For The City | The Book of Nehemiah (New Sermon Series)

This Sunday we begin a new sermon series at Logos Community Church. I'm pretty excited as it's one of my favorite books of the Bible. We will be walking through the book of Nehemiah beginning in July (which is tomorrow) through the Fall; finishing somewhere in November. The title of this series is "For The City." 

I am honored to be preaching through this series during the opening month and because it's one of my favorite books, I thought I'd add further thoughts on here in case you wanted to do a little more digging on Nehemiah. But essentially, this Sunday will be "setting scene" so to speak. Nehemiah was written about 400 years before the birth of Jesus Christ and about 15 years after the book of Ezra. In fact, in the Hebraic bible and up until the 15th century, scholars considered Ezra and Nehemiah as one book ("Ezra-Nehemiah"). The history is enormous and when you dig around you can uncover a lot of connection in not only Ezra and Nehemiah but also Esther. 

As we take a look at the opening verses of Nehemiah, we need to consider the amount of historical events that have happened before diving into our boy. Events such as the fall of the Northern and Southern kingdoms followed by the conquering of Jerusalem by the Babylonians (not to mentioned the capturing of the Jewish people for nearly 70 years). Later, the Jewish people were then released and allowed to go back to the Promised Land, but only about 2% (along with Ezra) returned. Here's some perspective: the Babylonians captured anywhere between 2-3 million people and only 2% of them (roughly 50,000) returned. The rest? They set up shop in Babylon. Nonetheless, Ezra goes back to Jerusalem and is tasked with the rebuilding of Solomon's temple but the city of Jerusalem is still in rubbles; it was a ghost town. 

I understand I'm giving you the cliff-notes version of all of this history, but it's impactful because the connection of these events to the response from Nehemiah upon hearing about Jerusalem's destruction is astounding. I won't give it away here because I'm still blown away by it. I know I've written a lot about everyone else except Nehemiah and the truth is that the bible doesn't tell us much about Nehemiah prior to the momentum of his calling and heart transformation. We do know, however, that he was working in the city of Susa which is the capital of the Persian empire. And here's where you come in as we prepare for Sunday: 

Nehemiah was just a dude working a job. He was faithful to his work and the Lord. Then one day, God radically changed his heart for Jerusalem (a city he'd never been to). As Christians, we either complain about where we're at in life or are utterly confused on what to do. But from Nehemiah, we see that God can choose anyone at any moment for an immense task. I believe one of the reasons God had favor on Nehemiah was because he was a faithful-bible believing-God fearing dude and his response is evidence of that. 

If I've given you enough ambiguous detail, then let me give you some specifics: join us this Sunday during our 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. service to learn about Nehemiah and how God impacted his life radically and what that means for you and me. The coffee is on us and the music is pretty rad. I'll see you then.   

Book Review: Just Do Something by Kevin DeYoung

This short read was definitely encouraging to me during my time off this past month. In Kevin DeYoung's book, Just Do Something: A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will, he gets right to the point about discerning and knowing God's will because essentially this is a question that haunts so many Christians. What is God's will for my life? What's my purpose on this earth? These are all questions I would constantly ask myself and at times still find myself asking. 

To be fair, questions like the ones mentioned above are purposeful. Some simply don't want to let God down while others are crippled by making the wrong choice that they simply don't do anything with their lives. Read this book. It's short and to the point while being theologically on point, relieving, and encouraging. 

SANCTIFICATION

As I mentioned, Kevin gets straight to the point in his book about approaching and defining God's will and that is...drum roll please...sanctification. Yes, that's right. God's will for you and me is our sanctification; that we would be drawn closer to God through the person and work of Jesus Christ and when it comes to everything else, simply make a decision. 

I don't want to give too much away, but Kevin does a wonderful job in presenting the reader with several reasons as to why this generation (millennials) simply don't do anything; that is, making decisions. And several of his reasons from pride to a plethora of choices resonate in me because I can remember thinking some of the same things or worse, being crippled by some of these very reasons on making a decision. 

Just Do Something

I recommend this book to every 20-something who finds it difficult to make decisions and who is often dazed and confused about God's will for their life. In short, Kevin's formula for making a decision is (and he gives better clarity and detail) to search the Scriptures, being in constant prayer, receive wise counsel, and finally make a decision. Honestly, when I read this I was taken back because I felt like it couldn't be that easy, but that's the whole point! When I make a sound decision or a decision in general, God is still at work in my life whether it's allowing me to face some hardship or provide revelation. He's not thrown off but rather at work intimately. God wants people not automatons. 

Here's the link for the book that you need to buy today: Just Do Something, A Liberating Approach to Finding God's Will by Kevin DeYoung. And then, I'd love to hear your thoughts about the book; love conversation. 

Disclaimer: upon reading several reviews, many readers were disappointed that Kevin didn't dive deep into the world of theological confusion and wish he did. In the beginning pages of his book, Kevin openly says this is not going to be a deep theological brain buster, but a book about helping you make a decision! 

SABBATICAL

For the month of June, I was given a wonderful blessing, the gift of time off; a sabbatical. I have been involved in ministry since the infant months of my walk with the Lord 8 years ago. I have had time off such as holidays and days off (typically Saturday), but never an entire month. To begin, my family and I are grateful for this time together and I also wish to shed light on what a sabbatical is. Ministry brings very unique pressures and various seasons (some that are rather fruitful and others that are extremely humbling). A sabbatical is when you take a break for an extended period of time for the purpose of rest, communion with the Lord, and a sense of renewed strength. In short, you're not wasting time on a sabbatical. 

"Rest time is not waste time. It is economy to gather fresh strength. It is wisdom to take occasional furlough. In the long run, we shall do more by sometimes doing less." - C.H. Spurgeon

Over the last 7 months, my family and I have had a long season; walking through the death of our son's best friend in the Fall, a pastor and beloved brother resigning from pastoral ministry, and an increase in responsibility and care. Now, even in the middle of all of this happening, we have seen God move in tremendous ways. For instance, in the tragedy that was Dylan's passing we saw his sister and her boyfriend accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior and his grandmother recommitting her life to Christ; everyone still attends our church today. Later and though it was an emotional time to see my friend resign, I saw my friend love his family in a way that he hadn't and rejoicing in the work that the Lord was doing. And finally, though responsibility had increased, the care for our people has become increasingly intentional (not that it wasn't before, rather we saw more care to our flock and saw needs being met). So, despite an emotional time, we have seen God at work in His people and building His church for His glory. 

So, where has that left me and my family? Exhausted. My friendship with my wife is great and my relationship with my son is amazing- I love them both dearly. The time we're spending away is to enjoy one another, worship God together, and then spend some time in solitude- praying, crying, repenting, and then worshipping Him more. This is also a time for clarity especially as I pray continuously for the "joy of my salvation to be restored (Psalm 51:10)." This time is also an opportunity to read. A lot. 

PRAYER

If you're reading this and would like to pray for us, then I would say that it is incredibly appreciated. First, we wish to thank our church family for allowing me and my family to have this time off; allowing me to grow in my relationship and worship of God so that I can first serve my family and then serve those I have been entrusted with. I wish to you ask you to pray for my family and their hearts; that they too would enjoy time away from the norm and experience God in their times of scripture and prayer. 

And if you're thinking shouldn't you not be on your laptop? You're right and that's why this post was written and scheduled a few days ago! Thank you, technology.

BOOKS

There's a post coming out next week on everything that I'm reading with links provided. If you're a reader or simply looking for a good book, then you'll want to be on the lookout. 

Friends and family, Thank you. We love you and thank you for your prayers! 

Book Review: Experiencing The Trinity by Joe Thorn

Joe Thorn's book, Experiencing the Trinity, is a book that must on your shelf. It's theologically dense and a wonderful piece for a devotional. Joe takes God's attributes as seen through the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and reminds you of who God is, His promises, what He's done, and is doing. It's both comforting and convicting for the soul; like an extended Psalm. 

Personally, I really enjoyed this book because it's structured in a way that allows for it to be a quick read for the day, but then incorporates sections and chapters that force you to slow down and reflect; ultimately leading you to confession, repentance, and worship of God. My favorite section was on the Holy Spirit as it brought great encouragement and exhortation to my spirit (particularly in this season; as you're reading this I am currently on a brief sabbatical) as I look to gain a fresh sense of renewed strength. In essence, this book lends itself to draw its readers back to the foundation of the gospel of Christ Jesus: His grace and that we are (or should be) desperate for it. 

"Take heart, the Spirit is working in you and slowly bringing you closer to Jesus. "

"The quickest way to stop grieving the Spirit is to be a person of repentance." 

"The great hope of the Christian is the resurrection." 

These are only a few examples from the book that, to me, gave comfort and conviction, encouragement, and brought me to worship of Christ. If you have time on your hands or are looking for a great source for a daily devotional, then I encourage you to read Experiencing the Trinity: The Grace of God for the People of God. 

Review: Cigar Saveur (June)

Earlier this week I experienced my first box opening from Cigar Saveur. I must say, it was exciting! First, the packaging is incredible and I love the artwork. To me, it shows that these guys put a lot of thought and care into their presentation. This is a big deal because cigar smoking is an authentic experience that forces you to slow down and notice things you normally wouldn't when you're on the go. So, to begin, the box artwork is great, big thumbs up. 

Essentially, Cigar Saveur hooks you up with four (4) premium cigars each month once you subscribe as a member of the community. These cigars are not only unique in their flavor and strength, but some of these sticks are limited edition cigars meaning that only a certain amount of these cigars are produced. In my opinion, this enhances the experience because you're getting something special. These guys scout the best tasting cigars and deliver them to your door. Additionally, once you get a taste of some of these and enjoy them then you can consider buying a box of your favorite sticks at your local cigar shop or lounge; works out great because it's amount community! 

Padron Damaso #8
Kristoff Sumatra
Martinez Cigars Flat Iron #2
Room 101 Master Collection Two

I love smoking cigars. As mentioned, they help you slow down and help you to enjoy your experience whether it's found in a good book or among friends. In any case, upon opening the box, the 4 cigars pictured above were originally vacuum sealed which is genius. This allows the cigars to retain their freshness and are ready to smoke or be stored in your humidor. Personally, I stored them in my humidor right away only so that they can get acclimated to the temperature here in south Texas. But if you're not in scorching heat and can enjoy a stick right out of the box, I would encourage you to do so! 

The cigars come with an inventory list that gives you some fun facts about each cigar which is great if you're just getting into cigar smoking community (welcome!). Earlier, I smoked the Room 101 (shortest cigar in the bundle) and the draw was perfect (I prefer on the loose side) with plenty of smoke output, the flavor was sweet with plenty of spice, great tobacco aroma. Tomorrow, I'm trying out the Padron and I'm looking forward to it. Padron cigars are some of my favorite sticks (though I wish they'd double cap). But I digress. 

If you're a cigar enthusiast and love trying out new experiences, then I recommend checking out Cigar Saveur. And before I forget, when you sign up, you're part of an on-line community where everyone shares their thoughts. I've given you some hints of mine from the Room 101, but if you want to know more then you'll have to sign up!