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Power, Not Glitz

In one of the glitziest cities in the world, we can’t compete. The “Empire State of Mind” is true, “big lights will inspire you.” But there’s something else, and it goes like this:

One time, I was feeling inadequate as I prepared to speak at another church in Manhattan. That’s how I feel whenever I consider the impossible task of changing peoples’ hearts. So I prayed, simply and honestly, that God would speak to people. In that talk, I made a point from Scripture to the effect of, “People sometimes think they have a problem with worry or with their marriage or how they manage their money, when in actuality it’s a foundation issue.” That’s a simple Truth– not much glitz there.

After the service, a man came up to me trembling, with tears in his eyes, and said, “I don’t know if I should hug you or punch you.”

“You know what, why don’t hug me,” I suggested.

He seemed rattled. Slowly shaking his head, he explained, “On the train on the way over here, I just asked my wife, ‘Could this be a foundation issue?’” Only God can make a moment like that happen. That guy probably doesn’t remember my name, but I doubt he’ll forget what God said to him.

I’m in favor of hard work and excellence, but I also think that the time our worship team spends praying is more important than the time they spend practicing.

“because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction” (1 Thessalonians 1:5).

Belong Before Believe

“He’s a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!”

That’s what religious leaders said about Jesus (Mt 11:19, Lk 7:34, NLT). “Just look at the people he keeps company with!” they accused. It’s not that Jesus didn’t have an affect on others. On the contrary, a few minutes with Jesus could turn someone’s life upside down. But people who seemed “far from God” stayed close to Jesus. He was so patient with his disciples. How many times did they doubt him?

Everyday Church people represent such a variety of spiritual postures. Some are faith-filled believers while others are unconvinced. Some are curious while others are skeptical but open-minded. Some seem to have it all together while others are picking up the pieces. Regardless, most people need to belong before they’ll believe.

Why would we expect anything different? Jesus said, “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples” (John 13:35, NLT).

Your love for one another will prove it.