Day 30 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - A Place Called Forward

Thursday, July 30, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




Exodus 14:14, “The LORD will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” And the LORD said to Moses, “Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward.”

Have you ever felt like you did not know where to go or what to do? A better question might be: “When was the last time you felt that way?” 

Beware of feelings. Feelings are not final reality. I have been on flights that were so smooth that it did not feel like we were moving. However, 12 inches from my window seat there was pandemonium going on outside at 37,000 feet, traveling at 550 miles per hour, with sub zero temperature air and very low oxygen. So, my feeling could not define the reality. 

I have been on merry-go-rounds where everything was moving and I was only going in a circle. One day, a guy saw me with my earphones and remarked that I must have enjoyed my music. That was how he felt. In fact, I was listening to the text of a scholarly article. 

Feelings and emotionalism are such a problem until people today can’t embrace reality because of feeling a certain way. I am glad that the most important people in my life operate on reality more than feelings: My attorney, my pilots on commercial flights, my doctors, my pastor, my close friends, and more. 
Forward defined: To cause to proceed or progress toward a goal. To cause to go or be taken from one place or condition to another. 

For you, there is a place called “Forward.” For Israel, their “Forward” was something called the “Promised Land.”  The people of Israel did not possess a map to the Promised Land.  This was more of a promise of something greater than their present condition in Egypt. 

Feeling “stuck” is not uncommon. We all have that feeling from time to time.  Israel certainly felt that way as they were staring at an impassable body of water in front of them, with an Egyptian army bearing down on them from behind. 

The good news is this: We serve a God who knows the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10). 

God told Moses to tell the people to “Go forward.” This didn’t make sense because of the Red Sea in front of them, but it was an opportunity to trust the Lord in a very special way. 

You don’t have to be concerned about things that don’t make sense to you. You only need to focus on His word, His promises, and the spiritual principles that govern you and your circumstances. 

Look for a pillar of fire in your life and circumstances.

Your “pillar of fire” is not a miraculous sign (we don’t look for signs - Matthew 16:4). Your pillar of fire is something you know God has done for you. Your pillar of fire is the blessing already present in your life, but may have been overshadowed by your present challenges. 

You might be enjoying extended years of life because of God’s healing power. You might have the blessing of people who love you and continue to support you every day of your life. That’s a pillar of fire for you. It is something that removes any doubt that God is with you and continues to keep the enemy from overtaking you. 

Today, God is still saying, “Go forward.” Forward is the only direction in which God is moving.
Forward is a place that stretches your faith and exercises your prayer life. Forward is the place and the direction your vision takes you. 

How is this? We can always go forward because “forward” is not a compass direction, it is a mindset, a sense of purpose, and a promise from God. 


Reflection Question: Based on your faith in God, describe what forward looks like to you.

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 29 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Love is the Ultimate Action Word

Wednesday, July 29, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



1 John 3:17 But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18 My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. 19 And by this we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before Him.

As a child, I remember learning in school that a verb is an “action word.” We also learned that a noun is “a person, place, or thing,”  Love is the ultimate noun and verb! 

John defined the “Love of God,” as an action, not only a thing…something we should always keep in our heart and mind Love becomes life-giving when it is backed up with action. The true measure of love is not only words, but deeds. Our deeds transform love from a “thing” into “action.” Love is the master motivator and an empowering force!

In Verse 19, The Apostle John shared this powerful truth: True love, when lived through our actions, draws us closer to God, strengthens our character, and provides the firm foundation of assurance! 


Reflection Question: How has the love of God empowered you?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 28 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Flexibility: The Key to New And Greater Purposes

Tuesday, July 28, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Matthew 9:16 “No one sews a patch of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, making the tear worse. 17 Neither do people pour new wine into old wineskins. If they do, the skins will burst; the wine will run out and the wineskins will be ruined. No, they pour new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved.”

New cloth (not yet shrunken by washing) and old cloth should not be sewn together. New wine (unfermented grape juice) should not be put into old, inflexible containers. 

Understanding conditions is important. Being flexible and willing to change and adapt throughout life is also important.  The cloths represented conditions and the new wine/wineskins represented change and flexibility or inflexibility. 

The science and logic behind what Jesus said is easy to understand. What is more difficult is to pay attention to the changing conditions and dynamics of our lives and activities. In context, Jesus talked about conditions in His day in which religious leaders, like the Pharisees resisted Christ and the emerging Kingdom of God. Like old stiff wineskin containers, their inflexibility to the expanding “new wine” of God’s purpose was unacceptable. 

Today, we must evaluate our conditions, and our hearts, to determine what things, if any, may prevent us from being containers of “new wine” –– in whatever ways this may be applicable to our lives. 



Reflection Question: Is there anything old and “stiff” that cannot accept the new thing God is doing in your life?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 27 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - G.R.A.C.E.

Monday, July 27, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments


Great Grace began with redemption through Jesus and separation from self righteousness. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

Let’s consider the empowering qualities of God’s grace using each letter of the word.

Give: Share what God has given you to give. What I have I give to you. 

Reach: Go for more than business as usual. Move outside of yourself and into a life of challenge and adventure.

Accept: Embrace the new things God is doing in your life. Accept the difference that grace brings to your life. Live the lifestyle of people called by God to change their world. Matthew 28:18, “Go into all the world and make disciples.”

Clear: Remove the old behaviors to make room for God’s best ways. In order to learn and build something new, you have to clear out the old. In the past, we recorded and sold cassette and VHS tapes. When compact disc technology came along, we transitioned from tapes to CD’s. We had to clear out the tape duplicators and cassette poly boxes. Today, we use digital media and live streaming. The early church disciples cleared away the old powerless religious bonds. The religious leaders had gone so far away from God that they could not rejoice in the miracles Jesus performed. 

Elevate: Giving, Reaching, Accepting and Clearing lead to an Elevation or “Great Grace!”

Reflection Question: How is grace different and better than the Law?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Your Treasure. Your Heart. Your Words. (Audio Podcast)

Sunday, July 26, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments





Luke 6:43 “For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

"Words have energy and power with the ability to help, to heal, to hinder, to hurt, to harm, to humiliate, and to humble." -Yehuda Berg

"If we understood the power of our thoughts, we would guard them more closely. If we understood the awesome power of our words, we would prefer silence to almost anything negative. In our thoughts and words, we create our own weaknesses and our own strengths. Our limitations and joys begin in our hearts. We can always replace negative with positive." -Betty Eadie

We know that words have power. The power of words begin with your heart, and your heart is the container of your character. 

In verse 43 Jesus talked about our character when he said, “A tree is known by its fruit.” That character is expressed by words, but words can be deceiving, words can be empty. There are people who say they are going to do a certain thing, but those words are empty. Some people use words to manipulate and misrepresent. 

The foundation for words is the heart. The heart is shaped by what He called “treasure.” Jesus said that this treasure can be good or it can be evil.

What is treasure? A treasure is the place where things are collected. A coffer or other receptacle in which valuables are kept.

We always think of treasure as the accumulation of valuable things. But treasure can be the accumulation of evil.  

What we think, live, do, and say comes out of a place of accumulated things. Which is our hearts. 
One of the self-deceptions with live with is the magical thought that we or people are going to suddenly start doing something that they have not been doing. People can only genuinely think, live, do, and speak from the treasure in their hearts. Certainly, people can fake it, but it won’t hold up.

To become really good at something, it has to come from an accumulation of knowledge and action. That’s the art of doing a good interview, is to ascertain if your words are hearing are coming from a place of good treasure. 

In our world, we focus on words. But the best words come from the treasure of a person’s heart.
v. 43 For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.
v. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good

You don’t need to fret about some of the words you hear, because it is only a reflection of what is in the heart. And only God can change the heart of willing person. 

Proverbs 26:4, Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.
How do you build a good treasure in your heart?

1. Pay attention to what and who you are listening to (Guard your heart)
2. Repentance and forgiveness clears the heart
3. When you show yourself who you are, believe it! Awareness is the beginning of change.
4. Read the Bible and pray every day
5. Keep up with messages from the word of God. God told pastors to: “Feed the sheep and preach the word.” He told all of us “Receive the engrafted word.” (James 1:21)
Don’t miss messages from your pastor and leaders. It’s like not eating or not taking needed medicine.

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Day 26 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Great Grace! Part 2

Sunday, July 26, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Great Grace began with redemption through Jesus and separation from self righteousness. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9

The religious leaders of Jesus’ day were confounded, confused, and out of touch with the grace of God. The Old Covenant was based on the strength of man. The New Covenant is based on the strength of God. 

OLD order: Self-righteous could not produce a righteous lifestyle. NEW order: The gift of righteousness produces a righteous lifestyle. 

Under the grace of God everything we need is created and imparted to us through Christ. 

1 Corinthians 1:30, But of him are you in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

The Hebrews writer clearly describes the difference between old and new covenants. Notice how the New Covenant is based on God’s grace at work in the heart. This made the law obsolete, which depended upon the willingness and strength of people to keep it.

Hebrews 8:7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then no place would have been sought for a second. 8 Because finding fault with them, He says: “Behold, the days are coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah— 9 not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they did not continue in My covenant, and I disregarded them, says the Lord. 10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the Lord: I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. 11 None of them shall teach his neighbor, and none his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for all shall know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them. 12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” 13 In that He says, “A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away.

Reflection Question: How is grace different and better than the Law?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 25 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Great Grace! Part 1

Saturday, July 25, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




2 Peter 3:18, But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

John 1:17, For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ

Growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ is the foundation to understanding your purpose in life and God’s provision. Grace is more than undeserved favor. Grace is everything God has that He makes available to us through Jesus Christ. Grace is God’s operational power. The grace of God cannot be separated from Jesus because His personal love and sacrifice for us removed the failure of the “Law” and gave us the riches of grace.

Galatians 2:21, I do not set aside [frustrate] the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain.

In Acts Chapter Four, we see the powerlessness of the Law of Moses and the power of the Grace of God in healing the lame man laid by the gate of the temple. Acts 4:33, And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.


Reflection Question: What is the grace of God?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 24 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - The Beauty & Power of Expectation

Friday, July 24, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments

                                                                                                                                      



Romans 8:18, For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19 For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God.

There is something beautiful and powerful about expectation! There is also something wonderful in knowing who you are in God. In this text, Paul reminds us that nothing in this present world can be compared to the “glory” or God’s character/power/presence that is within us. Said another way, “Greater is he who is in you than he who is in the world.” (1 John 4:4) 

In Romans 8:19, Paul uses a wonderful word for “earnest expectation” (apokaradokia). It describes the attitude of a man who scans the horizon with head thrust forward, eagerly searching the distance for the first signs of the break of dawn. 

When you face challenges in life or need fresh direction, having hope and expectation are especially important. God designed us to dream and to see realities greater than our present circumstances. This is part of what it means to be made in God’s “image and likeness.” 

All of creation, including ourselves, are experiencing the beauty and power of expectation! We are leaning forward, pressing into brighter days and possibilities. God is revealing His sons and daughters to this world as agents of change and redemption through Jesus Christ! 
Expect it! Live in it! Reveal the glory!

Below is an excerpt from a poem by Maya Angelou, On the Pulse of the Morning: 

Lift up your eyes upon
The day breaking for you.
Give birth again
To the dream.
Women, children, men,
Take it into the palms of your hands.
Mold it into the shape of your most
Private need. Sculpt it into
The image of your most public self.
Lift up your hearts
Each new hour holds new chances
For new beginnings.
Do not be wedded forever
To fear, yoked eternally
To brutishness.
The horizon leans forward,
Offering you space to place new steps of change.
Here, on the pulse of this fine day

Reflection Question: What “beauty” can you see in your circumstances? How is expectation helping you lean forward?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:




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Day 23 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Go Join Yourself to This Chariot

Thursday, July 23, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Acts 8:27, And behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch of great authority under Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, who had charge of all her treasury, and had come to Jerusalem to worship, 28 was returning. And sitting in his chariot, he was reading Isaiah the prophet. 29 Then the Spirit said to Philip, “Go join yourself to this chariot” 30 So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading the prophet Isaiah, and said, “Do you understand what you are reading?” 31 And he said, “How can I, unless someone guides me?” And he asked Philip to come up add sit with him.

God spoke to all believers when he said to Philip, “Go join yourself to this chariot” to minister to an Ethiopian authority.

Leading someone to faith in Christ is the ultimate act of empowerment! 

We should never under estimate the importance of personally sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with people! God does not save people without someone presenting the Gospel. The Ethiopian was a great and influential man. He was serving under the Queen Candase. He was wealthy and educated, but he could not accurately understand what the Bible was saying without a servant of God to help him. After he heard from Philip, he understood, believed, and knew that he needed to be baptized. This tells us that Philip did a good job of explaining the Gospel because the Ethiopian knew that believing on Jesus for salvation was followed by baptism in water. 

Acts 8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning at this Scripture, preached Jesus to him. 36 Now as they went down the road, they came to some water. And the eunuch said, “See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?” 37 Then Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” 38 So he commanded the chariot to stand still. And both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water, and he baptized him. 

We need to be willing to sit down with people to clearly explain the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We presume that since people have heard about Jesus, they also know how to be saved. This is not true! A lack of understanding has resulted in many church-going people who have never been born again.....I was one of them! 

We need to learn how to present the Gospel message of salvation, lead people to a saving knowledge of Jesus, and help them become disciples (students) of Christ. 

But first, we must be willing to go and empower them with the Gospel truth!



Reflection Question: What does “Go join yourself to the chariot” mean to you?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 22 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - The Reason for Resources

Wednesday, July 22, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments





Deuteronomy 8:18, And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

God gives power to get wealth. Many of us know this text and have quoted it. We need to remember that the purpose for this power or ability: is “To establish His covenant.” God’s covenant is His purpose for humanity, specifically for those who serve Him.

In every generation, God provided covenants of purpose empowered by His provision. Through Moses, God gave Ten Commandments to the Hebrews. Through Jesus, God gave salvation and renewal to all mankind.

Within God’s larger purpose are His specific plans and purposes for all time, including you and me. For example, with every purpose God has given me, from pastoring, to parenting, to publishing, to empowering youth, to equipping ministries, I have seen His faithfulness in providing needed resources. On Monday, August 14, 2017 we made the final payment on our church facility. For a smaller congregation, paying off a $700,000 commercial loan is a testament to God’s faithfulness and excellent stewardship!

You only need to be clear and committed to God’s purpose for your life and He makes a way!

Reflection Question: Within the concept of establishing God’s Covenant, what can you do that will attract His help and provision?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 21 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - How to Be Strong in Times of Weakness

Tuesday, July 21, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Ephesians 6:10 (NLT), A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil...18 Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.

Here are some definitions of “strong”:
1) Having or marked by great physical power, 2) Having moral or intellectual power, 3) Having great resources--as of wealth or talent, 4) Having a specified number, such as  “an army ten thousand strong, 5) Effective especially in a specified direction. 

The last definition best describes the kind of strength we need everyday. Rosa Parks was a small woman in stature and she did not possess great physical strength, but she was strong in a “specified direction.” Her strength in refusing to sit at the back of a bus, empowered others and helped transform our nation. Strength or weakness has everything to do with your direction and focus. God’s assignments on your life become your greatest source of strength. Weakness comes from only focusing on our own interests. 

Your direction determines your destiny. Your assignment determines your ascent. People usually cope with, excuse, or manage their weaknesses. When you embrace your weakness in God’s Word and Presence, you are ready to exchange it for strength. Grace is always a transforming power. The defining factor is not what you have (weakness), but what you are willing to give up for something better (strength). 

The Apostle learned this in his assignment: 2 Corinthians 12:9, And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me....For when I am weak, then I am strong. 

Remember, being strong in the Lord is all about your direction and focus. Prayer, time in the Word, and keeping your God-given assignments provides a basis for gaining strength. 

Be strong in the Lord and in your life today!


Reflection Question: How does grace empower you with strength?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 20 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Be at Rest Even While you Work

Monday, July 20, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Hebrews 4:1, Therefore, since a promise remains of entering His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. 2 For indeed the gospel was preached to us as well as to them; but the word which they heard did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in those who heard it. 3 For we who have believed do enter that rest.

The concept of “resting in the Lord” is very important. It is not a posture of doing nothing. It is an attitude of trust towards God. One of the best definitions for the word “rest” as used in this text is, “Using the power of another.” If I am offered a free ride in a limousine to reach a destination, the last thing I’m going to do is get out and start pushing it! Use the power provided. Enjoy the ride! 

Israel heard the “gospel” or good news of a Promised Land flowing with “milk and honey,” which is a term signifying abundance and blessing. Numbers Chapter 13 tells the sad story of the 12 spies God sent to look at the land that He told them was blessed. Hint: If God tells you that something is blessed and good, believe Him! 

When 10 of the spies saw the giants in the land, they began to complain about the Promised Land, as if God didn’t know about the giants. They also saw themselves as powerless to deal with the giants, which is another problem of not resting in the Lord. 

Because they did not “mix faith” with the promise, those 10 spies became fearful and negative. As a result, they did not enter into the rest of the Lord and they caused the nation to miss out on the blessing of the Promise Land for an entire generation. 

Let’s learn from the mistakes of those 10 spies and hold to the same confession of the two faithful spies, Joshua and Caleb, who said, “We are well able to overcome them!” 

It’s all about whose power you choose to use!  Exercise your faith in God’s Word, use His power! 


Reflection Question: What does it mean to rest in the Lord?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 19 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - There’s a Blessing in the Fire

Sunday, July 19, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




1 Peter 1:6, In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, 7]  that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

According to our text, trials, even those that grieve us, serve a purpose. The “genuineness” of our faith must be developed. God does not want to see whether are not we have faith. He knows that we have some level of faith. God wants to develop and make our faith grow. Our faith is our confidence in God. Our faith is our trust in his word and acting on the word. Our faith is also what we believe, and how our beliefs impact how we live. 

The bible Greek definition word of genuineness is “dokimion” meaning: 1) The proving  2) That by which something is tried or proved, a test; like the crucible of a furnace for smelting. 

We know Peter is not talking about a consuming fire because the text states, “Tested by fire.” God’s consuming fire does not come to test, but to consume and destroy. Peter is describing a refining fire. 
Let’s understand refining fire: In Mark 9:49 Jesus said, “For everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt.” We know that salt “seasons” by acting as an influencing agent, whether for flavoring or as a preservative. 

Steel becomes stainless steel by the “seasoning” of fire while adding chromium.  All forms of iron and steel will rust when exposed to the elements, but stainless steel will not rust or corrode. Why? Stainless steel does not rust because it has been transformed by a “seasoning with fire.” 

God helps us arrive to a state where we do not corrode under exposure to the negative elements of life. This happens as our faith is “seasoned” by God’s refining fire. The highest aim for cultivating our faith is not to get more stuff. The highest aim and purpose of faith, according to the text, takes us to a place where we can be “found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 

When we are experiencing the fire of challenge and adversity, we know that God’s refining fire makes our faith stronger! Though we do not see Jesus, we continue to love Him! 

Peter went on to say, “Whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory.” 

This should be our the aim of life with God!

Reflection Question: How has greater seasoning by fire helped you become a better Christian and person?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 18 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Awaken the Giant Within

Saturday, July 18, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




(Download the free PDF of the devotional book, "Principles of Empowerment" from www.NewCovenant.org

I John 4:4, You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 5 They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them.

Philemon 1:4, I thank my God, making mention of you always in my prayers, 5 hearing of your love and faith which you have toward the Lord Jesus and toward all the saints, 6 that the sharing of your faith may become effective by the acknowledgment of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. 7 For we have great joy and consolation in your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother.

The giant within you is your new creation nature in Christ. He is the “greater” one who is greater and more powerful than the world! Realizing “every good thing” inside of you is a key to effective faith.
We can have confidence without arrogance. 

Arrogance: Having or revealing an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance or abilities. Behaving as if you are better or more important than other people

Confidence: Belief in one’s God-given ability to succeed.

Arrogance undermines confidence because it is not based on God’s ability, but in our own ability. Self-righteousness is arrogance. Arrogance does not unleash the giant. It unleashes a little guy with a big head.

Confidence unleashes the giant!

 The “Word of Faith” became a movement, but it is based on the simple truth of having faith in God, confidence in what God has put inside of you, and using your God-given authority to speak in line with God’s word.

Paul knew he could count on Philemon. More than almost everything else, we want God and people to have confidence in us.

Philemon 1:21 Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say.



Reflection Question: How does confidence release the giant within you? How can you prevent arrogance from creeping in?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 15 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - How to Maximize Your Moments in Time

Wednesday, July 15, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



(Download the free PDF of the devotional book, "Principles of Empowerment" from www.NewCovenant.org

Ephesians 5:15-17 (NIV), Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.

Taking advantage of opportunity is the purpose of God’s gift of time. Living life on purpose is the reason for living. 

From Matthew Poole’s Commentary: Redeeming the time; or, buying the opportunity: is a metaphor taken from merchants, that diligently observe the time for buying and selling, and easily part with their pleasure for gain. It is the idea of a merchant who, knowing the value of an article and the good use to which he can put it, buys it up. “Because the days are evil”: The days of life in general are so exposed to evil, as to make it necessary to make the most of the seasonable opportunity so long as it lasts.  These are days full of difficulties and dangers.

Through grace we seize the moments or opportunities ordained of God. Walk through the open door while it is open. Leonard Ravenhill wrote, “The opportunity of a lifetime must be seized in the lifetime of the opportunity.” 

Jesus seized opportunity by “setting his face” to become our Savior: Luke 9:51, Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem.
Time is the overall framework. Moments present opportunities for taking action. We maximize opportunities by taking action. “Maximize” means: “To increase to the greatest possible amount or degree; make the most of it.”

The time framework is like looking at a calendar. Moments are like selecting dates on the calendar to take action. Actions such as prayer, reading, studying, resting, working, meetings, writing, teaching, training, and every other fruitful action helps you maximize your time.

Here are some statements about time and opportunity to help develop a better mindset:
Time is a gift 
Time is holy 
Time cannot be replaced 
Time makes you realistic and practical 
Time reveals opportunity 
Time moves in one direction only 
You have less time than you realize 
Time is a non-renewable resource 
Time requires planning to be useful 
Time is a small slice within eternity to fulfill God’s purpose 
Times and seasons govern all activity
Time is a basis for good decisions 

Reflection Question: What are 1-3 ways I can make better use of my time and opportunities?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Let God Be God in Your Life (Podcast)

Sunday, July 12, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




APPLE PODCASTS


Psalm 86:10, For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. 11] Teach me Your way, O LORD;   I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name.  12] I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore. 

Exodus 20:3 You shall have no other gods before me.

We are living in a world where confusion reigns. Confusion leads to becoming lost. People are not lost because they are going to wind up in the wrong place. They wind up in the wrong place because they are lost. (Willard, Renovation)

Philippians 3:17 Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern. 18 For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame—who set their mind on earthly things.

Belly means to be given up to the pleasures; the innermost part of a man, the soul, heart as the seat of thought, feeling, choice.

The person who is lost is obsessed with self and circumstances. They dismiss the Word while embracing their thoughts and feelings as divine direction. The “god” is their belly. (Phil. 3:19) The lost person does not want God to be God. He is insulted at the suggestion that he is lost, thinking “How dare you speak to me like that? God cannot be lost.”

It is the person who says, “I can do anything I want to do.”

There are three Gods:

1. There is the god made in the image of man. This is the god that people generally believe in—A god who has to serve them. This god does not exist. 

2. There is the god what occupies our thoughts, our minds, guides our decisions, spending, and planning.

3. Then, there is the God who people forget. The living God whom we all have to serve who has a son named Jesus Christ.  The God that exists and is the reason for our existence.

God being God offends human pride because He does not conform to the wishes of people. He doesn’t bow to our agenda. 

Romans 3:18 says, “There is no fear of God before their eyes” 

When the light of God is absent, the intellect become dysfunctional, trying to devise a truth that will be compatible with the basic falsehood that man is god. (Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines)

Indicators of the True God:Is from everlasting to everlasting

1. Known to Adam, Abraham, Moses and the pagans of every generation
2. Has the power to create, destroy, heal and reform 
3. Passes final judgment
4. Knows the hearts of people
5. Knows the motivations of the heart
6. Has purpose that transcends the lifetime or sensual interests of people
7. Manifests His presence in the earth through the Holy Spirit
8. Has a son name Jesus Christ, who is God the Son

Keys to letting God be God in your life:

1.  Allow Him to intervene into your deadness. Dead represents things separated from the life and power of God.

2.  Understand the principle of separation from the world. This does not mean that we don’t engage with world, which we obviously and necessarily do. It means that we are controlled by the world, not even by the COVID, which can become a small “g” God.

3. Obey the Word of God quickly. Find a way to be a doer of the Word. God said don’t forsake assembling yourselves together. When we could meet physically, we met online. 

4. Live from the inside out “Work out your salvation.” Don’t live from the outside in.

He who observes the wind will not sow, And he who regards the clouds will not reap. (Ecclesiastes 11:4)

5. Don’t believe the lie that says, “You cannot change.” Phil. 4:13, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

6. Have no confidence in the philosophies of this world regarding the nature of man, evil and God.

7. Apply God’s word and lessons to your everyday life. 

Remember David’s words:

Psalm 86:10, For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. 11] Teach me Your way, O LORD;   I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name.  12] I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore. 

 



 

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Day 11 -- PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT -- The Great Exchange

Saturday, July 11, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Isaiah 40:31, But those who hope in the Lord will renew [exchange] their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.  

From time to time, we all need renewal and refreshing. The normal activities and challenges of life take a toll. There are also special circumstances like the passing of loved ones or unexpected setbacks in life.
Whatever the situation, God has made a provision through His grace. Grace is everything God has that He makes available to us.  And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. (John 1:16)

God’s method for renewal is something I call The Great Exchange. This is nothing new. It is a very old and biblical understanding of how God works in our lives. We cannot change ourselves using our own strength. We can make superficial adjustments, but deep and lasting change must come from our Creator. 
The Great Exchange began with Jesus giving His holy life for our sinful lives. He died in our place to take away our sins, and not only our sins but the sins of all people. (1 John 2:2)

As a photographer, I’ve become highly skilled at using my various cameras, but when my camera needs deep cleaning, calibration or repair, I have to send it to Nikon, Canon, Sony or Panasonic. I have to give up use of the camera and exchange my understanding for the manufacturer’s expertise.

Early in 2016, I experienced some pain in my lower leg after a workout. I “diagnosed” myself with a slight Achilles tendon strain (I had a rupture years ago and knew the difference). I put ice on it, rested it, and later began to slowly stretch it (as I “learned” from an almighty Google search!) The pain persisted off and on, so I went to the doctor months later. A specialist diagnosed it as a partially torn Achilles tendon. It was like strands of a rope that had been torn with remaining strands bearing the load. All my efforts only made it worse, especially stretching it.

My best help came from an exchange of my limited (and foolish) diagnosis for a doctor’s diagnosis and treatment. For this injury, surgery was not needed. I had to take pressure off the tendon by wearing a special boot at home and dress boots with a high heel when away from home. The high heel relieved tension on the tendon.

When I exchanged my knowledge for the doctor’s knowledge, my situation changed. 

Is there any situation in your life that would benefit from the Great Exchange? Jesus is our Specialist! Don’t frustrate yourself or make matters worse by trying to sort things out all by yourself.


Reflection Question: Is there anything you need to exchange for something greater from God?

Key insight I gained today:
Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 9 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - More With You Than With Them

Thursday, July 09, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments





Psalm 33:16 No king is saved by the multitude of an army; A mighty man is not delivered by great strength...18 Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, On those who hope in His mercy.

Elisha’s servant learned a valuable lesson about man’s limited resources and God as the unlimited Source. 
There is a story in 2 Kings 6:8-20 that describes the Syrian army’s plans to attack Israel being intercepted by the Prophet Elisha, who warned the king of Israel on multiple occasions. Their plans failed on so many occasions that the king of Syria thought there was a spy within his ranks.

However, the king learned that it was the Prophet Elisha who heard his plans through God’s power and warned Israel. In a fit of anger the king of Syria sent his army to Dothan to capture Elisha. The army arrived that evening and encircled the location of Elisha. Notice the reaction of Elisha’s servant:

2 Kings 6:14 Therefore he sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city. 15 And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?”

The young man had a panic attack! He could see that he and Elisha were surrounded and out-numbered. In other words, the two of them did not appear to have the needed resources to defend against this enemy.
Notice Elisha’s calm response based upon his insight, “So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them. (v. 16)

We can imagine that the servant could have had a response like, “You’ve got to be kidding! I only see two of us and hundreds of them--with big weapons!”

Elisha’s response should be our response in any circumstance where we feel outnumbered and overmatched. The Bible says, “We walk by faith, not by sight.” (2 Cor. 5:7) 

And Elisha prayed, and said, “Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha”  

God as your Source is always more than the resources of your enemies of adverse circumstances. When your eyes are open, you see your Source more than your limited resources!

Reflection Question: When your eyes are open, what do you see?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 8 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT Your Source & Resource from Heaven to Earth

Wednesday, July 08, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



(Download free devotional PDF ebook www.newcovenant.org)

Philippians 4:11, Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: 12 I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

It is important to understand the difference between source and resources.

Resource: A supply of money, materials, staff, and other assets that can be drawn on by a person or organization in order to function effectively.

Source: A point of origin or procurement; anything or place from which something comes.

The Apostle Paul “learned” how to handle both lack and abundance. Paul learned how to rely on God as his Source and live in contentment, not in frustration. Trusting in our resources ultimately leads to frustration. 

What is the value of learning how to be “abased?” The only benefit in experiencing lack is learning how to handle yourself within it, navigate through it, and rise out of it! People who have survived lack and overcome it through Christ become both bold and humble by staying connected with their Source. Going forward, they do not feel intimidated or overwhelmed by circumstances. As David said, “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want..” (Psalm 23:1)

Trusting in our resources is relying on a limited supply. Trusting our Source is relying on an unlimited supply. Recognizing our Source puts us in position to receive from God who is our Source. God as Source reigns over all and has an endless supply! 


Reflection Question: Are there any resources in your life that have been mistaken as your Source?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 6 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Gift, Ability, & Aptitude

Monday, July 06, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



(Download free devotional PDF ebook www.newcovenant.org)

Psalms 139:14-16, "I thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! It is amazing to think about. Your workmanship is marvelous...You were there while I was being formed...You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe.” 

Your life will experience the greatest fulfillment, joy and success when doing what you enjoy and do well. What you are and will become are already inside of you. You may already be aware of your gifts, abilities, and aptitudes (also called talent). If not, here are the definitions of those terms:

A GIFT is an ability or potential ability you received from God when you were born. It must be developed. The old saying is somewhat true, “Use it or lose it.”

An ABILITY is a learned skill. This is sometimes mistaken for a gift.

An APTITUDE (talent) is a capacity to do something that may be considered unusual. Aptitude/talent is like potential, without action, it may not amount to much.

“Hard work and an open mind – it’s the only way to realize the potential that is inside every one of us.” ~ Chrissie Wellington

“To be what we are, and to become what we are capable of becoming, is the only end of life.” ~ Robert Louis Stevenson

“Creativity or talent, like electricity, is something I don’t understand but something I’m able to harness and use.” ~Maya Angelou

Some people have a gift to sing, draw, or run fast. People with ability through training in singing, drawing or running fast learn to do it better. People with an aptitude to sing, draw, or run fast need to discover it and then develop it.

The concept of talent is overrated. When someone does something very well, we usually say that person did it because of “talent.” Talent is a starting point for some, but people who work hard at something become more successful than people who only have talent. More than anything else, success comes from working with what God has given you, following your heart, being trained, practicing, and doing your best.

Sometimes people think they have no talent, but that’s only because they think talent is something visible like singing and drawing. There are many kinds of talents/aptitudes.

Going to college or taking special training should be based on developing your gifts, acquiring ability, and acting on your aptitudes.


Reflection Question: What God given gifts or aptitudes in your life need further development?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 5 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - Three Elements of Empowerment

Sunday, July 05, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments




Philippians 3:14, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

There is always something valuable for you ahead. This is why we “press,” not in forcing anything, but staying in position through diligence. There are three elements that keep your heart prepared for empowerment.

1. Training in understanding and wisdom 
Proverbs 1:2, To know wisdom and instruction, To perceive the words of understanding, 3  To receive the instruction of wisdom, Justice, judgment, and equity; 4 To give prudence to the simple, To the young man knowledge and discretion— 5  A wise man will hear and increase learning, And a man of understanding will attain wise counsel
Wisdom is knowing the best paths. Understanding is knowing the meaning of things. You gain wisdom and understanding by learning from God and key people in your life.

2. Receiving the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:8, But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.
Nothing is more empowering than encountering the Source of power, God’s Spirit. In essence, we are spirit beings, so your intellect and skills require the support of the Holy Spirit to maximize your wellbeing and effectiveness.

3. The Call of God
Acts 26:16 But rise and stand on your feet; for I have appeared to you for this purpose, to make you a minister and a witness both of the things which you have seen and of the things which I will yet reveal to you. 17 I will deliver you from the Jewish people, as well as from the Gentiles, to whom I now send you, 18 to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.

Ministers are not the only Christians who are called by God. Everyone of us is “called” in the sense that we have specific purpose in life and service within God’s kingdom. The Apostle Paul was the worse kind of enemy against Christ’s church before his conversion. It is ironic and fitting that a man who was a fierce enemy of Christ and God’s people became the greatest Apostle.

Reflection Question: What is your understanding of your training, relationship with the Holy Spirit, and God’s call on your life?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 4 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - The Empowerment of Persistence

Saturday, July 04, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Galatians 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Persistence Definition: Firm continuance in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition. The quality that allows someone to continue doing something even though it is difficult or opposed by negative factors.

Few things sap your energy, motivation, and power to take action more than weariness of body and mind.

It is well known that a lack of proper rest is a major contributor to emotional and physical distress. The physical aspects of tiredness are obvious, but the emotional and spiritual aspects of a lack of rest are less obvious. What is at stake is your willingness to keep on “doing good.” In a world full of takers and people needing empowerment, we need those who give and empower. We need you, if you’re one of those people who give.

Persistence is more than not quitting. Persistence is maintaining willingness--which is not as easy as it seems. We persist and maintain a spirit of willingness in three ways:

Prayer: Communication with God, empowerment for people, influence over circumstances

Personal Power: Your ability to influence or change an outcome.

Purpose: Fulfilling your assignment(s)

On the matter of prayer, Jesus taught in Luke 18:1, Then He spoke a parable to them, that men always ought to pray and not lose heart 2 saying: “There was in a certain city a judge who did not fear God nor regard man. 3 Now there was a widow in that city; and she came to him, saying, ‘Get justice for me from my adversary.’ 4 And he would not for a while; but afterward he said within himself, ‘Though I do not fear God nor regard man, 5 yet because this widow troubles me I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.’” 6 Then the Lord said, “Hear what the unjust judge said. 7 And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? 8 I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?”

In this story, God is not the stubborn, unjust judge. He is exactly the opposite. We should identify with the widow who knew she had every right to come and expect help. 

In the end, the challenge is not about the willingness of the judge or God. The challenge is found in our willingness to be persistent and personal with God.

Reflection Question: What does persistence look like in your life today?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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Day 3 - PRINCIPLES OF EMPOWERMENT - The Altitude of Attitude

Friday, July 03, 2020 Bryan Hudson 0 Comments



Philippians 2:5 (NLT) You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 6 Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, 8 he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross. 9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor.

“Cultivate” is a farming term. Because attitudes “grow” we have to pay attention to factors that affect our attitude and cultivate a better attitude.

• A good attitude will not always change our circumstances, but it will always change us. ~ John Maxwell

• What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

• Life is 10% of what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. ~ Charles R. Swindoll

Attitude is your internal disposition.

Your attitude is your inward disposition toward other things, such as people or circumstances. As with an airplane, attitude is adjusted to keep the flight level. In a similar way, we pay attention to our “attitude-level” in life. For example, anger, resentment, disobedience to God and unresolved conflicts create imbalance in our lives. Our attitude, in terms of what others see and experience from us, arises from our inward disposition towards God and people.

According to God’s word, when you became a Christian, a part of your new creation is the development of new attitudes— your attitude should become like that of Jesus. The Bible says, “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:” (Philippians 2:5).

“You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off the old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds.” (Ephesians 4:22 NIV)

What we see and experience from others may be a reflection of his or her attitude, but don’t make the mistake of judging people from outward appearance. I have a friend who seems to be overly serious. One day I learned that he lost two sons in a car accident. This tragedy happened a long time ago and it obviously changed his life. He does not lack joy and I know first hand that he enjoys life. Some people, like the Apostle Paul in his day, have been challenged and empowered by circumstances in unusual ways. He wrote:

1 Corinthians 13:11, When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I under- stood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

1 Thessalonians 5:6, Therefore let us not sleep, as others do, but let us watch and be sober. 7 For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk are drunk at night. 8 But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet the hope of salvation.


Reflection Question: What “attitude-level” areas need adjustment in my life?

Key insight I gained today:

Today’s action item based on insight:

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