Throughout scripture, we see a reference to nature and its provision for man as a metaphor to that of the provision God desired to be for man.  There were many trees and other living plants in the Garden of Eden, the most recogonized of trees in the the book of Genesis is that of the "Tree of the Knowledge of good and evil."  But Genesis also speaks of the "Tree of Life" (Genesis 2:9), this tree represented God's eternal provision for man, and is the thread that connects his provision to that of John 15:1-11, where Jesus refers to himself as the vine and we the branches.  Our hope for freedom continues to be found only in him.  In this podcast, John Shepard, a Liberty University PhD in Biblical Exposition student, with 8 years of full time ministry experience, speaks to the topic of the "Tree of LIfe" as our only hope for freedom in Christ.  I love John's energy for living a life fully devoted to Christ and the example he sets for all who know him.  Most impressive is his muturity at the young age of 30.  John is married to Kelly and they have enjoy life with their 3 year old daughter Popi.  Jesus is not only the vine, He is the Tree of Life to all who find Him, know Him, and want in live in the light of His truth! (I John 1:5, paraphased, in my own words)

Throughout his public ministry, Jesus used “story” to convey reflective thought and meaning. In John 15:1-11, He uses the illustration of a gardener and the tending of the vines. He refers to Himself at the vine and His Father as the gardner. Given gardenings historic prominence for provision, all who heard this analogy, understood its meaning. Just as then, today, a gardener, prunes the unhealthy, dying, or non-producing branches from the vine in order to gain greater production from those that are healthy.

Jesus speaks of himself but intends the analogy to be for us, for mankind. Jesus subjected himself to pruning, allowing only that which was good in God’s sight to be manifest. In verse 3 of this reading, we see Jesus stating “you are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.” There is nothing more we can do, but to “remain in Him.”

Jesus declares those “clean” by virtue of His own word and ability to forgive and set man free. Do our lives produce fruit in keeping with His word and the freedom it has produced? Are we producing the fruit of His Spirit? Do we exhibit the Character of Christ? Are we healthy and rich in the character of Christ?

In verse 11, Jesus tells reminds us that Joy fulfilled is found ONLY in Him! In John 15:5, He says that apart from Him we can do nothing!

When the “pruning” is on going, the results are a “life hidden with Christ in God” (Colosians 3:3) and we reflect the fruit of His Spirit -- “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 2:22)

In Episcode 32, we took at look at Jesus' word in Matthew 6:24 -- "No one can serve two masters.  Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other."  This week we look at the choices we all have to make, with specific reference to Mark 10:17-23.  This story involves a wealthy young man who struggled with a choice between selling all that he had and following Jesus.  This was a young man who wanted to follow Jesus, but he could not give up his riches.  If not money, what is it that captivates your heart and keep you from following the Lord, wholeheartedly?

In Matthew 6:24, Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters…” This specific scripture is an excerpt from the what is referred to as the “Sermon on the Mount.” This is viewed as the most important and instructional presentation made by Jesus. In the chapter and versus leading up to Matt 6:24, Jesus described those who choose to follow Him and a depiction of what their lives will reflect.

Living as Jesus described will not be by, in, or through our own efforts or strength, but will be as a result of His Grace. In Ephesians 2, the Apostle Paul contrasts a life in Christ to that of a life apart from Christ. In Ephesians 2:8-10, Paul emphasis that it is by God’s grace that we are saved.

Choosing a life reflective of His Lordship is not a matter of works, but is a matter of understanding His grace, mercy, and forgiveness. When one connects with our undeserving nature and the extension of His Grace, the description Jesus gives in Matthew 5-7 becomes the expression of those accepting Him as their Lord. This new nature in Christ, can no longer serve any other master, compelled only to serve the true Lord and Giver of Life.

Paul reminds us to “throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles. And Let us run the race with perservance the race marked out before us” (Hebrews 12:1).

Let us serve the ONLY one truly WORTHY of our TRUST, HOPE, and PROVISION!

What is it that causes us to struggle in our faith?  How do we find the balance between our spiritual walk and faith, and the commitment and responsibilities of our natural life?  How do we keep a balanced and proper perspective.  

In Proverbs 4:20, the writer states -- "My son, attend to my words, incline your ear to my sayings" -- a commanding proclamation to abide in God's word as THE life giving source.  The writer continues by saying, "Let them not depart from your eyes, keep it in the midst of your heart.  For they are life onto those that find them, and health to all their flesh.  Keep your heart with all diligence, for out if it are the issues of life." (Prov 4:21-23)

As Christ followers, scripture reminds us that -- we have died, and our lives are now hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3 -- paraphrased).

When life is viewed from a pre fall perspective, we can see what God intended for us -- to be completely fulfilled in God and God only.  Our disobedience and desire to find personal satisfaction apart from God, has led us to a place of imbalance and self focus, leaving us unfulfilled, and in measure, without hope.

Keeping God first, before everything this world has to offer is THE key to finding COMPLETE satisfaction.  In Phillipians 4:12, Paul discovered what it ment to be content, because he discovered true life as can be found only in knowing and being known by Jesus Christ!  

The book of Hebrews defines faith as the "evidence of things hope for, the conviction (assurance) of things not seen."  Further, scripture tells us that "without faith, it is impossible to please God."  Faith calls us to know God, personally, trusting Him, believing Him, leaning into Him as not just our Savior, but Lord.  We are called to submit to his authority, not because he wishes to control our thoughts or behavior, but because he wishes us to experience freedom in knowing Him, and discovering His purpose of our lives!!  The youth pastor, at a church we once attended, loved to say that "God is Good....All the time!"  In order for us to experience His goodness, we must believe in and on Him, trusting him with all our heart!

At some level we all deal with the concept of inadequacy -- Do I measure up?  I am qualified?  I am good enough?  Do I have what it takes?  Can I be successful?  What if I fail?  If we are honest, we all have dealt with these or other similar questions at one point or another in our lives.  Some have given up and rather than consider the question, they settle for living a life of indifference.  They may make all the money in the world, and yet not have an inner sense of comfort, peace, or true satisfaction.

How do we break free from the cycle?  Many are familiar with John 8:32 -- "Then you will know the truth and the truth will set your free."  But, what preceeds this freedom...."If you take hold of my teachings, you are really my disciples...Then you will know the truth..."

Freedom comes when truth is revealed!  Consider the Truth revealed in God's word.... and discover His Way, Truth, and Life!  

In Episode 27, we covered the topic of shame.  In Genesis 3:1-13, we read the account of what is referred to as the "fall."  The "fall" is when Adam and Eve fell into disobedience, stemming from disbelief, which resulted from deception, as presented by Satan.  They followed this by "covering" themselves, recognizing their nakedness, now ashamed of the condition of their hearts as well as their physical exposure.  

Satan's only weapon is deception.  In John 10:10, Jesus said this about Satan -- "The theif comes only to steal and kill and destroy," immediately followed by these words, spoken of Himself... "I have come that you may have life and have it abundantly"  -- Satan "steals, kills, and destroys life, replacing it with death.  Jesus "gives" life, and that "abundantly."

Shame effectively immobilizes the believer, which can lead to questioning our worthiness of God's grace and the freedom He intends for us to experience and enjoy.

Recognizing the power, work, and unconditionality of Jesus' sacrifice is what sets us free from the power of sin and death -- Romans 8:2 (paraphrased)

In this Episode, we continue our discussion, wiht our focus on freedom!

We have all experienced regret or guilt about something that was not likely intentional.  Perhaps in the moment, we spoke of our turn, and embarrased ourself or another.  In most cases, we recover on our feet and vow to not repeat the mistake, however mild it may have been.  In its deepest manifestation, regret or guilt can lead to shame.  Shame involves feelings of worthlessness, insignificance, or even disgrace.  

I was raised in a household where shame was used on occassion as a disciplinary measure.  I was most certainly a handful, and viewed as lacking the discipline to simply "sit still."   Today, it is known as ADHD, and I have it!  Shame should never be deployed as a means to do anything.  When it is, shame can be debilitating and lead to deep insecurity, hopelessness, and even suicide.  

Some find themselves so hopeless that no one can convince them otherwise.  Shame finds us "wearing a mask," in order to avoid the risk of our shame being exposed.  What does God think about shame and how can we find our way out of it's reach and the bindings of it's shackles.

The path to freedom begins with truth.  

Jesus offers this to find freedom....

In His own words -- First, He calls us to "...Abide in My word"... thus demonstrating "you are My disciples indeed".... followed by the Jesus stating "and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32 NKJ).  

In John 15:7, Again Jesus encourages us "abide" in Him... "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you."

Let's see shame loose it's power over us and discover the freedom and abundance of life God desires for us.

What is courage, but the ability to face uncertainty or even fear without hesitation.  We all respect those who display the courage to run toward and not way from any challenge.  I think of 911 when hundreds of first responders ran into the flames to help those high above New York City streets; or Todd Beamer, gathering up the courage to overtake high-jackers, telling his wife, “I love you” and saying “Let’s Roll…”

In both the new and old testament, we see courageous acts from those whose faith allowed them to face uncertainty with boundless courage. In this podcast we revisit the courage of Shadrack, Meshach, and Abednego, not to examine their deliverance, but rather the courage it took to stand strong on their convictions.

Do we exhibit that kind of courage and strength of conviction, do we hold fast to our faith, are we transformed by our faith?

Joshua 1:9 reads – “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”