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Cheli Sigler lives life and pursues her God-given purpose of teaching from her home base in sunny Orlando, FL. Cheli and Matt, her husband of 20+ years, are blessed with two teenage daughters. She has experience as a professional educator and as children’s ministry team leader, trainer and writer. Currently, Cheli equips missionary kids for the mission field as a volunteer at Wycliffe Bible Translators, teaches a third grade Sunday School class, is a contributing writer for DoNotDepart.com and participates in Hello Mornings as a group leader, mentor, and writer. Inviting people to sharpen their minds and soften their hearts for God’s purpose and the world, Cheli shares ideas and resources on her blog, Sharpen to Soften, at https://chelisigler.wordpress.com

Pray for Cambodia

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My recent posts in our series, So That the World May Know…, feature countries I connect to personally. Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Bolivia hold interest for me because of friendship or my volunteer role at Wycliffe Bible Translators.

If you are reading this, you have access world prayer resources at your fingertips via the world wide web. Today’s payer focus is Cambodia based on a prompt from a visit to OperationWorld.org.

World Prayer a “Click” Away

A simple web search, “how to pray for …..,” yields several results. Amongst the resources I have found, OperationWorld.org is one of the most trusted. Using this resource, you can pray for a different country each day, knowledgably and effectively. The picture below shows you how.

Prayer Requests for Cambodia

According to the OperationWorld.org website, we can pray for the following:

  • that opportunities to share the Gospel now will be maximized as long as the current openess is available.
  • for the loosening of Buddhism’s stranglehold.
  • for inroads to the Gospel amongst Muslim population, tribal peoples, and ethnic Chinese.
  • success of print, radio, and video outreach. Cru’s Jesus Film, for instance, reaches several language groups.

To get the details on these bullet points, visit Operation World– Cambodia.

Learn More

To learn more about praying for Cambodia, here are some additional world prayer websites:

Prayercast– Cambodia

Wycliffe Bible Translators– Cambodia

Overseas Mission Fellowship– Cambodia

Learn how to use technology to pray for the nations, as we focus on praying for Cambodia. #ChristianMissions

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Pray for Bolivia

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Bolivia is our focus today as we pray for the nations to know Jesus. I have never been to Bolivia, let alone South America, but I know a sweet couple whose hearts are with Bolivia and its people. It is their love for this small, landlocked nation that prompted me to write about how we can pray for Bolivia. I asked them how they pray for Bolivia, and what follows is what I learned.

Upon reading my friend’s list of prayer requests for Bolivia, a word kept coming back to me— impoverished. Economic hardship abounds, but a poverty of spirit and discipleship intensifies the difficulty of daily life in Bolivia.

Economic Realities

Despite a wealth of natural resources, especially mining, Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America. Being landlocked limits transportation of valuable goods. Increased government takeovers of the means of production and foreign investment have not yielded better returns for the economy. Lost economic opportunity, decreased political freedom, and government corruption weakens the nation. The government in unable to mount an effective Covid 19 response, crippling life for many in Bolivia. Ask God to intervene in these issues and raise up leaders who will seek justice and care for their fellow citizens.

Give us this day our daily bread… —Matthew 6:11

Crushed Spirits

With a lack of employment and a dismal economy, many engage in destructive behaviors to fill the void. Among these, alcoholism is rampant. It is one of Satan’s weapons of choice as it wreaks havoc in relationships, endangers lives and livelihoods, and creates a general malaise and indifference. Additionally, the enemy uses his cunning to confuse people. Many Bolivians go to churches where mixing indigenous religion with Christianity is acceptable. Pray that God will send missionaries and strengthen Believers to combat the schemes of the enemy, so more can know salvation through Christ alone.

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me….” —John 14:6

Increased Discipleship

Although these difficulties exist, there is good news. There are churches that preach the truth of God’s Word, Bibles in the languages of the region are accessible, and evangelical churches are growing. Yet there is a need for increased discipleship in churches throughout Bolivia. Low literacy impedes discipleship. Pray for teachers to teach people how to read and study the Bible. Ask God to impart to Bolivian Believers a desire for increased biblical knowledge. Pray that increased discipleship will bring increased unity with other Believers. Joined together, Bolivian Christians can bring Gospel life and transformation to their country.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.  —2 Peter 3:18

Bolivia is our focus today as we pray for the nations to know Jesus. #ChristianMissions

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Learn More

To learn more about praying for Bolivia, visit the following websites:

Prayercast– Bolivia

Operation World– Bolivia

Pray for the Nations: The Solomon Islands

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Ready and waiting, a family of six from the U.P. of Michigan is following God’s call to minister in the Solomon Islands. As this family is on the cusp of a new life in a new place, I am moved to pray for the people they are called to serve.

As a Christian community, let us join in prayer for the people of the Solomon Islands. Pray for wisdom in combating Covid 19, the translation of the Bible into every language spoken there, and spiritual revival in the churches.

Covid 19 Response

A nation of approximately a half million people, the Solomon Islands has kept the number of Covid 19 cases low. This is the result of government lockdowns and tight restrictions of people leaving and entering the country. With the spread of Covid 19 contained, the lockdowns have made it difficult for ministries on the islands to continue their work. Unlike the U.S., technology and internet access are not readily available or reliable. People in the Solomon Islands depend on gathering together to stay in touch. As aid from developed nations makes it way to the Solomon Islands, we can pray that people will be able to gather, so ministry may continue.

 

Bible Translation

Despite English being the official language of the Solomon Islands, only 2% of people speak it. About fifty percent speak the trade language, Pijin, but most islanders speak one of almost 80 local languages. Reading God’s Word in the language in which one dreams, thinks, and prays is transformational. Currently the Zabana people anticipate a complete translation of the New Testament in 2021. There are missionaries waiting to enter the country to help with the translation effort. The delays are caused by Covid 19 restrictions. Please pray that the Zabana translation will cross the the finish line with few obstacles.

Spiritual Revival

Although many churches exist throughout the Solomon Islands, there is great need for revival. Amongst the organizations that write about how to pray for the nations, this is a common prayer request. Some who claim to be Christian adopt animism and magic into their belief system. Revival that aligns the people and culture with the truth of God’s Word is needed. Pray for the Holy Spirit to ignite a revival in the churches, so many may know Jesus is “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).

Learn More

You can read more about praying for Papua New Guinea at the following websites:

Prayercast– Solomon Islands

Wycliffe Bible Translators– Zabana People

Operation World– Solomon Islands

Join us today as we learn how to pray for the Solomon Islands. #ChristianMissions

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Pray for Papua New Guinea

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Today we kick off our March series, “So That the World May Know…,” by learning how to pray for Papua New Guinea. An island nation in Oceania, it is a kaleidoscope of people, languages, and cultures in a nature enthusiast’s paradise.  A brief peek at Papua New Guinea (PNG for short) reveals it is no wonder that the national motto is “Unity in Diversity.”

Pray for Bible Translation

Currently there are about 7 million people living in PNG. The culture is dominated by tribal living and culture. Eight hundred languages are spoken there, with several having just 1,000 speakers. Troubles plaguing the nation are tribal fighting, gang violence, political corruption, and the rise of HIV. Certainly, the people need the truth of God’s Word to bring light to this darkness.

Almost 500 PNG languages still need a translation of the scriptures, despite the incredible effort there by many Bible translation organizations. Pray against impediments to Bible translation, so more people may access God’s Word.

Pray for New Believers and Disciples

Despite the majority of PNGers claiming Christianity as their religion, the practice of many is a mixture of Christianity and animism. As the number of Bible translations increase, more people are learning the truth of salvation through Christ alone. Ask God to grow the Believers in their knowledge of God’s Word and faith in Christ Jesus. Pray that their faith will spur them on towards a life of following Jesus, bringing the transformative work of the Holy Spirit to their tribes and communities.

Pray for Unity

As much as the national motto indicates unity, the fractions created by tribes and language barriers are problematic for this nation. Pray for the Believers and missionaries that despite denominational and organizational differences their union with Christ will bind them together as they work to tell others about Jesus. Jesus prayed, “I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me” (John 17:23).

As Believers become more unified, may their actions spill over into the communities where they live. Pray that the people of PNG would lay aside what divides them, so they might work together for a brighter future for their country— that “Unity in Diversity” might be realized.

Learn More

You can read more about praying for Papua New Guinea at the following websites:

One Heart Gold Coast – Papua New Guinea

Operation World – Papua New Guinea

Wycliffe Bible Translators – Papua New Guinea

Join us today as we learn how to pray for Papua New Guinea. #ChristianMissions

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“So That the World May Know”

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Hello, March!

Welcome to “Missions Month” at DoNotDepart.com!

Between the lighting of the Passover candles in the Upper Room and Jesus’ arrest in the garden, the Gospel of John records Jesus’ High Priestly Prayer. In His role as High Priest, Jesus went before the Father to pray for Himself, for the disciples, for Believers and for the world.

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” (John 17: 20-21)

 Join Us in Prayer for the Nations

Throughout this month our contributors will lead us on a prayer walk for the nations. Country by country or people group by people group, we will pray that the world will know Jesus and salvation that comes through Him alone. Let’s get ready for Easter by praying for the world to know Jesus!

“I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you sent me and loved them even as you loved me.” (John 17:23)

Throughout this month our contributors will lead us on a prayer walk for the nations. Join us! #ChristianMissions

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Light and Life of Forgiveness

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Throughout the month of February, we are exploring the importance of the words we speak to others and ourselves. Rightly used, our words affirm and testify to the truth of God’s Word. Poorly used, we trample God’s truth and our witness to the world and each other is tarnished.

Today I want to share the light and life six words bring to our relationships with others and magnify the saving work of Jesus.

“I am sorry.”

“I forgive you.”

Offering Forgiveness

Do you know what it is like to have a close, high school friend ditch you for another, more popular, friend? It stinks, right? That is what Michelle* did to me. We still “looked” like friends, but she was no longer interested in our friendship. It hurt, and it left emotional scars.

One day after high school graduation, Michelle asked to stop by for a visit. We went for a walk, and after a lot of small talk, she explained that she stopped by because she had something to tell me.

“Cheli, I am sorry.”

Then it all tumbled out of her— everything I suspected about why she ignored our longtime friendship. In humility, with contrition and sorrow over her actions, prompted by the Holy Spirit, Michelle sought my forgiveness. I acknowledged the hurt and her sincerity.

“I forgive you.”

Our friendship never returned to what it was before. Better than that, two young Believers gave and forgave in a way that testifies to the forgiveness we have in Christ. When I revisit this story, I am reminded of the power of forgiveness and the healing it brings. Michelle’s sin, her debt to me and Jesus, was cancelled— nailed to the cross (Colossians 2:14).

Light and Life from Ephesians 4:32

Receiving Forgiveness

Do you know what it is like to betray a confidence and bear the weight of that sin?  Have you ever made it worse by trying to justify it to yourself? I do, and I did. The guilt and shame built up in me over the course of two days. I confessed my sin to God, but the Holy Spirit pressed me to admit my sin to the person I wronged.

The phone weighed a hundred pounds when I lifted it to make the call. A few delay tactics later, I made the call, admitted what I had done, and I said,

“I am sorry.”

The woman on the other end acknowledged the hurt I caused her, and she accepted my apology.

“I forgive you.”

Then she asked if she could pray for me. Like water from a fire hydrant, words of light and life overwhelmed me. Two seasoned Believers, depending on Jesus’ work on the cross, entered a deeper experience of life in Christ as we exchanged contrition and forgiveness.

Once forgiven, the heaviness of spirit departed, and peace returned to my life. It was a good, difficult experience. Good because it shed light on the depths of Jesus’ love and forgiveness of me. Good because it returned life and peace to my soul.

Light and Life from Colossians 3:12-13

My Challenge

My challenge today is to keep the lessons I have learned alive in me. I want to be always ready to offer and receive forgiveness readily and freely. I want to bear witness to the amazing love of Christ that forgives all my sin, so others may experience the light and life of God’s forgiveness as well.

 

Six words bring light and life to our relationships with others and magnify the saving work of Jesus. #WordsOfLife

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*This is a fictitious name for the purpose of privacy.

Let Go of Small Thinking Concerning God

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Many of us who read this blog have taught Bible songs that proclaim how BIG, MIGHTY, and STRONG God is. We sing those words and proclaim that there is NOTHING too big for God. Sung with abandon, the words ring so loud and true.

Two Sundays ago, my 3rd/4th Grade Sunday School class delved into Jesus’ title as Son of God, and I shared three reasons why Christ’s sonship matters. A few days later, preparing for an adult small group, I read Hebrews 1.  I read it again and then again. It hit me—then and there. Although correct in doctrine, the Jesus I presented to my Sunday School class was too small.

As I head into 2021, I need to let go of small thinking about God.

Considering what I have read in God’s Word over the last week, my only goal in this post is to share the scripture that the Holy Spirit has used as an exhortation to ditch any view of God that is small. It is my prayer that you will meditate on these scriptures and consider the glory of God.

God’s Glory in Jesus

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs (Hebrews 1:1-4).

God’s Glory Displayed in Creation

The Psalmist writes,

O Lord, our Lord,

    how majestic is your name in all the earth!

You have set your glory above the heavens….

When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,

    the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,

what is man that you are mindful of him,

    and the son of man that you care for him (Psalm 8:1,3-4)?

God’s Glorious Ways

This doxology of praise captures God’s vast power.

Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

“For who has known the mind of the Lord,

    or who has been his counselor?”

“Or who has given a gift to him

    that he might be repaid?”

For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen (Romans 11:33-36).

Closing Thoughts

Like a picture of the sunset taken on my cellphone is a poor representation of the beauty and majesty of such a sight, I lack the words today.  I can only point you to the Scripture. Read Hebrews 1, Psalm 8, and Romans 11: 33-36. Meditate on them. Our God is BIG, MIGHTY and STRONG. There is NOTHING too big for Him.

Christmas Tea with Do Not Depart: Series Wrap-Up

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Remembering Christmas Teas of the past, the contributors to Do Not Depart endeavored to recreate the ambience and recall memories that make Christmas— Christmas. In this “wrap-up” post you will find links to every post in the series.

Ultimately the goal of the Christmas Tea series was to celebrate Jesus Christ Emmanuel and our life in Him.

JESUS

The ONE who saves us from sin and death.

CHRIST

The Messiah who frees us from every entanglement.

EMMANUEL

God who is “with us” and in us.

Week 1

Kicking off our series, Ali shared how her baking of Scottish shortbread connects her family to her Scottish roots and identity in Shortbread, Family, and Identity in Christ. As comforting as it is to share family identity, Ali writes about the beauty of our shared identity in Christ. She writes, “We have the same joys (the joy of the Lord is our strength) the same love (we love because He first loved us), and we are connected into the ‘togetherness’ that is His body.”

Week 2

Only a baker at Christmastime, Jaime shares her tried-and-true yeast bread recipe. In her post, His Word Proves True, she explains how baking yeast bread is a practice of patience and promise. Pointing us to The Word Made Flesh, she writes, “Like bread in a proving drawer God’s Word is actively working, even in moments of stillness, to bring about his perfect purpose.”

Once a year Lisa pulls out the recipe for Miss Miriam’s Surprise bars. The bars require some extra work, but the delight of the first bite makes it worth it. In her post, Wait for It– Expect a Surprise from Jesus (+a Christmas Recipe), Lisa reminds us that “It’s the same with Jesus. Sometimes we have to wait a little longer than we expect to see what He’s up to. But His gifts are always worth the wait….His surprises are the best kind.”

Week 3

In The Gift of Presence, I reminisce about my friend Luella, her famous yeast roll recipe, and the gift of her presence in my life. My memories of her prompt me to think of Jesus and His presence as “God with us.” Connecting the two thoughts I wrote, “My friendship with Luella proves that when we connect and encourage one another in love we practice the presence of Christ.

If you listen closely, you will hear the music and laughter spilling out of Shootin’ Star Ranch as you read Grace that Jingles. Jennifer’s vivid account of Christmas spent at her grandparents’ home is alive with grace and joy only Jesus can bring. She writes, “…grace given and grace received free us up for joy, and for laughter.” Her Nana’s Spanish Coffee Cake is sure to delight as well.

Week 4

In her post, The Simple Sweetness of Christmas, Kelli reminds us that Christmas does not have to be complicated, hectic, or crazy. We often make it that way to measure up to an idea of Christmas perfection. She shares a simple fudge recipe to point out that the absolute best things can be simple and sweet. Kelli says, “The first Christmas was messy… but it was simple and sweet and perfect as well.”

In her post, Christmas in a Teacup, guest contributor Marilyn Armstrong shares how our gracious God multiplies our giving, expanding the value of our humble gifts. She writes, “Christmas in a teacup is God’s unending story of giving, persevering, sharing, joy, friendship, and so much more continues to be written.”

Week 5

Rounding out our Christmas Tea series, Cheri Novak, guest contributor, encourages us to build community, despite current circumstances. In The Gift of Community she challenges us, “I hope you will join me in identifying new members of your tribe and finding the ones with whom you can share and receive Christ’s love in the new year.”

Although impossible to replicate a Christmas Tea in a virtual setting, it is my hope that our collected recipes, memories, and reflections on God’s Word have blessed you throughout the Christmas season. A verse Marilyn shared, is a perfect closing for this series:

“Gather the goodwill of Christmas.

Tuck it safely inside your heart.

And give it away, one kind moment at a time, throughout the year.”

— Author Unknown

From all of us at DoNotDepart.com, Happy New Year!

The Gift of Presence

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The aromas and flavors of Christmas evoke memories of Christmases past and the people who made them special. This year I remember my friend Luella; her presence in my life was a gift. What do I remember most? Luella consistently pointed people to Christ’s presence— the BEST gift of all.

Presence Remembered

Now, a member of the “great cloud of witnesses,” Luella Webb was a fixture in my life from elementary school through my early motherhood. In the community she was an artist, home economist, teacher, and an active member of the Body of Christ. To me she was a spiritual mentor and a friend. Luella is exactly who I think of when I read 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3:

We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

My home is graced with many evidences of Luella’s presence in my life. The most prized, is a recipe that I make every year during the holidays— Luella Webb’s Ice Box Rolls. Mixing, kneading, and pounding the dough, memories of Luella wash over me. I can hear her voice and imagine her presence in the kitchen as I work. My memory of Luella is testimony to God’s work in her life and in mine.

 

Years of milk and butter stains embedding the recipe is proof this is a treasured memento of Luella Webb’s presence in my life.

Perfect Presence

As sweet as the gift of friendship, sweeter still is Christ’s presence. This gift was promised in Isaiah 7:14, and delivered at Jesus’ birth:

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,
and they shall call his name Immanuel”

(which means, God with us).  Matthew 1:22-23

Thus, the perfectly sinless Jesus entered our world, fully human and fully divine. His was not an aloof presence, no, Jesus served people, engaged the culture, and made a way for us to enjoy His presence forever.

As Believers in Jesus we experience His presence in our lives for eternity from the moment of our salvation. In fact, God gave us the the Holy Spirit so we can know the indwelling of Christ in our hearts.

… according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith… Ephesians 3:16-17

Through the help of the Holy Spirit, Christ’s presence in our hearts grows and grows. As our faith matures, may we know more and more the reality of Emmanuel, “God with us.”

Share Christ’s Presence

My friendship with Luella proves that when we connect and encourage one another in love we practice the presence of Christ. Help others experience the BEST gift of all. Who will you share Christ’s presence with today?

“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Corinthians 13:14). Merry Christmas!

When we connect and encourage one another in love we practice the presence of Christ. #JesusChristEmmanuel

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Christmas Tea with Do Not Depart

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As lights are dimmed, the candles glow amid beautiful Christmas greenery. Equally beautiful are outfits of red and green with accents of gold and silver. Together with Christmas music the backdrop for a Christmas Tea is complete.

It looks like Christmas. It sounds like Christmas.

Photo by Irena Carpaccio on Unsplash

From savory hors d’oeurvres and holiday treats, aromas overtake the senses. One bite transports a person to a Christmas memory from long ago.

It smells like Christmas. It tastes like Christmas.

Photo by Irena Carpaccio on Unsplash

Fellowship in the form of encouraging words, shared memories, and warm hugs envelopes the room.

It feels like Christmas.

Before the Christmas Tea ends, our attention focuses on The Word Made Flesh:

JESUS

The ONE who saves us from sin and death.

CHRIST

The Messiah who frees us from every entanglement.

EMMANUEL

God who is “with us” and in us.

This is Christmas.

You are invited to join Do Not Depart for a virtual Christmas Tea throughout the month of December. Inspired by recipes of Christmases past each contributor will share a Christmas memory and a message from God’s Word. We will even share the recipe that inspires the post, like we would share a recipe at a Christmas Tea.

It is my prayer that you will know the hope, peace, joy, and love of God throughout the Christmas season. Join us as we gather at the blog to celebrate the birth and presence of Jesus Christ, Emmanuel.

Join us as we gather at the blog to celebrate the birth and presence of Jesus Christ, Emmanuel. #JesusChristEmmanuel

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Clothed in Christ: Colossians 3:11-13

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Last week in her post titled, When Your Old Clothes Don’t Fit, Lisa Burgess likened Colossians 3: 8-10 to a wardrobe makeover. When we commit our lives to Jesus, we are clothed anew in Christ, in His righteousness. I love what she shared,

We are renewed because of who Jesus is, not because of who we are.  –Lisa Burgess

Today, we take a closer look at what being “clothed in Christ” means as we study Colossians 3: 11-13.

Photo by Roberto Martinez on Unsplash

Colossians 3:11

Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised,

barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all. 

Identity

First, Paul draws attention to our new identity in Christ. We are no longer divided by nationality, socio-economic status, or culture, rather, we are one people united by faith. Focused on Christ, differences cease to divide us because He “is all.” In Christ, our diversity is not diluted but made more alive as we use our unique qualities, backgrounds, and gifts to edify each other for Christ’s glory.

 

Colossians 3:12

Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts,

kindness, humility, meekness, and patience…. 

Character

Secondly, along with our identity in Christ we adorn ourselves with His character. He sacrificed himself and bore our sin so we might wear His righteousness. The attributes Paul lists in verse twelve are attributes of Christ, and the verb phrase, “Put on then,” is a directive. The preacher, Charles Spurgeon, exhorted:

This is what you have got to wear, even on the outside — to put it on; not to have a latent kindness in your heart, and a degree of humbleness deep down in your soul if you could get at it; but you are to put it on.    – Charles Spurgeon

Of course, renewal does not happen all at once. Transformation occurs over time and in cooperation with the Holy Spirit. Regular rhythms of prayer, scripture study, and Bible memorization direct our hearts and minds to conform to Christ. With our new clothes we can “be Christ” to the world.

 

Colossians 3:13

…bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other;

as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.

Action

Thirdly, dressed in Christ’s righteousness, because of who He is and what He has done for us, we forgive those who wrong us. “Bearing with” means to endure. We do this when we continue to engage despite a person or circumstances being difficult. “Forgive” means to give graciously. Forgiveness is our action to cancel the debt owed. How far do we go to forgive? We follow Jesus all the way to the cross. Underscoring this, Charles Spurgeon said,

Just as readily, just as freely, just as heartily, just as completely.    — Charles Spurgeon

Final Thoughts

Finally, being clothed in Christ renews our identity, character, and action. No longer focused on the world, we set our hearts on Christ by seeking unity in the body of Christ, putting on His righteousness, and forgiving others as He has graciously forgiven us.

“…being clothed in Christ renews our identity, character, and action.” Colossians 3:11-13 #Renewed

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For Our Instruction: Studying Old Testament Connections in the New Testament

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From little on up, I was taught the importance of the whole biblical narrative, Genesis to Revelation. Even now, making connections between the Old Testament and New Testament inspires greater faith and deeper study. The Apostle Paul writes,

For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.      Romans 15:4

With this verse as inspiration, I am sharing tips for taking a “deep dive” into the New Testament. Particularly, we will learn how to study New Testament passages with Old Testament connections.

Prior to the Covid 19 pandemic, I participated in a workshop taught by Dr. Greg Lanier, Associate Professor of the New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, Florida. Specifically, the workshop focused on using the Old Testament to understand the New Testament. If you live near a seminary or Bible college offering layperson seminars or workshops, I highly recommend participating. What follows is what I learned, in my own words.

Identify the Source

When you come across an Old Testament connection in the New Testament it will take one of three forms: citation, quotation, or allusion.

  • Citation: The Old Testament is quoted verbatim, or nearly so, and preceded by an introductory formula (i.e., “It is written,” “It is fulfilled,” “The prophet [insert prophet name] said,”). The citation appeals to an authority, or provides proof of an Old Testament connection.
  • Quotation: The Old Testament is quoted verbatim, or nearly so, and does not have an introductory formula. The quotation is a link to Old Testament significance.
  • Allusion: A brief reference, not verbatim, to the Old Testament, creating an “aha” moment for the attuned student.

To summarize, like a flashing neon sign, the citation is there to say this is a “must see” or “must study” Old Testament connection. As important, the quotation is a signal that the Old Testament context is significant. The allusions are more difficult to find, but they demonstrate how God weaves even the smallest details throughout His Word from Genesis to Revelation.

Contextualize the Source

Having identified the Old Testament source, contextualize it. Start by locating and reading the Old Testament passage, not just the verses cited or quoted, but at least the entire chapter. Extend your study by researching the historical and spiritual context of the nation of Israel at the time of the Old Testament passage. Consider what the original message communicated to its audience. Understanding the context of the Old Testament citation, quotation, or allusion, prepares you to uncover the full meaning of its use in the New Testament.

Synthesize What You Learned

Now, go back to the New Testament passage. Re-read the passage with your new insight from the Old Testament as a guide. Discover the theme of the passage. Uncover how the use of the Old Testament promotes the New Testament theme. You will likely note some patterns the more you engage in this type of study. Four common patterns are:

  • Prophecy: The Old Testament predicted X, and X came true in the New Testament. Read Acts 3:20-22.
  • Pre-figuring: An Old Testament person or thing is a picture of a future ultimate fulfillment. Read John 3:14.
  • Pattern: History repeats itself. Read Acts 7:51-52.
  • Prescription: Instruction on doctrine. Read Romans 13:9

As you move through your study you will see how the Old Testament illuminates the New Testament and how the New Testament illuminates the Old Testament.

“…making connections between the Old Testament and New Testament inspires greater faith and deeper study.” #SnapshotsOfBibleStudy

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Practice

Using Luke 19:45-46, I have provided an example of what it looks like when you follow the tips I am sharing today. I have also provided a blank sheet for you to use for future study. Click this link to get the PDF copies: Studying Old Testament Connections in the New Testament. May “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Corinthians 13:14).

So Send I You: Missional Living Series Wrap Up

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Thank you for joining us throughout September for a look at #MissionalLiving. Today’s post is a wrap up of the entire series. As mentioned in the introduction to this series, a summary of “missional living” from Gotquestions.org guided the organization of our September content:

“In truth, every disciple of Christ should strive to be an agent, a representative of the kingdom of God; and every follower should try to carry the mission of God into every sphere of his life. We are all missionaries sent into the world.”

The idea of “missional living” is that all of our “lives” are connected and subject to Christ. Organized around five themes, and you will find links to all the September posts according to theme, below.

Week 1: Jesus Commissions Us

Kicking off the series, the introductory post,“So SEND I You:” Missional Living, established the framework for the discussion of “missional living.” Ali shared with us how Jesus equips us to fulfill HIs mission in Sent With Presence and Power. She encourages us to lean into Christ’s call to mission because”…He will use me the way He’s created me and in the way He’s chosen to empower me for the task of bearing witness to His beautiful name.”

Week 2: Cross Life Defines Us

In view of the cross, our mission is defined. In Sent With Jesus, Jaime explains that “The cross is the ultimate expression of love and therefore the chief characteristic of a missional life.” Lisa continues the conversation in her post, When God Sends YOU to Be the Minister, saying, “Because God reconciled us to Himself through the death of Jesus, clearing away our sins, He has equipped us to reconcile others to Him and to each other.”

Week 3: Body Life Edifies and Equips Us

In week three the conversation looked at how our connection to the Body of Christ, the church, facilitates our missional life. In Gathered to Go, I write how “participation in the life and work of the church is essential to fulfilling our call to follow Jesus.” In her post, Building Up One Another in Love, Jennifer shares how “life in the Church builds us up in love as we grow towards spiritual maturity.“

Week 4: Gospel Life Knows No Boundaries

In case you wondered when we we were going to discuss sharing the Gospel, that happens in week four. A missional life certainly includes the Gospel. In Put on Your Gospel Hat, Kelli shares how we can share/demonstrate the Gospel to those around us. She writes, “…if you realise that your life, every aspect of it, is an avenue to share the gospel with your family, friends and co-workers, then you also realize that your “Gospel hat” replaces all the others. Your “Gospel hat” stays put because it is essential to missional living.” Following Kelli, I write how we can share the Gospel with the world without leaving home in Mission to the World. In my post you will find some tools you can use today.

Week 5: Kingdom Life is Now and Forever

Finally, we draw things to a conclusion by discussing our role as an ambassador of Christ’s kingdom in Kingdom Life: Now and Forever. As “culture makers, justice seekers, and light bearers” we partner with Christ to do the Father’s will “on earth as it is in heaven.”

Final Thought

It is my hope and prayer that this series on Missional Living has encouraged and challenged you. No matter where you are in living your life for Jesus, may you experience His grace and presence with you today.

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.  –Matthew 28:19-20

Join us for our monthy series wrap up. All of the #MissionalLiving posts are right here.

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Kingdom Life: Now and Forever

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Welcome to the fifth and final week of our discussion of Missional Living at Do Not Depart. Living missionally includes being an ambassador for God’s Kingdom. We partner with Christ to see the Father’s will “done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). Our kingdom life is lived now and forever.

The Kingdom is Now

When a person puts their faith and trust in Jesus as Savior and Lord, a whole new life begins. Immediately, a regime change takes place, and a new believer joins a new kingdom and is subject to the rule of Christ. Consider the following.

  1. Our citizenship in God’s Kingdom begins with our salvation: “He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son…” (Colossians 1:13).
  2. God’s Kingdom is not bound by time or space: “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (Luke 17:20-21).
  3. The Kingdom of God is a spiritual kingdom: “For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

Often, we think of God’s Kingdom being far off in a distant place and time. Rather, it is near. We, the redeemed in the Lord, are citizens of His kingdom right now.

On Earth as it is in Heaven

As members of Christ’s kingdom, we are His agents in the world to usher in the reign of Christ. Missional living is an acknowledgment and affirmation of this. Jesus taught us to pray,

“Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name.

Your kingdom come,

your will be done,

on earth as it is in heaven.”

–Matthew 6:9

As our faith matures and we submit to the Holy Spirit to make us more like Jesus, our transformation spills out into all aspects of our lives. Following Jesus, we are culture makers, justice seekers, and light bearers.

Ambassadors in Everyday Life

Considering this topic, I can suggest three ways we can be ambassadors for the Kingdom of God in everyday life.

  1. Reach out in kindness and compassion: “For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward” (Mark 9:41).
  2. Defend those who have suffered injustice.       
    • Use your voice for the defenseless: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
      for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly;defend the rights of the poor and needy”       (Proverbs 31:8-9, NIV).
    • Contend for righteousness: “…let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).
  3. Join hands with others to do good works: “The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people” (Titus 3:8).
Following Jesus, we are culture makers, justice seekers, and light bearers. #MissionalLiving

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Fighter for justice, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. often quoted Amos 5:24, a paraphrase of which, is found on a fountain at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta, GA.

The Kingdom is Forever

Doing God’s will on earth, we look forward to the day it is fulfilled. And, there will be a day! For we do not labor for a kingdom that will pass away. One day the heartache will be gone, sin will be no more, and we will be with God. God’s kingdom is forever. Forever!

Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he shall reign forever and ever.”  –Revelation 11:15

Let’s Work Together

As ambassadors of God’s kingdom, we are devoted to Christ’s mission. Promoting and doing the work of the kingdom is part of “missional living.” What ideas do you have about kingdom living? What acts of kindness, justice and good works do you do? How can we better encourage and equip you as you work for Christ’s kingdom?

We partner with Christ to see the Father’s will “done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). #MIssionalLiving

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Mission to the World

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Thank you for joining us! Throughout this month we are discussing “missional living.” At the heart of this holistic view of the Christian life, is sharing the Gospel, with our neighbors and the world. Today we are focused on the mandate to take the Gospel to the nations.

Missionary might not be your vocational title, but Jesus calls you to be one. There is no getting around it. Christians are called to be missionaries to the world.

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations… (Matthew 28:19a)

Jesus’ great commission does not have an exclusion clause— not even a global pandemic. So, I am writing to myself today, and brainstorming ways I can share the Gospel with the world from my home base.

The World in Your Backyard

Sometimes the world is around the corner. In her post, International Ministry Right Here, Jennifer Hong relates how God brought the nations to her doorstep: “Right here in Houston, the Lord has opened a multitude of ways for us to love, serve, and minister to people of many nations.” I encourage you to read Jennifer’s post because it might open your eyes to the world in your backyard.

Similarly, I have a ministry that reaches various corners of the world by volunteering at the USA Headquarters of Wycliffe Bible Translators— less than two miles from my home. As I minister to new “MKs” (Missionary Kids), I play a small role in helping advance Bible translation. Sometimes God has global, Gospel-sharing opportunities for us right where we are.

The World Through Mission Partners

Another way to be an ambassador of the Gospel, is to partner with full-time missionaries. These are men and women who have committed their lives to sharing the Gospel with those who have never heard. You can find and meet vocational missionaries through your local church. Besides the support of your church’s mission board, consider encouraging them through your direct financial and/or prayer support.

Additionally, there are parachurch organizations who exist to advance the Gospel. Many of these organizations have made inroads for the Gospel by targeting specific groups or needs. Many of the missionaries who represent these organizations must raise their own financial support. When you partner with them you help take the Gospel to universities, the Muslim world, hostile and remote regions, and more.

The World on Your Prayer List

Equally important to what I have already shared, is prayer. We need to pray for the advancement of the Gospel. What I find exciting is that there are so many organizations who have created tools to help us do this. Check out these links!

Pray for countries and continents.

Operation World: The Definitive Prayer Guide to Every Nation

Praying for the World: A Partnership of Operation World and the Lausanne Movement

Pray for the Bibleless.

Wycliffe Bible Translators: How to Pray (free resources to learn how to pray for Bible translation around the world)

The Seed Company: 9 Ways to Pray for Those You Don’t Know

Jesus’ great commission does not have an exclusion clause— not even a global pandemic. #MissionalLiving

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Final Thoughts

Now that I have brainstormed some ways to share the Gospel with the nations, I need to focus on my follow through. What I have shared is not exhaustive. What ideas do you have? Consider sharing them in the comments.

Gathered to Go

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When As we enter week three of our month long look at “missional living,” we are focused on how our participation in the life and work of the church is essential to fulfilling our call to follow Jesus.

Born a “PK” (preacher’s kid), “church-life” has always intertwined with my own. A “great cloud of witnesses” nurtured my faith, challenging and helping me to grow spiritually. Although there is no perfect church, I know my participation in the Body of Christ (the Church), is essential to living “on mission” for Jesus.

Essential to my topic today, is the truth that the Church is part of Christ’s body. In the letter to the Ephesian church the apostle Paul discusses this mystery (Ephesians 5:28-30). Tangible and spiritual connections to Christ’s body via His Church enliven and embolden missional living. We experience these connections when the Church gathers to worship, serve, and go.

Gathered to Worship

First and foremost, believers gather to worship God and exalt Jesus Christ who is the head of the Church. Collectively, we make known that Christ is first, and we are second. What Colossians 1:15-20 says about Jesus, inspires our praise:

He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.

In worship, we publicly identify ourselves with Christ, who alone reconciles us to God. In the company of fellow believers, we re-orient our affection for Christ. We confess our sin and ask for forgiveness. We thank God for His grace and extend the peace of Christ to each other. Multiple voices singing praise and professing faith, remind us that we are not alone. Together we experience Christ’s presence. Worship with the Body of Christ fuels my commitment to follow Jesus.

Gathered to Serve

As Christ loves and cares for the Church, we are called to serve and tend to it. The early church practiced this: “they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers” (Acts 2:42) It takes the whole church—every member— to accomplish the work of the church.

Even more, we are called to serve each other: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:10).  Our service comes with the promise of John 13:35:

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

As we serve the Church, we hone our abilities to serve and love our neighbors. Are you shy? Practice greeting those who are worshipping around you. Does hospitality flow through your veins? Use it to minister to the body of Christ. Are you known for your empathy? Channel it to lead others in meeting the needs of others. Let the Church be your training ground for your missional life.

Gathered to Go

In the presence of God and fellowship with believers we prepare ourselves to live our lives for God daily. We worship and serve each other, so we are prepared to impact the world around us. Jesus commanded:

‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’  –Mark 12:31

In order to fulfill this command, we have to leave our churches and engage with our neighbors. When we share the love of Christ with others, we introduce them to the Body of Christ. We pray, “…your will be done, on earth as it in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). We help fulfill this prayer by living “missionally” for Jesus in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and social circles. It all starts when we encourage each other to “go.”

“…my participation in the Body of Christ (the Church), is essential to living “on mission” for Jesus.” #MissionalLiving

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Questions to Ponder

How are you encouraged from being part of the Body of Christ?

How does your church encourage and equip you to “go?”

Read Hebrews 10:24-25. What do you learn that relates to this post?

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