tag:brettbarry.com,2005:/blogs/walkabout
Life Through The Cross //
2021-08-16T23:03:46-04:00
Brett Barry
false
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/5015007
2018-01-09T12:21:21-05:00
2018-01-09T15:00:55-05:00
Simeon & Anna
<p><strong>Simeon & Anna</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><strong>Greetings, Dear Cornerstone!</strong></p><p>Today I'm including below, a section of Scripture that I've been pondering over the past couple weeks. And, rather than write a full perspective on what God's been speaking to me, I'm going to share what I'm seeing in SOAP form - which is more a bullet point format. SOAP is an acronym for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer that we use at a weekly men's Bible study I attend. We usually read a chapter together, then prayerfully write down in our journal what the Spirit is impressing upon our hearts regarding the personal application of what He's showing us. If you've never done this, I encourage you to incorporate something like it into your time with the Lord. It's enlightening, challenging, and deeply encouraging!</p><p>Have a blessed week,</p><p>Brett</p><p><strong>(S) Luke 2:25-38:</strong></p><p><em>25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:</em></p><p><em>29 “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; 30 for my eyes have seen Your salvation 31 which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, 32 a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”</em></p><p><em>33 And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him. 34 Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against 35 (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”</em></p><p><em><strong>Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer</strong></em></p><p><em>36 Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity; 37 and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years,[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202:25-38#fen-NKJV-25011b">b</a>] who did not depart from the </em><em>temple,</em><em> but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. 38 And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord,[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke%202:25-38#fen-NKJV-25012c">c</a>] and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.</em></p><p><strong>(O) Struck by the lives of both Simeon and Anna</strong></p><ul>
<li>Simeon: a man…yet righteous, devout and on a mission—waiting for the consolation of Israel; old. Holy Spirit revealed to him, directed him, gave him insight, spoke through him—recognized Jesus as Savior and proclaimed His salvation and Lordship to Gentiles and Israel...</li>
<li>Anna: old, devoted fully to the Lord for at least the past 60 years of her life, never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying—recognized Jesus and proclaimed His salvation to all around...</li>
<li>Christ had just arrived, the Holy Spirit hadn’t even been poured out, yet by the Spirit they both saw with such clarity that it fully captured their desire and focus; living fully devoted lives they were clearly directed and drawn to God's presence in the temple. </li>
</ul><p><strong>(A) </strong>Conversely, I supposedly have that same Spirit <em>living</em> <em>IN</em> me, and my body is a temple of the very God they attended the temple to worship; yet I tend to “leave.” My mind wanders, my emotions war, my will resists…when I'm truly honest with myself, I can see that something’s not right. While growing up in Christ is a process, is it possible to see what they saw and yet remain indifferent to or accepting of my lack? Or, have I not yet seen? Or, having seen, do I simply not want to pay the price of worshiping day and night with prayer and fasting? </p><p><strong>(P)</strong> Search me, O God and know my heart; Try me and know my anxious thoughts; And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. By Your Spirit, I take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ, that Your will and priority might be established both in me and through me. For the glory of Your good name and the advancement of Your Kingdom on earth, Amen.</p><img src="https://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/Vtxawzd5RNg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4932279
2017-11-14T12:54:18-05:00
2023-10-16T10:44:32-04:00
I Believe
<p><strong>I Believe</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p>
<blockquote><em>Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “ ‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Mark 9:21-24</em></blockquote>
<p>Greetings, Dear Church at Cornerstone.</p>
<p>I'm enclosing a link to a song I wrote and recorded years ago in Nashville called, "I Believe", which was inspired by a worship rehearsal that took a different direction due to an unusually heavy snowstorm. (Nashville doesn't handle snow very well.) While I pray the song brings you perspective and strength, I want to share with you today a little more about the events that brought the inspiration, for, if we're willing, the lessons are in the journey. </p>
<p><strong>Backstory: "I Believe"</strong><br><br>As you likely deduced, we were living in Nashville at this time. I had been in a season of wrestling with the faith challenges that tend to arise when we seek to fully lay down our will to God's leading. Truth is, the path He leads us down when we say "Have Your way" never looks like we think it will, never. As such, the temptation to question whether He was and is actually leading can become great.</p>
<p>"God, did I hear correctly? Certainly, Your answer wouldn't look like this, would it? I must have missed something! Oh God! God?...Hello?" Silence. "God, where are You in all this...!?" </p>
<p>During this time, I was on staff at a church there and directing the worship department. As I was preparing for our weekly 7 PM rehearsal a snowstorm began rolling in. By about 5 PM it had begun snowing lightly, so I called a few of the team to get their thoughts on the weather; we agreed we were to continue with rehearsal anyway. <br><br>By about 6:45, only seven of the 13 had arrived at the church. The others felt it best to stay home since we didn't know how bad the storm would be. We could see the snowfall getting heavier, so with most of our rhythm section and a couple vocalists missing, I didn't even bother to fire up the sound system. Instead, I thought it best to just take some time and worship together for a little bit and then go home early. So I pulled out my acoustic and we began to worship.<br><br>We sang a few familiar songs we were planning for the service, and then we began singing what was simply in our hearts. Before we knew it, God's presence came with an unusual intensity. It was deep, pure and all-consuming, much like a thick blanket of freshly fallen snow. Somewhere in that stretch, I began singing from the depths of my being, "I believe, I believe, I believe, everything You say." It resonated with the desire of our hearts collectively, and our awareness of how, even though we believed, we still needed to proclaim our belief. <em>"...I believe, help my unbelief!" </em><br><br>We sang on and on, and went deeper and deeper. And, somehow, in that time, we lost track of time; or, perhaps, we escaped it. Because when we finally looked at a clock...it was 11:30 PM! 11:30? What? We had been worshiping for over four hours, but it felt like only a few moments.<br><br>It was crazy! We were shocked, perplexed and giddy. I suggested we wrap up and get home. We laughed a bit, sat in silence, then, without conscious thought, slipped back into worship. In what seemed like another few moments, we surfaced once again. This time the clock read 1:30! What? Another two hours had passed! It was incredible! No one wanted to go home. At 2 PM, we finally were able to leave the building. <br><br>Yep. In the blink of an eye, six hours had passed....amazing. And the drive home in six inches of freshly fallen snow formed a beautiful picture of what God was doing in our hearts.<br><br>Friend, that was an Ebenezer. A landmark alter. A stamp in the timeline of our lives that will forever mark a moment where our meeting with the Lord transcended time. Wrapped in God's presence, we ascended out of time and into that place of fellowship with Him where the Holy Spirit could lift our hearts and minds into unison with His own. It was indeed, another dimension.<br><br>The beautiful part is that all we did was show up and worship with all we had available. I've had hundreds of worship encounters, and many unique and other-worldly moments. All I can say is, this one was a gift. <br><br>While it's difficult to communicate the impact it had on my life, I give you some of its fruit in "I Believe". If it resonates with you, I encourage you to use it as a proclamation of agreement over your life, recognizing that waiting on the Lord is a very pro-active process that brings His perspective and strength to our hearts and minds through the confession we practice.<br><br>On His side, sometimes in His time, always for His glory,</p>
<p>Brett</p>
<p>Click to listen: <a href="https://brettbarry.com/track/1073314" target="_blank">I Believe</a></p>
<p><img src="https://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/BsaoGwPninE" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" /></p>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4885751
2017-10-10T14:25:07-04:00
2020-10-10T11:38:15-04:00
Search Me, O God
<p><strong>Search Me, O God</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p>Christ-follower, best-selling author, and business leader Dale Partridge posted to Facebook the following piece written from a Biblical perspective regarding the passing of Hugh Hefner - founder of the Playboy empire.</p><p><em>The world mourns for a man who made millions reducing the public status of women. A man who invented the industry of female objectification. A man who stands behind the pornography industry pocketing cash at the expense of families, marriages, and homes.</em></p><p><em>This is who we're celebrating!?</em></p><p><em>It was this man who labored to convince your daughters and nieces and sisters that their value was not in their moral character but consisted of their sexual availability and attractiveness to men.</em></p><p><em>Hugh M. Hefner was not a "good" man. He was a man who built an empire on exactly what God condemns.</em></p><p><em>The only tragedy about this man's death is that he didn't live for Christ. God desires that </em><em>that ALL</em><em> would repent and come to know him. This truly is a very sad day for Hef. Not because of his death, but because of his eternity.</em></p><p>It’s amazing the assault he’s received from so many who profess to follow Jesus - some even filled with vitriol and outright hatred.</p><p><strong>Heart Check: </strong>How did his perspective strike you?</p><p>Responses of this nature reveal what's really in a person's heart, as well as a lack of Scriptural understanding, and, beyond that, an inability to discuss perspective for the purpose of learning and growing. (How something is said, while it can help reception of a point, is irrelevant to whether it is true.)</p><p>Truth is, most people don’t actually read Scripture, and of those who do, few are sincerely endeavoring to find out what it really says - studying it, wrestling it, yielding to it. Most professed followers of Jesus instead absorb their theology (understanding of God and related topics such as sin, salvation, forgiveness, judgment, right and wrong, etc.) in bits and pieces from their pastor or others. Everyone has a theology, though not everyone knows what it really is until someone says something they don’t like.</p><p><strong>Heart Check:</strong> Do you read the Bible? If so, do you approach it with the goal of finding out what it really says?</p><p>So, if we're going to defend our view of faith or Scripture (and actually honor God with our lives), it's imperative to ask ourselves: How much of what I believe about God truly aligns with what He has actually said, versus, how much is simply my opinion and preference speaking? Otherwise, in the name of defending what we believe is true and right, we can end up attacking those who actually are (it happened with prophets like John the Baptist, Jesus, the Apostles, disciples, and many, many martyrs since).</p><p>May our defense of truth be done respectfully of others, and may it begin with first wrestling our own perspective into submission to the holy absolutes of God Almighty.</p><p>"Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." PS 139:23-24</p><p> </p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/P5xM9QU-cGg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4847379
2017-09-12T11:49:07-04:00
2017-09-12T16:30:35-04:00
The Faith To Persevere
<p><strong>The Faith to Persevere</strong><br>by Oswald Chambers</p><p><strong>Because you have kept My command to persevere… —<a target="_blank" href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?version=31&search=Revelation+3%3A10">Revelation 3:10</a></strong></p><p><em>Greetings, friends,</em></p><p><em>Following is a devotional by Oswald Chambers on the intrinsic value of perseverance in our faith journey. May we truly find our resolve in trusting God fully - confident that He sees us, loves us beyond measure, and directs our lives for His glory and our good. When we embrace Him alone, His "no" is as beautiful as His "yes," for He never simply spends us at random. Rather, He invests us into life circumstances for our growth and His glory. Investments that bring dividends; sometimes now, always later. In this confidence, may we each press onward into Christ. -- Brett</em></p><p><strong>From My Utmost For His Highest - Oswald Chambers:</strong><br>Perseverance means more than endurance— more than simply holding on until the end. A saint’s life is in the hands of God like a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer. God is aiming at something the saint cannot see, but our Lord continues to stretch and strain, and every once in a while the saint says, “I can’t take any more.” Yet God pays no attention; He goes on stretching until His purpose is in sight, and then He lets the arrow fly. Entrust yourself to God’s hands. Is there something in your life for which you need perseverance right now? Maintain your intimate relationship with Jesus Christ through the perseverance of faith. Proclaim as Job did, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him” (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job+13:15">Job 13:15</a>).</p><p>Faith is not some weak and pitiful emotion, but is strong and vigorous confidence built on the fact that God is holy love. And even though you cannot see Him right now and cannot understand what He is doing, you know <em>Him</em>. Disaster occurs in your life when you lack the mental composure that comes from establishing yourself on the eternal truth that God is holy love. Faith is the supreme effort of your life— throwing yourself with abandon and total confidence upon God.</p><p>God ventured His all in Jesus Christ to save us, and now He wants us to venture our all with total abandoned confidence in Him. There are areas in our lives where that faith has not worked in us as yet— places still untouched by the life of God. There were none of those places in Jesus Christ’s life, and there are to be none in ours. Jesus prayed, “This is eternal life, that they may know You…” (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+17:3">John 17:3</a>). The real meaning of eternal life is a life that can face anything it has to face without wavering. If we will take this view, life will become one great romance— a glorious opportunity of seeing wonderful things all the time. God is disciplining us to get us into this central place of power.</p><p> </p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/LwO2MTVB63o" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807500
2017-08-07T21:23:26-04:00
2017-08-08T21:20:28-04:00
I Bow Down
<p><span class="font_regular">During our June corporate time of waiting in prayer, I heard a couple lines in my Spirit: "At the end is the beginning, at the beginning is the end." As I pondered these and asked the Lord about their meaning, the following poem unfolded:</span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><em>At the end is the beginning<br>At the beginning is the end<br>At the bottom is the top<br>At the top is the bottom</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><em>At the end of myself<br>Is the beginning of hope and love<br>At the beginning of You<br>Is the end of fear and regret<br>At the bottom of Your feet<br>Is the top of this world<br>At the top of this world<br>Is the bottom of my knees</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><em>I bow down</em></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_regular">May we first bow down in reverent, holy fear before our God, and then rise in resolved and unwavering confidence and loyalty to our right and responsibility as His very sons through Jesus Christ our Lord.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular">On His side,</span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular">Brett</span></p>
<p><em><span class="font_small">I Bow Down <br>by Brett Barry <br>© 2017 Brett Barry Music</span></em></p>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807501
2017-07-11T13:12:38-04:00
2017-08-24T12:58:36-04:00
Becoming Headstrong
<p><strong>Becoming Headstrong</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p>
<p><strong>But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 </strong><strong>For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, </strong><strong>3</strong><strong> unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, </strong><strong>4 </strong><strong>traitors, <em>headstrong</em>, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, </strong><strong>5 </strong><strong><em>having a form of godliness but denying its power</em>. And from such people turn away! </strong><strong>7</strong><strong>…<em>always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth</em>…— II Tim 3:1-7</strong></p>
<p>I’ve always found it interesting that Paul is writing to Timothy about the church when he speaks of <em>“…having a form of godliness but denying its power…always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”</em> It sounds a bit extreme, after all, the church is full of people who are in the process of growing up in Christ. </p>
<p>Or is it? I mean, it should be, but is it really?</p>
<p>It doesn’t take much observing to recognize that the life-exchange, Spirit-empowered message of the Cross within the church (at least the western church) has been sufficiently misrepresented to the degree that the lives of many today who profess to follow Jesus bear no fruit of His presence. The result? A form of godliness, but no life-transforming power. Nothing to indicate that their lives belong to Jesus. </p>
<p><strong>Heart-check: Ask yourself, “Is this true of my life in any way?”</strong></p>
<p>The true Church hungers for and pursues life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ; however, the institutional church, the one most visible, represents a God made in man’s image. It is, therefore, powerless.</p>
<p>I believe a key contributor to this process is the belief that the lordship of Christ Jesus is somehow separate from His salvation; that a person can be saved yet not live in reverent submission to God. In this way, some profess a heart belief that Jesus is the son of God raised from the dead and proclaim His lordship with their mouths yet refuse to submit to God their independent perspectives that run contrary to who Jesus is, therein denying the very holiness in which He stands, provides, and expects. </p>
<p>In short, they remain headstrong, and are a house divided against itself. </p>
<p>This can be really obvious at times, but it can also be extremely subtle. For example, before God, how much difference is there between the person who willfully resists Him and the one who doesn’t consult Him? Didn’t sin enter the world through the subtle guise of seemingly innocent pondering that reasoned independently of, “God said?”</p>
<p>Whether by lack of a commitment to seek, understand and wrestle the things of God, a willful independence, or a greater hunger for the things of this world, those who in some way retain the “right” to manage their own lives and nurture their opinion over God’s do not recognize that the only way to enter and remain IN Christ is to belong TO Christ: <em>heart, soul, strength, mind — Lk 10:27.</em></p>
<p><strong>Life exchange.</strong></p>
<p>We were bought as a complete package for the price of Jesus’ life. We can commit our heart to Him and perceive ourselves on the journey, but without also intentionally dedicating our mind, we will remain headstrong—the one calling the shots, and actually never leave the parking lot.</p>
<p><strong>Heart-check: Ask yourself, “Are there areas in my thought life that I am not submitting to God? Am I still independently minded in any way?</strong></p>
<p>On the flip side, Scripture calls us to be Headstrong <em>IN Christ;</em> <em>Kingdom minded</em><em>—Matt 6:33</em>, <em>as ambassadors of Christ</em> tending to <em>the ministry of reconciliation—II Cor 5:19-20</em>. <em>We have the mind of Christ</em> dwelling in us—1 Cor 2:16. We are <em>transformed by the renewing of [our] minds—Rom 12:2.</em> And by His Spirit we are to <em>take captive every thought and make it obedient to Christ—2 Cor 10:5.</em></p>
<p>Just as it is possible to commit our life to Jesus yet not love Him with all our heart, it is possible to know many true things about God yet not think like Him. Conversely, when God truly has our heart we begin to desire what He desires; and when He has our mind we begin to reason through that desire—intentionally seeking to <em>find out what pleases the Lord—Eph 5:10</em>. </p>
<p>In Christ, our logic becomes God-centered. And having first deposited His Word into our minds we meditate on it until it resides and resonates fully within our hearts. We are then able to filter our thoughts, dreams and intentions through <em>knowledge of the Holy One to grow our understanding—Prov 9:10</em>. And when our thoughts wander off into territory we know is not of God, we, by the resurrection power of His Spirit fully alive in us, <em>take them captive and make them obedient to Christ!</em></p>
<p>Living the Spirit-led life is not about shutting off our mind, it’s about bringing it into alignment with truth; it’s not about getting it out of the way, it’s about getting it into The Way.</p>
<p>Through God’s laws being written on our hearts and minds and the power of His Spirit residing at the depths of our very being, we delight ourselves in the Lord, lift up Jesus and overcome those things in us for which He died to set us free. </p>
<p>This is the path of righteousness.</p>
<p>This is the path to becoming Headstrong.</p>
<p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/_i8Nhs5990g" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" /></p>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807503
2017-06-09T18:16:12-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:33-04:00
Sharing Your Faith
<p><strong>Sharing Your Faith</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><strong>Philemon 1:6: I pray that you may be active in <em>sharing your faith</em>, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ (NIV)</strong></p><p>The other day I had one of “those mornings”, exceedingly tough. The culmination of a number of pressing things required some pretty focused wrestling to overcome a rather intense heaviness.</p><p>During M-W of this particular week, Erin and I were attending a 3-day educational workshop for several hours each afternoon. So, we arrived about 20 minutes early that Monday and were waiting for the class to begin. I was still feeling such unrest from the morning’s wrestling match that I asked Erin to pray for me, that I would not come across as stand-offish to anyone. </p><p>Upon arrival we had talked briefly with a lady Erin knows and who was in another classroom preparing for a session she was going to teach—she too was struggling with a number of real-life challenges, which she briefly shared with us. We chatted for a few minutes then Erin and I went into another room to pray. As we began, Erin felt we need to go back and pray for her friend, so we did. </p><p>Though I really didn't feel like praying for someone else in that moment, I knew I was supposed to.</p><p>As we gathered and paused, I waited for a moment to listen to the Spirit. I felt His prompting to began by simply affirming what I believe by faith (and know by experience) to be true about the Almighty God we had each given our lives to; who He is, how He is, what He wants and does for us…and the glory of His goodness began to flood over my weariness. </p><p>Interestingly, I had wrestled a lot already that morning in prayer. But it was as I began praying for her that my breakthrough actually came, and I was ministered to—deeply.</p><p><strong>Here’s the kicker:</strong></p><p>As I began intentionally aligning my perspective and confessing Truth, out loud, on behalf of someone else, my personal heaviness was overcome by the weight of that very confession—In that moment, the Spirit of Truth took my opponents to the ground, all of them...and my victory was complete…for that round. For, certainly, they will come again.</p><p>For the rest of the day it was difficult to hold back the tears of awe due to my increased awareness of God's incredible goodness, faithfulness and uplifting presence. God is who He claims to be, and we are who He claims us to be. May we practice the discipline of sharing His presence as we walk intentionally and increasingly in the revelation of this reality. </p><p>If you're struggling today, tell someone about the goodness and faithfulness of our Lord, Jesus Christ. </p><p>It’ll do you good. </p><p>If you're on top of the world today, tell someone about the goodness and faithfulness of our Lord, Jesus Christ.</p><p>It’ll do them good.</p><p> </p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/44LpDv8QivI" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807504
2017-05-09T14:07:21-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:33-04:00
Seven, Seven
<p><strong>Seven, Seven </strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p>We’d like to express a deep “Thank you!” for participating in the seven days of prayer and fasting, and the seven mile prayer walk The Lord called Cornerstone to a few weeks ago (whether you were actually walking or prayerfully supporting from elsewhere)</p><p>As you know, the key to advancement (growth), whether individually or corporately, is setting our hearts and minds toward pleasing God, listening carefully, and then, by the power of His Spirit in us, obeying explicitly.</p><p>So whatever you fasted, and however you prayed, we felt it, especially during the walk. It was an incredibly rich time!</p><p>Many have asked how the walk went, and what The Lord spoke, so I'll commit this post to providing an update.</p><p>Each person who participated in the walk had an awesome encounter and testimony, but for the sake of time (and direct access to the info :), I asked Erin to share a little of what the Lord gave her.</p><p>First, if you missed what was going on, the seven day fast, concluding with the seven mile silent prayer walk, was for both personal and corporate benefit: a time of consecration to prayerfully seek The Lord for insight into things hidden, next steps for our transition, for God’s timing in that transition to be established (that the enemy might not cut any aspect short), and for the new territory we will occupy.</p>
<img src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/56552ee4e4b01110e1b35ce9/t/59120eb6d1758e0e07ad98c1/1494355698640/?format=1000w" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" />
<p>So we gathered in the parking lot, outlined our mission, prayed together and set out on our journey.</p><p><strong>Erin’s Encounter</strong><br><em>I must admit, that when Brett and the staff first mentioned fasting seven days, followed by walking around the perimeter of the mall area seven times, though I understood the BIblical significance, I worried about the distance. Seven miles? I asked Brett, “Couldn’t we just accomplish the task going around once?!” He thoughtfully replied, “Well, Honey, yes, we could...if The Lord had said to go once. But He said ‘Seven, seven: Seven days of fasting and seven times around the mall and Cornerstone/Ollies - Pastor Paul and others also sensed it was The Lord’s leading. So...’”</em></p><p><em>So, seven it was. </em></p><p><em>As we began the walk, I realized that the length was important for several reasons. </em></p><p><em>First, it meant I had to go beyond what I thought I could accomplish in my own strength. It was a stretch for me to walk that many times. And since it was a silent prayer walk, I also had to discipline myself to not talk! Then, in not talking, I had to take captive my thoughts to focus on prayer and listening for the Spirit’s leading. And, especially during the first three or four laps, I had to resist thinking about the distance and how long it would take. </em></p><p><em>On the first lap, The Lord put on my heart to choose a prayer topic for each time around, so with each lap I found a stone to represent each prayer topic and placed it at the back of the Cornerstone building. </em></p><p><em>The first time around I felt I needed to repent and get my heart right before the Lord. I found a dark colored stone to represent the sin Jesus would be cleansing. </em></p><p><em>Then, once my heart was clean I felt the next round should be totally focused on worshiping and praising the Lord. I marked that round with a beautiful white stone. </em></p><p><em>After the second lap, we gathered to pray as a team and Brett shared how Bishop Ekejiuba had hugged his neck several times, thanking him for his prayers and those of the church, and stating that, because the spiritual and physical oppression in Nigeria is so great at times it can be difficult to even pray; so he was so grateful for Cornerstone’s faithfulness to lift him and his people up in prayer. He said it often carries him - literally. In light of that, Brett felt we should dedicate the third round to praying for Bishop Ekejiuba and Nigeria’s deliverance.</em></p><p><em>So the third round I found a stone that was full of marks and breaks. I spent that round praying for the Nigerian church and the other Christians around the world who were suffering. My heart broke especially for the church in China. </em></p><p><em>The fourth round I prayed for Cornerstone, specifically for our destiny as a body, for God to direct us in this coming season. I found a large, round, flat rock to symbolize our expanding territory of influence in the Spirit. </em></p><p><em>The fifth round I felt like the Lord said, rest and grace! So I just thanked God that He was on the throne and in control, that His grace was sufficient for all our needs and concerns. I found a unique rock that was half dark and half white. I felt like it symbolized the Lord’s covering over our mistakes, worries and cares. Sometimes I feel like the weight of the world is on my shoulders. But the Lord reminded me that even when I sleep, I can rest because He keeps the world turning! (Of course, He keeps it turning all the time, but it is easy for me to forget that! :) </em></p>
<img src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/56552ee4e4b01110e1b35ce9/t/59120fe5db29d69111a6639f/1494356553979/?format=1000w" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" />
<p><em>We gathered again for prayer right before beginning the sixth mile. The team got a word to pray against the spirit of Islam. Interestingly, I found an orange rock for that round. Often in my dreams, if they include a black snake, I know it is a demonic presence. But when the presence is more a principality, I will dream of an orange snake. The Islamic spirit is a very strong spirit, but the power of God is stronger! Enough to crush any opposing presence.</em></p><p><em>We gathered a final time before the last mile. I felt the victory of the walk at that point and felt that for the final round I should focus on rejoicing and the wonderful future we have in Christ - the fact that we will live forever, WITH God! So instead of a rock, I chose a green leaf to symbolize life! </em></p><p><em>I found a beautiful oak leaf, but somehow dropped it along the way. So, looking for another, I found a maple leaf, which has special significance for me since the maple leaf is Canada’s national logo (for those who don’t know, I’m from Canada), and the image of a maple leaf was central to the first prophetic word given to me upon coming to the states - through a church elder who didn’t know me. </em></p><p><em>All in all, the seven day fast helped clear my mind and heart, and the seven mile walk sealed the deal by bringing a renewed sense of spiritual insight, encouragement, hope and determination. The time actually went by quickly, and I’m grateful to report that my legs and feet survived the many extra steps. I’m so glad we did it!</em></p><p><strong>Other Happenings</strong></p><ul>
<li>As we began, the weather was hot and sunny, with the forecast calling for thunder and rain from 2-5 (right during the walk). We prayed for a cloud covering and no rain. About 40 minutes into the walk, The Lord brought a high cloud covering, and, for the duration, He held back the rain. Thank You, Jesus!</li>
<li>After the third lap, the employees at Home Depot noticed something was up. So on lap four they asked Chris, Lexi and Chad what we were doing, who, of course, were delighted to share. They got to share the gospel and pray with a couple people - God was moving.</li>
<li>On lap five, Pastor Paul and Cheryl stopped by to lend encouragement and support.</li>
<li>We began our walk by my Jeep that was parked in front of Cornerstone and traveled along the outside of Boscov’s to circle the mall, Home Depot and Ollie’s seven times in a counterclockwise direction.</li>
</ul><p>During the final lap, both Chad and Chris reminded me that we needed to be sure to go around the back side of Ollie's one last time, since we didn’t include that part when we set out due to starting in front of the building.</p><p>As we completed our last lap, it hit me that by inadvertently starting out in the front parking lot and then circling Ollie's on the last lap and coming back to the Jeep, we had completed a heart pattern. Your commitment to fast and pray, and walk as directed, served to further reveal God’s heart to us and those we’ll each encounter throughout our journey.</p>
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<p>Even now, I hear the Lord saying, “This is what your life journey is all about - getting My heart for both yourself and the many I want to love through you.”</p><p>There’s more, but we’ve gone long.</p><p>Wherever you’re at within your present journey, may it be inspired, directed and sustained by God’s presence.</p><p>May You know intimately His heart toward you and share it boldly and lovingly with those you meet along the way.</p><p>Brett</p><p><em>P.S. As we were completing the seventh mile, the thought occurred to suggest we take a victory lap!...but wisdom prevailed, so I kept that one to myself. </em></p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/8kZSvtcGO4Q" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807506
2017-04-11T09:59:40-04:00
2020-10-14T10:24:06-04:00
Your Will Be Done
<p><strong>Your Will Be Done</strong><br>by Brett Barry </p>
<p><strong>“Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet, not My will, but Yours be done.” Luke 22:42</strong></p>
<p>April 10, 2017</p>
<p>What an incredible Monday morning - it’s beautiful outside and looks like it’s going to be a lovely, sunny day. I was blessed to have gotten some much-needed sleep last night and then to be up early to fellowship with God through His Word and exercise. A great start to the collection of moments He has entrusted to me. And, should I see tomorrow, may I again be so blessed (and responsible :).</p>
<p>It’s now 8:53 AM. A few moments ago I was working on tomorrow’s Cornerstone devotional when my cell rang and up popped the name of a much-loved friend from out of town, the husband of a Christian couple Erin and I have been close to over the years and always make a point to try and visit whenever we are in their area. I’ll call them Jim and Karen. </p>
<p>So, with great delight, I answered, “Jim! How’s it going?” There was a moment of silence, followed by a heavy sigh, and then his response, “Well…not too well. I’m not sure how to say this exactly, but," another heavy sigh… "Karen and I are divorcing.” </p>
<p><strong>A very dark cloud just blocked the morning sun.</strong></p>
<p>I was stunned and felt strangely detached as Jim said a few more things about how, though he doesn’t completely agree with all her perspectives, he does understand why Karen would want a divorce. My mind raced. The news was so surreal. He only had a few minutes, so wasn't able to go into the "why" of the announcement, but as I listened a glaring question arose within me. </p>
<p>I asked, “Who have you spoken to about the process that led you to this decision? I mean, who knows about the struggles you’ve been having?</p>
<p>Another sigh. </p>
<p>Jim then confided that their difficulties have been kept secret over the years and that he recognizes that is part of the problem…</p>
<p>As I’ve been mulling this over the past couple of hours, I keep thinking about Nick’s awesome message Sunday outlining how, in our wilderness, The Lord spreads a table for us and invites us to dine with Him. No matter where we are, no matter what we’re going through, a feast of His goodness awaits us. The question is, will we come to the table? If yes, the next question is, Will we eat…and not just with Him, but, of Him?</p>
<p><strong>It’s the “of Him” part that causes most to turn away.</strong></p>
<p>As I think about our friends, their story is similar to most Christian couples Erin and I encounter who are having difficulty. It's not a marriage thing (marriage just helps reveal it), but rather, it's a heart thing. At the heart of what brings division in any relationship, whether with God or others, is our coming to the table but refusing to partake of the first thing God presents with every course—that which neutralizes our palate and prepares us to receive the full impact of His goodness at the very depths of our being: Humility. </p>
<p><strong>He says, “Eat of Me.” </strong></p>
<p>Even now, Jesus, and ALL He is, has and is capable of doing, is fully available to us for consumption. But we have to humble ourselves to partake. </p>
<p><strong>Humble ourselves? Am I speaking of works here? </strong></p>
<p>No. Just the process of cause and effect.</p>
<p>Humility initially begins in that place where, in the light of God’s all-consuming, fiery presence, we see both our lack and His provision for it: our inability in the face of His ability. If we are then willing, He gives and we receive. He gives His Spirit; we receive forgiveness AND empowering to love Him, ourselves and others sacrificially, which involves our overcoming the self-centered desires and perspectives we hold that lead us to defensive maneuvers instead of proactive, Love-centered ones.</p>
<p><strong>Overcoming. That's hard. Even impossible.</strong></p>
<p>Indeed. But then Jesus extends His nail-scared hands and says, “Now, by My Spirit, give Me your lack. Give Me what you cannot do. What you cannot feel. What you cannot see. Give Me your failures, offenses, hurt, your inability to forgive. Give these to Me, and you will know My strength, My hope, My purpose. Give Me your ‘I cannot’ and I will give you My “I can.”</p>
<p>Yep, I tend to like the forgiveness part of humbling ourselves because it brings cleansing of conscience. But the empowering part, that which calls us to overcome, is a lot more challenging because with it comes responsibility—to now do what we know.</p>
<p><strong>In God’s eyes, since by His Spirit I am now able, I am responsible. It's part of growing up.</strong></p>
<p>So, if we willingly humble ourselves, coming to the Lord’s table is a delight, as Nick so beautifully laid out. But if not, having come to His table we find the menu reads something like this:</p>
<ul> <li>
<strong>Appetizer:</strong> <em>Lowly Deep Fried Cheese Sticks</em>
</li> <li>
<strong>First Course:</strong> <em>Meek Leek Soup</em>
</li> <li>
<strong>Second Course:</strong> <em>Humility Humas Salad</em>
</li> <li>
<strong>Main Course:</strong> <em>Courageous Chicken of Obedience</em>
</li> <li>
<strong>Dessert:</strong> <em>Humble Pie</em>
</li>
</ul>
<p>(Nick’s table was a lot more attractive!)</p>
<p>There is more to fleshing this out, for which we do not have time today. But I pray you get the gist. While every healthy relationship consists of two humility-oriented hearts, we can never know how much of our challenge is really of the other person until we first humble ourselves to the point of fully yielding to God’s will and ways, regardless of what it costs us. </p>
<p>George Muller, on the matter of ascertaining the will of God, wrote, <strong><em>“I seek at the beginning to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in regard to a given matter. Nine-tenths of the trouble with people is just here.”</em></strong> If I have an opinion about how God answers a concern, then I am still affecting (infecting) the process of His will with my own will. </p>
<p>After 30 years of marriage, our friends said they’re announcing their divorce to their four, young adult children tonight. Honestly, along with hurting <em>for</em> them, I’m also frustrated <em>with</em> them. I have known them both as capable, loving and God-seeking individuals who were seemingly open and transparent. We’ve always shared a kindred spirit regarding God and our faith journey. And while I'm confident they are still the quality people we've known them to be, what’s clearly missing somewhere in the mix is the willingness to humble oneself enough to vulnerably, even desperately, cry out for help, both to God and to others. And that’s always destructive to marriage, friendship and oneness with God. </p>
<p><strong>After giving Jesus our “I cannot”, He next asks us to give Him our “will not” in exchange for His very confession, “…not My will, but Your will be done.” </strong></p>
<p>That’s even harder. For, truly, our independent willfulness is really the heart of the matter. We like what Jesus did, the way He loves and forgives, and everything else He promises. It’s all really…hopeful sounding. But the requirement to live as He lived by the empowering of the Holy Spirit, not as much. That sounds more like wilderness and an alter of sacrifice. Truth is, it’s both. And God uses them to reveal who we are at our depths (that it might go well with us in the end, Deut. 8:16).</p>
<p>When it comes down to it, whether in our relationship with God or others, we tend to do what we want most. And we want most what we value most.</p>
<p>So, the question I ask both you and myself is this:</p>
<ul> <li><strong>Is what you value most leading you to deeper intimacy and oneness with Jesus? Or, is it leading you to a deceived and hardened heart through the crystalizing of your own opinions and perspectives?</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Merciful and gracious Lord Jesus, Above all else and whatever the cost, may we value oneness with You so much that we humbly seek and protect Your will and ways being established in our hearts and minds - the fruit of Your Spirit in us.. For the honor of Your good name and the advancement of Your kingdom on earth, Amen.</em></p>
<p>Friend, the result of God’s will and ways being established in our hearts and minds is that our lives become more and more pleasing to Him, because such renewal transforms us into His likeness. And that affects both us and everyone we encounter.</p>
<p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/0GiLBz6zSc4" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" /></p>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807507
2017-02-14T13:25:51-05:00
2017-08-08T21:03:34-04:00
Freedom Within Difficulty
<p><strong>Freedom Within Difficulty</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p>In my personal prayer for worship last Sunday morning, I was reading a devotional on Psalm 20:1-9 written by Nicky Gumble of The Alpha course. He wrote, “When you have ‘days of distress’, you can and should call out to God in prayer, asking Him to bring salvation and freedom in the midst of struggle. It is not a matter of foolhardy optimism, but rather one of realistic faith.” </p><p>Hmm…salvation and freedom in the midst of struggle; the fruit of realistic faith. As I was pondering that, I heard the Lord say, </p><p><strong>“There is a vast difference between freedom from difficulty and freedom within it.” </strong></p><p>Then I heard 1 Cor 10:13:<strong><em> “No temptation has overcome you except that which is common to man. But God is faithful in that He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide a way of escape in order that you may bear it.”</em></strong></p><p><strong>The Way of Escape</strong><br>I don’t know about you, but during seasons of difficulty I have found myself running full speed in the darkness, crying out to God to deliver me “from” my situation, rather than inviting Him into it. Perhaps you can relate.</p><p>During these times, rather than take our thoughts captive and <em>make</em> them obedient to Christ, the temptation is usually to imagine the worst about our situation, or to nurture unvalidated, emotionally-driven perspectives that cause misunderstanding, frustration or hurt… Sometimes the temptation is to leave God out of the center for too long, and the heaviness of the matter crushes our hope and joy. Even worse, if we continue, it can result in our becoming deeply discouraged or even depressed. It’s amazing how much energy is wasted in these areas. I’ve been through them, many times. And, honestly, I’ve yet to see any of them ever help my situation, understanding or growth in the Lord.</p><p>I thank God that He delivers us from both temptation and distress. But the way He does it, <em>our way of escape</em>, is what is so vitally important: He always delivers us through oneness with Himself:</p><p><strong>We invite Him in, He lifts us up.</strong></p><p>It’s interesting that true freedom comes only through oneness with Christ, not through our difficulty being taken away (1 Cor 6:17 / Gal 2:20 / Heb 12:7-11). While we may be comforted by His presence, when we actually invite Christ into the center of our perspective, we further awaken to our present spiritual position in Him, to His vantage point at the right hand of the Father “…far above all rule, authority, power and dominion..(Eph 1:21)”; to the place where we can see difficulty the way He does — in light of the greater picture of what He’s producing in us through the struggle, how it’s preparing us for our future with Him in eternity and our authority over our mind, will and emotions in the present.</p><p>So, as I was meditating, I got the picture of literally inviting Jesus into the center of my challenge, just as I would invite you into our home if you were to come for a visit (especially if you’re bringing food! — In fact, if you come with food I probably wouldn’t even invite you in; rather, I’d just reach out and pull you in!). </p><p><strong>We can bear the temptation only when we take the way of escape.</strong></p><p>The beauty of oneness with God is that, not only does He walk with us here in the midst of the difficulties causing our distress, He enables us to walk with Him there in the fullness of His authority over them. The former brings comfort; the latter, freedom. </p><p>Additionally, Jesus always comes bearing gifts — gifts of His presence, vision, courage, hope. As we awaken to our position in Him far above it all, His revelatory presence provides light to our path, perspective to our suffering and resolve to our depths. </p><p><strong>When we are one with Jesus, our distress dissipates and our challenges become opportunities.</strong></p><p>Today, may you literally invite Jesus into the center of your perspective, that He might lift you up into His and, therein, set you free right there <em>within</em> the difficulties you are facing. </p><p>On the other hand, Jesus always comes bearing gifts…so, better yet, just reach out and pull Him in!</p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/1DsSlqIHjmU" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807508
2017-01-10T12:39:34-05:00
2017-08-08T21:03:34-04:00
The Fulcrum
<p><strong>The Fulcrum of "R"</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p>Wow, we had an incredible worship service last Sunday with David Wagner and Josh Brady, hope you were able to attend. I particularly appreciated the way David promoted God’s authority, compassion and faithfulness in revealing our identity as sons in Christ, layered nicely between vulnerability and sincerity. (It was like a hope sandwich!) Overall, they spent several hours lifting up the truth of who Jesus is, and, thus, who we are in Him as disciples of Christ. God was glorified, the body was built up. </p><p><strong>Win. Win.</strong></p><p>Later in the afternoon, as the prophetic became more personal, David was prophesying over Cornerstone and he brought up the way the “r” is highlighted in our church logo, pointing out how as he came into the building the Lord spoke to him that it was "a prophetic sign that when you come through the door there’s going to be restoration, resurrection, renaissance, revival, renewal and redemption." I smiled, and thought to myself, “Good job, David!” He didn’t know that I designed the logo, neither did he know the process behind it or it’s prophetic intent. So it was encouraging to hear that the design is achieving its mission, and that its message is right in line with what the Lord spoke to me years ago while working on it. </p><p>I’ve been sitting on the back story of the logo’s meaning for over seven years now, wondering from time to time if or when I should share it. Since David brought it up, I believe now is a good time.</p><p><strong>Let’s see…</strong></p><p>As David pointed out, the “r” is clearly highlighted by both color and design, with the letter being encased in a rectangle (stone) and emphasized by three brightly colored circles above it (the Trinity, and circular because I believe God’s signature is a circle - earth, planets, rainbow, elders around the throne - for He is at the center of all that exists). So, it is indeed making a proclamation. But what, specifically?</p><p>When I began looking at the word Cornerstone from a design perspective, I noted how there are 11 letters, with the R sitting central as a beautiful fulcrum upon which all else perfectly balances. This piqued my interest, prompting the question, “What is special about the letter “r” that would make it unique as the fulcrum point? Is there anything in this, Lord?”</p><p>Psalm 118:22 states that Jesus, the stone which the builders rejected, is become the head of the corner, or chief corner stone - the foundation and cornerstone of God’s new creation, His Church. </p><p><strong>And Isaiah 28:16-17 says,</strong></p><p><strong><em>“See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic. I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line…” </em></strong></p><p>What made it possible for Jesus to become the Cornerstone of the Church? His right standing before God as a sinless, spotless sacrifice; our righteous redeemer, victorious over the cross through oneness with the Father!</p><p>He is righteous, holy, the ultimate authority, the originating word and the final word…and the list goes on. <em><strong>But it’s His righteousness that is central to His authority—the plumb line of truth. </strong></em>Without it, there is no redemption, no renewal, no restoration, no reunion… OK. I’m getting ahead of myself. </p><p>If Jesus had given way to sin, He would have forfeited becoming the chief cornerstone. So the fact that “r” is the fulcrum point within Cornerstone is incredibly significant because Christ’s righteousness IS the center upon which all else hangs.</p><p><strong>So, Corne[r]stone: 11 letters, with Christ’s righteousness residing at the center.</strong></p><p>Interestingly, the number 11 can symbolize disorder, chaos and judgement. Biblically, it also has the meaning of transitions and the fulfillment of prophesy, as in, the 11th hour. Beautifully, however, in the word Corne[r]stone, the righteousness of Christ resides at the center, bringing perfect balance, order and symmetry to all things. Furthermore, the center number of 11 is 6, the number of man. There again, apart from Christ’s righteousness, man is a central contributor to disorder and chaos. But, with Christ as his Cornerstone, he becomes the aroma of salvation, an ambassador of God’s righteousness with the holy ministry of reconciliation. </p><p><strong>With Christ at the center of our lives, everything finds its God-intended order.</strong></p><p>The Lord began speaking about the "r" in Corne[r]stone. Once I wrote down “righteous,” other “r” words began to flow. At first they came to mind one after the other and in no particular order,. Eventually I had 40+. Once they were written down, I tucked them away, but would ponder them from time to time.</p><p>Then one day as I was looking over the "r" list, I noticed something peculiar: as in all things of God, there are layers of order. And, when I saw it, I realized the words when placed in order map various aspects of God's redemptive process for His church, beginning with: </p><ul>
<li>Who He is (followed by) </li>
<li>How His righteousness transfers us into His kingdom of light (followed by) </li>
<li>The forging of our identify in Christ as we grow to maturity (followed by)</li>
<li>The effect our relationship with God has upon the world as we overcome darkness and walk in oneness with Him (followed by) </li>
<li>Our glorious reunion at His soon return</li>
</ul><p>So here's what the "r" in Corne[r]stone represents, as per the above order:</p><ul>
<li>
<em>righteous</em>, royal, resounding revealer, resplendent redeemer, restorer</li>
<li>reclaimed, reborn, renewed, righteous, redeemed, restored, realigned</li>
<li>renamed, refined, redesigned, resolved, refreshed, replenished, revered </li>
<li>resolute, ready, refuse, refute, remove, renounce, rekindle</li>
<li>rebuilt, relate, regard, return, render, reconcile, <em>reunite</em>
</li>
</ul><p>There are more, but I limited the list to the above 35, outlining God’s holiness and the different aspects and impact of our identity as sons as we mature. </p><p>So, next time you see our logo, you can now answer the question, “What does the “r” stand for in Corne[r]stone?” Absorb them; in Christ, become them.</p><p><strong>Be blessed, Cornerstone family. </strong></p><p>May we be reminded of God’s goodness, power and faithfulness to us as we follow Him through 2017.</p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/bMVeq0sRLpo" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807509
2016-12-13T11:51:29-05:00
2017-08-08T21:03:34-04:00
Gratitude: His Light In Our Darkness
<p><strong>Gratitude: His Light In Our Darkness</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><em><strong>The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:2</strong></em></p><p>We just spent a week with my parents around the Thanksgiving holidays. It was a real treat, as they are indeed the best of friends and it’s been a coupe years since we were able to see them in person. </p>
<img src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/56552ee4e4b01110e1b35ce9/t/58502672e6f2e1895e2a4d2c/1481647853515/?format=1000w" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Lauren, Dad (LB), Mom (BJ), Jake" />
<p>Lauren, Dad (LB), Mom (BJ), Jake</p>
<p>I love our visits. They’re always a wonderful time of fellowship filled with laughter, life stories, childhood stories, long and meaningful talks about God, faith and things that count (both for now and eternity), and food…lots of food.</p><p>For as long as I can remember my mom has been an incredible cook (a true culinary artist) and, even at 77 years young, she hasn’t lost her hutzpah in the kitchen. (I don’t know too many people who enjoy food so much that they find great delight in talking about what they’re cooking for the next meal while they’re eating the one they’ve just prepared; but that’s Mom!) She definitely loves to cook, but mostly, she loves people and finds genuine fulfillment in seeing them blessed and cared for through her giving.</p><p>And Dad, well, every time I’m around him for any length of time I’m impressed with just how deeply grateful he is to God for everything: his life, health, wife of nearly 60 years, family, God’s provision through each opportunity to work hard, and His protection of which he has seen so much, even for his faith - so grateful to God for calling him to Himself while in his youth. </p><p>Like Mom, he is also extremely generous - I’ve seen him literally give the jacket off his back to a stranger in need. But even this stems from his gratefulness to God. I’ve observed this in him often throughout my life. But during this trip it was especially evident, when one evening the whole family gathered around to hear stories from his childhood. </p><p>On the lighter side, he told about how his parents, not knowing God, would throw wild parties with such an abundance of cigarettes and alcohol that the stockpile he and his older sister would take to their room "for their own party” were never missed; there they would smoke and drink themselves sick. (He now shares how he used to smoke and drink, but, by God’s grace, he gave it up…when he was nine!) </p><p>He told of the time he and a buddy, also about 10 yrs old, “borrowed” a very nice Model T from a remote neighbor one afternoon and ended up running it off the road and flipping it over, throwing Dad through a barbed wire fence that rendered scars he still carries today. An old-timer came along with a tractor and helped turn it up-right, wherein they promptly “returned” it to the exact spot they found it—minus all the windows, a few fenders, paint and other significant items, and including a great many dents. </p><p>There are way too many adventure stories to tell here, but let’s just say my dad also had the kind of childhood that, but for God, could have easily left him bitter and vengeful. </p><p>His dad left when he was a couple years old, and his mom lived a hard life, remarrying four times by his 13th birthday. At 14, his mom’s fifth boyfriend threatened his life because Dad stepped in and begged for mercy on behalf of a man his stepdad-to-be was beating unconscious in the back alley of a bar they would frequent as a family. Dad ran; ran for his life and didn’t look back. He ran home, grabbed his jacket, and hitch-hiked the nearly 1,000 miles from California to his grandparents in Oregon. In essence, he was now on his own.</p><p>And so went his youth. He wouldn’t wish his childhood on anyone, yet, he recognizes God's hand in it all. For it was on that very trip that He would commit himself to the Lord, and his life would be changed, forever. </p><p>During that journey, he recalls looking in the windows of homes at night and seeing families gathered around the table or fire, enjoying one another in the comfort of a loving environment, and how his heart longed for a family of his own. Sleeping under some tree roots one night, he told God about his desire for a family, and vowed that, if He would protect him, he would serve Him with his whole heart for the rest of his days. </p><p>God did. And Dad has. </p><p>He recalls how throughout the rest of that trip the Lord provided many abandoned cars for him to sleep in at night, and how he even sent a long-haul trucker/angel that took him aboard and gave him food, a motel bed to sleep in and $2 to help with his trip when he dropped him off (about $20 today).</p><p>Yep, so many stories. And, while they’re deeply engaging, and many hard to believe they’re actually about my dad (he’s such a transformed man), what comes through as he tells them, often through tears of wonder over God’s love, is his gratitude; his deep, reflection-inspiring thankfulness for God’s faithfulness to keep His promises to protect and transform his life over the years. </p><p>Ultimately, he’s grateful for God’s mercy, forgiveness and sacrificial love, even for someone he knows is still a work in progress—grateful to the point of trusting God with everything. Not just what he has, but even all he hopes for.</p><p>Have you ever experienced such profound gratitude toward God that it renders you overwhelmed with humility and respect for His unfathomable goodness?</p><p>O Lord, may it be so in my life. I want to know You and give to You like that—with thankful, selfless desire.</p><p>So. That’s my dad. Like the rest of us, he’s certainly in need of ongoing transformation. But, he is actively engaged with the Lord, and his thankfulness shines God's love ever so brightly.</p><p>In God's beautiful, redemptive way, Dad's humble gratitude in Christ allowed God’s forgiveness and long-suffering love to be produced in him toward his parents; the Light God would use to minister deeply to both of them over the years. In time, they both committed their lives fully to Jesus.</p><p>In this season of Advent, we reflect upon the anticipated entry of Messiah into the realm of a corrupt and fallen world; a Light invading the darkness - our darkness. And as we are blessed to know the transforming power of His sacrifice, may we also celebrate victoriously as those now living in His kingdom of light—embracing His eternal perspective, hope and power to live and give selflessly through deep gratitude.</p><p>Thank you, Mom and Dad, for loving God and living lives that testify of His goodness. </p><p>Thank you, God, for parents that love and serve You. </p><p>And thank you, church family, for your faithfulness to journey onward in the Holy Spirit. May He strengthen you and protect your hunger for knowing and serving Him through selfless gratitude.</p><p><strong>Merry Christmas.</strong></p><p> </p><p><strong>P.S.</strong> The beauty and power of selfless gratitude: </p><iframe scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/OnZfRh_7tzw?wmode=opaque&enablejsapi=1" width="854" frameborder="0" height="480">
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Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807511
2016-11-16T10:49:03-05:00
2017-08-08T21:03:34-04:00
Our Identity In Christ
<p><strong>Our Identity In Christ</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><br><strong>Dear Ambassadors of Christ</strong>,</p><p>I asked the Lord what would encourage His body today. He said, “Remind them of Who they are in Me.”</p><p>So here are a few thoughts.</p><p>First, you may have noticed that I capitalized “Who” in reference to our identity. While this is a topic of some debate, as believers wrestle with whether we're sinners saved by grace or saints who are now at war against sin (hint: the answer is, YES!), the distinction is important because there are two parts to that sentence: “who they are” and “in Me.”</p><p>The “in Me” part is critical, because our being <em>in Christ </em>(having been transferred from darkness into light - Col 1:13) makes us perfect in our identity (how God sees our new, spiritual man due to its unity with Christ) and positions us in the heavens at the right hand of God (Eph 2:6). Scripture teaches this is a present reality for us spiritually, the reality by which we are to live; with the completion being our new, immortal bodies, given at Christ’s return. (Wowzers - such an amazing thought!)</p><p>Because of our present position and calling as Ambassadors of righteousness (1 Cor 5:20), God calls us to then live in such a way that His character is made known to others through our very lives; beginning with our thought life that directs our words and actions that affect our family and friends, as well as the world around us (Eph 2:10 / Col 1:10-12). <br> </p><p><strong>BREAKING IT DOWN A LITTLE</strong></p><p><strong>Positionally</strong>, in Christ, we have been made new (1 Cor 5:17), perfect (Heb 4:12) holy, Heb 10:10) and empowered (1 Cor 4:20/Eph 1:18-21); for we are <em>born again</em> into righteousness and the full measure of Christ (Col 1:19), not into sin or that which is sinful. </p><p><strong>Conditionally</strong>, in Christ, we are also being made holy (1 Cor 10:14), being conformed to His likeness as we, by His Spirit, bring our mind, will and emotions (soul realm) under His leadership (Rom 12:1-2). In this process, to the degree we die to self through submission to the Spirit of God in us (lay down our will for His), we overcome our sin nature and walk in holiness (Rom 8:9-11). The result of such renewed mindset and proactive living is that we then please God by accurately representing Christ, which is a sweet aroma to Him (2 Cor 2:15). </p><p>This is our call, and it is our battle. </p><p>It can sound AND feel a bit overwhelming at times. But, truthfully, the greater our revelation regarding the reality of our present position in Christ, the more we desire to please God (which directly impacts our present condition). And the transition from focusing on our difficulties to living for His pleasure brings a whole new ascent of freedom and authority. We rise in the authority of oneness with God, taking captive our thoughts and dishonoring tendencies, and make them obedient to Christ! We then ride on the wings of His pleasure! </p><p>Praise God: in Christ, we are overcomers! For, we can do all things through His strength! (Phil 4:13)</p><p><br><strong>PRACTICAL</strong></p><p>Following are some of what God says regarding our identity in Christ. I encourage you to take some time to look up these Scriptures, and, importantly, read each one aloud. As you ponder their reality, let Truth strengthen your oneness with Christ and bring peace and humility to your soul. </p><p>Then, viewing life and circumstances through the lens of your position in Christ, rise in the resolve of oneness with your Creator and, overcome! </p><p><em>From The Bondage Breaker & Victory Over The Darkness, by Dr. Neil Anderson</em></p><p><strong>I AM ACCEPTED</strong></p><ul>
<li>Jh 1:12 – I am God’s child.</li>
<li>Jh 15:15 – I am Christ’s friend.</li>
<li>Rom 5:1 – I have been justified.</li>
<li>1 Cor 6:17 – I am united with the Lord and one with Him in Spirit.</li>
<li>1 Cor 6:20 – I have been bought with a price – I belong to God.</li>
<li>1 Cor 12:27 – I am a member of Christ’s body.</li>
<li>Eph 1:1 – I am a saint.</li>
<li>Eph 1:5 – I have been adopted as God’s child.</li>
<li>Eph 2:18 – I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit.</li>
<li>Col 1:14 – I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins.</li>
<li>Col 2:10 – I am complete in Christ. </li>
</ul><p><strong>A few others I’ve dug up over the years. In Christ:</strong></p><ul>
<li>1 Corinthians 2:16 – I have the mind of Christ.</li>
<li>Psalm 40:8 – I desire to do the will of God.</li>
<li>Col 1:9 - I can grow in spiritual wisdom and understanding.</li>
<li>Col 1:10 - I am capable of pleasing God and living a life worthy of the Lord.</li>
<li>Col 1: 11 - I can bear fruit that will last.</li>
<li>Proverbs 23:18 – I have a hope that can’t be cut off.</li>
<li>Jeremiah 29:11 – I have a future and a hope.</li>
<li>Psalm 21:6 – I have eternal blessings and will find joy in God’s presence.</li>
<li>Psalm 28: – The Lord is my strength and my shield.</li>
<li>Psalm 30:11 – God turns my wailing to dancing.</li>
<li>Psalm 30:11 – God cloths me in joy.</li>
<li>Psalm 139:17 – God thinks of me more often than I can count.</li>
<li>Psalm 32:10 – I am surrounded by God’s unfailing love.</li>
<li>Psalm 34:19 – Though I will face many trials, God will deliver me from them all.</li>
</ul><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/1Hv7AsNfxgU" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807512
2016-11-08T09:40:07-05:00
2017-08-08T21:03:34-04:00
Worship Is Longing
<p><strong><span>Worship Is Longing</span></strong><br><span>by Brett Barry</span></p><p><em><strong><span>Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me, and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. PS 139:23-24</span></strong></em></p><p><span>Father, God, what's at the depths of Your heart today? </span></p><p><span>I ask Him this question often. Sometimes daily. Sometimes moment-by-moment, even though I know the answer – because it’s always the same. </span></p><p><span>Yes, I can hear it, “If I already know what he’s going to say, why ask?”</span><br><br><span>It’s not that I suffer from short-term memory issues (although my wife would seriously argue that), it’s just that, like you perhaps, I tend to become easily distracted (often, sometimes daily, sometimes moment-by-moment) with the much doing of life – work, relationships, family duties, dreams and goals, with disappointment over things lost, or over the appearance of things lost – even with the new set of distractions that come with each answered prayer. In this place, we stand to lose a great deal – godly perspective, peace, joy, vision, well-being, hope, purpose and, ultimately, our identity.</span><br><br><span>So what’s his unchanging answer to my often-asked question? Inevitably, He responds, “Your heart.”</span><br><br><span>My heart?</span><br><br><span>“Yes, your heart. Reconciliation! Part C! Humanity once again face to face with Me in unhindered relationship – the way it was in the beginning! <em>The only thing standing in the way of My heart’s desire is your heart’s desire.</em> As the crown of My creation, My mission is for you to know the fullness of My intent for you. I want you to have life to the full, to know it the way it was before sin! I want you to be with Me... and to want Me the way I want you. So I am always about drawing the affection of your heart in order to advance My kingdom on earth. I long for you; do you long for Me?”</span><br><br><span>In Psalm 139, David proclaimed the vastness of God and His love for us by observing how He knows everything about us, our thoughts, desires, purpose in life – even the words we speak before we speak them. In essence, he was saying, “Lord, You know me in every way. And, as far as I can tell, there’s nothing between us – no intent or action hindering our relationship. But, since You know me better than I know myself, please, ‘Search me and know my heart; test me, and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.’ God, deliver me from my enemies, and, even more so, deliver me from myself.”</span><br><br><span>It’s God’s deepest desire that we would nurture this same longing – to remain vulnerable before Him and honest enough with ourselves to say, “Search me, know me and lead me according to Your way. I’ve got to be with You at any cost!” While we are to affirm our identity in Christ, we also have to remember our wayward tendencies, and that the reality is we are joining <em>Him</em> in <em>His</em> mission and that we’re the ones who get confused (even at our best, we only see in part).</span><br><br><span>In light of this truth, I ask God what’s on His heart to help align myself to His perspective, to His will and priority. Really, it’s a strategy for protecting my heart and the deposit He has entrusted to me, because as I consider His answer it sets off a chain reaction that flushes to the surface any area in my heart that is not in agreement with Him. It helps identify the hindrances in our relationship, which He then helps me remove. And my longing for Him grows.</span><br><br><span>So, I ask, He answers…and by His grace (power), I adjust – my thinking, actions, heart desire, goals, dreams, passion, motives, etc. – I move forward in Christ, His kingdom advances and His return is hastened. And, very soon, we will meet face to face. And as I fall into His indescribable embrace, He'll say, "Well done My good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord."</span><br><br><span>Or, maybe He'll just close His eyes, breathe a heavy sigh, and smile.</span></p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/pWIivAm9Uk4" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807482
2016-11-08T09:40:07-05:00
2017-08-08T20:57:59-04:00
Worship Is Longing
<p><strong><span>Worship Is Longing</span></strong><br><span>by Brett Barry</span></p><p><em><strong><span>Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me, and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. PS 139:23-24</span></strong></em></p><p><span>Father, God, what's at the depths of Your heart today? </span></p><p><span>I ask Him this question often. Sometimes daily. Sometimes moment-by-moment, even though I know the answer – because it’s always the same. </span></p><p><span>Yes, I can hear it, “If I already know what he’s going to say, why ask?”</span><br><br><span>It’s not that I suffer from short-term memory issues (although my wife would seriously argue that), it’s just that, like you perhaps, I tend to become easily distracted (often, sometimes daily, sometimes moment-by-moment) with the much doing of life – work, relationships, family duties, dreams and goals, with disappointment over things lost, or over the appearance of things lost – even with the new set of distractions that come with each answered prayer. In this place, we stand to lose a great deal – godly perspective, peace, joy, vision, well-being, hope, purpose and, ultimately, our identity.</span><br><br><span>So what’s his unchanging answer to my often-asked question? Inevitably, He responds, “Your heart.”</span><br><br><span>My heart?</span><br><br><span>“Yes, your heart. Reconciliation! Part C! Humanity once again face to face with Me in unhindered relationship – the way it was in the beginning! <em>The only thing standing in the way of My heart’s desire is your heart’s desire.</em> As the crown of My creation, My mission is for you to know the fullness of My intent for you. I want you to have life to the full, to know it the way it was before sin! I want you to be with Me... and to want Me the way I want you. So I am always about drawing the affection of your heart in order to advance My kingdom on earth. I long for you; do you long for Me?”</span><br><br><span>In Psalm 139, David proclaimed the vastness of God and His love for us by observing how He knows everything about us, our thoughts, desires, purpose in life – even the words we speak before we speak them. In essence, he was saying, “Lord, You know me in every way. And, as far as I can tell, there’s nothing between us – no intent or action hindering our relationship. But, since You know me better than I know myself, please, ‘Search me and know my heart; test me, and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.’ God, deliver me from my enemies, and, even more so, deliver me from myself.”</span><br><br><span>It’s God’s deepest desire that we would nurture this same longing – to remain vulnerable before Him and honest enough with ourselves to say, “Search me, know me and lead me according to Your way. I’ve got to be with You at any cost!” While we are to affirm our identity in Christ, we also have to remember our wayward tendencies, and that the reality is we are joining <em>Him</em> in <em>His</em> mission and that we’re the ones who get confused (even at our best, we only see in part).</span><br><br><span>In light of this truth, I ask God what’s on His heart to help align myself to His perspective, to His will and priority. Really, it’s a strategy for protecting my heart and the deposit He has entrusted to me, because as I consider His answer it sets off a chain reaction that flushes to the surface any area in my heart that is not in agreement with Him. It helps identify the hindrances in our relationship, which He then helps me remove. And my longing for Him grows.</span><br><br><span>So, I ask, He answers…and by His grace (power), I adjust – my thinking, actions, heart desire, goals, dreams, passion, motives, etc. – I move forward in Christ, His kingdom advances and His return is hastened. And, very soon, we will meet face to face. And as I fall into His indescribable embrace, He'll say, "Well done My good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord."</span><br><br><span>Or, maybe He'll just close His eyes, breathe a heavy sigh, and smile.</span></p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/pWIivAm9Uk4" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/88044
2016-10-31T15:23:02-04:00
2016-10-31T15:23:02-04:00
Boaz
Our youngest son Pierz has always had an incredible fascination with words, especially with the way they sound. When he was a toddler, we'd often hear him walking around the house repeating a new word he'd discovered. By the time he was five, he was dangerous; shocking most adults with his chatty, inquisitive nature and amazingly mature vocabulary. <br><br>On one particular occasion when Pierz was seven, we were at a church gathering. The pastor was teaching on Boaz and how God covers us and provides for us even beyond our needs. Expounding with inspiring detail, he paused, and one of the single African mothers in the congregation proclaimed out loud with great exuberance, “That’s the kind of man I want – a Boaz!” The pastor stopped and immediately prayed for her, declaring with sincere agreement that God would release to her the desire of her heart! Though the intent was sincere, the environment was joyous and filled with much delight and laughter.<br><br>In the midst of all the commotion, Pierz leaned over to the wife of my bass player and said, “Ms. Lisa, what’s a Bo-ass?”<br><br>Of course, when I heard this, I couldn’t help laughing out loud. She said this may be a good time to go over that story with him! We laughed some more, and I said, “Boass? Yeah, that’s the husband in the eyes of most women after they’ve been married a few years. He starts out a beau. Then the word <em>and</em> definition grow in depth of meaning as time goes on.”<br>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/73334
2016-10-31T15:22:46-04:00
2016-10-31T15:22:46-04:00
Season's Greetings & New Year Blessing
One Christmas season a few years back, I was thinking about Christmas (in light of the celebration surrounding the birth/childhood of Jesus) and the desire we have in our hearts to better understand the fullness of this blessed event. And, in my heart, I heard the Lord say, "Have a very Mary Christmas" this year. I thought, that's interesting, Lord, why very, and why Mary instead of Merry, and I began to contemplate the meaning of that twist to an otherwise traditional, seasonal blessing.<br><br>As I considered the roll of Mary in the life of Jesus, a descriptive and four P's came to mind that apply to each of us who call Jesus, Lord. I'll sum them up this way as a blessing to each of you: This year, may you be overwhelmed (the very part) by the honor of your Purpose in carrying the Promise, so that you might be tirelessly faithful to Persevere in your Position before the Father.<br><br>For the sake of time, I won't address each of the P's, but I felt they were to be capitalized in order to remind us that these areas must be well tended in the Spirit (through prayerful listening and obedient timing) before our activity in the natural can deliver the full intent of God's plan for our participation in advancing His kingdom.<br><br>Further, I'm reminded that our measure of success in each of these areas will be in direct proportion to our level of submission to, and utter dependence upon, the grace (power) of God moving through us by the Holy Spirit. Much of our doing must cease, and we must learn to address and more consistently embrace the becoming (maturing process). We must come to that level of mental, willfull and emotional submission where we truly do act in agreement with what God is doing (and how He does it) and speak what He is saying (and how He says it) - the how is ever as important as the what. In short, while we are crucified with Christ (submitted to His will and priority), we must also be consciously raised with Him (act in agreement with our confession). Then our doing will naturally carry the full impact of God's intent, and we'll reap the full blessing of living a life worthy of the Lord (Col 1:9-14).<br><br>So as we roll up our sleeves to attend the practical aspects of it all (life and each God-led appointment), we pray these reminders serve an encouragement - so you might Prevail in Christ even as you Participate in managing His Provision. (OK, that's seven P's, but it all has to lead to rest at some point, so it seemed appropriate.)<br><br>Then, a couple days later, as Erin and I were discussing the "Mary" part of this Christmas blessing, I heard the Lord clearly say, "...and a Happy Knew Year". Immediately my heart smiled. Yes, Lord, make it so! May this be a year of promises fulfilled (and seen in the natural), so we might look back over the past season(s) and each area of obedience that required sacrificial faith in order to press on or let go and say, "Yes, Lord. I knew it. I knew You are not a man that You should lie. I knew You would fulfill each word spoken, that You would bring to pass in Your perfect way the full intent of Your purpose - even in this day and even in my life! Yes, Lord. I knew it! Oh, fool that I may appear, or even at times have been, passionate for Your heart and ways I will remain!"<br><br>Finally, I was also reminded regarding these promises fulfilled, that much of what we will see accomplished in the coming season, while it certainly has to do with God's timing for advancing the kingdom, has a great deal to do with our having learned how to <i>see</i> - how to view life through the Spirit (from His vantage point and according to His standard) each promise, each appointment, each practical application in the natural. All of His activity happens in the spiritual realm before culminating in the natural to bring about a shift or complete change. So learning to see in the Spirit helps us better understand, endure and even rejoice in the sometimes lengthy process of His timing for the natural.<br><br>It's much like getting a new pair of glasses or flipping on a bright light in a dark room - it takes a while for your eyes to adjust. And it requires time and consistent application of the new for your eyes to become fully functional in the new environment. I'm seeing (no pun intended) that this is where each of us are at spiritually during every new season the Lord takes us through, regardless of where we're at in our Spiritual journey).<br><br>As I think about this past season (several years) and the many incomplete God things I still tend to wonder about (yes, and even complain about at times), I hear the Holy Spirit reminding me that I'm the one who has been in process throughout this time, not God. I'm the one learning to keep in step, not Him. I'm the one learning about faithfulness, perseverance, how to resist the enemy and my own selfishness/willfulness, how to overcome, how to love, give and even receive. I am the disciple, not Him. Ultimately, I'm the one learning to trust Him to the point of resting IN Him so that all the above doesn't seem overwhelmingly impossible. And that's good news certainly worth Proclaiming! But then...you already knew that, didn't you.<br><br>So, dear friends, in lieu of eight P's (for a new beginning), may you have a very Mary Christmas and a Happy Knew Year!<br><br>Shalom,<br><br>The Barry's<br>Brett, Erin, Lauren, Brooks and Pierz<br><br>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/53305
2016-10-31T15:20:49-04:00
2017-02-01T14:47:48-05:00
Blogging
<a href="http://www.musicsuccessinnineweeks.com" target="_new">Music Success In Nine Weeks</a> (Week 5: Exercise on Blogging)<br><br>I have another confession to make. Well, more of an observation to express. I’m finding this blog about blogging to be the most challenging so far. Mainly because the reading of so many great works this past week has left me wondering about my contribution <i>(at least at this point)</i>. I don’t mean that in a self-depreciating way at all. Clearly, we each count as human beings and have something of value to contribute to the world. No, I think it has more to do with the awareness that my current abilities do not yet match what I hope to contribute.<br><br>Most of the blogs so far that I’ve felt were worth reading are filled with tips, step-by-step how to’s, words of wisdom or helpful comparisons. They’re creative, expressive, funny, sometimes personal, but nearly always quite informative in some way. You know, they usually zero in on a few points and present clear thoughts and action steps that challenge or enable others to grab an idea and run with it. Having nearly failed English in High School and really wrestling through it in my freshman year of College, the process of getting what I think and feel onto paper in a coherent and simple flow has always been a challenge for me. I’ve worked hard at it over the years and have grown a great deal. But now I can see I’m facing a new arena of challenge.<br><br>In light of this, my reading so far has mostly charged the question, <i>What do I have to say, and how can I say it in a way that’s clear, engaging and beneficial to others in some way</i>? I realize my blogs can be about anything and don’t have to be everything to everyone, but I do hope to make a reasonable contribution at some point, rather than just taking up space.<br><br>On the other hand, I suppose some can benefit from my processing out loud…it helps to know you’re not alone when you don’t have all the answers, aren’t the expert at something, or are simply trying to figure out how to keep moving forward without feeling overwhelmed. I can definitely offer honesty as I work through things like that. You’ve probably heard the adage: misery loves company. But so does hope <i>(I believe even more so)</i>. And, since hope is the way out of misery <i>(Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life</i><i>)</i>, I’m really big on spreading that around as much as possible. So, perhaps I can help lift hope a little higher for someone. Maybe that’s what my blogs are to contribute in general. Maybe…still processing.<br><br>So I don’t have much to offer yet in the way of useful tips or how to’s when it comes to marketing on the social network. I trust all I’m learning will settle into experience and advice I can eventually pass along, but right now I’m still feeling the inertia from the learning curve of this wild ride <i>(must have pulled at least negative 4 G’s last week!).</i> Clearly, I’m still on the receiving end – trying to absorb and process!<br><br>SIDE NOTE: To be sure I was using proper terminology and accurately communicating what I’ve been feeling, I looked up Negative G-Force and found this at coasterforce.com:<br><br>Negative G-Force Tolerance<br><br>The human body exhibits alarming symptoms at just -2 Gs. On a roller coaster, a level higher than -1 G would be considered dangerous.<ul> <li>At -1 G, humans exhibit a sense of pressure in their head <i>(Had that)</i> </li> <li>At -2 Gs, there will be a severe headache, nosebleed and swelling of the eyelids <i>(My eyes did itch at one point…)</i>
</li> <li>At -3 Gs, Eyes will bleed, vision will fade, eyes will feel as though they are popping out their sockets <i>(Questionable)</i>
</li> <li>At -4 Gs, mental confusion and unconsciousness <i>(Definitely had that)</i>
</li> <li>At -5 Gs, humans are at risk of losing their eyeballs and death <em>(not exactly sure...because I was unconcious)</em>
</li>
</ul>Ok. I suppose claiming - 4 Gs might have been stretching it…but just a little.<br><br>So, what am I absorbing and processing?<br><br>Consistently, the <a href="http://commoncraft.com/videos" target="_new">Plain English</a> videos are excellent – both the RSS & Blogs in PE were very helpful. I set up my RSS reader using Google, spent considerable time looking for blogs of interest and identifying targets for my blogroll, as well as reading, subscribing and observing to get a sense for my contribution, commenting where I felt comfortable.<br><br>Of course, my site construction is ongoing – was finally able to load some of my catalog. Also added a guestbook <i>(drop by and say hey!)</i>, and have a couple forum ideas for the future. I’m now planning the outline for our first newsletter, working on my email contact list and still working on the plan for expanding views of our relationship enrichment video, <a href="./video.cfm">Inseparable</a>.<br><br>Lots to do. If you’re also in the Challenge, I’m praying for you <i>(if you’re at all like me, you need it!).</i> There’s a lot here! Great stuff, eh? And if you’ve just happened by and are reading, well, my prayer for you is that your day will somehow be filled with hope.<br><br>Until next week,<br><br>Brett<br><br>Brett Barry ~ <i>reminiscent of Dave Matthews and Mat Kearney carpooling with Chris Tomlin on the way to church</i><br><a href="http://www.facebook.com/brettbarrymusic" target="_new">http://facebook.com/brettbarrymusic</a><br><a href="https://www.youtube.com/brettbarrymusic" target="_new">http://youtube.com/brettbarrymusic</a>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807514
2016-10-11T13:24:17-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:35-04:00
Turn This Ship Around
<p><strong>Turn This Ship Around</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><strong><em>Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. James 3:4</em></strong></p><p><em><strong>And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Romans 12:2</strong></em></p><p>As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called not only to grow in our faith, but to mature into the fullness of His example as the Son of the living God. While much about His life was certainly profound, His life example was the fruit of a very practical truth:</p><p>Because Jesus loved The Father more than anything, He sought to please Him with every thought and every action.</p><p><strong>Emulate Jesus.</strong></p><p>On the one hand, that’s a pretty tall measure, and seems wildly unattainable at times, for sure. Yet, Scripture is clear that, “whoever claims to live in Him must live as Jesus did.” 1 Jn 2:6. And we also have Jesus cutting to the heart of the matter with, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” </p><p>So we have God’s seemingly unachievable standard of holiness, and Jesus’ assurance that holiness is possible, so much so that it’s expected. </p><p>In between, we have the responsibility of bringing our thought life, independent willfulness and emotions into agreement with God - our soul realm that is being redeemed, “…transformed into His likeness with ever increasing glory…” 2 Cor 3:18.</p><p>There is a lot we could discuss about this, but I’m going to instead share a song lyric from "Turn This Ship Around" that identifies five navigation points in our faith journey on the road to maturity; key components for which we are responsible because God has enabled us to obey (adjust and overcome) by His Spirit in us, and by which, through tending to, we grow up into Christ:</p><p><strong>Vision. Thought. Desire. Repentance. Perseverance.</strong></p><p>All need addressing in our lives if we are to grow in Christ's likeness. In the light of God's holiness and His Spirit's empowering, I encourage you to vulnerably and honestly ponder each of these in your life.</p><p>In short, the witness necessary to draw a life to Jesus, strengthen a community or restore a nation begins with our personal transformation through the renewing of our minds. The effect of Christ-centered thinking coupled with persevering action is life-changing, both for us, and for those around us.</p><p>Truth is, we will act more like Jesus when we begin thinking more like Jesus. Our lives can at times feel like a big ship driven by the wind and overwhelmed by the waves that make it impossible to navigate. But, it's in the midst of it all that we fix our eyes on Jesus and become transformed by the renewing of our minds in Him.</p><p>As we confess agreement with God in our thoughts and overcome through persevering obedience in our actions, we begin to grow up into Christ, and our very lives reveal to a lost and dying world the beauty of His good, perfect and acceptable will. </p><p>I pray strength and courage to you today as you renew your mind in Christ.</p><p>In Him, you can.</p><p>May your navigation be clear, and your course true.</p><p> </p><p><strong>Turn This Ship Around</strong><br>Words & Music by Brett Barry</p><p>The sound of change she says is so appealing<br>But the old familiar winds just keep her reeling<br>So steady on in hopelessness she goes, she goes<br>And though the higher words of faith stir up desire<br>Still more the fear and doubt keep adding to the fire<br>That burns to ashes every tender bud before it grows, before it grows</p><p>Pre-Chorus<br>But it only takes a thought, followed by a want<br>Committed to one move that leads the other way<br>It only takes resolve to stand on solid ground<br>To begin the course of change that will turn this ship around</p><p>Chorus<br>So hoist now the sails, batten down the hatches<br>Tie your body to the rail, and pray for daylight to abound<br>And lock the destination in, stoke the fire of inspiration<br>Feel the tide of strength rising up within<br>Let fear and doubt be lost and hope be found<br>And turn this ship around</p><p>Oh, the power of hope deferred is so commanding<br>Leaves the best of good intentions alone and standing<br>Beneath the weight of emptiness and want of something more, something more<br>But deep beneath the waves of desolation<br>I see the strength to rise above the hesitation<br>To picture what you once believed was good and set on the shore</p><p>Pre-Chorus<br>It only takes a thought, followed by a want<br>Committed to one move that leads the other way<br>It only takes resolve to stand on solid ground<br>To begin the course of change that will turn this ship around</p><p>Chorus 2<br>So hoist now the sails, batten down the hatches<br>Tie your body to the rail, and pray for heaven to come down<br>And lock the destination in, stoke the fire of inspiration<br>Feel the tide of strength rising up within<br>Let fear and doubt be lost and hope be found<br>And turn this ship around</p><p>Tag<br>And you can do it if you try<br>Even young birds have to learn to fly<br>So turn this ship around</p><p> </p><p><strong>Turn This Ship Around</strong><br>Words & Music by Brett Barry<br>© Copyright: Brett Barry Music</p><p><strong>P.S. Get a free download of “Turn This Ship Around” for a limited time: <a href="http://www.cornerstonefrederick.com/landing-2">C</a><a href="http://www.cornerstonefrederick.com/landing-2">LICK HERE</a></strong></p><p> </p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/hkP0pQB6rnY" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807515
2016-09-13T10:25:48-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:35-04:00
Life and Death and the Tongue
<p><strong>Life and Death and the Tongue</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><strong>The tongue has the power of life and death…Prov 18:21</strong></p><p>I had a dream in the wee hours of early morning the other day about the power of our words and woke up hearing the phrase in my spirit, “And God saw that it was good.” </p><p>You may recognize this line from the creation account in Genesis where, throughout each act of creation God observed His work and admired it, calling it good. I especially love the end of Chapter One where it says, “God saw all He had made, and behold, it was <em>very</em> good.”</p><p>So God spoke, and good things happened. </p><p><strong>Good things. </strong></p><p><strong>Very good things.</strong></p><p>There is power in His word, power that produces good things. And He tells us that we possess that same power - the ability to bring life simply through our words. Unfortunately, we also have the ability to tear down, curse and bring death by the words we speak: “The tongue has the power of life and death…” Prov 18:21.</p><p>“And God saw that it was good.” When God looks back on what He has built through His words, He sees only that which is good because it aligns with who He is: Holy. Righteous. Truth. Love.</p><p>As I ponder this, the question rises in my heart: When I look back on what my words have built, both those I have spoken outwardly and in my heart, what do I see?</p><p>While, by God’s grace and power at work in me, I do see some good, I also see a lot of that which is far less than it could be had I spoken only what is good; only that which God would have spoken. Truth is, I need to be not just more careful with my words, but consciously intentional with them, speaking only from that place of being alive in Christ through complete submission to His Spirit in me.</p><p>If like Jesus I speak only what the Father says, my words will be words of life. It will require death to self, for my willfulness is indeed…willful, but it will also be life to me and, very importantly, to those around me.</p><p>My desire today is to listen carefully before I speak and, yielding to His Spirit in me, say only what the Father would say, delivering words that build up, bless and bring life.</p><p>Today, Father God, may I create with my words only that which is pleasing to You. Such that if someone were to one day write about what I’ve built with my words, they would summarize the results with…</p><p>“And God saw that it was good.”</p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/iBlzwICKuwg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807516
2016-08-09T10:46:31-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:35-04:00
The Great Escape
<p><strong>The Great Escape</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><strong>Hebrews 12:1-2 “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”</strong></p><p>Ok.</p><p>I was heading in a very clear direction with today’s devotional. Everything was progressing nicely, as I was sensing the Lord’s quickening and my thoughts were clear. Then, about three quarters of the way through, it happened.</p><p>It wasn’t so much one of those momentary lapses where you walk into another room to get something and forget why you’re there, or where you spend five minutes looking for your glasses only to find them on your head (or worse yet, realize that you’re wearing them!).</p><p>No, it was worse. Much worse.</p><p>Actually, this is so crazy that, not only is it difficult to articulate its X-File-esque unbelievability, I’m a little apprehensive about telling you, wondering whether you just might become seriously concerned about my mental and emotional stability. At least, I’m sure questioning both at this point. But, the lesson it produced was rather profound to me, so I felt the time to share it was now.</p><p><strong>So, here we go.</strong></p><p>For the record, I am feeling OK. Sure, I’ve been under some self-appointed pressure to complete a few projects I’ve been working on for Cornerstone for quite some time now, but overall, I feel pretty good.</p><p>Anyway, as mentioned, I was on a roll when my Mac magic mouse low battery indicator came on. I was well into it and didn’t want to break my train of thought, so I kept writing. As you might guess, it eventually cut out completely. So I turned around momentarily to retrieve my freshly charged batteries from the wall charger that’s perhaps five feet away. And when I turned back toward my desk…my mouse was…GONE!</p><p>What?! </p><p>GONE!</p><p>No, seriously. G.O.N.E. GONE!</p><p>I blinked and looked again, picturing the image of the mouse in my mind in order to focus my attention on what it was exactly that I was looking for. </p><p>Nothing. Nothing! My mouse had, disappeared? </p><p>What? </p><p>“This is so weird,” I thought. “Surely I must be simply overlooking it. After all, one of my strengths is my keen attention for detail."</p><p>My desk was a bit cluttered, as I’ve been working some long hours with multiple project out at once. So I took a quick glance around the office, certain that I would see it, retracing my so seemingly insignificant steps (all two of them). Twice. I mean, I had literally only stood up, turned and grabbed the batteries, turned back and sat down. Yet it had gone missing. <em>Seriously, my back was turned for maybe five seconds! How could it move that fast? </em>(OK. Scratch that last comment.)</p><p>“This is crazy!” I thought, and began to chuckle out loud. It was stupefying. So much so that it was getting funnier by the moment. (It was way too obscure to be frustrating.)</p><p>I stopped, stood up and said out loud, “OK, Brett. Focus. Look very intentionally on and around your desk.” </p><p>As you might imagine, I was feeling pretty silly by this time, so I looked carefully, and intentionally, at each part of my desk surface…which is really strange because it's not THAT big…but, nothing. I then stepped back and looked in my chair. Behind my chair. On the love seat against the back wall. In my hands. Even pulled at the bottom of my t-shirt...? <em>(Like it could somehow be stuck in my shirt...without my noticing?) </em>Did I set it down when I went for the batteries? No. I looked by the wall charger again, in my satchel bag, behind my bag. Under the desk. Where is it? </p><p>I looked for a very long minute or two. Long enough that I was completely baffled. It was time to face reality: my mouse was GONE! Nowhere to be found.</p><p>I sat down in bewilderment, closed my eyes and leaned back in my chair, still chuckling in disbelief. This was so beyond me. I took a deep breath and rested with my head back for a few seconds.</p><p>Then, it happened. </p><p>As I opened my eyes, all of a sudden…my mouse was BACK! </p><p>What?!</p><p>BACK! I know. It’s crazy! How could it be?</p><p>A moment of stunned silence…I couldn’t believe my eyes. My mind raced. All of a sudden, it was right there…on the mouse pad…exactly where I left it! </p><p>"What?! No way..." I said out loud, "That's...impossible!"</p>
<img src="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/56552ee4e4b01110e1b35ce9/t/57a9feb28419c2fe808d1c83/1470758605247/?format=1000w" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Can you find the mouse in this picture?" />
<p>Can you find the mouse in this picture?</p>
<p>I couldn't take it any more. I laughed until I cried. </p><p>OK. I know it’s sad - a <em>nearly</em> full-grown man laughing himself to tears over a magic mouse that somehow went missing <em>all by itself,</em> then somehow magically returned <em>without notice</em>? Wow. This is sounding worse by the minute.</p><p>But there’s a moral here.</p><p><strong>The Moral Here</strong></p><p>Unfortunately, though it pains me to admit it, I’m fairly certain that my magic mouse never actually left. Now, I realize it would sound better if I said that I know it never left, or that it obviously never left, but the thought of it being there the whole time and me not seeing it is somehow more scary than not being certain that it could not just somehow go missing on its own! <strong>Think about it: it was right in front of me the whole time, but I couldn’t see it.</strong> I even processed out loud and looked <em>intentionally</em>, several times. But I couldn’t see it. I COULD NOT see it. <em>I must be under more stress than I realize.</em></p><p>Then the thought hit me: “If something so tangible, clearly present and in plain sight can, according to my natural senses, “disappear,” how much more in danger am I of losing sight of that which I only see by faith and in part to begin with? If my magic mouse, a completely inanimate object that has no will or life of its own for that matter, can participate in the senseless censoring of my senses, how much more can the enemy of my soul (or my own unwillingness to bring EVERYTHING into the light) mess with my perception of morals, ethics, values, holiness, truth? Is there anything that I have accepted as normal or OK that is less than pleasing to the holy God I claim to love and serve? </p><p>I flat out could not see the mouse for a couple minutes, even though it was right in front of me the whole time. Have I gone longer than I realize without seeing God? Has He been present without my noticing? Or, do I know Him as well as I think? Have I just been thinking I’m seeing Him, or just thinking that I know Him?</p><p>Truth is, according to Scripture, at the end of the day the only way I know I’m not being deceived is if He can be seen in me by those around me. And that happens only to the degree that I keep my eyes fixed on Him.</p><p>May it be so. </p><p>Come soon, Lord Jesus. Come soon.</p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/ZlNRTspI0Sw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807518
2016-07-26T13:33:00-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:35-04:00
Being Led By The Spirit
<p><strong>Being Led by the Spirit</strong><br>by Paul Black</p><p>What does to mean to be “led” by the Holy Spirit? If I'm honest with myself, in my daily life I tend to think that being led by the Spirit is when He leads me into a “divine appointment” of some kind, but then for the rest of the day I’m in complete control. However, I really don’t believe that we as followers of Christ have even scratched the surface of what being “led by the Spirit” actually means. The Apostle Paul wrote this verse in <strong>Romans 8:14</strong> (NASB)</p><p><strong>“</strong>For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” </p><p>The word “led” in this passage is the Greek word “ἄγω”; ago, which means to “lead, lead away, bring (a person, or animal), guide, spend a day, go, carry.” Think of one walking a dog and leading it where it wants it to go. The word “sons” in the Greek word “uios” meaning “mature sons.” If we put the two thoughts together then it means we are walking in maturity or perfection when we are cognizant of His abiding presence and leading every moment of every day.</p><p>I’m reminded of an incident that happened to a friend of mine. She was late for church one Sunday morning and was racing to get there. She felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to stop at a 7-11 and get a coffee. However she thought “No Lord, if I stop, I’ll be even later than I want to be.” As she sailed through the next intersection, she was hit broadside by an eighteen wheeler and spent the next six months recovering in hospital. It taught her to be obedient to those inner promptings of the Holy Spirit.</p><p>God’s lessons can be hard sometimes. However, His purpose is not to hurt or wound us, but to have complete control and direction of our daily lives moment by moment. God wants to be my source not just in the big things but also the smallest areas of my life. This takes real discipline in the retraining of our minds to be controlled by the Spirit of God. If we begin to live in such a degree, we will never have to be afraid of any circumstance because every circumstance is part of His plan to help me mature in my walk in Him.</p><p>Jesus, the first-born of many brethren said this about Himself in <strong>John 5:19</strong> (NASB)</p><p>“Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.”</p><p>God’s eternal purpose is for the image of His Son to be seen in many brethren. Therefore, “Lord, we ask that you train us up in You that we become so “knowing” of your daily leading and directing in our lives so that we can be confident that we are indeed becoming mature sons because we’re being led by You.”</p><p>Have an awesome day!!!</p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/mR0LrySohP8" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/4807519
2016-07-12T10:46:10-04:00
2017-08-08T21:03:35-04:00
(In)Dependent Thought
<p><strong>(In)Dependent Thought</strong><br>by Brett Barry</p><p><strong><em>Genesis 3:1 Now the serpent...said to the woman, “Did God really say, ‘You must not eat from any tree in the garden’?”</em></strong></p><p>I especially love the opening lines of Genesis 1: “In the beginning, God created…” This is followed by a series of accounts that begin with, “And God said…” I find these really comforting.</p><p>“God created” tells me that we are here by design. And if we read on we see that His specific intent was for us to be with Him in unhindered fellowship and to enjoy and reside over all He has created. And the fact that “God said” carries the power to create something from nothing? Unfathomable. Yet, key to unhindered fellowship.</p><p>So why the disconnect then between us and God? What caused it in the garden, and what causes it now? </p><p>The easy answer is, sin. But sin is acutally the result, not the cause. </p><p>We know about sin, the choices made then, and the ones we make now. But Adam and Eve were not created sinful. And our sin nature, if we are in Christ, has been crucified and is now under the authority of the Holy Spirit through our new nature born of God in Christ Jesus! </p><p><strong>We are no longer <em>required</em> to sin based on who we are. </strong></p><p>In fact, because of who we are in Christ, we are called to not sin; to be at war with sin, and to overcome it. To literally be ambassadors of God’s righteousness in our mindset, heart's desire and actions.</p><p>So there has to be something in between thought and action, a process within our freedom of will where, like Eve, we formulate perspectives that are true or false and then make decisions that result in actions of obedience or disobedience.</p><p>Maybe you've already wrestled with this into your understanding. But what I'm after here is to identify the heart of what motivates us toward or against God, even unknowingly, and, thus, where the enemy works to trip us up. I believe the culprit and key is revealed in Gen 3: The cause that leads to sin, both then and now is, <em>independent thought; </em>free will not intentionally subject to “God said.” For, truly, independent thought can only lead to independent action, which always gives birth to sin.</p><p><strong>Independent thought leads to independent action.</strong></p><p>Satan led Eve to question “God said” and thereby enter the realm of independent reasoning. As you know, the results were devastating; then and now. In her pondering Satan’s questions, she hadn’t yet sinned. But she had turned away from the <em>objective</em> <em>resolve</em> of God’s command and was now <em>heading</em> toward sin (about to step onto Satan's Slip-n-Slide!).</p><p>In the same way, when we begin our thought process with “I” instead of “God said”, we’re already heading toward trouble, for we’ve started on the path of soul-based, or man-centered reasoning over God-centered, Objective Truth. To effectively live by the Spirit, we must know and begin with what God has said and then enter the realm of reasoning, building our thoughts and conclusions upon Truth that is objective, resolute and unchanging. Our actions will then align with our confession, and we will grow toward Godly character through unhindered fellowship with our Creator.</p><blockquote><em>Side note: When we begin with, “I”, we open the door to man-centered reasoning. Pondering this, it occurred to me that there are no “I’s" in God, Father, Jesus, Son or Holy. “Ah, but there is an “I” in Spirit, you say.” Yes, I noticed that too. In fact, there are two! And as I thought about that, I heard the Lord say, “But those I's are for seeing!” And, in the practical sense, since there are two, it’s not “I”, it's, “we”, in which there is no, "I".</em></blockquote><p>OK. Back to the point here. </p><p><strong>It’s important to note that Satan twisted God's original and very clear command with a question that was part truth, and part lie.</strong> </p><p>In Gen 3:1, he asked, <em>“Did God say you are not to eat from…” </em>(truth, for God did talk about <em>eating from the</em> trees in the garden), followed by the twist of “<em>any tree</em>” (lie). He knew God’s instructions involved only one forbidden tree. </p><p>Then, in response to Eve’s reply (v4), he focused the conversation on the result of what would happen to her if she disobeyed rather than on God’s command. Doing so got her to take her eyes off of “God said” (which protects us as we reason based on objective, absolute truth), and instead to begin focusing on herself, thereby opening the door to independent reasoning which <em>always</em> leads us toward sin. </p><p><strong>Nothing has changed. </strong>Today, <em>Satan is still lying, both boldly and subtly; and we are still drawn toward independent reasoning. </em></p><p><strong>Everything has changed. </strong><em>Satan has been defeated. The curse has been broken. The Spirit of our Holy Creator now lives in us. We have a new nature. We have the mind of Christ. We are seated in Christ with resurrection authority. And, as ambassadors of God’s righteousness in the earth, we have been given the ministry of reconciliation, represented first and foremost by how we exercise the spirit of *self-control also given us. (*S</em><em>ome translations use discipline/sound mind. The discipline of a sound mind is self-control.)</em></p><p>Nothing has changed. Everything has changed. We choose.</p><p><strong>What voice are you listening to today? Is it directing you to the dependent thinking of, <em>“God said,” </em>or to the independent thinking of, <em>"I think" (</em><em>“Did God really say?”)</em>?</strong></p><p>On our faith journey, it’s imperative that we learn to discern the difference and, by the resurrection power of His Spirit in us, exercise self-control through the resolve of, <em>“God said.” </em></p><p>I encourage you to find out what God has said and hold that up as the standard for each thought that enters your mind and heart, that Truth might become the center of all our reasoning and actions.</p><p>As ambassadors of righteousness, let us begin, and end, with the beginning:</p><p>"And God said...".</p><img src="//feeds.feedburner.com/~r/CornerstoneFellowshipChurchBlog/~4/Eo2vEPqRNzE" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" width="1" />
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/88043
2010-11-27T15:20:00-05:00
2016-09-06T16:11:53-04:00
Touché
Our daughter, Lauren, was just a few weeks shy of turning 13 and had been talking frequently about the value of getting a cell phone. While many children her age had them, we’d been discouraging her on that particular move for various reasons.<br><br>During this stretch we had also talked quite often about dating V.S. courting, and why it would be to her advantage to wait until she’s older, should she choose to date at all, and why she should definitely wait should she go the courting route :). I would always joke with her that she could start driving and dating when she was 30 or 40. To our relief, she was not interested in either at that point. However, she was quite infatuated with the cell phone concept. So, though she fully understood and respected our decision to not get her a phone at that time, she would still talk about the idea quite enthusiastically.<br><br>We had just left our oldest son’s football game and were heading for Target, one of our children’s favorite places to browse. It was a beautiful morning. A bright, sunny, over-the-top family day of hanging with my kids. My wife was away that morning, so Lauren was riding up front with me.<br><br>As we’re driving along, out of the blue she says, “You know, when I get a little older, I’d like to get a cell phone. I really think it’s a good idea because when you have a car accident, they really come in handy.” I paused, glanced over at her, smiled and said, “So, you plan on having an accident?” Giggles, “Poppy, you’re funny. You know what I mean, they just really come in handy if there is an accident.“<br><br>“Oh, I see. So how old do you plan to be when you get one and have this accident, like 40 or so?” More giggles and a roll of the eyes... “Poppy! No.” A slight pause, and then a revelatory smile, “I just want to get one when I’m like 30 and I start dating so I can call and tell you what time I’ll be home.”<br><br>Oh, boy... I suddenly realize I’ve met my match, and then some! I see her smile that smile of "touché", as she gives a cute roll of the eyes, and I’m gone – and the craftiness of her strategy begins to sink in. I can’t help smiling to myself, neither can I stop myself from admiring her development as a young woman. She has her mother’s wit, charm and beauty, and she loves her dad more than anything. What can I say, I’m hopelessly blessed and totally hers. She’s Daddy’s girl for sure, and I’m definitely Girly’s dad!<br><br>We drive on. She gazes out the window, and I wander off in thought, further admiring the fine person she’s becoming. It’s certainly one of those “please stop the clock here” moments. I want to hold on to this day with everything I've got.<br><br>I think I will.<br>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/88045
2010-11-27T00:00:00-05:00
2016-09-06T16:11:11-04:00
Dating Another Woman
I don’t know who wrote this, but it’s worth the read - even if you’re not married.<br><br>Brett<br><br>After 21 years of marriage, I discovered a new way of keeping alive the spark of love. A little while ago I had started to go out with another woman. It was really my wife’s idea. “I know that you love her,” she said one day, taking me by surprise. “But I love YOU,” I protested. “I know, but you also love her.”<br><br>The other woman that my wife wanted me to visit was my mother, who has been a widow for 19 years, but the demands of my work and my three children had made it possible to visit her only occasionally.<br><br>That night I called to invite her to go out for dinner and a movie. “What’s wrong, are you well,” she asked? My mother is the type of woman who suspects that a late night call or a surprise invitation is a sign of bad news. “I thought that it would be pleasant to pass some time with you,” I responded. “Just the two of us.” She thought about it for a moment then said, “I would like that very much.”<br><br>That Friday after work, as I drove over to pick her up I was a bit nervous. When I arrived at her house, I noticed that she, too, seemed to be nervous about our date. She waited in the door with her coat on. She had curled her hair and was wearing the dress that she had worn to celebrate her last wedding anniversary. She smiled from a face that was as radiant as an angel’s. “I told my friends that I was going to go out with my son, and they were impressed,” she said, as she got into the car. “They can’t wait to hear about our meeting”.<br><br>We went to a restaurant that, although not elegant, was very nice and cozy. My mother took my arm as if she were the First Lady. After we sat down, I had to read the menu. Her eyes could only read large print. Half way through the entree, I lifted my eyes and saw Mom sitting there staring at me. A nostalgic smile was on her lips. “It was I who used to have to read the menu when you were small,” she said. “Then it’s time that you relax and let me return the favor,” I respond. During the dinner we had an agreeable conversation nothing extraordinary - but catching up on recent events of each other’s life. We talked so much that we missed the movie. As we arrived at her house later, she said “I’ll go out with you again, but only if you let me invite you”. I agreed.<br><br>“How was your dinner date?” asked my wife when I got home. “Very nice.<br><br>Much more so than I could have imagined,” I answered.<br><br>A few days later my mother died of a massive heart attack. It happened so suddenly that I didn’t have a chance to do anything for her. Some time later I received an envelope with a copy of a restaurant receipt from the same place mother and I had dined. An attached note said: “I paid this bill in advance. I was almost sure that I couldn’t be there but, never-the-less, I paid for two plates - one for you and the other for you wife. You will never know what that night meant for me. I love you.”<br><br>At that moment I understood the importance of saying, in time: “I LOVE YOU” and to give our loved ones the time that they deserve.<br><br>Nothing in life is more important than God and your family. Give them the time they deserve, because these things cannot be put off to “some other time”.<br>
Brett Barry
tag:brettbarry.com,2005:Post/67580
2010-10-17T13:25:00-04:00
2017-02-01T15:06:05-05:00
Facing Fear
<a href="http://musicsuccessinnineweeks.blogspot.com/" name="facing_fear" target="_new">Music Success In Nine Weeks (Chapt 1: Getting Mentally Prepared)</a><br><br>Yeah, I know… for anyone who’s worked around music or business at all, <i>Music Success In Nine Weeks</i> sounds a lot like one of those, <i>Lose 50 lbs in 3 Days</i> ads. But that’s the name of the book I’m reading and the blog/build-your-career challenge I’ve just signed up to participate in.<br><br>Though it sounds like a stretch, the title is actually right on. How can that be true? Because success is not a destination, it’s a journey – one that’s filled with potential adventure, or disaster, depending on how well you prepare before launching and your state of mind while trecking.<br><br>I’ve read the first couple chapters and am working through the exercises for Week One: Getting Mentally Prepared – invaluable stuff already. Here’s why: the nine-week course/workbook teaches you foundational principles for effective online business management, equips you with a working plan of action specific to who you are, and helps you be accountable to actually practice what you’re learning. In short, this tool will help you logically and strategically prepare <i>and</i> navigate your journey.<br><br>Part of the challenge involves posting blog entries about what I’m learning, so I’ll be doing that over the next nine weeks. I can hear your excitement. Please, please, the cheering is distracting. Seriously though, I believe strongly in transparency, well, I’m working on it, so I’ll begin with a confession: I am afraid.<br><br>Afraid? Of what? Great question, thanks for asking!<br><br>First of all, I’m afraid of admitting to you (and possibly even to myself) that I’m afraid. It sounds…well, wimpy – especially for a guy who has had so many years of quality life experiences and has overcome many obstacles. Regardless, even though the course will help me become more effective at what I enjoy most (communicating through the writing, recording and playing of music), I still quake at the thought of what it will take to accomplish some of this stuff. I must be more socially challenged than I realize.<br><br>It’s strange. I don’t usually feel fear at the thought of most things – the economy, the opinion of belligerent people who tear others down more than they build them up, flying/dying (not that those have to go together)…. But there are two things that come to mind specifically over which I sense considerable apprehension:<br><br>1) I fear that the music I create will somehow fail to communicate and impart to others the same degree of encouragement it has brought me over the years – as well as to many others (there was a long stretch where I made my living writing/recording and touring).<br><br>2) I also fear, and this even more than the first, what people might think of my thinking/processing out loud; thus, my hesitancy to jump into conversations on the social networks. Ever been there? (Based on certain posts I’ve read, I think some people should give serious consideration to actually embracing this particular fear!)<br><br>Oh…just thought of a few more things I fear:<br><br>I’m afraid I won’t be able to break through my natural tendency to withdraw. I enjoy people and intelligent, meaningful conversation, and in concert I have no trouble bantering with an audience. But entering live conversations online, and believing I have something to contribute, yikes…that’s a challenge. I suppose my greatest fear there is being misunderstood.<br><br>I fear that what I think and say (or how I say it) will somehow be dismissed as irrelevant or unimportant because so many others are so much more fluid in their thinking and communication. Yeah, I know. Practice.<br><br>I also fear that I’m too old to focus much on my writer/singer based musical interests again, even though for 13 years I made my living through writing/recording and touring – and that was before the plethora of technology that is now so readily available.<br><br>I fear that by opening that door again, I might somehow be perceived as thinking of myself as better than I really am, or more unrealistic than I really am (or like to admit), and that I might be disappointed again by hope differed or desire unfulfilled. That somehow I might just be once again chasing the evasive carrot dangling from the stick fastened ever so tightly to the back of that damn rabbit that you can never seem to catch no matter how hard you try! And I don’t even particularly like carrots.<br><br>Did I say damn? I don’t think so…Ohop, yes, I guess I did. Ok, it was intentional. Somehow that word just seems to best connect the dots of that ironic pursuit. Really though, do I also fear that certain readers might somehow think less of me for a word choice when there are so many others that could communicate the same thing even more effectively? Hmmm…are there more effective words? Can’t think of any at this moment…. Guess I’m not afraid of that one. (Truthfully, the rabbit isn’t the problem; the curse is in pursuing it – without a strategy!)<br><br>So, I’ve got a few fears. And yet…<br><br>On the flip side, throughout these past 10 or so years off the road I’ve developed other strengths. I’ve learned to write copy, handle business matters, organize and better administrate time and energy. I’ve continued to hone my writing and have been blessed to remain involved in music professionally, having made my living working in copyright management and as a worship/music director. Today, I’m employed as a worship pastor, but I’m also sensing it’s time to 1) begin focusing again on my songwriting/recording and especially, 2) to face my greatest fear by engaging socially with the unseen world. Funny, even saying that brings a rush of adrenalin. Weird. (Some of you just can’t relate, I know. Bless you anyway.)<br><br>All said though, I think that which I fear most is regret. Not over circumstances or events in which I have no control, but over opportunities I didn'’t take because I was afraid.<br><br>So where does this leave me today? Having been given this opportunity to face my fears, and having thought through this quite a bit, I’ve come to this resolve:<br><br><i> ~ I love the idea of overcoming unhealthy fear in my life more than I fear the experience of having tried and failed. </i><br><br>Besides, this exercise is a no-lose situation. Every effort I make toward learning more about communicating in this day and age will help expand my potential for connecting with those who were meant to hear and receive my contribution in the first place. And while they would likely get along just fine without me, it’s hard to say whether I might be the one to bring that word of encouragement they need at just the right time. They’ll never know unless I try. And neither will I.<br><br>I’ve had far more failure than success, for sure. But I’ve also overcome enough stuff in my life to have some very meaningful moments to connect together – like threads woven into a beautiful tapestry or a well worn, flannel shirt – enough to know that fear can be overcome, and to know that working hard to achieve something that’s meaningful to you feels great. Really great.<br><br>So here we go. Facing Fear (not a bad name for a band, eh?). Knowing what to do is a great starting point, thank you Ariel and team. Knowing how to do it is golden, thank you even more. I’m committed to embracing both. My heart is racing.<br><br>Brett<br><br>Brett Barry ~ <i>reminiscent of Dave Matthews and Mat Kearney carpooling with Christ Tomlin on the way to church</i><br><a href="http://www.brettbarry.com" target="_new">www.brettbarry.com</a><br><a href="http://www.facebook.com/brettbarrymusic" target="_new">www.facebook.com/brettbarrymusic</a><br><a href="https://www.youtube.com/brettbarrymusic" target="_new">www.youtube.com/brettbarrymusic</a><br><br><br>
Brett Barry