Free like the wind

The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. John 3:8

The Spirit of God brings freedom to everyone born of the Spirit. Just as the wind is free to blow in any direction, so we are free to follow the Spirit’s leading. The Spirit calls us to prayerfully persist against culture’s prevailing winds. Similar to a sailboat on choppy seas, we ride out the rough waters with the wind of God at our backs. We have freedom to do the right thing, because the Spirit empowers our actions. So, we listen for the Lord’s leading and join with Him.

Sometimes the wind of the Spirit blows with the roar of religious revival; other times it barely brushes over our brow in peaceful assurance. Thus, as we remain under the Spirit’s influence, we are free to experience His effects. It’s not doing as we like, but doing what the Lord likes. He likes for us to love, so we love. He likes for us to serve, so we serve. He likes for us to forgive, so we forgive. He likes for us to laugh, so we laugh. Spiritual freedom likes what God likes.
 
Are you free in your faith or bound up in unbelief? Do you feel the freedom to follow the Spirit’s leading, or are you limited by the expectations of others? By faith, you can break out of your shell of fear and follow the Holy Spirit’s leading in your life. Beloved eliminate the tyrant of unbelief with the sword of the Spirit and enlist in the Lord’s army of the faithful. Pray in your heart, “Where- ever He leads, I will follow.” You have been set free from above, so you can live free in Christ.

Spiritual freedom is a benefit of belief in Jesus, so we seek to steward it responsibly. It is not a pass for poor decision-making, but permission to pursue wise opportunities. We use our spiritual freedom to shun self-indulgence and invest in the needs of others. Yes, by God’s grace, we set up spiritual halfway houses outside the prison gates of hell, so we can love and instruct those who exit eternal damnation. People recently set free need to know how to responsibility use their new freedom. We are freedom fighters in the faith. Spiritual freedom is God’s gift of the Spirit.

Come worship with us Saturdays at 6:30pm or Sundays at 10am.

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

Worship with us Saturdays 6:30pm (come as you are), or Sundays at 10am.
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

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.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Curiosity is a good thing

He [Nicodemus] came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. John 3:2

Some start their quest for Christ discreetly. Quietly they read a book about God or seek Him in the confines of a church. It is a low key search for the Lord. Those who are just curious about Christ are not ready to follow Him in faith, but they are open to learning more about Him. For fear of being made fun of by their unbelieving friends, they may hide their faith seeking. Nonetheless, like a moth moves toward light, they draw closer to God.

Nicodemus was curious about Christ. He came to see Jesus by night for fear of being found out by his friends. Like many today, he acknowledged that Jesus was a gifted teacher from God, but did not accept Him as God. Yes, our Lord taught as no one else: with authority, clarity and humility. He taught beautifully and boldly. However, His teaching was not an end, but a means to reveal a person’s need to believe in Him, as their Lord and Savior. Christ taught to trust in Him.

Are you just curious about Christ, or do you really know Him in a trusting relationship? Do you secretly seek Him or do you publicly profess Him? Curiosity about Christ is not enough, unless it leads to conversion and commitment to Christ. Curiosity can create a circumstance that educates and allows the Spirit to draw a heart to Himself. So, seek to learn more of the Lord, so you can know the Lord. It’s not a sterile intellectual exercise that tingles your thoughts, but a spiritual transaction that transforms your heart. Engage in curiosity to move you closer, not further from God.

Furthermore, curiosity can lead to conversion and commitment. Nicodemus eventually went public with his faith. He defended Christ to his peers and he accompanied Joseph to request and prepare the body of Jesus for burial. Thus, be patient with those curious in their faith. Be a catalyst for them to grow in their spiritual understanding by pointing them back to the study of Scripture. Pray with them, pray for them and support them in their search for God. Curiosity about Christ can lead to Christ. 

Come worship with us at First Baptist Chesterbrook Saturdays at 6:30pm or Sundays at 10am.  May the anointing of the Lord rest on you abundantly this day.
--

 

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

Worship with us Saturdays 6:30pm (come as you are), or Sundays at 10am.
Vision:" Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact"

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.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Spiritual Seasons

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.Ecclesiastes 3:1

 

Some start their spiritual quest with a sense of inquiry. Who is God? What is my purpose? Is the Bible true? How do I deal with my guilt and pain? It is a cycle of seeking. We have more questions than answers. We look for answers in the church and within our heart. We question individuals about their faith and we pray for faith. In our seeking the Holy Spirit draws us into a belief in Christ and we are converted. We find Jesus in our search for spiritual answers.

After our life changing and life giving salvavic experience, we share the answers we have discovered with spiritual fervor. We have the solution to life’s greatest questions of sin, sorrow and death. We are able to say with confidence and gratitude,  "Once I was spiritually blind, but now I can see my Savior." This cycle of discovery brings peace to our mind and security to our soul. Since our faith is fresh and intoxicating, we are we wise to balance our zeal with depth.

A third spiritual season expresses doubts and questions. Like John the Baptist in prison we ask, "Is Jesus really the son of God?" We seriously question our salvation, "Did I really believe or only have an emotional experience?" This time of honest evaluation can draw us closer to Christ or cause us to drift away. We are vulnerable to the disappointment of unanswered prayer. A test is meant to grow our trust in Jesus. This phase of uncertainty invites reassurance of God’s reality.

Lastly, by God’s grace we graduate to the spiritual season of healthy questions and answers. The more we mature in the faith, the more we realize the less we know. So, in a spirit of humility we seek to know and understand Jesus in oneness of heart. We inquire of the Lord to clarify how to apply His character to our behavior. We accept 100% the fundamentals of the faith, but we hunger to know the fullness of our Lord’s love. Prayerful questions receive hopeful answers. In what season do you find yourself? Let God move you forward by faith in His loving process.

Let us continue to grow in Christian maturity and love.

If your in the DMV check us out this Saturday at 6:30pm for "Sanctified Saturdays with the Savior" our come as you are hour of power praise and power service.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Salvation

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9, NKJV

 

God desires all to know Christ through repentance, forgiveness, faith, and intimacy. Jesus came the first time to earth as our Savior. After His resurrection, as He ascended back to heaven, He promised to return. Christ will come again as our judge. However, our heavenly Father’s patient mercy delays His son’s return. Jesus waits, so the unredeemed have time to believe and become sons and daughters of the His. God’s will is salvation in Jesus.

Like the door to Noah’s ark eventually closed, so our opportunity to trust Christ is slowly slipping away. The flood waters of judgment will one day drown us in death. Will we be ready? Salvation and safety can only be found in our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. The Lord’s patient love invites us to repent, trust and not perish. Yes, we still have time to warn others of the judgment to come. Some will mock, others will act apathetic, but a few will find refuge in Jesus.

Moreover, the patience of our Lord is the model for us to follow. We are surrounded by a sea of those who need salvation. They are drowning in their sin and sorrow. By offering them the life preserver of faith, hope and love that is found in Jesus we can rescue the perishing. A life preserver is useless unless it is deployed. Therefore, we pray daily how we might bless those we encounter with a buoyant belief in Jesus Christ. Once saved, we help others be saved.

Lastly, regularly receive the Lord’s great love, so you can be a great lover. When you are loved well by Jesus, you can love well for Jesus. Love is patient. Love is kind. Patience and kindness are twins that draw the lost into a loving relationship with Jesus. People away from Christ, have no context for Christ, so be kind. An unsaved soul is an insecure soul, so be patient. We know a better way to salvation than do strangers. God’s will is for those without faith to find faith.

Let us continue to grow in Christian maturity and love.

Come join us Saturdays at 6:30pm for our "Sanctified Saturdays with the Savior" at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. an hour of power.  I look forward to seeing you there.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

 

 

Basic instructions before leaving earth

They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read. Nehemiah 8:8

 

The Lord instructs individuals from His Word the Bible. His gift of an instruction manual for living is necessary to know how to live life purposefully. If we wonder what is the wise thing to do, we look into the pages of Scripture and learn from those who made smart and foolish decisions. Yes, people who already experienced what we have not experienced can show us what to do and what not to do. The Bible is full of practical teachings that demand our attention.

However, it takes our intentionality to be instructed well. The education process in eternal matters engages our heart and mind. So we learn, not to impress with our new found information, but to humbly apply insights for living. We are not just moved by emotion, but we are moved to make Jesus Christ the Lord of our lives. We grow intensely attentive to the Holy Spirit’s work the more we grow in understanding of Scripture. Instruction frees us from ignorant assumptions.

"Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding" (Proverbs 9:9-10).

Moreover, wise are we to learn from those who study and give clear meaning to the inspired written word of the Lord. Seek to sit under those who rightly divide the word of truth. Find those absent of pretense in their presentation and who instruct out of weakness from their own struggles. Clear teaching comes from one who is clear about their own propensity to sin. Yes, those who instruct well in the ways of God, walk in the ways of God. Learn from a humble heart.

We know we are attentive to instruction from God’s Word, if we read and apply Holy Scripture. We gain insight, as we read books that give fresh meaning to ancient writings. We are preceptive when we discuss the life principles we are learning with other honest individuals who help us refine our thinking. Regular attendance at a church that gives practical understanding of the Bible is an indicator of our attentiveness. Most of all, humbly learn from the Spirit’s instruction.

Let us continue to grow in Christian maturity and love

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

When it seems like joy is gone

Joy has gone from our hearts; our dancing has turned to mourning. Lamentations5:15

 

What happens when the joy is gone? It’s not fun anymore. What we are experiencing is not what we signed up for. Indeed, a joyless state is not a good place to stay over a prolonged period of time. It may be that you just lost a loved one suddenly,without warning. You grieve because of your tremendous loss, but their great gain is that they knew Jesus. It is not unusual for joy to rise from the ashes of our grief. Joy does come at dawn after the dark night of the soul. Your heart laments and longs for one more conversation and warm embrace from the dear one departed to heaven. But joy comes when you know they are with Jesus.
   
Jesus and joy go hand in hand. He understands that joy comes from obedience and faithfulness to God’s call. It was for the joy that was set before Him that He endured the cross and despised its shame according to Hebrews 12:2. Consider Christ, along with His model of endurance and obedience, in the middle of opposition and persecution. Do not grow weary and lose heart. The Lord is your lesson in joyfulness. Jesus never forgot the bigger picture of hope for a better tomorrow.  Just the thought of what God has promised us and provided for us in Christ brings a smile to the face of the faithful. Joy is set before us in the person of Jesus Christ, reigning on His throne of grace. It is imperative that we stay fixed on Him. Our faith flees when it loses perspective from the Prince of Peace. Joy is found in Jesus. He wrote the book on experiencing joy in the midst of misery.
   
Joy, at the very least, lies dormant within every disciple of Jesus Christ. Therefore, awaken it from its slumber if you have slid into a joyless state. Look to the Lord for an infusion of His eternal joyfulness. Joyfulness is found in His hopefulness. Do not allow joy killers to rob you of hope and peace. A naysayer will always be around to remind you of his reality. But for the follower of Jesus Christ, a definition of reality without hope is wrong.

Reject joyless jabs from revisionists of a hopeless reality. Instead, seek out companions of Christ set on seeing Him as the joy giver. Jesus gives us joy. Navigate toward His lighthouse of love, and enjoy Jesus. You know His love; this is joy. You know His forgiveness; this is joy. You know His faithfulness; this is joy. You know His mercy; this is joy. Joy is not based on changing circumstances, but on knowing an unchanging Christ. Seek Him in your sad state, and you will not have to search far for joy. When you find Jesus you have found joy. Confusion will try to keep you from Christ, but want of joy motivates you to your Master. Make joy a juggernaut of obedience in your relentless pursuit of Him. Give joy to the world. Giving joy brings joy. Thus, receive Jesus and give Jesus, because He is joy, and the joy of the Lord is our strength.

Let us continue to grow in Christian maturity and love.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Good business

What you are doing is not right. Shouldn’t you walk in the fear of our God... Give back to them immediately their fields, vineyards, olive groves and houses, and also the interest you are charging them. Nehemiah 5:9, 11

 

The best business practices are founded on the fear of the Lord. The Lord God Almighty, not the almighty dollar, is the standard for doing business. Just because the majority support an unseemly brand of commerce, does not give Christ followers permission to do the same. A Christian business leader can be shrewd without being selfish. They can take advantage of an economic opportunity without exploiting individuals. Best business practices are based on generosity, not greed; giving more than consuming.

Nehemiah rebukes the business leaders of his day for monetarily kicking their people while they were down. During the famine crisis those with more took all from those who were starving, in exchange for food. Desperate times expose the desperate to exploitation. However, for those who love Christ it is our opportunity to be Jesus by giving, not taking. A person who has fallen needs a lift up, not a push down. Best business practices help those in need with economic solutions.

If you lend money to one of my people among you who is needy, do not treat it like a business deal; charge no interest. Exodus 22:25

Regardless of the industry, we can exemplify integrity. If ministers, we can model care for the poor. If bankers, we can offer full disclosure in our financial dealings. If manufacturing, we can constantly upgrade the safety conditions of the workplace. If insurance, we can reward policy holders who have an excellent claims history. If a service company, we can exceed the expectations of the customer. If medical, we can offer affordable healthcare. If education, we can maximize technology. In all work sectors we have daily opportunities to employ best practices.

Furthermore, by God’s grace create a culture of generosity in your company. A company known for giving back to the community will be supported by the community. A generous leader is worth following. Much better to be known as a benevolent George Bailey than a crusty old penny pinching Mr. Potter. Most of all look to God who is the ultimate Giver of all things good, beginning with His son Jesus. Best business practices have their genesis in God.

Let us continue to grow in Christian maturity and love.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Handling Ridicule

They mocked and ridiculed us. “What is this you are doing?” they asked. “Are you rebelling against the king?” I answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding. Nehemiah 2:19-20

 

Sometimes servants of God are mocked and ridiculed for their sincere service. Jealous are those who feel like they may lose control and their influence ignored. The cynic does not sit still when their assumptions are challenged. They attack people’s motives and attempt to label their enemies as rebels. Hate demonizes good people and tries to discredit anyone who disagrees with them. Mockers rage when the righteous work without listening to their critic’s complaints.

How should we handle intimidation from jealous schoolmates, co-workers or neighbors? One approach is to see critics as heavenly sandpaper meant to refine our intent into integrity. Like a master wood craftsman meticulously smooths away any rough edges with their tool of the trade, so God’s Spirit uses coarse words to purify our motives. If only 1% of a skeptic’s scorn is accurate, it can scrub our soul, so it shines for our Savior Jesus. Ridicule is proof God’s work is at hand.

Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you.  Proverbs 9:7-8

It is futile to attempt to reason with a mocker. Their mind is made up, unable to change unless Christ does a mental miracle, and heart surgery. Their view of the world is set, so we waste the Lord’s precious time if we try to change their mind. We just invite additional abuse and insults if we argue with our agitators. The harsh reality is some human beings are beyond being convinced for now. Pray for them and avoid harboring anger against them. Forgive and stay focused on Christ’s calling.

Furthermore, remain faithful where the Lord has you. Persevere in prayer at your work. Rebuild, by loving unconditionally, a relationship that once was robust with joy. Rebuild your reputation, by doing what you say. Start over in faith your business or ministry that was ravished by an economic storm. Rebuild where God is working. He will bring you success. Ignore the noise of loud mockers and persuasive ridiculers.

Come worship with me at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. First Baptist Chesterbrook.  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for "Life Notes" and "Kingdom Impact" Monday through friday at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm.  Let us continue to grow in Christian maturity.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

practice makes perfect

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.”  Matthew 7:24

 

The purpose of learning truth is so that it can be used. Unused truth expires and becomes stale. When we hear truth and put it into practice, we are wise. When we hear truth and ignore its application, we are foolish. Foolish is the man who acknowledges truth outwardly but never applies it inwardly. His foundation for faithfulness is fragile, so when the winds of adversity swirl and blow, his character collapses under the crushing power.

Someone may show up for Bible study or attend a  retreat, conference, or worship service and hear truth but never change for the better. How can this be? This happens when people do not follow through with what they know to be right and true. There is a disconnect between their head and their heart. The discipline to stop bad habits and start new ones is rationalized away with convincing excuses. We deceive ourselves by saying, “I don’t have enough time,” “I am not spiritual enough,” “I will get around to this one day,” or “God will understand if I wait.”

John described self-deception’s affect on truth: “We deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” see 1 John 1.  Truth and deception can never coexist. So, jettison deception and apply truth now. If we wait, we will wander from its application. Right now is the wisest time to receive His gift of grace and to engraft it into our life. We are responsible for the truth we have received. Therefore, steward it wisely. Use it before you lose it, and become a practitioner of truth.

Come worship with us at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. Sundays at 10:45am, and starting May 3rd Saturdays at 6:30pm.  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com for "Life Notes"  and "Kingdom Impact" with Pastor Brown.  Let's do all we can to grow in Christ.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

When God is silent

“When Saul saw the Philistine army, he was afraid; terror filled his heart. He inquired of the Lord, but the Lord did not answer him” (1 Samuel 28:5–6)

Sometimes God is silent. He is silent in our prayers. He is silent in our circumstances. He is silent in our relationships, and He is silent in His Word. His silence can be deafening because it seems that His silence is ill timed, and can cause us to think we have done something wrong. In most cases, His silence revolves around a real need you are experiencing. You may feel that God is disinterested or that He does not care. The silence of God can be an overwhelming place to occupy and still trust Him.

Your predicament could be like a heavy bar bell on your chest with no spotter available to assist you. You feel all alone and unable to fix the problem or correct the issue. You do not even know where to start. You are in despair, at the tipping point of depression. Anger has clouded your reason, and heaven seems indifferent to your hurt.

Or, on the other hand, you are “suffering” from success and prosperity; yet God feels distant and disconnected. You have honored Him in the process, but He has not seemed to honor you with His affirming presence. What is going on?  What is God up to? What does He want you to do next for the good of His kingdom?

Indeed, God’s silence is your opportunity to remain faithful, even when you are unsure of His intentions for your life. He is God and we are not; therefore, we do not have to pressure ourselves to figure out everything that is going on. Managing the big picture is in His job description, not yours; so rest in His silence. Refuse to become restless, resentful, or rebellious. But still you ask, “Why the silence?”

There may be two possible reasons for God’s silence, sin or sanctification; or it may be a combination of both. When God withholds His blessing and direction for your life, it may be the direct consequence of sin in our life. This is why regular confession and repentance of sin are critical for us. This is like breathing for your soul. Sin is like cotton in the ears of our heart; thus, God’s voice becomes muffled, unclear, and eventually silent. Your removal of sin clears the wax from the ears of your heart.

God’s silence may be used for your sanctification. He is in the process of making you more and more like Christ. This is not always fun, though it is needed to learn God’s ways and His purpose for your life. Even if He is silent, do what you know is right today, and trust Him with the next step for tomorrow. Do not let silence overwhelm you; rather, use it as a springboard to trust God’s faithfulness.

Tune into www.wbgronline.com for inspiration and encouragement.  You can tune into "Life Notes" Mon-Fri at Noon, or "Kingdom Impact" Sundays at 9am or Wednesdays at 9pm.  "We Believe in God radio.  Let us continue to grow in maturity in Christ.
--

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Bond of Love

Lord, the God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love with those who love him and keep his commandments. Nehemiah 1:5

 

Just as the Lord God made a covenant of love with His chosen people Israel, He covenants in love with His church the Bride of Christ. We are united with Christ in the bonds of love forever. Yes, those who fall in love with Jesus stand at the altar of trust and vow to remain faithful until death brings them into eternal oneness with the Lord. Our faith is evidence of our genuine love and commitment to God. His covenant of love compels us to be loved and to love.

We are loved by God unconditionally, even when we fail to reciprocate His love. Though the Lord’s love is jealous, He does not jettison us from His presence when we ignore Him. We may drift away from Him with our unwise decisions, but His love is available to bring us back to the security and serenity of His presence. Christ’s covenant of love to His forgiven bride keeps us humble and grateful. Like Esther, we seek to adorn ourselves with the beauty of His holiness.

And Esther won the favor of everyone who saw her. Esther 2:15

We love the Lord, because He first loved us. We pursue the Lord, because He first pursued us. We serve the Lord, because He first served us. We remain faithful to the Lord, because He remains faithful to us. Yes, we love Him and keep His commands, because of what His grace and love have already done for us. It is a divine gift that provides what we need most. Our greatest need is to be loved by our God. Christ’s covenant of love grows love in our heart.

God’s covenant of love is not to be taken for granted. It is not an emotional acknowledgement we act on only when our feelings cooperate. No, when we entered into covenant with Christ we committed to Christ and to all He represents: love, obedience, generosity, holiness, service, worship, prayer, scripture, mercy, grace, forgiveness, evangelism, discipleship and the church. Since He keeps His covenant of love, we are the bride of Christ who loves, cherishes and obeys.

Come worship with us at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. Mclean Va. we are "Disciples making a Kingdom impact".  Sundays at 10:45am.  Also tune into www.wbgronline.com to listen to Pastor Brown on "Life Notes" Mon-Fri at noon, and on "Kingdom Impact" Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm.

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Growth Plan

I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11

 

Scripture memory is a spiritual growth plan against sin, Satan and self. It is also one of God's  methods of conforming us into the image of His son Jesus Christ. We all are privileged to renew our minds with the truth of Scripture and to cleanse our hearts with the purifying Word of God (See Romans 12:1-2). Perhaps we commit to memory a verse a week or month related to what we are experiencing in life. Over the course of a year we will hide fifty-two or 12 nuggets of spiritual nourishment within our soul. Thus, when needed, the Spirit brings to mind and our remembrance what has been deposited deep within our hearts.

We may not be the best at memorization, but we do seem to remember what engages our affections. Our ability to retain sports statistics and other details related to interests or hobbies should be trumped by the truth of God's Word. Sure, some have the uncanny ability to recite each word perfectly, some even paragraphs of content. We need not be intimidated, but work within our God given abilities. Let’s start off with a systematic plan to retain the Word of the Lord.

The Lord continued to appear at Shiloh, and there he revealed himself to Samuel through his word. 1 Samuel 3:21

Furthermore, the Lord reveals Himself through His word. We increasingly desire to know God, love God and obey God, as His word makes its way into the crevices of our character. We are conformed by the character of Christ as we mature in our understanding of the Word made flesh. Yes, we grow in our love for the Word as we grow in our love for Jesus since He was the Word revealed on earth. God’s secret weapon of scripture memory grows us into the image and likeness of Christ.

We are wise to see scripture memory as a blessing not a burden. Be creative. We can listen to God’s word as we commute to work, exercise or do chores around the house. You can display scriptures around your house to review and recite (Lord knows I have done it, and it works). Yes, we follow Jesus’ example when we seamlessly say to Satan, “It is written.” God’s word written on our hearts through memorization and meditation equips us to stand strong in Him. The spiritual growth plan of hiding His word is used by seasoned saints who deeply know and love the Lord. 

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va. we are "Disciples Making a Kingdom Impact".  Join us Sundays at 10:45am and begininng May 3rd Saturdays at 6:30pm.  Also hear me on www.wbgronline.com on "Life Notes" mon.- fri. at noon, and on "Kingdom Impact" Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm.

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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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Wise Leaders

“Chose some wise, understanding and respected men from each of your tribes, and I will set them over you.”    Deuteronomy 1:13

 

The selection process of wise leadership can make or break an organization/ministry. We are constantly faced with this in our families, church, work, schools, civic groups, and professional associations. Wise leadership does not come about as a result of pride’s persuasion. It is not found in the “tit for tat” of petty politics. So where do you look for wise leaders? A good place to begin is within the ranks of those who already exhibit wise leadership (Acts 15:22). You see it in the open and authentic environment they create in their work and home, by their own honesty around personal weaknesses and strengths. Indeed, wise leaders are excellent listeners. They listen with the intent to understand. Wisdom desires understanding of what you are thinking and what you are feeling. You observe their wisdom in one-on-one conversation, as they know what questions to ask. They challenge you to think and offer counsel as is appropriate.
   
Wise leaders are not gurus or know-it-alls. Instead they are smart enough to understand the vastness of what they don’t know. Moreover, a wise leader is respected (I Timothy 3:8). Those who know them the best respect them the most. If those in someone’s inner circle lack respect for the person in leadership, so will those outside their circle of influence. Indeed, respect comes over time. It is the result of doing what you say. It is integrity in living out what you say you believe. Consistent Christ-like behavior invites raving reviews of respect. Wisdom and respect go hand-in-hand. They promote each another.
   
Last of all, wise leadership points toward God. (Any infatuation with them as an individual is directed to their heavenly Father). Wisdom can only remain in a humble heart. It is within the incubator of humility that wisdom germinates and flourishes. Therefore (aptly so), a wise leader shows humility in their heart for God.
   
God entrusts wisdom to the humble of heart. He is stingy in giving wisdom to the proud. Pride cannot be trusted to be used for His glory. God-given wisdom is priceless. Even religious leaders can forget the Lord’s wisdom (Jeremiah 2:8). It is the application of wisdom that matures relationships, facilitates faith, and grows business and ministry. Wise leaders do not always tell you what you want to hear, but listen to them. Their words are sometimes hard and seem at the moment to be intolerant and insensitive. But this is the maturing process. Wisdom makes foolishness uncomfortable. It is wise leadership that leads you beyond mediocrity and immaturity. Wise leaders lead you to grow in your relationship with Christ. They promote God’s agenda. Follow wise leaders and be a wise leader. Patiently and prayerfully select and appoint wise leadership.

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby Rd. McLean Va.  we are "Disciples making a Kingdom Impact" Sundays at 10:45am and beginning May 3rd Saturdays at 6:30pm.  Also hear Pastor Brown on www.wbgronline.com Monday - Friday at noon, on "Life notes" and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on "Kingdom Impact".

-- 

 

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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Well Pleasing

“And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased’” (Matthew 3:17).

Am I well pleasing to the Lord? Do I model a life of submission to my Savior? Do I defer all honor and glory to Him? For my heavenly Father to be well pleased with me is the heartbeat of humility. This means at times I displease others to please Jesus. 

A Christian pleasing to Christ first learns that to be raised high means to begin low. Jesus did not begin His ministry baptizing, but rather being baptized. He required of Himself everything expected from everyone else. Humble leaders do this; they follow the agreed upon guidelines, realizing no one is above the rules. It is with a humble heart that a leader discerns the Lord’s ways and then lives them out in front of the faithful and faithless.

Perhaps goodhearted people seek to place you on a pedestal of admiration and honor. It is at this point of recognition that you keep your spirit low, as your reputation is on the rise. The Lord sustains His blessing for those who defer honor back to Him. It pleases God to see you engage in humble acts, especially as your influence grows. The closer you grow to Christ, the more you see the need for His grace and forgiveness.

You can only deal with the soul of another if Jesus has dealt with your soul. It pleases Him when you first pronounce yourself needy before heaven, before you point out the needs of another. Humility looks inward at the heart before it outwardly observes the issues of another. The Lord is pleased when you take the lead to repent.

You go public with your faith after you have been private in prayer. This solemn preparation pleases God. Moreover, have you proclaimed your faith publicly in baptism? It pleases God for you to go public for Him. It is an honor and becomes your sacred accountability. Private intimacy with God leads to a public display of your faith. He is well pleased with you when you publicly pronounce Him the Lord over your life. Humility pleases Him. Why? It listens and obeys.

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


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

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

Listen to "Life Notes" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com

Life long learner

Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance. Proverbs 1:5

Wise men and women are lifetime learners. The knowledge and understanding that served us well last year will not be sufficient for following years. It is what we are learning today that prepares us for tomorrow. Wisdom and discernment listen and learn. They listen to people around them and learn what to do and what not to do. Another person’s unfortunate tragedy can be a teacher of decisions to avoid.

When you see the use of irresponsible debt destroy a family, you learn the discipline of saving. Another person’s triumph can be a teacher of choices to embrace. The sacrifice of a mom who stays home to serve her family increases the probability of children with character. You listen and learn from her how to teach little ones to love Jesus; so keep learning.

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning” (Proverbs 9:9).

Your counsel increases in value as you grow in wisdom and discernment. Lazy learners are left to be by themselves. It is an educated life that others desire to learn; so seek out a mentor who models learning, with whom you can meet weekly to challenge your assumptions. Invite your mentor to question your answers more than answer your questions. Oral learning through the exchange of ideas unlocks and applies wisdom. You are positioned to learn in an audience of one with graying hair.

Above all, learn by submission to God and His Word. A humble life can be trusted with God’s wisdom and the Holy Spirit’s discernment. It is out of your compassion and mercy that knowledge is converted to wisdom. Keep learning, and the Lord will lift you to new levels of influence. Stop learning, and you will lower into irrelevance. Learning expands your kingdom effectiveness and deepens your character.

Come worship with me at First Baptist Chesterbrook located at 1740 Kirby rd. McLean Va.  "We are disciples making a Kingdom Impact"  10am for our fellowship breakfast followed by worship.  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" & "Kingdom Impact with Pastor Brown

Mon-Fri at noon and Sundays at 9am and Wednesdays at 9pm on WBGRonline.com
www.firstbaptistchesterbrook.org

www.wbgronline.com