Christ and Culture.
Between the Economy, Swine Flu, and Afghanistan, the news of today is discouraging to say the least. Everyone seems to have a lot on their minds. Laced with fear and uncertainty of the future, the talk of the town can be downright depressing. Christians are not immune to this culture of fear- it’s all too easy to get sucked in and brought down by the circumstances of our world. As followers of Christ, we have an opportunity to remain focused on Christ and His promises. In the meantime, offering a big dose of HOPE to those around us.
Remember when Jesus said, “I am with you always.”
Every Sunday morning we face other believers in worship and the issue of trust weighs on every individual. In all things, will we trust God? Turning all eyes upon Jesus and allowing the things of earth to grow dim…what a needed posture! Whether we are aware of it or not, approaching the Throne of God in worship is an incredible opportunity to live out Philippians 4:4 together in the face of whatever we are going through: Paul begins with thankfulness and prayer, then He says, “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say: Rejoice!” Wow- He makes it pretty clear…He goes on to say, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything but in everything present your requests to God.” This is clear direction from God. It is interesting that gentleness is part of His direction. Life is busy- sometimes so busy that we forget the gentleness of our God.
There has always been a war going on.
In 2 Chronicles, God leads His people into war. Before they leave, a “worship team” is assembled (full story, 2 Chronicles 20). God’s people needed to be focused and reminded that God was worthy of their worship. Today there is a battle not between flesh and blood but, an unseen war! The enemy is at work! Fear of losing a job, fear of losing the ability to buy whatever we want when we want it, fear of future provision is vying for our attention. Getting a little caught up in all of this? God is still worthy of our attention and affection. Leaders- we can plan a worship journey with sensitivity to life-issues and what God wants us to focus on in the midst of them.
More than Enough.
Anxiety and fear are directly addressed in Philippians 4. We are told to present our requests to God. The promise comes one verse later when Paul says that, “the peace of God will rule in our hearts and minds”. Songs like, “None but Jesus” and “Enough” help us declare to God that we indeed are willing to trust Him. As the body of Christ, we want to recommit to Him (often) that He has and always will be more than enough!
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