7 Signs You're Dealing with a Pharisee

"Crucify Him!!!"

Thought Pharisees were historical figures never to be heard from again? Well, think again! They have more lives than Jason Voorhees and cause just as much damage! It's like your standard Hollywood horror movie. Just when you're starting to enjoy some freedom in Christ...just when you think it's okay to breathe...cue the slasher music because here they come! The early church tried to put a stomping on them...but they keep coming back!

Scary!!

Think Freddie Krueger is the baddest on the block? Having nightmares about that dude in the Scream mask? Here's who you should really be concerned about...and why!

#1 - Pharisees are completely blinded to their own sin. They walk around with a log jammed in their eye and use the other one to warn you that those who have splinters shall not see the kingdom. It would be funny if not so sad. Think you're log-free and splinter-free? Think again and be careful before criticizing another person for their walk in Christ. If you think you're free to criticize one person because you feel like you sin "less" than they do, you are a fool. Hey...Paul said it. Not me!


#2 - Scripture, when quoted, is always used out of context. You will notice verses grabbed almost randomly to support their case...yet never entire passages considered. Passages provide context...context gives understanding...they don't want people to have understanding, just compliance. Here is a little tip that I call the 20/20 rule: if you truly want to grasp a verse, read twenty verses before it and twenty verses after it. Doing that alone will save you from the snare of using verses with little or no context...and save your hearers, as well!

#3 - As in the Bible, Pharisees are rarely courageous enough to address the targets of their contempt face-to-face. They find it much easier to use a medium...today we have so many we usually use term "media" as in social. Just as in the Bible where the Pharisees would either visit Jesus at night or, at the end of the story, use other people to exercise their will, you'll find very few enemies of grace who are willing to stand flat-footed and discuss theology. It's too hard. And there's too much opportunity for the light to be shined back on them.

#4 - Pharisees claim knowledge of the law but are devoid of the spirit of the law. (I debated whether to capitalize that "s" or not.) As Paul taught, the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. (I wonder whether you know the word or not if you can only seem to recall verses the hurl accusation? Selective memory is a dangerous thing for one's soul.) What Paul labored so diligently to teach is that there is no salvation in works. Yes. We do good works so that God's grace towards us is not in vain, but they don't qualify (nor disqualify) us for (or from) receiving His grace.

#5 - Pharisees HATE grace...irrespective of how much they have received. Inside, I wouldn't be surprised if they sincerely thought they didn't need it. When God offers more, they decline. They really believe they don't need it. I mean really believe it. They don't understand that their righteousness - though it may be more than mine - doesn't approach the level of a garment God would even look upon, let alone touch. There's that old menstrual cloth analogy that Isaiah put out there and all...so...

#6 - Pharisees are often very wounded men and women, but too proud to admit their pain. Bruised from head to toe, the only thing you are promised from interacting with them is retaliation. You touch on one of their sore areas and they will make you pay and pay dearly. Hurt people hurt people. Old saying. It's old because it's true. If they would only seek God for some healing in solitude, how powerful they might become in Him and His power! As it is, they are in a very tough spot. They scream "unclean" when they see you, yet wonder why they are avoided. People tend to recoil from those who only have hammers in their tool belt.

#7 - Worst of all, Pharisees are so vain, they think this post is about them...but they still won't change...even while seasons and other people do. When Jesus encountered this spirit, it was all he could do to remind all of us that we all risk becoming this way. There are too many passages to cite in a short blog. Search the scriptures out for yourself and you'll see. None of us measure up. None of us. None. of. us. All we have to offer the Lord is our faith, which is a good thing because it pleases Him when we do so. Whew!

If you're dealing with a Pharisee, there are three things you must know...

#1 - Embrace salvation by trust in Christ and Jesus Christ alone for your redemption and salvation from God's wrath. Salvation - being redeemed, born again - is not a complicated of a task as some want to make it seem. It's not a process. It's your decision to surrender lordship of your life. This is your JUSTIFICATION.

#2 - Understand that you are going to make mistakes, errors and judgment and even willfully make choices in sin from time to time. You don't embrace it. You don't seek to exploit God's grace. Since sin is "missing the mark" in a very literal way, you will miss the mark. However, you must continue forward in the Lord and allow the Holy Spirit to mature you and cleanse you. This part is a process. Don't get discouraged while you're being refined. This is your SANCTIFICATION.

#3 - You must know that your future is better than your present. If you continue with Him, you will be made like Him. You are not perfect yet, but He will perfect you and share His glory with you for eternity. This is your GLORIFICATION.

The main thing to remember is that the Pharisees can't keep you out of the kingdom. They can cause you to have a very rough go of it at times. I get that. Hang in there. Maybe they will move on to another target as they see you're not being bothered. We can hope!

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(If you are reading this and you are not a Believer, a Christian, my hope is that you pray and tell God that you want to believe and accept Jesus as the Savior of your soul and Lord of your life. Ask Him to teach you how to be good disciple and to lead you to others who can lead you in the faith. I would also suggest that you read the following passages from the Bible and be encouraged that you can do it and all of Christ's followers love and accept you into the family of God!

Romans 10:9-12 (NASB) "If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.” For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

I am praying for you today. If you have any question at any time, please ask me!...and try to steer clear of Pharisees.

The Proverbs 31 Woman and Her 5 Attitudes About Money

In Christian circles, so much is said about the "Proverbs 31" woman...wait. Let me start over.

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In Christian circles, TOO much is said about the "Proverbs 31" woman without actually reading and studying the passage.I can appreciate all the t-shirts, organizations and "Proverbs 31" posters that we Christians like to sell and buy, but every now and then we've got to get back to the basics of the scripture and what it teaches. Let's do so now.

Here's one basic from Solomon's most well-known passage.I've always thought it was interesting how we tend to handle this one chapter from Proverbs by ignoring its first nine verses. There is a lot more to it. I highlighted some of the most important teachings in my blog here called "The (Forgotten) Proverbs 31 Man": http://christianrelationshipblog.blogspot.com/2011/08/forgotten-proverbs-31-man.html

When we come back to Verse 10, we get a portrait of a wonderfully dynamic woman, wife and mother. She's a true model for women everywhere. But what is this illustration about? What is Solomon talking about? Proverbs 31 praises its model woman for one quality above all others: her industry. In fact, Solomon praises industry, productivity and profitable enterprises throughout his writings so it should be no surprise that he continues in his final chapter. I've concluded that the real "Proverbs 31" woman is industrious, business-minded and diligent and that's wherein her husband recognizes her great value.

Let's examine five ways in which her attitudes about money and business shine through and elevate her household and family:

"The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life."

A woman of virtue can be trusted with money, with the checkbook and with the savings accounts. She isn't moved by emotion to make impulse purchases. She doesn't go shopping off schedule or play "payback" with the household's money. She doesn't use money as therapy because she's had a rough day and feels like she deserves it. Her husband doesn't have to be afraid of how much damage she's going to do at the mall.He trusts her. Whatever choices she makes will be wise.

"She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard."

The virtuous woman is an entrepreneur. She's shown buying and trading profitably throughout the chapter. Does this mean that a woman with a J.O.B. is not a virtuous woman? I'm not saying that, but it does warrant some examination in this way: trading one's time for a salary will never be as lucrative as successfully trading goods and services for profit. In that way we must all take great care for how we use our time and make sure we're maximizing our income.

"She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy."

The virtuous woman is generous and caring for the needs of others.The Bible uses the words "extend" and "stretch" and "hands" here. So interesting!Here's why. This means that it takes effort to tend to the needs of the downtrodden. It's not something she's able to do from the comfort of her couch. She works at it. Further, the Bible uses the word "hand" twice here which is significant because, in the Hebraic language it signifies her power. She uses her power, influence and resources to help those who can't help themselves.

"She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household and portions to her maidens."

The virtuous woman plans and she budgets. Every dollar has an assignment and every dollar is put to work on its task. It takes more time to plan ahead, but she does it. She then allocates all the household's resources according to plan – starting with her household. We must remember, too, that her maidens are taking care of business for her. This isn't charity.She's enlisted assistance to ensure everything is well taken care of.She knows she can't do it all alone.

"She is not afraid of the snow for her household...And she smiles at the future."

Wise people often say worry is the product of a lack of preparation. This is how and why the Proverbs 31 woman can smile at the future. Not only is she not worried, but she is looking forward to what the future has for her and her family. She isn't concerned about down times for she's made preparations and investments. Tomorrow is going to be better than today; snow will fall, but her household will remain warm.

This is a portrait of the woman who elevates her husband (verse 23), her household and her family. But read verses twenty-seven through thirty-one, also, or again. She is well rewarded in her financial stability and in respect and admiration from her children, by her husband and in the community. She is prized, celebrated and rewarded and it all came from one thing: her industry.

This article was first published in Christian Quarterly Magazine and has been shared here by permission. Please visit Christian Quarterly Magazine on Facebook, as well! Also, you can learn more about the author, Mark Anthony McCray, here: https://www.facebook.com/LiveBigDieEmpty

"7 Things Solomon Can Still Teach Us About Money"

Orginally published in Christian Quarterly Magazine and available to read here: LINK

"The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:

To know wisdom and instruction,
To perceive the words of understanding,
To receive the instruction of wisdom,
Justice, judgment and equity;
To give prudence to the simple,
To the young man knowledge and discretion –
A wise man will hear and increase learning,
And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel,
To understand a proverb and an enigma,
The words of the wise and their riddles.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
But fools despise wisdom and instruction.
My son, hear the instruction of your father,
And do not forsake the law of your mother;
For they will be a graceful ornament on your head,
And chains about your neck." (Proverbs 1:1-9)

The Proverbs were written as a guidebook to those seeking knowledge, discretion, wisdom and instruction.But, there are many authors who have sat down to write words of instruction over the centuries.Why should we look to the Bible, the Word of God, for wisdom?Further, why should we regard Solomon's words as having any more value than any other wisdom teacher, canonical or otherwise?

I believe there are three reasons why this wise king should be considered our teacher.

(1) The Lord saw enough value to make sure his writings were included in the canon of scripture.
(2) Solomon is considered even within the text of the Bible itself as the wisest man who has ever lived.
(3) Solomon reached a level of riches and success that neither was unparalleled nor will ever be equaled.

In, "Secrets of the Richest Man Who Ever Lived", Dr. Mike Murdock tells us of his research into Solomon's financial stature.To quote Dr. Murdock:

"In 1929, the Illinois Society of Architects did an extensive and meticulous study of the temple built by Solomon.Though the research was done almost seventy years ago (sic), the experts placed its value at $87 Billion.When you figure in a 7 percent inflation rate per year, that places the value of the temple alone worth more than $500 Billion.My friend Malcolm Burton has said that this amount is four times more than our nation spends on military defense each year.And that is just the beginning.It does not include Solomon's palace, his real estate holdings, and other valuable possessions too numerous to mention!Today (1998), the temple alone would be valued at more than $500 Billion."

In his book, "The Richest Man Who Ever Lived," Steven Scott provided context regarding Solomon's financial accomplishments, as well:

"Solomon was born around 974 B.C. and was installed as King of Israel by his father, David, shortly before David died. Solomon was twelve years old. Solomon was terrified of ruling Israel, afraid that he didn't have the wisdom to do so. According to the Old Testament, God appeared to Solomon and asked him what he wanted. Solomon answered, asking only for wisdom and knowledge so that he could rightly judge the great people of Israel (I Kings 3:9; II Chronicles 1:10). God then told Solomon that because he had not asked for riches, wealth, honor, the life of his enemies, nor a longer life for himself, He would give Solomon more wisdom, knowledge, riches, wealth, and honor than any king before him or any king that would come after him. What was promised was delivered. Solomon's wisdom, success, and wealth increased beyond imagination.
In terms of wealth, some have suggested that in today's dollars, he may well have been a "trillionaire." In addition to his gold reserves worth hundreds of billions of dollars in today's mar­ket, he owned 4,000 stalls for his horses and chariots, and kept 12,000 horsemen on his payroll. Rulers of nations throughout the world sought his advice, and paid dearly for it. However, by the middle of his life, he began to violate the laws of living, its principles and strategies that he so wisely articulated in the Book of Proverbs; as he did, his success and happiness vapor­ized. Fortunately for us, he recorded many of his laws for liv­ing in the Book of Proverbs."

Finally, from the pen of the great apostle Paul to his protégé, Timothy, in 2 Timothy 3:16-17:

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, than man may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work."

We see, therefore, that Solomon was wise, accomplished and that his writings made it into the canon of scripture by the providence of God.Therefore, we can look to the wisdom of the Lord as shared by Solomon and feel confident in its efficacy to produce fruit in our own lives.After all, Solomon himself credited his wisdom ("I have …gained more wisdom than all who were before me in Jerusalem") with his ability to attain greatness and excel more than all who were before him in the first couple of chapters of The Book of Ecclesiastes.

But what is wisdom? Webster defines wisdom as 'knowledge and the capacity to make use of it." While technically accurate, this doesn't give us much insight into why it is such an important characteristic to develop in ourselves.I like the viewpoint of early American philosopher and pragmatist, Wallace D. Wattles, in regard to developing a good working definition of wisdom; In "The Science of Success," Wattles defines wisdom as the ability to know what to do and to know the best way to do it, as follows:

"Wisdom is the power to perceive the best ends to aim at and the best means for reaching those ends.It is the power to perceive the right thing to do…Wisdom is dependent upon knowledge.Where there is complete ignorance there can be no wisdom, no knowledge of the right thing to do.Man's knowledge is comparatively limited and so his wisdom must be small, unless he can connect his mind with knowledge greater than his own and draw from it, by inspiration, the wisdom that his own limitations deny him.This he can do; this is what the really great men and women have done. Man's knowledge is limited and uncertain; therefore he cannot have wisdom in himself.Only God knows all truth; therefore only God can have real wisdom or the right thing to do at all times, and man can receive wisdom from God…Wisdom is obtained by reading the mind of God."

…And the mind of God can be read by studying the word of God.It doesn't have to be guessed.

Discerning the thoughts of the Almighty doesn't require speculation.We don't need to look to Astrologers or Mediums.God has gone through great pains to make His thoughts evident to us, even His thoughts regarding work, success and financial prosperity.He has done so through The Holy Bible, the word of God in sixty-six books and forty different authors who penned its contents across centuries of time.

It is with those endorsements that we turn our study to the Proverbs of Solomon to gain wisdom.Let us consider God's thoughts here in the form of 7 things I believe Solomon can still teach us about money.

Get Wisdom

"Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.And in all your getting, get understanding.Exalt her, and she will promote you; She will bring you honor, when you embrace her.She will place on your head an ornament of grace; a crown of glory she will deliver to you." ~Proverbs 4:7-9

It's beneficial to remind ourselves from time to time that Solomon is very forthright about his purposes in putting pen to paper and recording his wisdom.The Proverbs are meant as a guide – ostensibly for a young man – to carry him through life and allow him to live it in a truly successful way; spiritually, relationally, financially and emotionally successful.For example, he instructs us that the blessing of God comes with no sorrow (Proverbs 10:22).We know, therefore, that if our only goal is financial wealth, we will still not experience the best of God for our lives.Getting wisdom ensures we get God's best.

Fear the LORD

"My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you, so that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding, yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." ~Proverbs 2:1-6

The modern understanding of "fear" falls short of the Biblical model.We aren't to think of trembling where we stand, afraid to utter a word before a terrible God (though it's interesting to note this is the EXACT reaction mortals demonstrated when confronted with the holiness of God in the record of the scriptures).Instead, we are to reverence Him and give great weight to His words.We are to strive to find out His wisdom as if it is a precious commodity.In fact, it is.It is in treasuring the scriptures that we gain discernment, the ability to choose well between options.In a world with many paths laid in front of us, we need discernment more than ever to follow a prosperous path.


Receive Instruction and Correction

"Poverty and shame will come to him who disdains correction, but he who regards a rebuke will be honored." ~Proverbs 13:18

From time to time, we will be challenged to change.We will be urged to change our words, our actions and even the way we think.Solomon offers us encouragement in what almost amounts to a promise.If we ignore correction, it will be to our detriment.On the other hand, receiving rebuke from wise counselors will enlarge us.I've learned to be thankful for those in my life who care enough and are skilled enough to offer me correction.They are so often holy messengers from the Almighty Himself to set me back on a good path.


Trust in the LORD

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.Do not be wise in your own eyes: Fear the Lord and depart from evil, it will be health for your flesh, And strength to your bones." ~Proverbs 13:5-8

Nothing erodes the foundations of our lives and faith more than worry.Nothing.I am learning that it's impossible to function well in the marketplace – whether as an employee or entrepreneur – if we are consumed with worry.It saps our energy, our drive, our strength and our productivity along with it.The paralysis that results from worry is evidence of sin.Worry is telling the Lord that we don't trust Him at His word, it doesn't add any fruitfulness to our labor and worse, it robs from what we've already received.It's a vile spirit and it is no coincidence that we are commanded not to worry so often that one can find some form of the phrase "do not worry" on nearly every page of the Gospels.

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Keep Good Company

"Therefore hear me now, my children, and do not depart from the words of my mouth.Remove your way far from her, and do not go near the door of her house, Lest you give your honor to others, and your years to the cruel one; lest aliens be filled with your wealth, and your labors go to the house of a foreigner; and you mourn at last, when your flesh and your body are consumed, and say: "How I have hated instruction, and my heart despised correction!I have not obeyed the voice of my teachers, nor inclined my ear to those who instructed me!I was on the verge of total ruin, in the midst of the assembly and congregation." ~Proverbs 5:7-14

There's an old axiom that says we should watch our company because our income over time will equal the average of the three people with whom we associate the closest. Even our morals are impacted wherein Paul's guidance is that we should not be deceived: bad company corrupts good morals (I Corinthians 15:33). What does any of this have to do with money or prosperity?Simply, this: spend time with those who are prospering financially so that you can learn from their actions, gain their aptitudes and glean from their attitudes! There is a way that poor people think. There is a way that prosperous people think.When one considers that they all have twenty-four hours in a day, it's certain they are using their 1440 allotted minutes quite differently.

We must endeavor to spend more of our time doing what the wealthy do.By necessity, this requires doing less of what the average or poor do.There is great truth in the saying that the rich get richer while the poor get poorer.I heard a wise person add to it thusly: the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, predominantly because the rich do more of what rich people do and the poor keep doing what poor people do.If we want to do better than we are doing, we have to learn from those who are doing better than we are doing.

Be Generous

"Honor the Lord with your possessions, And with the first fruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine." ~Proverbs 3:9-10

This is not about tithing though you can interpret it as such if that is a part of your theological background.I read this verse as being as much about honoring, i.e., paying respect to He who has given you the power to gain wealth.There's an inexplicable power in doing so.Coupled with Malachi's words, we are pushed into a figurative corner by the Lord Himself.He says to test Him.To try Him!My response is this: how can one lose when the Creator of all commands us to wrestle with Him over this matter to see whether He won't bless us?Whether you believe the tithe should be 10% or more or less, I am persuaded you will not be disappointed as the Lord shows his faithfulness in your giving.

Act Honorably

"Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is the power of your hand to do so, Do not say to your neighbor "Go, and come back, And tomorrow I will give it," When you have it with you." ~Proverbs 3:27-28

Here is a passage that all of us can move from the "philosophical" to "practical" category in our minds right away.We all have those times wherein we read the truth of God but struggle in that moment to find an application.We take it and trust, there will come a time in which we need the deposit the Holy Spirit has made in our hearts at that moment.This one is different.It understands that we won't always have what we need to pay a bill that we are obligated to pay.However, when we do have it, we are not to delay.When you have the ability to pay, it's time to pay.Trust God's word instead of putting it off for another day.

In the end, countless men and women have looked to the wisdom of God as penned by Solomon and have been blessed immeasurably – as the Lord intended.My challenge to myself, and to you, is to delve deeper into this treasure, The Book of Proverbs, and follow its precepts.I am confident that, in doing so, we will begin to act in ways consistent with the laws the Lord has established to prosper His people.Amen?

To your success.

Mark Anthony McCray is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of First Capital Commercial Finance and "Live Big. Die Empty." A real estate entrepreneur and investor, in his work with First Capital and McCray Capital, Mr. McCray has successfully structured tens of millions of dollars in private real estate debt and equity investments.

Links to various social media where you can find Mark!

http://www.livebigdieempty.com
http://twitter.com/livebigdieempty
http://twitter.com/thesalesmonster

What Should I Teach My Children About Money?

My daughters get so excited when their birthdays come around. I love seeing their faces light up. One of them, my youngest, does the "countdown" thing. You know what I mean. She starts telling people her birthday is coming about two months away from the date. And, like so many young people in America, they are spoiled by their wonderful grandparents with money and gift cards. They get so excited thinking and talking about all the new things they're going to buy: jewelry, hair accessories, books, candy and gum, assorted trinkets and other things that most adults usually regard as crap.

No big deal perhaps, but I get concerned. On the one hand, they are kids. Why stand in their way of spending every possible nickel they can scrounge together on Laffy Taffy and Nerds? Who cares if they have a growing collection of lip glosses and bottle caps beyond the number of lip glosses and bottle caps anyone should own? Does it really matter? I think it matters for everything, and I'm out to make sure they learn Biblical principles of stewardship and prosperity now.

How we teach our children to handle money, matters because so many of our attitudes and aptitudes are developed early in life. It matters because most of us want our children to do better than we have done and excel where we feel like we've failed. It matters because we ourselves are merely stewards over the great gifts' God has given us in them. We are charged with delivering back to God mature, Godly people who will glorify Him by way of their choices and lives. How we teach our young people to handle money matters. That’s why I'm not excited to hear them plan on buying every Snickers bar in the store!

Here are three eternal Biblical principles I am convinced we are required teach our young people about money as early as they're able to understand (and even before in some cases):


1. Everything is the Lords. Honor God with your choices and use your resources to make a difference.
"FOR THE EARTH IS THE LORD'S, AND ALL IT CONTAINS." ~1 Corinthians 10:26 (NASB)
For a Believer, the key to relating to material goods is understanding that everything belongs to God. Everything. Then, the questions of whether to tithe, give, support ministries or otherwise show generosity in our communities become a lot easier to answer. When the Lord blesses us, we are not to grasp onto every penny for dear life with closed fists. When the Lord places resources at our disposal, it is an opportunity to show the world His heart. I want my daughters to know this.

2. Only a fool spends everything that comes into their hands on their pleasures.
"He who loves pleasure will become a poor man; He who loves wine and oil will not become rich." ~Proverbs 21:17 (NASB)
It is okay to use resources to enjoy life, but hedonism leads only to poverty. I prefer to tell them to spend, but spend wisely. Enjoy, but never go overboard. Solomon wrote about there being such a thing as "too much honey" and how it makes everyone groan. I want them to know the best of life, but also be prepared for the future by making sure she's setting aside for it. W. Clement Stone once said "If you cannot save money, then the seeds of greatness are not in you. “How many of us have looked back and groaned at all the money that went through our hands for which we have nothing to show? Too many. I want my daughters to know this, too, and make good decisions.

3. You reap what you sow, so sow well, sow bountifully and sow joyfully and without worry.
"Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed."~2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (NASB)

If I haven't learned anything else, it is this. However, I have learned to see it as the ultimate positive – the ultimate promise of God's lasting goodness! We often tell people "you'll reap what you sow" as a warning. We want them to know that the entire Cosmos will work out their punishments for every bad choice they've ever made. But here's the other side of it. God makes the entire Cosmos work together a blessing for every good seed you sow! I want my daughters to know this and live it every day.

I'm doing everything I can to help my daughters understand the importance of tithing, sowing, saving and spending wisely with every dollar that comes into their lives. I am committed to helping them experience God's best here on Earth and when we want God's best, how we handle money matters…a lot. By teaching them God's principles, we are setting a positive course for their lives that will ripple through eternity and even help them earn heavenly rewards.

That is why I frown when my girls want a month's supply of bubble gum.

By the way, here's the link to something I bought for my daughters when they were very young ---> The Money Savvy Pig. This is the picture I have at the top of this blog. I think they're starting to "get" it!

Originally published in Christian Quarterly Magazine here: ORIGINAL POSTING

As long as we're talking...Here's the case FOR denominations in the the church

Read BEFORE you jump to conclusions...or label me a hairy tick.

Obviously, I see some redeeming values in what are usually called "Denominations" or I wouldn't be writing this. It's a tough topic. Very tough. I am just as concerned about why so many people disdain them as I am in arguing for their support. I am well aware of the problems within the more traditional church structures in mainline and evangelical bodies.

For one thing, a lot of people feel disenfranchised by the more traditional structures. Understandably so.

A lot of people feel as if the Lord has been locked out of the church by many Denominations. Understandably so.

However, there are as many difficulties with many Non-Denominational faith families, as well. Because of the lack of structure inherent in the very nomenclature, this is just as understandable.

My observation of a lot of non-denominational families is that some of them reject all oversight and/or correction. Simply put, there is no Bishop or group of Elders in place at all, let alone one that can provide oversight or needed discipline. The only qualification to lead a lot of non-denominational churches is the ability to gain followers. There simply isn't anyone to judge whether the leader meets Biblical guidelines for leadership. My concern is that a lot of them only exist because someone or a group of someones didn't want accountability wherever they worshipped previously.

A great solution, in my view, are Spirit-filled denominations such as the Assemblies of God or the United Methodists. They seem to do a great job combining the Liturgical with the Charismatic. One thing that I appreciate about Spirit-filled denominations is that it takes more than a "calling" to mount a pulpit. Even with the calling, there is preparation required. This is in line with Biblical teaching. A lot of people seem to have a distaste for denominations based upon limited exposure, in my view. I have worked with a worshiped in a number of them. Everybody doesn't have it wrong. Many churches have it quite right!

Also, denominations existed in the New Testament in a sense. They weren't called "COGIC" or "Baptist" but some variations in worship are necessary simply due to geography, some due to having different leaders. Paul advised us to remember that we are all of the family of God, who gets the increase, and that we should not quarrel about our differences. Paul, Peter and Apollos certainly had different teaching styles/approaches.

All traditions aren't bad.

(BTW, there is a lot of value in the traditional hymns and some GREAT THEOLOGY, too. I guess the best of all worlds would be modern arrangements of traditional hymns from time to time. I know for a fact there is some very bad theology in a lot of modern Christian music in the name of trying to be "free" and "relevant" to these times.)

To quote a friend: "Solid Biblical teaching, leadership in love, and Holy Spirit filled worship is not an option--it is MANDATORY!" Such things ARE happening in some denominational churches the same way they ARE MISSING from a lot of non-denominational churches.

These are just a few thoughts.

How about your thoughts?

As long as we're talking...here are some reasons why so many men stay home on Sunday.

A lot of people, male and female, clergy and laity, complain and bemoan the relative absence of men in the pews on Sunday mornings in America. It's not arguable. The statistics tell the tale. However, there are a lot of reasons for it beyond some people's presumption that men are just fundamentally less spiritual and unconcerned. That's ridiculous!

Here are a few thoughts to consider. Maybe you'll see some ways you can shift some of your own attitudes:

1. Most of the examples, stories and points are really geared towards women's issues, hurts and pains in most church services. I've been to a lot of them. There's nothing wrong with that, but preachers are alienating and isolating the men. Some realize it. Some don't.

One reason I don't like it is that A) that's not the full counsel of God and I believe He wants us to preach the whole Gospel. B) It's easy and some preachers are lazy.

It is flat-out easier to get "Amen's", emotional responses and then GIVING from women. Women tend to demand less and give more, so it becomes an easy path to grow your church and stroke your own ego.

2. Then there's the matter of all the "Jesus is my Lover" songs that we sing. Again, there may be a place for that. But Jesus is a Conquering King and not a Master Lovemaker the way we make it. There are more songs with "I want to be loved by YOU" and "I want to be in your arms, LORD" and so on that I can't even count.

The old hymns would talk about His majesty. His power. His lordship. We are very sensual and self-centered with our music these days. Most men don't want to be "caressed" by their King, Ruler or any other man.

We sing these songs and (unknowingly) isolate men and wonder why so few want to be around the things of God.

3. The liturgy is often very feminized. You want more men to serve in the sanctuary and sing in the choir but then mandate that everyone must wear the "color of the day" that Sunday and it's....teal? pink? pastel yellow? For real? So I have to go buy a pastely yellow shirt to serve God this weekend?

Nothing wrong with it, per se. But we have to remember that we're making 1/2 of the population feel unwelcomed.

4. Abuse of order. Some preachers like to preach about submission and order and then abuse that by trying to extend their domain into our households. No man wants to have his home run by another man or be in a position where he's not even an authority in his own realm.

Then there's the matter of leadership. Men want to be involved and their natural expression of this is the desire to lead. But this requires a vacuum because many men aren't going to fight for it. If we see women step back intentionally, creating room for leadership and involvement, we will see more men come forward.

5. "Title Inflation" In a lot of fellowships, a "regular guy" is treated like a NOBODY, so a lot of men aspire to titles. They don't get respect in a lot of other arenas and want respect in the church. Deacon Jones is more respected than Brother Jones or Sam. Well, if Deacon Jones is respected, then Minister Jones is even more so! Then Pastor...but when a Pastor wants to elevate himself even more, he may change his title to Bishop or Overseer or Grand Bishop or Chief Apostle...and so on.

We inflate and alienate the guy off the street even further.

6. What is spirituality? Why are women considered more spiritual? Don't we need to examine our definition of this term? The way we have it defined now has a man who likes to watch football or doesn't want to be in a 5-hour service feeling "unspiritual" right now.

Do I have to cry when the oil is poured on me for it to work?

Do I have to tear up when I've heard the voice of God?

Maybe I heard the voice of God tell me to pray for my wife more? Maybe the Lord told me to come home early instead of stopping by the bar? Am I spiritual now? Or do I have to fall out at the altar?

What do you think? What are some ways we can increase the male participation in the church? You can see from my thoughts that I think the way we "do church" itself could be improved. We'll see improvements in our homes and communities, too, when we do.

7 Ways the Average Muslim is a Better Muslim than the Average Christian is a Christian

As far as labels matter – and, they often do – I gladly accept the name of Christ and call myself a Christian. I have done so since November 1991 when I confessed Jesus Christ as my Lord and as my Savior. I am a church-going, Bible-believing, prayer praying Saint. I have faith in God through Jesus Christ and I’m ready to defend the truth of the Gospel. If I were to give a summary of my beliefs, I would say the following according to the teachings of the Bible. Take a second to read this:

I believe in God the Father Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth;
And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord:
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, dead, and buried;
the third day he rose from the dead;
he ascended into heaven,
and sitteth at the right hand of God the Father Almighty;
from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.

The above statement is called “The Apostles’ Creed” and it has been a foundation of orthodox Christianity for centuries. I accept it as well. I labor to lay out all of the above because some of you will think I’m crazy for writing a few of the sentences that will follow this introduction.

For the record, I also believe that Christians, Believers, the Born Again should be challenged to learn, live and love the way Christ taught. It just so happens that we have a ready example of people of incredible religious zeal operating in our world today. My own persuasion is that Islam falls short of the Truth. However, there are some things that I believe we Saints can learn from them among others…and demonstrate more zeal along with knowledge in our faith. Feel free to throw rocks.

1. Most Muslims allow their faith to direct their lives daily – on the other hand, some of my Christian friends treat their faith as an accessory. Some days we put it on; some days we don’t. Kind of depends upon whether it goes along with our activities for that day.

2. Most Muslims actually read their book – I find the level of Biblical illiteracy astounding. This wouldn’t be surprising in terms of the general population, but amongst the Saints, it’s rather shocking to realize how little we know. Frankly, for some of us, they might as well not even publish Old Testaments.

3. Most Muslims pray “religiously” – There’s something to be said for regular, regimented prayer. At least, I can say more for that than I can say for failing to pray. Christians alternate between laughing at and disdaining what they call a “religious” spirit and bypass some of the important disciplines that the religious observe.

4. Most Muslims respect authority, order and training – It’s always disappointed me that the only requirement (in some circles) to become a religious leader is the ability to gain followers, raise an offering and wear a fat tie. Some churches are started by people who were told by their own pastors that they weren’t ready to lead a church… so they bolted! Tough issue because it touches on the denominational versus non-denominational argument and the matter of “what is a church anyway” discussion. Too much for one blog. Get back with me later.

5. Most Muslims still respect gender roles – I feel like I’m holding a can opener in one hand and wearing a raincoat on this one because this is a nasty can of worms! A lot of people think that making distinctions between the sexes is to automatically devalue one or the other. Not so! As a result, it appears that our relationships are more haphazard than purpose-driven…more strife-filled than peaceful.

6. Most Muslims raise their children to observe their faith – I’m not sure why so many Believers are so passive when it comes to sharing with our children what we believe. I don’t know where that comes from. I understand we can’t “make” them believe, but shouldn’t we at least give them the benefit of our worldviews? A lot of our young people leave home unclear about what mom and dad believe and, therefore, enter the world uncertain about their own beliefs.

7. Most Muslims know what they believe and can articulate it – This is connected to the issue of Biblical illiteracy and one of my chief passions. I care quite a bit that we learn what believe and know it enough to accurately communicate the basics. That in which people choose to place their faith is up to them. As ministers of the Gospel, our job is to be faithful in our testimonies. Most of us can’t explain what we believe. (That’s why my Intro includes The Apostles’ Creed, by the way. If you don’t believe that, you might not be a Christian.) We must do better. I believe we will.

Suffice it to say that I believe those who accept the name of Christ, starting with this writer, have a lot of room to improve in terms of surrendering ourselves as “living sacrifices” according to the teaching of the Apostle Paul. I’m not seeking to beat you up. I have a log in my own eye that I’m trying to work free.

Feel free to add your own comments. I’m still working some of this through myself.

Peace.


Mark Anthony McCray is the Founder of "Live Big, Die Empty" a movement designed to help people live life more abundantly and walk in the purposes for which they were created. Write or call 832-566-2001 for more information and follow Mark on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/MARKMCCRAY and http://www.twitter.com/LiveBigDieEmpty