully inadequate to blame memory loss or ignorance on behavior that assumes things are ok when sin is present.

“In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent” (Acts 17:30).

This is especially true with children for they need behavioral boundaries. Parental love defines and enforces limitations with their little ones (soon to be big ones!). Children need to understand in their formative years that respect, honesty and obedience are rewarded but disrespect, dishonesty and disobedience are punished. Grace gives good guidelines.

Perhaps with your older children you draw up a one page “contract” that clearly defines appropriate attitudes and actions. Access to their cell phone and car can be contingent on carrying out the commitments outlined in the agreement. Other family members can witness what’s written down with their supportive signature and prayers. Indeed, intentional actions that create clarity and accountability impede unintentional sinning.

“Fathers, do not irritate and provoke your children to anger [do not exasperate them to resentment], but rear them [tenderly] in the training and discipline and the counsel and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4, Amplified Bible).

Furthermore, what intentional guidelines do you have in place to preclude unintentional sin in your life? Educating yourself in the ways of God is fundamental, as defined in His word. Spend time listening to the Lord and to friends who hold you accountable with caring questions like, “Is your company compliant with government regulations?”  “Are your motivations in alignment with God’s agenda? Be intentional to be right

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am) breakfast fellowship every 2nd and 4th Sunday, Tuesday (11am), Wednesday (7pm), every third Friday (7:30pm) at First Baptist Chesterbrook 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

Spirit fueled

So he said to me, ‘This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel.’ Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.” Zechariah 4:6

 

The Holy Spirit is God’s fuel for living. He leads, convicts, comforts and gives courage. On the other hand the world promotes power and might. The world’s approach is forceful: If the door is closed knock it down, if you have the power and authority use it to make things happen.

On the contrary, Spirit led living is about dependence. It is dependence on God rather than any other form of reliance. Money, might, and power are cheap imitations of God dependence. These temporal fortresses are fleeting. When all is said and done, they are undependable. Money, control and your title can be here today and gone tomorrow.

But the Spirit of God wants you to grow in His awareness and follow His lead. Like a hurricane that gains strength as time passes, so does God’s Spirit. You cannot accomplish His best without the leadership and empowerment of the Holy Spirit. He may even lead you to places of discomfort as His desire is to place you in positions of dependence.

The Holy Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted by Satan, but the Word of God became Christ’s defense. He deflected the darts of the devil with the truth of God. It was an exercise of faith and obedience that drew Him closer to His heavenly Father. Instead of driving Him from God, it drew Him to God. The Holy Spirit’s goal is to get us to God.

“Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him” (Matthew 4:10-11).

Submission to God revives the Spirit of God. Come under the authority of God and you have a source of strength that is limitless and energizing. God’s Spirit also produces fruit and creates character. This is another benefit of Spirit led living. It is not about techniques and tactics. It is first and foremost about the character of Christ transforming your life.

Power explodes from within your heart rather than exploiting others with threats. There is quiet confidence that comes from a deep abiding in Christ. Spirit led individuals pray more than they worry. Anxiety is replaced with abiding. We must do our part and trust God to do His part.

Spirit led living is all about engrafting the Word of God into your life. The Holy Spirit ignites the fuel of God’s Word into a blaze of obedience. This is the power that changes lives and communities for the greater good of God. This exhibition of power may only make the headlines of heaven. Wait on God, Be Spirit led, Watch His power prevail.

“The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life” (John 6:63).

Come worship with us Sundays (10:45am), Tuesdays (11am), Wednesdays (7pm), and every third Friday (7:30pm) at 1740 Kirby rd. McLean Va. First Baptist Chesterbrook.  Also tune in 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

Bond Servant

“The Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, with gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:24-25, NASB

We are all a servant to something, either a servant to the light or a servant to the darkness. Satan is served or the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is served, there is no middle ground. The wise and humble servant serves the Lord with a grateful heart. It is much better to be bound by the grace of God than enslaved by the lies of the devil.

“I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me” (Acts 26:17b-18).

What does it mean to be a bond-servant of Christ? It means owned by God. The lost stand on the slave block of sin waiting to be auctioned to the highest bidder. Halleluiah that heaven came down at the cross of Christ and purchased through His blood all who would believe. Purchase denotes possession, He is Lord of all or not Lord at all.

Therefore, we no longer live in bondage to bad habits and bad beliefs. A bond-servant of Jesus is set free to humble service on behalf of his owner/Lord. We are not ashamed, because representing God in righteous living is the least we can do as an expression of our gratitude and joy. We empty ourselves and are filled with God’s grace. It’s His agenda, so we listen patiently waiting to hear instructions from Jesus on what to do next.

“But emptied Himself [Jesus], taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:7-8, NASB).

True bond-servants invite being treated like a servant, as it models the way of Jesus. You volunteer for roles that require humble service, so you are not tempted to perch over others in pride. What responsibilities are you resisting that require being seen as a servant? Does it mean someone else will get the credit? Are you serving for an audience of One or to be seen by men? So, serve faithfully behind the scenes for your Savior’s sake. You are in good company, all respected saints saw themselves as bond-servants.

 

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