HOW CAN I BENEFIT FROM A SHORELINE ENCOUNTER?

REV. MICHAEL R. QUIMBY - Session 2 - February 27, 2010 Becky and I joined our daughter, Heather Day and attended the musical, "Little Women," presented at Olivet Nazarene University last evening. What a delight! But the highlight of the whole event was the appearance of Dr. John Bowling as one of the cast members.

Now, I had planned on beginning the study of this passage (John 21) this week concerning Peter's Shoreline Encounter but I witnessed, last night, what I consider a perfect example of what I am trying to communicate with this series. So I want to take this week to further elaborate on what a Shoreline Encounter involves. You see, the Shoreline represents that thin strip of land, sandy or rocky, that divides two worlds. (Retreat to the Sea, Remain on the Shoreline, or Respond and move to new Territory.)

In Peter's case, the sea represented the comfortable, familiar, safest, world of mundane life and insignificance to which he could Retreat. The land represented uncertainty, challenges, new adventure, confrontation, and the Unknown, but ultimately, God's Will and Significance.

Dr. Bowling has long been a friend and hero of mine. His Positive impact upon Olivet has been immeasurable and beyond comprehension. On two separate occasions, he found himself on the shoreline between two worlds. I am referring to the two attempts by our people to elect him to the position of General Superintendent of the Church of the Nazarene International. He certainly had all the qualifications technically, the ministry accomplishments, and is a proven Leader. But, in my mind, he would have been walking away from the greatest challenge and significant work that he was accomplishing as the President of our University. Now don't get me wrong. Our Superintendents have an overwhelming job and responsibility and I certainly could not even imagine how anyone could do all that they are required to do. But, with his skills and talents, I believe that, had he accepted the position, it would have been a "Piece of Cake" for Dr. Bowling. In some ways, it would have been a "Retreat" to simply accept the promotion. But, instead, John chose to "Respond" to the Call before him to move back Inland. Aren't you glad he did!!!

Well, evidently, Dr. Bowling experienced another "Shoreline Encounter" recently. On this shoreline, he was faced with a decision. Do I just remain on my current, comfortable path or do I risk "embarrassment and failure" and an investment of enormous time to attempt something that seems like it could be fun. ( Like Michael Jordan attempting a Baseball stint ) Well, he responded to the Opportunity and joined the cast of Little Women.

Well, I am no theater critic but I believe he wowed the crowd, Not only did he move us with his acting prowess, but he sang a solo and a duet which totally delighted the crowd. At the end, the crowd roared when he came out for his final bow. Significance, Joy, Fulfillment, Fruit, and many other benefits await those who "Respond" rather than "Remain" or "Retreat".

Why does God allow us to experience these Shoreline Encounters? Why does He put us in a position where we must be in turmoil trying to determine His Will? Next week, I will begin my exploration of the three things that Christ wants to accomplish in and through us on the Shoreline. See you next week!!!!

RETREAT --- SHORELINE --- RESPOND

(Which Direction will you move from your Shoreline?)

HOW CAN I BENEFIT FROM A SHORELINE ENCOUNTER?

REV. MICHAEL R. QUIMBY - Session 1 - February 21, 2010 This is not the first time Peter has found himself at the Shoreline. This is his third major Shoreline Encounter. While at the Shoreline he is not fishing nor is he out among the people. For Peter, the Shoreline represents a neutral zone. At some point in his life, Peter had determined that rather than deal with people and work among them he would retreat to the sea and be a fisherman.

At his first Shoreline Encounter, Jesus placed an option before him. He could either Respond to the Call to be a Fisher of Men or Retreat to the Sea to be a Fisher of Fish. Peter Responded.

In verse 3, when Peter said, “I am going fishing.” This proclamation carries a lot more significance than appears on the surface. Peter, was communicating, “I GIVE UP! I am going back to being a Fisher of Fish!” Because of his influence, everyone joined in and followed him. They were thinking, "let’s go back to what we know best - this ministry stint is a bust!" Peter Retreated!!

In my own life, I experienced a Shoreline Encounter after experiencing a heart attack and open heart surgery. I found myself on the Shoreline with a choice; “Do I give up and Retreat or Do I Discover God’s new assignment and Respond?” Although tempted to Retreat, I Chose to Respond and God has given me a whole new ministry.

For the next few weeks, we will dissect and explore chapter 21 of John. At various times in our life, we will find ourselves at the Shoreline. It might feel like God has abandoned us on the Shoreline. But, I believe that God’s Spirit is revealing a new mission to us during these times.

By the end of this study we will have explored all three things that, I believe, God wants to accomplish in and through us in a Shoreline Encounter.

WHAT DOES JESUS WANT TO ACCOMPLISH DURING OUR SHORELINE ENCOUNTERS?

I. JESUS WANTS TO SEE A FRESH DEDICATION TO HIM!

II. JESUS WANTS TO SEE A FRESH DEPENDENCE ON HIM!

III. JESUS WANTS TO SEE A FRESH DIRECTION WITH HIM!

RETREAT --- SHORELINE --- RESPOND

(Which Direction will you move from your Shoreline?)

I Peter 5:10-11 - HOW TO SURVIVE A VALLEY - Part 3 of 3 - INSPIRATION!

II. `GOD PROVIDES AN INSPIRATION! I Peter 5:10-11

When I preach my “How to Survive a Valley” message, this would be my final point in a three point message. In this passage, God offers an “INSPIRATION” as to why we should CAST our cares on Him and RESIST the devil. It is our inspiration to “Hang in There!”

When you enter a valley, keep in mind that there is another side of that valley. Many of the things that we experience will pass and we will come out of that valley. Now I know. some things will never change and the valley will not end until we stand in the presence of Jesus. The loss of a loved one will not end in this life. Some illnesses or physical conditions will not end until death. But most situations will pass and as I have said many times, “There is Sunshine after the Rain!” This invitation is intended to create Hope for the believer.

In this passage in I Peter 5, in the King James version reads, “ 10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, (may He) make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” In the KJV, it appears to be in the form of a Request. But, in the original language, the four words; Perfect, Confirm, Strengthen, and Establish are used in a “Future” tense. This passage is definitely a Promise - Not a Prayer! As a believer, you can count on this promise.

Here are the literal translations of the four actions that God Promises to us:
Perfect = Repair, Restore, to Perfect, and to Complete you.
Stablish = To Establish you and Confirm you.
Strengthen = To make you stronger - This is the only place in the bible that this word is used. It implies a personal touch and involvement of the hand of the Lord.
Settle = The picture here is the Lord creating a firm foundation and then placing you on that foundation.

When it comes to going through a Valley, here are two passages that I have personally held in my heart:
Romans 8:18 (The Message) 18-21 That's why I don't think there's any comparison between the present hard times and the coming good times.
Romans 8:28 (New Living Translation)28 And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
See you next week, MRQ

How Should We Judge?

Continuing in Esther 3 and the theme of JUDGEMENT, let’s consider how a judgmental attitude can come back to bite you.

In Matthew 7:1, we read, “Do not judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

[Note by Mike: Most people quote, “Judge not lest ye be judged” and interpret that the bible is telling us we should never judge. BUT, we make judgments every moment. Your senses perceive information every second of your existence and you make continual judgments on how you will interpret and react to your perceptions. The passage is very clear in communicating that HOW you judge is the issue. If you judge with condemnation, vindictiveness, or wrath, then, you will be judged with the same measure. If you judge with Love and Compassion, that is what you will receive. Whatever you sow, you will reap!]

When Mordecai, a Jew who had been brought into captivity, heard plans that King Xerxes was going to be killed, he turned in the culprits and kept it from happening. Even though he himself had been treated unkindly by this king, he still did what was right and was supportive and showed allegiance to the king. The judgment that he showed was honorable. He continued to show faithfulness to not only the king but to his God.

Pressure was exerted on Mordecai to bow to Haman, who was second in command to the king. Mordecai maintained his faithfulness and obeyed God by not bowing. When he refused to bow, Haman, in anger, placed a judgment of wrath upon, not only Mordecai, but the whole Jewish Nation. He ordered that a gallows be constructed to hang this man and then proceeded to devise a plan to annihilate the whole Jewish nation. The only thing he didn’t consider in his plan was God’s activity in it all. God has always been protective of “His Nation” and will never allow them to be completely annihilated. It was truly spiritual warfare where the darkness of Satan versus the goodness of God.

King Xerxes asked Haman how it should be handled if a man was chosen and appointed to a high position by the king. Specifically, he was asking, “what honor should that man receive”. Thinking the king was talking about him, Haman came up with a great recognition plan that included great honor. The only thing that Haman didn’t realize was that the man intended for this honor was Mordecai. Instead of the end result that Haman desired, God thwarted Haman’s plan and had Mordecai moved into second place in King Xerxes kingdom. Now, the man who was in last place was moved to first and became the kings second in command. With God, it has always been the underling that seems to come out on top. With the same judgment that Haman had pronounced against Mordecai and the whole Jewish nation - that judgment was given back to him.

This prompted me to ask myself,
“What judgment do I desire on those who have wronged me?”
“Do I truly desire God’s blessing on them?”
“What kind of judgment do I want to receive in the future?” Becky Quimby

1 Peter 5:6-7 - HOW TO SURVIVE A VALLEY - Part 2 of 3 - The INVITATION

II. `GOD PROVIDES AN INVITATION! I Peter 5: 6-11: "HUMBLE" & “CAST”

When I preach my “How to Survive a Valley” message, this would actually be point number One. In this passage, God offers an “Invitation” first. Then He follows it with an ”Instruction” and, as you will read next week, He concludes by offering an “Inspiration”.

You are free to apply the admonition of this passage to whatever is bringing you anxiety. Whether it has to do with health, relationships, finances, or something totally unique to you or your world; The principle will apply in any case. But, this passage was written specifically to believers, experienced or new, who were anxious about being most effective in ministry to others.

Before we look at the two words which comprise the Invitation, let’s look at verse 5: All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another. The Greek word used here is Egkomobosasthe for “clothe yourselves” from the root word; “kombos” which means a “knot”. This action is more than slipping on humbleness like slipping on your work pants and a shirt. This means to Tie on humbleness like a slave ties on a work apron or as Jesus did, wrap and tie on a towel to do Service.

Now, the INVITATION is to do two things: Humble & Cast

HUMBLE: Place yourself “Under God’s Mighty Hand”; a symbol of “Discipline” and “Deliverance”. What does this look like? Ready to do WHAT HE WANTS; WHEN HE WANTS IT DONE; THE WAY HE WANTS IT DONE. And, if I might be so bold as to add, WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT!!!!

CAST: This is a fascinating word for study. There are eighteen, yes 18, different words in the New Testament alone that mean “CAST” but each one has a very distinctive and unique meaning. For example: A drug dealer might “Cast” drugs out the window to get rid of evidence. A sailor might “Cast” a net to reel it back in to catch fish or “Cast” cargo overboard to save the ship in crisis. But the word used here is “Epiripto” which does not mean “Cast off” but means “Cast upon”. Besides here, it is used in one other place in the bible. In Luke 10:35, it describes the placing of the blankets on the colt so that Jesus might come aboard and be with and upon the colt. It enables a bond that unites. Like a saddle blanket, it allows Jesus to carry you.

Thus, the INVITATION, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast your anxiety on Him because He cares for you."

And, Oh how much He cares for you!

Matthew 10:29-31 (The Message Bible)

^29-31"What's the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don't be intimidated by all this bully talk. You're worth more than a million canaries.

"Such a Time as This" by Becky Quimby

Journal Excerpt: February 4, 2010 - “FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS” Esther 1:1 - 4:17

In my personal devotions today, I read from the book of Esther. What an amazing book! Read it for yourself. My thoughts here are from chapters one through four.
God moved Mordecai from the hopeless bondage of Slavery to a Kingship position of authority. God’s timing was evident all the way through this story. A couple of phrases were weaved throughout the entire Book - one being - “For such a time as this!”
God’s hand; God’s timing is completely misconstrued by me at so many critical times. Subconsciously, I have a personal agenda, I have my idea of when a prayer should be answered and it usually is “NOW!”
As I read and reflected on Esther’s faith and Mordecai’s obedience, it prompted me to establish today, in my own life, the philosophy they possessed. I need to do what I know to do with the limited knowledge and wisdom that I have. If the result is not what I expect- I still need to trust God.
Esther proclaimed, “If I perish - I perish!” God is still in control and still loves me and He will make it all make sense to me someday!
My part has to be walking this Walk in trust and obedience keeping up my faith and trust in God and living each day in anticipation of what God has in store for me for the day! The day may not start the way I want, but as long as I live, I live knowing I am His and He is mine, and He will not waste this day. He will use it to bring Glory to Himself. Eternal blessings are to be gained through my obedient walk with Him now; day by day.
Will it be easy - No! Will He answer all my deep prayers - Yes - but He answers in His Will and Way and Timing. But I have been placed here - At this time and place to be a vessel for Him to touch people in ways that only He can do through me at such a time as this!
God has given me so many blessings:
* My husband of 35 years
* Four children who love and serve Him * Three sons-in-law who love and serve Him
* Five adorable grandchildren
He also has blessed me with a ministry to thousands through Bible League International and an opportunity to lead and teach a Sunday School Class of wonderful people ready to learn and grow.

Thank you Lord for “Such a Time as This!”

1 Peter 5:8-9 - HOW TO SURVIVE A VALLEY - Part 1 of 3 - INSTRUCTION

I. GOD PROVIDES AN INSTRUCTION!
I Peter 5: 6-11: "... like a roaring lion looking for someone to "DEVOUR"

From this passage, I have always pictured a fierce lion ripping and tearing his victim limb from limb as the victim fights valiantly and hopelessly to break free. I envision a strong and powerful adversary that no human could physically resist or overcome. He can tear his prey to pieces and chew it up and eat the meat and even break bones with his awesomely powerful, vise-like jaws.

But, one of the literal translations of the word Devour is "Slurp Up". Thus, "... Like a roaring lion looking for someone to "Slurp Up". Quite a different Picture. Appropriate picture?

Think about it, in the presence of Jesus, the devil has lost all power. He is like a cat who has lost all his teeth and has been de-clawed. He has no power to tear up, rip up, or chew up anything or anybody.

He is prowling around looking for people who have been beat down, discouraged, "Liquified"! Once he has beat you down, you will be like melted butter, then, and only then, he can Slurp you Up. But if you show any resistance, back bone, "Hang in Thereness", faith, or hope, he will be powerless to touch you. Thus, the INSTRUCTION, "...resist him, standing firm in the faith..."

My prayer for you is that you will realize that God is in control and no matter how tough it gets, just don't ever give up. He may Prowl and Roar, but as long as you don't "Give Up" and melt, Satan can not touch you. If you fall down, get back up and with all the faith you can muster, just Stamd! Don't ever Give Up! Don't let anyone or anything steal your dream. Stand, even, with only an ounce of Firmness! He will be left with no other alternative but to flee! MRQ