Philemon… You mean that Book of the Bible that is seemingly hidden in between Titus and Hebrews? The one that is rarely talked about, and that is super short? Yup, that Book.
But just because this Book is often overlooked doesn’t mean we should overlook it, too. Honestly, before memorizing this Book, I didn’t know what the Lord would show me, and… I didn’t have a very good understanding of it, either. It didn’t seem to be of much importance to me. But once I set out to memorize this short Book of the New Testament, I felt as if I were opening a treasure chest. I recognized correlations I didn’t see before, and the people mentioned within the Book seemed to suddenly jump to life before my eyes. That didn’t happen in just reading Philemon, before. But it happened when I purposed to eternalize the words on its pages. For example, one thing I didn’t know before was that Philemon and his wife Apphia had a home church. I also didn’t know that Philemon was the recipient of this letter, not the author of it. It seemed as if memorizing it was revealing details I never looked into before. It’s amazing when you choose to dedicate yourself to God’s Word how it comes to life and impacts your daily life as a result. That’s the power of Scripture. Philemon 1:7 says, “For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.” What amazes me about that verse is how Paul rejoiced - not because of his circumstances, but as he writes, because of the faith and the faith of the saints who encourage each other to follow after the Lord. We can see this message throughout the New Testament - joy found in the faith, not in circumstances. Another location in Scripture where Paul mentions this is Philippians 1:4-6 - “Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Paul’s unexpected joy didn’t stem from himself or his self-pleasure. He found joy in the fact that he shared Christ with others and that they followed Him as a result. This caused me to ask, “Where does my joy come from? Do we have the same source of joy as Paul?” 2 Corinthians 1:12 says, “For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.” The story of forgiveness and love in this Book is far from mundane. It stands out brightly in comparison to today’s culture. It’s often easy to see someone else’s faults, and oftentimes dwell on them more than we should. Taking matters into our own hands and choosing to punish them accordingly doesn’t take a lot of work. But in Philemon, Paul was willing to take the blame and the charge of Onesimus, and to forgive him. In his letter he counted his brother in Christ as what he is - a brother in Christ. He looked past his faults and had a loving spirit towards him. This reflects the trust that Paul had in the Lord. He knew that judgement belonged to the Lord, and applied Christ’s commandment to show mercy, even sacrificial mercy, instead. What kind of reminder is that for us, today? How far are we willing to go to show mercy to those in the body of Christ who wrong us? Is it easy to hold grudges? To be angry? To repay evil with evil? Yes, and oftentimes what’s right doesn’t come easily, but our loving Lord and Savior who showed mercy to us is right there with us in it. He’ll help us to accomplish the seemingly impossible through His Holy Spirit. We can be confident that just as Paul was, that we can do these things by the strength of Jesus, and only by His strength. We can forgive our brothers and sisters in Christ even when the whole world is tempting us to do the opposite. What kind of testimony would that be? Let’s choose to be that example like Timothy was - in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity (1 Tim 4:12). This is one of many ways that we can shine Christ to this broken world, today. Fix your joy on the prize, and show grace to those around you - especially to those of the faith. Lastly, don’t ever forget we're in this together. Keep pressing on. “If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account; I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.” -Philemon 1:17-20 Love your sister in Christ, Hannah Kohner It’s the post that everyone has been waiting for! The final post in the three part series, “Youth and the Church.” In this blog, I’ll be sharing the final results from the 32 responders who gave their wonderful and insightful answers. In Part 2 of this series, youth shared why they thought Christian youth were struggling today. Click the link above if you haven’t read that post, yet! A lot of the responses went back to the topic of “The Church.” So now we will focus more on that and see responses on the church and what the struggle has been within it,
from their perspective. What is the issue in the church and why are we struggling? “They see the world and think it’s more appetizing than the content Jesus gives.” The same could be said about the church. “Christian youth struggle today because we [the church] don't prepare them for anything. They are not taught who they really are in Jesus, and youth need to know who they are and they will try to fill that hole one way or another. People tell them to have faith in Jesus and life will be just fine but fail to inform them that growing in a deeper relationship with Jesus is important. Point is, they are thrown to the wolves with no tools and setting them up for failure. Being a believer is not a one time thing, it's every day.” “I think [we’re] struggling today because we lack true biblical discipleship from those older than us. We’ve become so accustomed to spending time with our peers that we’ve forgotten the value of older, mature Christians in our lives — and not just a youth pastor who barely talks to us.“ “[The issue is] lack of clear Biblical teaching from the church. The church should also be teaching the Bible clearly and not watering down the truth.” “All of them have fallen into the trap of ignoring godly authority while at the same time blindly following after others' theological opinions.” “Not teaching on things relevant to youth--such as subject matter for little children instead when youth really want the whole truth. Youth aren't taught to give up everything for Christ including their hobbies that might get in the way to make their relationship with the Lord first. They aren't taught to fight and to with violence seize the Kingdom of God. True repentance--meaning turning away from sin and working passionately to follow Christ-- is also not really taught. Churches seem to be letting more and more slip where we no longer are any different than the world. People think major things are just struggles and make it out like it's little when sin is a big deal, and if you really want victory, then God will give it to you, if you will seek Him with all your heart.” “Because often, the youth group’s goal is to minister in providing a community for youth. While I think it is important to grow a good community, I believe more time and attention should be given to actual teaching of God’s Word, more concentration on Scripture. Lord willing, in return, this will also increase community bonds because as a body of Christ, focusing on scripture—our message from God—will bring us together.” “I think that most youth aren't taught the REAL TRUTH from the Bible. They are taught surface things - things that are just supposed to make you "feel good" but don't answer the deep, burning questions that so many youth have today. I think that there is too much compromise in the church....it has allowed the world to infiltrate it. What Christian youth in the church need to see is Godly examples...people who love God and His Word, and will stand on it UNCOMPROMISINGLY -- no matter the cost.” “I think many are complacent about their faith, perhaps influenced by a passive/stagnant environment in the church. They aren't seeing many examples of active faith around them, and they aren't being encouraged and equipped to live powerfully for Jesus. When church is viewed as more of a social gathering, many youth are not being challenged in their faith. They're nominally believers, but they aren't growing in Christ.” Are you seeing a common theme here? There are others who want to serve Jesus, but often struggle with how to do it. Many churches aren’t doing their part, but are damaging the faith-life of our next generation by catering to their flesh and bringing the world in. The true church is no building - it should be within us - and if we don’t go back to the way God designed, we won’t see a change. A church that brings the world into it can’t bring the church to the world. As Paul Washer says, “If you use carnal means to attract people to church, you’re going to use greater carnal means to keep them.” Jesus is all we need to bring transformation - it always has been. The true Christians don’t want youth group games, we want the truth. Why are the true Christian teens like this? We’re often seen as radical. Silly. Too serious, even extreme. But this life we live isn’t radical - it’s Christianity. And we’d rather be labelled as extreme than be labeled as conformed, having to stand before God because of it. God never called us to mediocrity - especially in the areas that matter most. To be honest, the reason we are like this is because of Jesus Himself. He saved us (we aren’t boasting in ourselves), transformed us (we’re not faking anything) and now He is in the process of sanctifying us (because He is faithful who promised). What you see in any genuine Christian is God simply working in them to will and to do of His good pleasure. This is the power of Jesus, and if you haven’t experienced it yet, call upon Him and let His redemptive love cover you and transform your heart. We can glory in the Lord. We can have a life purpose greater than this world’s because of our Savior who saved us and gave us Himself. He made way for us to live an eternal life so we don’t have to get caught up in the temporal, here. Christians show Christ's grace in action, and we can take no credit. Read below some of the ways He chose to gather His children as His own and stir in our hearts a love for His Word this world has never known (all examples are from poll responses). -The Holy Spirit stirred within us a desire for truth and to know Him even better. -The knowledge of God's Word being alive and active has drawn us to seek it out for more answers. -Seeing how it has worked actively in the lives of others has helped to have the Word written on our hearts and present in our minds. -The National Bible Bee has immensely helped a lot of us grow in our faith and it birthed a love for God’s Word within us. -Genuine curiosity caused flames to spark and mentors and strong Christian parents kindled them. -Bible studies tested our motives and taught us how to really study God’s Word for ourselves. Others have led by example and taught that church is no replacement for knowing God and reading His Word for ourselves. -Understanding the sufficiency of scripture has thrown us upon the words of Truth and have revealed to us our desperate need for Jesus. -True Christian peers and friends have inspired us to take the next steps in our faith, and running alongside them in the journey has encouraged us. -Authors, teachers, and people in history have encouraged us to stand up for our faith, too. -Small group leaders have encouraged us to daily interact with the Word. Our hunger and eagerness planted in us by our Creator has flourished by Him. -Contagious passion has helped to knock over the first dominos in our Bible studying and Christian disciplines. -We’ve sought the Lord and He’s answered us. He’s revealed Himself to us. -True theology and the true gospel has impacted us and brought clarity to what we once called foggy in biblical understanding, causing us to only hunger for more. -Leading others in memorization, studying, or reading of God’s Word has increased our desire to live all out for Jesus ourselves so we can lead others to do the same. -Discipleship has caused us to grow with confidence, and witnessing the discipleship of others has inspired us as well. -The Do Hard Things Community -Apologetics has been like a launching pad to knowing the reason why we believe what we do. -Difficult circumstances have pressed us upon Christ, causing us to realize we have no other place to go. Hard times brought us to our knees searching for answers. -Encouragement from our parents kept us on the right track. -Going on the streets to evangelize stirred up a hunger and love for God even more, and has caused us to want to share Him continually as a result. -Camps have helped to open up our eyes. -Our family. Some of our parents have been in ministry longer than we’ve been alive, and in all the ups and downs, they've remained devoted to God and teaching others about Him. Their examples of leading others and the home have inspired us. Seeing them grow in Jesus has helped us to do the same. -The more we read God’s Word, the more we wanted to read it. Some of us have been blessed with an amazing community of true Christian friends and a solid church body that stands in Christ - “God placed me in the path of some young people who had such a strong love for God and a deep desire to know Him more. At that point in my life, I didn't have the *love* and *hunger* that I now have for God's Word. I wanted what those kids had. And God opened up to me a whole new world of joy and beauty in the Bible that I had never known was there! And now I have an unquenchable desire to grow closer to the Lord through His Word.” And some of us are in a season of standing alone - “Currently, I don't know one youth personally that is passionate about Christ. It's sad and sometimes lonely, but I think people don't know better. My biggest dream right now is to get into youth ministry and teach youth about Christ and how to follow Him with their whole heart!” But we are never alone. The means I listed above are just a few in which our limitless God can draw His own to Himself and ignite a fire in them for His Word. As ___ says, the pure in heart will see God. Those who seek Christ will find Him, and the wheat/tares? It's not too late - God is still working. Be a vessel in which He uses to spark change in this generation for His glory, like so many things have been used by God to spark a flame in us. “I don't want to leave this world having done nothing for Christ. He gave everything for us--how can we just sit there and never try to thank Him?” “When I study the Bible, I feel renewed. I feel God's presence and hear Him calling me to follow Him. God's Word is our sword and our light, and it will last forever!” Glorying in the Lord, Hannah Kohner “I was talking aloud to myself. A habit of the old: they choose the wisest person present to speak to.” – Gandalf the Grey (The Lord of The Rings: The Two Towers) Before you ask, yes. This is my excuse when I’m caught talking to myself (well, besides the being old part…). I enjoy talking to myself by having conversations with what I suppose you could call “imaginary people.” It helps me sort out my thoughts, put them into words, and make decisions. And when I have something on my mind, I tell myself about it over and over again. It helps me to talk about it. If it’s something exciting, I get even more excited, and if it is a project I’m working on, it helps me to organize and simplify things. But lately I’ve been convicted. How much time do I spend talking to myself? How much time do I spend talking to God? I’m sad to say, the proportions are way off from where they should be. It gets worse than that, though. Talking to myself can sometimes compound my problem instead of helping. Although I am not prone to worrying, when I rehash problems again and again to find solutions that aren't there, I tend to start worrying. Talking to myself about exciting happenings often makes me even more excited, which can make it hard to concentrate on the tasks I should be working on. When I talk to God about my life, it is so different. He brings peace and He never gets tired of listening – even if I tell Him about the same things over and over again. Psalm 17:6 (NKJV) says, “I have called upon You, for You will hear me, O God; Incline Your ear to me, and hear my speech.” He is always there to hear. He will act in my life. When I tell my heavenly Father about what is going on, a burden is lifted and I can rest in the assurance of knowing that He is working it out and I don’t have to. So I’ve been working on changing my talking habits. Yes, it is beneficial to talk to myself about some things, but I am going to talk to God about them first. I am going to run to God with everything and give Him an earful because He loves when His children come to Him. With God’s help, I am going to be a woman who always turns to God first. I know many of you are a lot like me. You love to talk to yourself, and often it helps. But then again, sometimes it doesn’t. You long to go to God first, but so often you forget and talk to yourself about it instead. If you look at it honestly, the proportions of talking to yourself versus talking to God are far from where they should be in your life as well. Brothers and sisters, join me in my resolution to go to God first. Join in my prayer to seek Him before all. Because really, God is the wisest person present. Macy Lee is a young lady growing up with six siblings in southeastern Washington, where their parents train them in the ways of the Lord. She is the author of Awesome Attributes and The Call, and she has also been published in Unlocked. Macy is an avid writer whose desire is to glorify her heavenly Father with her pen and to encourage others with the words He gives. "We are struggling because we aren't following Biblical principles. Do we seriously think that a twenty minute sermon once a week is going to eliminate sin and give us faith to move mountains?"
The post that echoes the voices of thirty-two different young people from across the world has arrived. Their cry for help, their desire for change, and their passion to stand has been compiled into one blog post that will stir you to action and shift your gaze to the gospel of Jesus Christ - our hope. Click the link below to read the survey results that you all have all been waiting for. Join me as my peers share their personal perspective on today’s church and how to bring about change in this generation. May their words encourage and convict you as they have me. Their words start here. And so does the change. “Separating youth from the adults is spiritual suicide. How are we letting unqualified people teach our next generation? Youth groups must be changed, or we will continue to watch our generation fall away.” Why do you think so many Christian youth are struggling so much today? Many youth feel alone in their relationship with Christ and don't have good fellowship with other believers and also that the world can look so alluring and calls for their attention. There's an issue with lacking mentorship and discipleship. There's a lot of false ideas right now and it's hard to find the truth and stand for it. And it is hard to find people who are strong and willing to train and encourage younger generations and spend genuine time understanding and helping them. Parents are not raising them right. And they may think that they know God just because they go to church, but really, they don't know him at all! 1. Because of the pressure in our society to “enjoy life” and worldly experiences 2. Because of the low standards and disappointment we feel from churches and parents for this generation. 3. Because of the avoiding of hard topics that speak truth in youth group and stuff Most youth aren't taught the REAL TRUTH from the Bible. They are taught surface things...things that are just supposed to make you "feel good" but don't answer the deep, burning questions that so many youth have today. There is too much compromise in the church, and it has allowed the world to infiltrate it. One possible reason is Christian youth don't see many (if any) believers who are completely on fire and passionate for Christ, rather, "American" Christians who work in a regular job 5 days a week and go to church on Sunday. I think many of these sorts of Christians are involved in "harmless" secular culture which inadvertently pollutes our relationship with Christ. (Such as social media, television, music, books, even culture in schools). They're missing out - they don't see the power and true dedication behind a solid Christian faith, it's just sort of a lukewarm belief that doesn't hold up well in life, so they turn away and search for more fulfilling things. How could the fact that so many Christian youth are struggling today change? I would love to see the Church tackling the tough areas in life, able to find some unity amidst the disagreements, able to discuss politely, but most importantly overcoming this lukewarmness that is more dangerous than any blatant opposition! But I don't know how to bring about this change. Perhaps if the church is concerned about the youth, they should talk to the youth’s parents. This could change if each of us sought to know God Himself firsthand, not secondhand by hearsay from someone quoting a theologian. This could change if we started with ourselves, prayed, read the bible, and make that change. We need to stop wishing for change, pointing fingers, and hoping for the best. Change doesn't come by itself. Pray for a Christian brother or sister to walk the walk with you of course but please BE that Christian brother or sister for someone else. We need to start making discipleship central to the church, youth ministry, and in the home. They need encouragement and equipping from the older generations, but perhaps they're not getting it to the extent they need it. Studying the Bible and sharing the gospel, for example, are things that youth may struggle with. They need other believers to come alongside them and train them in these things. They need to be equipped so that they can set the world on fire for Christ. Without serving God to a level I've very rarely seen, we will continue to falter because even our role models are carnal... - - - 78.1% of the teens interviewed said they felt that they had a growing relationship with the Lord. The remaining 21.9% shared that they felt complacent with their relationship with the Lord, but they wanted to change it. This is only in the Christian world, and on a small survey compiled by an 18-year-old from Minnesota. We need to equip this next generation of young people to stand up for God’s glory and to run this race for the increase of a greater kingdom. We need to fix our eyes on Jesus and declare in our hearts that there is nothing better than knowing our Savior. Our church is hurting, and in order to reach the world, our church needs to find healing. If the youth in this generation are not strong and equipped, how are they supposed to go out and equip others? You can’t bring others to the salvation of Christ if you don’t have confidence in Christ yourself. This next generation needs to be woken up, not spoon fed with entertainment and church games. Jesus didn’t have a lower standard for us. So why do we? Why do the adults in our generation? Why does the body of Christ? Let’s get on track with the gospel and in step with the Spirit of God. Now is the time. There is hope. When will we be willing to unashamedly wield its flame, no matter what it costs us? “Clear the stage and set the sound and lights ablaze If that's the measure you must take to crush the idols Jerk the pews and all the decorations, too Until the congregation's few, then have revival Tell your friends that this is where the party ends Until you're broken for your sins, you can't be social Then seek the Lord and wait for what he has in store And know that great is your reward so just be hopeful.” -Clear the Stage by Rassmussen family P.S. -Because I got so many good survey results, I did not have enough room to post everything I wanted to in one blog post! Keep an eye out for part 2. Until then, feel free to converse with me in the comments! If you didn’t get to fill out the survey, how do these responses make you feel? What would your responses be to the above questions? Maybe you saw your answer in this week’s post. How would YOU inspire change in this generation? See you soon! Sister in Christ, Hannah Kohner “The true convert doesn’t receive the gospel as an addition to his previous life, but in exchange for it.” -Paul Washer Recently I created a survey on “Youth and the Church” and sent it to a handful of random young people within my circle of influence. Some who responded were in their early teens, others were well into their twenties. I chose people I knew from all different backgrounds, and some I knew better than others. I had been researching the topic of youth in the church, and was spending time to better understand false doctrines that were being preached behind the pulpit, while observing the youth’s faith walk as a result. Incorrect theology and a lost teen seemed to go hand in hand. As I was researching and noticing what was present in the lives of young people just from their experiences with church and family, questions arose. Lots of my friends have grounded relationships with the Lord. How did they get there? Even more than that, what was different between them and the ones who seemed to be struggling to stay afloat out there in today’s culture? What did group "a" have that group "b" didn’t? I was searching for a common denominator, but as the Lord showed me, there was more than one. Here are the questions I asked them in the survey: 1. What are 1-2 things you feel that many churches are overlooking and neglecting to talk about? 2. Do you feel you have a good understanding of scripture? 3. Around what age (if you know) did you become a believer? 4.Which of the following best describes your relationship with God and His Word at this time in your life: a) Apathetic, and I don’t care b) Complacent and I don’t care c) Complacent and I want to change it d) Content and growing in the truth of Christ (1 Tim. 6:6). 5. Why do you think so many Christian youth are struggling so much today? How could this change? 6. What do you feel is discussed most in your church? 7.What caused you to get into scripture yourself/develop a love for the Word? If you answered with "complacent/apathetic/don't care" above... Is there someone around you who you admire who has developed a deeper love for the Word? How have they inspired you? I received over 20 responses in about one week. Several people had requested that I write a blog post on this survey, and share a few responses (anonymously) while sharing what I learned from it. I decided to take them up on that. (This post is to give a bit of an overview on the survey for the responses that I will be sharing later on this month lord willing). I was surprised at the answers I received to say the least. The Lord showed me that there were so many different perspectives out there that were unlike my own. He helped me to realize that there is a diversity of stories, testimonies, and struggles that are dealt with throughout our generation - today. Teens were noticing issues that I hadn’t considered, and they were flourishing in places by reasons I wouldn’t have assumed. Even though the hurt some of my peers were facing seemed overwhelming at times, I was encouraged by the never-changing hope of the transformational gospel that we have access to. God’s Word is the same yesterday, today, and forever. His Word always has had the power to save souls, and always will. The truth is, teens in the church today are not exempt from hurt. We can’t push them away hoping for someone else to take initiative. We are the body of Christ - let’s work together in this to advance God’s kingdom and to push back the darkness. No matter your age, you can do something. That something is what God has commanded you to do. Elders, teach the younger as the Book of Titus commands it. We need you. Younger, flee youthful lusts and run to Jesus. The world is watching you. In my next post you’ll see some of these wonderful (and mind-blowing) responses from young people all across the world. Seeing the spark of faith and desire for change among my peers has deeply encouraged me to be a faithful soldier alongside them daily. We’re called to be an example among the believers (1 Tim. 4:12), let’s commit to that. I hope that this next post will both encourage you and lovingly, yet boldly, call you to action as it has me. I’m still receiving responses, and I encourage you to submit one, too! If you are under age 30, no matter your denomination, background, or understanding of scripture, click this link at the end of those post to submit your (anonymous) answers to contribute. Each question you answer will help in my researching as I seek the Lord to how we can spread His light further into this generation for His glory, and may even be shared in this post. Thank you! Dear young people, don’t quit, don’t back down, no matter what the world throws at you. Choose Jesus. And let Him be your anchor. I promise He will see you through. Your sister in Christ, Hannah Kohner “I want to follow the Lord and I want to hear what He has to say. God's Word is alive and active, and it's our sword. I study His Word to know what He is calling me to, to see how He worked in the lives of others, and to have the Word written on my heart and present in my mind.” -Young person’s response to the “Y&tC” survey. I finished memorizing the Book of Philippians this past January. It was the first Book of the Bible I had ever finished memorizing fully. A feeling of accomplishment washed over me as I finished memorizing. It was a feeling like no other. This portion of scripture was eternally planted in my heart, and no one could take it out! It inspired me to memorize more. It was then that I decided to memorize one Book of the Bible each month this year. So far I have been keeping up with my goal, and have memorized three Books of the Bible. Currently I am working on 2 Timothy for the month of April. Since I have been spending so much time memorizing these larger portions of scripture, I’ve experienced scripture in action. So many of the verses would make their way into my daily thoughts, conversations, and even writing projects. This inspired me to just write an entire blog post on what I’ve learned from the Book of Philippians just since memorizing it. I also plan on writing about the other Books I memorize in the future (and the others I’ve completed so far), so keep an eye out for those new posts! Here is my list of 10 things God has shown me as I’ve memorized this amazing Book! 1. Philippians 4 was the first chapter in the Book that I memorized (I know, out of order). One of the first things that stood out to me was the word “moderation” in verse 5. In other versions this word is “gentleness.” As a young woman it stood out to me that my moderation (kind of like modesty) and gentleness should be known to everyone I am around. I shouldn’t be one way around a certain group of friends, then change who I am with a different group. I’m to be pleasing in His sight no matter who I’m with or how those around me act. 2. Philippians 4:4 says rejoice twice. It doesn’t say to rejoice only when you feel like it, but to rejoice always. I wrote this verse on an index card and taped to my window. Whenever I felt down about something I’d remember that verse written by Paul, the one who was sitting in prison at the time he wrote it, telling me to rejoice in the Lord always. If Paul did it in his circumstances, so can I. 3. Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin, an Israelite, and a man who seemed to have it all...but he chose to give it all up for Christ. He counted everything he had as loss compared to Christ. He valued the knowledge of the things of God over his earthly status and treasures. Like Moses, he chose rather to suffer with the people of God instead of enjoying the pleasures of sin for a season (Heb. 11:25). 4. Philippians 2:14-16 - “Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.” We as Christians are to: Not complain, shine as lights in this world (you have to be different from the darkness in order to shine in it), hold out the Word of life, and rejoice in the day of Christ. As a result, we can be confident that we haven’t run our race in vain. 5. If there’s anything good in me at all, it's Christ. I thought Paul was an amazing man who had it all together, but even he said in Philippians 3:9 that he didn’t have his own righteousness. His righteousness was of God, through faith in Christ. How amazing is that? We, just like Paul, don’t have to try to live up to the law’s standards because Christ already did that work for us. Now our only boast is in Him - the One who took our place so that we could be the ones clothed in His righteousness. We can do away with the works and cling to His grace. It is sufficient for us. 6. It is God that works in us to will and to do of His good pleasure (Ph. 2:13). Any good in us is a result of His work in us, and any work He does in us wasn’t begun because of what we’ve done, but because He chose to initiate and transform us for His glory. 7. To live is Christ, and to die is gain. No, really. To live is Christ and to die is gain. Let that sink in. After reading it a dozen times from reviewing that passage over and over, it started to change my perspective. It brought me so much joy to know that as Christians, it’s not us who live, but Christ in us, and when it's all said and done, fullness of joy truly begins. 8. If Christ, the King of the world, the Son of God, the one present when the foundations of the earth were made, the one who can count the hairs on my head, saved me from sin, and knows every word before I speak, took upon Him the form of a servant and humbled himself, what does that mean for me? Who am I to think I’m to be served and not serve others? Who am I to think that I’m worthy of more praise than He received? 9. Philippians 2:4 says to “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” I have been challenged since memorizing that verse to put this into action, and when I haven’t, I’ve been convicted because I now know what God’s Word has to say. His truths actively direct me in the right path I am to go. 10. I really can memorize an entire Book of the Bible, and so can you! So there you have it! 10 out of many things that the Lord has taught me as I memorized the amazing Book of Philippians. I hope this post was an encouragement to you. This week I challenge you to find a verse, chapter, or Book of the Bible that you love and memorize it, too! Start small, but don’t stop there - keep going. I promise it will change you, and it is all worth it. For a bit of an extra challenge: Leave a comment below sharing a passage you’ve memorized recently, and 5 things God has taught you from memorizing it! In Christ alone, Hannah Kohner Why should you participate in the National Bible Bee this year? Who better to ask than the participants themselves? Today I have a few special guests who will be sharing their experiences from many years of participation in this life-changing and heart-grabbing competition. They’re here to share why they think you should join this year’s study. But first, let me tell you a little bit about the Bible Bee if you aren’t familiar with it already. The National Bible Bee is a non-profit organization that originated in 2009 with the purpose to engage young people in the memorization and study of God’s Word. Participants ages 5-18 from all across the nation join other believers in studying a yearly theme by journeying through a provided study journal. This inductive study has personally taught me how to rightly divide the Word of Truth, and how to learn for myself what God has to say to His people. On top of that, God has used this ministry to connect me with a large community of like-minded and passionate believers. The summer study lasts eight weeks (June-August) and at the end of those eight weeks, participants have the option to take an online test to see if they qualify for the National competition. This is where the top 360 participants will be given a study passage and memorize 500-1,000 verses - in eight weeks. Contestants then compete for over $100,000 in prize money. The fun part is, you can give as much time into this study as you’d like, and you can go as far with it as you desire - but whether you just focus on the summer study or make it to finals in the Nationals competition, you are hiding the truths of God in your heart. That can never be taken away from you. God has used this ministry in so many ways in my life, and though I have now aged out, the truths I have hidden in my heart through the past few years have been invaluable. I’m beyond thankful for the opportunity I currently have to serve the National Bible Bee staff, and to come alongside the younger participants as they seek to know their Creator on a deeper level. If you’re over the age of eighteen (thus, like me, are “too old” to participate in the summer study and competition:) don’t click out of this post just yet. The National Bible Bee also offers their yearly summer studies (also known as a Discovery Journal) to people of all ages. You can then dig deeper into God’s Word in your own time and at your own pace. No matter your age, you can be benefitted by this study. It doesn’t matter if you’re a grandparent or a busy college student, you can either study by yourself, or gift the study to someone younger than you and learn beside them this summer! One National Bible Bee competitor of three years says, "The National Bible Bee changed my life in so many ways! There's nothing like digging deep in the Word of God and studying it for yourself. I also met a ton of amazing people who love God, His Word, and the people around them. To this day I am so thankful to the Lord for bringing my family to this ministry. I would recommend it to anyone." The summer study has brought many families together as they dive deep into the same passage of scripture together over the 8-week time period. I could not think of a better way for you to use your time this summer! The time you invest into God’s Word will benefit you for eternity. Lynnaea, a National Bible Bee participant of eight years says, “The National Bible Bee has really helped me to grow in the Lord through the study of His Word. The National Bible Bee study is different from most other studies out there, because it not only teaches you WHAT to study, but it teaches you HOW to study the Bible on your own. Before I started the National Bible Bee, I never really had the desire to study God’s Word on my own, but after working through the Discovery Journal and learning how to study the Bible for what it truly is, I started enjoying it and studying scripture on my own outside of National Bible Bee (season). God has really used my experience in this ministry to grow me closer to Himself and I am forever grateful.” The National Bible Bee is like a big family. Everyone is so supportive, and their online community for young participants is full of tips, lifelong friends, and genuine encouragement. Although there is a sense of competition (that certainly does get intense at times:) it's evident that Christ is the center of this ministry. I’m sure that any of us could tell you that the rankings, medals, and excitement of the competition all fade away. But we know with confidence, that what we hid in our hearts, the precious Word of God, never fades. I love how my friend described her experience in this amazing competition - “As much as I loved to study God's Word, it was a struggle for me to know where to start or exactly where to look. That’s when I found the National Bible Bee. I was fascinated at the truths and treasures that were being unlocked right before my eyes. The Summer study takes you by your hand and guides you on a journey through God's Word. National Bible Bee is not only life-changing, but it gives a whole new perspective on life. It may seem to be a bit daunting at first, but once you dive in, there’s no regrets.” So what are you waiting for? Sign up by clicking here to learn how to be a witness for Jesus Christ in a way you never have before. You won’t regret it. *REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN, AND THE PRICES ARE CURRENTLY THE LOWEST THEY'LL BE:) To know God’s Word and make Him known, Hannah Kohner Hello friends! This week I would like to share a speech that I wrote and presented last month on the first martyr for Jesus Christ, Stephen. His story in the Book of Acts is truly powerful and has inspired me to live out my faith boldly for Christ. Whether you are familiar with this passage of scripture or not, I hope you can sit back and enjoy this different style of my writing, and the story of Stephen as its brought to life. May his testimony encourage and embolden you as it has me. *Note: I have added and removed some details of this story for the sake of presenting this as a speech. The writing below is me putting this biblical account into my own words, but does not by any means override/disregard the words written IN scripture. God's Word has final authority, and I am just storytelling. I encourage you to go read the full unedited (and very powerful) version yourself in Acts 6-7.*
..."The weather was perfect for this time of year. The sun burst through the clouds with its bright golden rays. Locusts could be heard in the distance as people walked the dusty streets. It was the first day of his mission. His heart beat with more excitement with each coming breath. He had something that other people didn’t. He had a calling from above that he couldn’t pass on to another. This was the reason for his life, and soon, it would be the reason for his death. But he didn’t fear - for his entire life, his confidence, his being, his purpose, was encompassed with this single mission: to partake in the advancement of God’s kingdom and to make disciples for Jesus Christ no matter the cost. Stephen was known as a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit. Scripture doesn’t share anything about his personal life - his parents, his siblings, or whether he had a wife or children; however, what we do know about him is of eternal importance. Stephen was one of seven men who were chosen to serve neglected widows in the early church by distributing food to them. This then allowed the disciples to devote themselves more continually to the ministry of the gospel and prayer. This plan was agreed upon by the disciples, and as a result, the knowledge of the Word of God increased throughout the land and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem. But it wasn’t long before people arose out of the synagogue seeking to argue with Stephen about the gospel which he proclaimed. He was falsely accused and railed upon with anger and hatred... But Stephen kept speaking. The people covered their ears, yet they were convicted in their hearts. They couldn’t find a single word to keep this man from speaking, but they were determined to find a way to silence him. Anger seeped through the cracks of their clenched fists... But Stephen kept on speaking. In Acts chapter 7, Stephen gives a shocking and powerful message to a multitude of people in the synagogue. He stood up to the plate when it came to sharing the gospel with the unbelieving. Passion flowed from his every word as he summarized much of the Old Testament from Abraham to the reign of Solomon. He ended his message by rebuking the people for their hardened heart towards the Holy Ghost, knowing that he would only be hated more for his words. The Bible tells us that though the multitude was against him, they weren’t able to resist the wisdom and spirit by which he spoke. But soon they had heard enough. Loud cries and roaring voices filled the streets. Together, the people took hold of Stephen, cast him out of the city and stoned him - to death. He was the first martyr for Jesus Christ. Stephen’s last words recorded in scripture were: “Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.” Sounds very similar to the last words of Jesus, doesn’t it? Stephen not only stood for his Savior, but had quite a bit in common with Him. The Bible tells us that Jesus and Stephen both performed miracles by the Holy Spirit. They both had false witnesses set up against them, and faced the high priests of their time shortly before their deaths? They were falsely accused of blasphemy by the people, and they unashamedly proclaimed the truth amidst persecution until their death. After Stephen’s death, Saul, the very man who approved of his execution, found Christ, repented for his sins, and wrote over ten books of the Bible. I am reminded of his words written in 1 Peter chapter 3 - “And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.” I wonder if Paul was thinking of Stephen the day he wrote those words. If we choose to stand up for Christ today, our decision may lead to someone else finding Him tomorrow. The life of Stephen has inspired me to not live for myself, but to proclaim the truth and live for the King, no matter the cost. May we, like Stephen and countless other Christians throughout history, stand for our faith - boldly. May we have a sound speech, that cannot be condemned. May we live a life that points to Jesus so that even our enemies, seeing something different in us, will have their eyes opened to the truth and maybe even become one of us." Love your sister in Christ, Hannah N. Kohner True peace doesn’t depend on your comfort level. It doesn’t bloom in perfect circumstances, and wilt in difficult ones. It’s not something you can win over time after completing a class or course. It isn’t something the world can give you. Biblical peace comes from Christ, remains because of Christ, and satisfies us in Christ. Isaiah 9:6 even calls Jesus the Prince of Peace.
Last week I stepped outside of my comfort zone. At first, I felt I wouldn’t be able to overcome the fear. I started doubting God’s plan, and tried taking things into my own hands by, you guessed it - worrying. I prayed to God and asked for His peace as it says in Philippians 4:6-7. He then showed me that in having a desire to be used for His glory and to walk in His plan for me that He wouldn’t fail me. He reminded me that if I wanted His will to be done in me, I had to be willing to step out in faith for Him - even if I was afraid. My job was to have a confident trust in Him and His Word, and let Him figure out the rest. All I had to do was trust Him, and the more I did, the more peace followed. He filled me with not only peace, but joy. He answered more prayers than I could have imagined, supplied all of my needs, and gifted me with provision and peace. This didn’t happen because I had everything under control, but because God had everything in His hands. Often we like to have all the answers before we step out in faith and do something outside of our comfort zones, when God is asking us to just follow His leading. Can you relate? As you can see from my story above peace doesn’t always come right away. Sometimes we have to first step out in obedience before we feel peace in a situation, and other times we will feel His presence from day one of our difficulties. Either way, God has commanded us to fix our eyes on Christ, fill our mind with His Word, and replace any fear with faith. Letting our lack of comfort keep us from stepping out in obedience to Christ isn’t an option. I am so thankful that God’s truths never change, even when our feelings do! It doesn’t matter what we're facing. As long as we walk in accordance with His truth and light, His Word will comfort, transform, and lead us. He will show us the way in which we’re to walk, and we can be confident in that. A verse that has been helpful to me recently is 2 Timothy 1:7 which says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” After reading that over and over, I realized that fear in a Christian’s life shouldn’t be viewed as optional, but sinful. Fear isn’t a feeling we allow when having faith in God seems too difficult. Fear is a sin, and where it resides, perfect love and peace cannot be. Philippians 4:9 tells us that as we do those things which we have learned, heard, received in the Word of God (in this case, Paul’s letter), that the God of peace shall be with us. The phrase “The God of peace shall be with you” is written all throughout scripture, and it's written for us. How comforting is it to know that the all-knowing King who made the universe and everything in it tells us that there’s no need to worry? Everything that we could ever be afraid of has already been conquered by Him. He already knows our future, yet even then, He reminds us to rest in His peace. It's almost like a pilot of an airplane. Although the passengers don’t see what’s ahead, the pilot sees everything and can be trusted till the end. Our job is to do the will of Christ, wherever that may lead us. Our duty is to fear God and keep His commandments, and our purpose is to lay everything aside to follow Christ and to bear His name. His peace will follow us - the peace which surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). We can leave the fear behind us. Love your sister in Christ, Hannah K. Hello, there! How has your week been? A couple weeks ago I wrote a post on the differences between deductive and inductive studying. I explained the basics of both study approaches while sharing that one of these methods is often overlooked, and unfortunately not taught by many churches today. At the end of my post, I left you on a cliffhanger of unanswered questions and told you to keep your eye out for part two. Well, this week, part two has arrived - as promised! For those of you who didn’t get a chance to read part one that I posted a couple weeks ago, you can do so by clicking here. I encourage you to give it a read. - - - - - Below I’ve listed seven tips and study guides to go deeper into God’s Word through inductive studying. I was blessed to learn these tips over the past two years through the National Bible Bee, and they've made an impact on my life. The excitement I have in studying the Bible has increased as I’ve learned how to get the most out of my time in scripture. Let’s get going! 1. Cross-references - These have changed my life. I didn’t know how to fully use scripture to interpret itself, or how to study cross-references until more recently, and I’m so thankful that I learned how. Two ways that I enjoy finding these are by using Open Bible and Blue Letter Bible. Both sites provide an extensive list of cross-references (for ex. Gen. 1:1 and John 1:1 are similar, thus, are cross-references). It’s been a lot of fun to discover how God has confirmed His Truth to us in so many different ways throughout scripture. It’s like He is saying, “In case you didn’t think this verse was true, take a look at this verse.” His Word never contradicts itself. It just continually supports itself! 2. Greek and Hebrew words - Some may not think these are very important, but they’re definitely useful to understand the full meaning of a word that was used. Sometimes an English word means something completely different in the Hebrew! Blue Letter Bible (as linked above) is a helpful source for finding these. I like to make up fun names for the Greek/Hebrew words I’m trying to remember, too. For ex. “Ken” is the Hebrew word for “Honest/True.” So to remember that word, my sister and I would imagine that we knew a man named Ken who was honest and true. It can get pretty funny when you do this with other people as well, and you’ll probably never forget it! 3. Color - No, you don’t have to be a child to do this one! Personally, if I studied scripture with only black ink and pencils, it would be more difficult for me to remember what I am studying. I like to color code things in my Bible with highlighters, and write notes in that same color in a notebook/binder (yes, I know that isn’t for everybody:). Using different types of pens/brush markers brings my study pages to life. Usually, I can retain the information I’m studying better if I take the time to use color as I think about the verse/passage. It also makes it easier for future reference because I know that any verse I memorized is highlighted in blue (for example). 4. Lists, lists, and more lists - I love making lists of certain things I find in scripture. I like studying God’s Word with friends, and something that we’ve enjoyed doing together is finding attributes of God in His Word. Other things I like to make lists for include names of God (or people), locations, commandments, key words (salvation, grace, all things, hope, etc.), and personal applications. This also helps me to organize things better too so I can further study them. Some friends and I have even made Google Documents to combine our study notes, lists, and thoughts so we can bounce things off of each other and learn together. It is definitely iron sharpening iron! 5. Concordances, Indexes, Dictionaries, and more… These have especially been helpful to me this past year, as they have helped me to see biblical truths I would have otherwise overlooked (and maybe even taken out of context). Concordances list words and phrases found in the Bible alphabetically, which can be very helpful. You can find both online versions and paperback copies of these. The Harmony of the Gospels is so eye-opening (definitely take a look at that if you haven’t yet), and that is only the beginning. You can use Topical Indexes too, and even word dictionaries. 6. Mapwork and Historical Context - This one is definitely fun for those who are really into history. Buy a good Bible Atlas (or zoom in on google earth:) to have a good visual for locations mentioned in scripture. Websites like bibletools.org have amazing overviews of people and locations mentioned in scripture. There are enough resources out there for you to dig deeper into God’s Word for a lifetime, but remember to always compare and test what you read and hear with scripture. Ultimately keep the Bible as your final authority instead of man’s opinions. Context is extremely important in studying, as you don’t want to accidentally misinterpret something. Looking into background information and literary and historical context helps you to keep things in the proper perspective, and besides, it's a ton of fun! 7. Memorization - I could write a fifteen part series on this one, alone. I won’t go deep into memorization this week, but you can read my blog posts: Proclaiming His Word, The Power of Proclaiming, and Are We Equipped? To hear some of my memorization journeys and to get some encouragement if you’d like. God’s Word is invaluable. You’ll never regret the time you’ve spent hiding God’s Word in your heart. I challenge you to start small! Memorize one verse a day and take the weekends to review, or tackle a chapter in a week. Your brain is a muscle, and the more you work it, the better it will become. I hope you found these tips helpful. Remember that this is just my personal overview of some of the ways I like to study. There are definitely other ways you can get the most out of your time with the Lord, and studying looks different for everybody. What’s most important is the realization that God’s Word is endless, and that the treasure, wisdom, and knowledge you can find within its pages is never-ending. If you’re feeling that the Word of God is boring and mundane, I encourage you to go to God and ask Him to renew your joy. Yes, I’ve been there, but I now know with confidence that the Truth of my Savior is the best treasure ever. Know your Creator in the days of your youth before the evil days come when you will say “I have no pleasure in them.” (Ecc. 12:1). You can do this, keep digging deeper. Happy studying, friends! Have any questions, comments, or prayer requests? Feel free to send me an email at [email protected], or leave a comment below - I’d love to hear from you. Stay strong in the faith of Jesus!
Love your sister in Christ, Hannah Kohner “Very few young people know how to do this,” I said to a friend of mine as we were talking on the phone one evening. “Even some adults were never taught how to do what I am going to show you, and unfortunately there are several churches out there that don’t emphasize its importance. They may tell you to study on your own at home, but they never explain to you how to do it.” For most of my life, I didn’t do much more than write down my thoughts on a passage, then search the Bible to back up what I believed. The problem with that was, I was expecting the Word to support my thoughts, instead of letting my thoughts be conformed to the Word. That isn't the best spot to be in. When I became a new Christian, as excited as I was, I quickly became overwhelmed at the length of the Bible. I didn’t know how to study it, or how to interpret it properly. As much as I wanted to, I felt as if there was so much to read, to learn, to memorize - I didn’t know where to begin. Can you relate? At age sixteen I stared at my open Bible and assumed that God just wanted me to pray and take notes on what I read while hoping for some eye-opening revelation or confirmation that what I was reading was true. Now don’t get me wrong, it isn’t a bad idea to seek revelation and direction from Christ regarding a passage of scripture, but what if some of the very answers we’re searching for are already there - right in front of our eyes? The thing is, God has already given us all that we need to know Him and to live a life according to His will. 1 John 2:27 - “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” 2 Timothy 3:16 - “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” If you’re anything like me, you’ll sometimes skip over verses that are listed throughout blog posts because you’re already familiar with them and know what they say. . . but don’t do that this time. If you haven’t yet, go back and carefully read those two verses. God has already provided us with the means to study and grow in His Word, and to walk it out. As a good friend of mine once said, “You can both wade in the shallow water of scripture, or go scuba diving in the deep waters of it.” It's your choice how deep you will go. The amount of time and commitment you invest into God’s Word is the amount that you will get out of it. There are two different ways that you can study scripture: Inductive studying, and deductive studying. They both sound similar, but they are actually quite different. GotAnswers.org gave this definition that I liked - “Deductive Bible study, then, is simply taking a general statement and then going to Scripture to find details that support (or disprove) it. Inductive Bible study does the opposite. It starts with the details of Scripture and then builds a general or universal statement based on those details.”
Scripture was never meant to be defined by our feelings, but by God. You can take a deep breath now - the truth of God’s Word doesn’t depend on you or your own interpretations. However, we can misinterpret God’s Word and even take it out of context. That is why it is SO important that we ask the Lord to keep us on the narrow path of His truth. When we genuinely ask Him for wisdom, He won’t lead us astray. Before the summer of 2019, I had always done deductive studying. Then I was introduced to the inductive study approach by the National Bible Bee. It changed my life. I’ve grown so much in my faith, and have learned more invaluable truths over these past couple of years than I can count. I discovered the world of Greek and Hebrew words, cross-references, definitions, historical context, intense memorization, background information, and more. You’d be surprised to discover that you can go deeper into scripture than you ever thought possible. It was in the National Bible Bee that I met dozens of young people who strived to put God first in their lives, and who learned how to let scripture interpret itself and change them at a young age. The low expectation of studying God’s Word was completely defied. No matter your age, you can choose to stand up and defy it, too. Will you? I can now say that I'm beyond passionate for God’s Word, and I desire to help stir up that passion in others as well. Studying and reading scripture is like opening up a treasure chest. It's not boring to me as it used to be. There's no limit to how much one can discover and learn in God’s Word! Tackling scripture can sometimes be intimidating, but remember who is present with us in every turn of the Bible’s page. If we have any questions, we can ask the One who wrote the answers Himself. He’s promised to lead His own in spirit and in truth. God desires for us to know who He is by knowing His Word. Whether you wade in the shallow waters of scripture or make the choice to dive deep, may you grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. May your heart overflow with joy as you see God’s Word interpret itself - before your very eyes. Keep an eye out for Part 2 of this post on HOW to take the steps to study God’s Word inductively - coming up in a few weeks. How's your week been? Is there any way I can pray for you? Love you all in Christ Jesus,
Hannah Kohner
2021. Another new year. Another year of unknowns. Another year to trust God. As I welcomed this new year, I couldn’t help but think of what it would hold. Would things be easier or more difficult than 2020? I have my thoughts and assumptions, but even those are like the ways of the wind - unpredictable and uncertain. If I could summarize what God taught me in 2020 into one sentence, it would be this: God’s plans haven’t changed even though mine have, and His faithfulness is to be trusted no matter what I face. The truth is, nothing I faced this past year caught God off guard. His plans for me didn’t even change when the world around me did. Throughout 2020, I had to be reminded of the fact that God’s purpose for me was still the same, and most importantly, so was His faithfulness. It was the same regardless of how I felt, what I did, or what I didn’t do. As this new year approached, I talked with some good friends of mine about surrendering our plans to God, and being effective for His kingdom here on earth this upcoming year. It was a beneficial and fruitful discussion. We've even been able to say that we aren’t as afraid of what this year will bring because we know the God who holds it. We’ve experienced God’s presence and felt His peace. We’ve seen His true light shine, and have witnessed His ability to protect and sustain us, even throughout some of the most difficult times of our lives. We wouldn’t have known the faithfulness of God to such an extent if we hadn’t experienced the darkness for God to be faithful in. When we're in the trying moments, God refines us and shows us the reality of His power even more so. God has been gracious to give each of us our time here on earth - how will we use it? We can use it to further our dreams, goals, and aspirations, or we can use it to bring Him glory and to advance a kingdom that will not fade away. The choice is ours. This last year more than any other has taught me that no matter what plans I try to make, the Lord is the One who has the final say. As Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps." This verse has also been a comfort to me because it reminds me that the Lord knows what is best for me even when I don’t. He orchestrates my steps when I don’t know where to walk and rescues me when He sees that my plans lead to danger. He’s the solid foundation when the ground beneath my feet is unstable. I thank God that my life isn’t in my own hands! I want to ask you a question that's convicted me this past week. As you launch into this next year, what will the attitude of your heart be? What is your desire, your focus, your passion? Each one of these things matters, because it will determine your destination. If you focus on the world and the momentary comforts, you’ll be led astray. If you focus on Christ, He’ll show you the way of truth. Are you about God’s plans, or are you about your own? Are you seeking God’s will in your life, or your own? Are you only willing to surrender your friendships and scheduled events to Christ? Or are you willing to surrender even your life to Him? We aren’t promised tomorrow. Now is the time, if you haven’t already, to make the choice to surrender to Christ - you won’t regret it. This world is uncertain, our plans are feeble, and our futures are unpredictable. It may not be comforting to hear those words, but that’s okay. Why? Because although we’re surrounded with the knowledge of our short-comings and frailty, we can rest in the fact that our God is forever perfect, all-knowing, and strong. He’s right alongside us to pick us up when we fall. He directs the steps of the righteous (Psalm 37:23), so we don't have to be in control or anxious of what's to come. Don’t live in fear - step out and do what God has called you to do. Live to your full potential by living your life at Christ’s disposal. That’s where true happiness comes from. Center your plans around Him and His will for you, and ask Him to direct your steps. He will instruct you in the way you should go (Psalm 32:8). Make plans, but hold onto them loosely. I dare you to let your life be used for Christ’s ultimate glory, and see how He uses it. Throughout whatever plans we make, or whatever dreams we have, let God be the reason, but ultimately let the Him direct your steps. He promises to take hold of our hand and walk with us if we let Him. If our lives are in His hands, then His plans are better than any of our own - and better than what we could ever imagine. Love in Christ Jesus our Lord, Hannah Kohner For the first fifteen years of my life I only knew one gospel. I only attended one church, and I never questioned what that was taught to me by those who were in authority.
When I walked into the church doors on Sunday mornings I sat in the front row and opened my highlighted Bible. I loved the worship, and though I didn’t have many friends at church, I looked forward to being a light to them each week. Sometimes you can think you’re doing everything right, and you can feel like the “most godliest person in your youth group” when really, God doesn’t know you at all. A couple nights before church, I would pick out my outfit and match it with my shoes. I would call my friends and make sure they were attending service, and text them about what games to bring for afterwards. It was great. Though our family was completely separated during all our services, we didn’t think twice. Though I could list off all the names of Christian artists that were popular in 2014, I couldn’t tell you much of what the Bible had to say about sin. I was never taught how to stand up for what I believed, so was there much of a battle to fight in, anyways? Church was fun, and that was the way it was supposed to be. Then something shifted in my family. We started asking the hard questions, and we started thinking for ourselves. What if the gospel that we were taught was simply...wrong? What if the very foundation of our beliefs was actually built on verses that were taken out of context by preachers that should not even be standing behind the pulpit? Was the prosperity gospel everything we thought it was? It wasn’t long before we left that church and realized that we had been deceived and our spiritual leaders had been false preachers. God opened our eyes, and set us free from the deception that so many people don’t recognize. We’d like to think that because something has the title of a “Christian church” that it's safe, though sometimes we fail to remember that even churches are made up of sinful men that have their own faults. No one is perfect. But we learned some things while we were coming out of that church and false gospel, and I would like to share some of those things with you today: 1. The Gospel Is Not About You. Against popular belief, the gospel is not about your health, your wealth, your prosperity, or your popularity. It is not about what God can give you, either. It’s just not. That kind of self-centered gospel won’t save you. It’s about Jesus. Too many churches today welcome you into their congregation to remind you of your identity and potential instead of warning you of your sinful state and need of a Savior. It is an embarrassment to bring an unbeliever to your church in hopes of getting them saved to only hear the preacher talk about confidence and their experience at McDonald's - trust me, I’ve been there. The prosperity doesn't only take the Bible out of context, it deceives people. It takes the spotlight off Jesus, and shifts it onto ourselves. Jesus should be the center. I once heard it said that if someone doesn’t understand how a certain Bible story relates to the gospel that they have no business speaking about it. Jesus is the pinnacle of the gospel, so if our messages, articles, or teachings speak of the Bible but reflect us instead of Christ, we are getting it all wrong. "If someone doesn't have the right view of the gospel, they don't have the right view about anything.” -Paul Washer 2. Bible Verses Can Be Taken Out of Context Have you ever seen the Bible verse Philippians 4:13 stitched on a pillow or Jeremiah 29:11 on the inside of a birthday card? Sadly it is verses like these that are taken out of context and switched to mean something that they were never meant to. Entire chapters are left out of teachings which would have provided the proper context to a verse. But we cannot just wake up in the morning, read a verse, apply it to our current circumstances, and ignore the entire context in which it was written. God had a purpose for writing what He did. Don’t miss it. The Bible interprets itself if we take the time to study it, pray about it, and receive whatever it is that God reveals to us in it. 3. Don’t Believe Everything You Hear During our years at the prosperity gospel church, one of the pastors encouraged the congregation to go home and look up in scripture what he had been speaking about - for themselves. So my mom did, and to her surprise, she discovered that he was misinterpreting an entire passage, and not offering the right information about the Greek words he had referenced. If we don’t study to show ourselves approved we can be caught in deception. If we accept the teachings of those we trust without comparing what we hear to the Bible (and even following the teaching of a man instead of the teaching of God), we have no foundation. God commanded us to watch out for false teachers (2 Peter 2). Are we watching? God makes it clear in Revelation that there is no room for those who twist, add to, and take away from His Word. His truth endures from generation to generation and isn’t meant to be changed. There’s no need to make the Bible more relevant to today, or to alter it to fit our desires. The Bible - the way God wrote it - is the way He meant it to be, and it has the power and ability to make us wise unto salvation (2 Tim. 3:15). It enables us to trust in the saving grace and finished work of Jesus Christ. It gives us the strength and passion to leave the world and its pleasures behind us to follow Him (Psalm 119:28, 1 John 2:15-17) . We aren’t the heroes of the Bible, and we aren’t our own Saviors either. Don’t fall for a gospel or a Bible. Firmly root yourself in the gospel and the Bible - nothing added to it, and nothing taken away from it. Watch out for false preachers, and rightly divide and interpret the Bible. Obey God’s Word, and trust that what He says is true (Psalm 119:160, John 17:17). Compare what you hear to His words, and live it out. He is never wrong, and He won’t leave you hopeless (Psalm 25:3, Acts 2:27). Love you all in Christ, Hannah Kohner 2 Timothy 2:15 - “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” Have you read this verse carefully or thought about what it means? Have you ever taken the time to do what it says? Unfortunately, the majority of Christians have not. After all, once you are a Christian you are already complete in Christ and have already been accepted by Him, so why is there a need to continue studying, reading, and striving to live a holy life, right? Wrong. The thing is, this commandment was not just written for those in the ministry or to those leading a family. This commandment was given by God to YOU and I, too. Let’s not neglect it and pretend as if it doesn’t apply to us. If we feel like our lives are mundane and lacking purpose, could it possibly be because we’ve ignored the most important calling in our lives - to know our God? We can’t live to our full potential if we aren’t willing to be conformed to Christ, and we can’t be conformed to Christ if we don’t know Him through His Word. I think the main reason why there are so many false preachers in today’s churches is because they lack understanding of the Bible and its true biblical context because they never took time to study it. Instead, they misinterpret God’s Word and share their “personal revelations” with their congregation and end up leading them astray. God has warned us against these kinds of false preachers. One way we are to discern the evil around us is by comparing it to the Word of God. But how can we do that if we don’t know what the Bible says to begin with? This starts the cycle of deception in the churches. The leaders are preaching incorrect doctrine, and their congregation usually do not know enough truth to correct them. 2 Timothy 2:15b-16 says to rightly divide the word of truth and to shun profane babblings. Standing up against ungodly teaching is biblical! If God’s Word became what we depended on, if the gospel became what we breathed, if our hunger for truth brought us to our knees, and if we spent time hearing what God actually had to say to US (not to just those in leadership) how would that change our lives? Knowing and studying the Bible as a Christian is important to show ourselves approved, to be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks us why we believe what we do, and to become more like Jesus. But studying and disciplining ourselves to read the Word isn’t always easy... Sometimes it can be difficult to stay focused, or to make time in our day to be with the Lord. When we do finally decide to be in the Word, the enemy will try to attack us, pride will demand our attention, and our flesh will try to drag us down. It can seem like an overwhelming battle! But in all of this, Jesus has already overcome. We have to keep pressing on towards the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14). When I was studying for the National Bible Bee, I would sometimes feel discouraged by all the studying I had yet to do, and the little amount of time I had left before the test. When I felt this way, I would procrastinate, and sometimes even take naps). Note: When you have a lot of work to do in a small amount of time, procrastinating won’t help. :-) In those times, I had to ask myself why I was even studying to begin with. If I didn’t have a right motive or a solid why, I would fall. I was often tempted to just look at the earthly benefits - such as a score, a competition, or a medal - when really, those didn’t matter nearly as much as the eternal benefits. I had to repeatedly remind myself that I was not studying to win anything, but I was studying to please my Father and to show myself approved. And that made all the difference. It gave me just the boost of encouragement I needed to keep on running the race I had set before me - and to run it well. Jesus was the reason behind it all, and my time spent in His Word would not be wasted. When you struggle to spend that time in the Word, ask yourself why you are doing what you are doing, and take time to pray and even examine your heart and motives. If you feel overwhelmed about the thought of studying or digging into the Word of God on a deeper level, go to God. Whenever you feel discouraged, remember it doesn’t matter where you are on the path. It matters what direction you’re headed in. Don’t listen to the devil whisper his lies of condemnation into your ears. Stand firm in the faith and keep on running. If you don’t know where to start, start right where you are at. If you need to, make some changes, remove distractions, and pray for strength in Christ. Do whatever it takes to know your God. As much discipline as it takes to do what is right, the benefits far outweigh the sacrifice. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 - “But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness. For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” Exercising godliness is profitable unto all things, and the time you take to stand approved and study God’s Word will benefit you for all of eternity. I wanted to share with you all a powerful message I listened to the other day from Paul Washer. It was very convicting, and I think the principles that are mentioned in this short clip are important for everyone, young or old, to think about and to live out. Love you all in Christ, Hannah K. |
AuthorHello, I'm Hannah and I'm so glad you're here! I'm a twenty-year-old Jesus-loving writer, National Bible Bee Alumna, and homeschool graduate. Jesus redeemed me, and now I give my life, and this blog, to serve Him. Hebrews 3:13 reminds us to encourage each other daily, lest we be hardened by sin. I hope that reading each blog entry that I post you will be encouraged and challenged to become more like Christ daily. |