Authentic. Real. Genuine. Sincere. Not a phony.
You can say you are all of these things all day long, but words are fairly inexpensive. It is your motives and your actions that will always tip your hand.
And in the world in which we live, most people can smell a phony from a mile away.
“Don’t just pretend that you love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Stand on the side of the good.” - Romans 12:9 (NLT)
I think that sometimes I try too hard to make it look like I have it all together. I don’t. I’ve yelled at my kids, argued loudly with my wife, missed opportunities, been lazy, been a hypocrite, gotten depressed, been angry with God and a host of other stupid things along the way.
Obviously I’m not perfect, but by God’s grace, I am forgiven and growing. And that motivates me to see the people around me differently. To genuinely care about them and to not insult them by “acting” as though I do.
An honest view of self provides me with a healthy dose of perspective and humility as I strive to lead and Pastor others.
“We have proved ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, our sincere love, and the power of the Holy Spirit.” – 2 Corinthians 6:6 (NLT)
It’s time to lose the fake smile.
It’s time to gain the real smile.
I’m working on it. How about you? Are you the “real deal?”
Recently, a huge hail storm came through our area. It was pretty freaky. Some of the hail was baseball sized, and the storm caused a lot of damage in our neighborhood. I suspected that we’d probably be hearing from “hail damage repair” companies before long.
Then it happened. The next day we were up to our roof in roofing companies.
First, it was one door hanger. Then two, then three. ”Ralph’s Roofing Company!” ”Big Top Roofing Company!” “Roofy Roof’s Roofing Company!” For over a week – no kidding – we received 3 to 4 door hangers a day promoting one roofing company or another.
Then the signs began springing up. “Shingles R Us Roofing Company!” “Better’n Yer Neighbors’ Roofing Company!” All over the neighborhood there were lawn signs advertising the companies that my neighbors had chosen to repair their roofs. … Er, rooves? Whatever. It looked like a campaign season.
Then the doorbell started ringing. Literally, the roofing companies started going door to door. I personally talked with 3 or 4 representatives. At least 2 of them explained to me that the other roofing companies were using all sorts of gimmicks and some of them were even breaking the law! (Apparently it is against a Federal law for a company to pay your home insurance deductable for you.) These guys were very nice, generally respectful and kept their visit short.
Then we started receiving mailers. ”Super Roofer Roofing Company!” ”Roof Roof Rover’s Roofing Company!” There they were in my mailbox along with Grocery store circulars and Furniture Store inserts.
Then I started seeing random signs around town at railroad crossings and traffic lights. I’m surpised I even noticed them before the Fort Worth code enforcement car started removing them.
So to sum up: We had a real need. We were bombarded with door hangers, signs, personal visits and direct mail.
- The door hangers became annoying after the 3rd one.
- The signs were just a sea of noise – no one sign impressed more than another.
- The personal visits, though amiable, were uninvited sales pitches nonetheless.
- The mailers were just one more piece of junk mail.
- The random signs around town just seemed like desperate cries for help.
And we’ve decided on no one. (Not sure we can meet our deductable anyway. )
But if we do, it won’t be because one door hanger was cooler than another or because I drove past a sea of signs and thought, “That one. That blue one there in the middle. That’s the company for us!”
I very much could be wrong (I often am) but I have a feeling it will be because of something else. And that something else will have to wait for another post.
And yes, churches sometimes come across like roofing companies. 
If you are a follower of Jesus, you go where He leads and you care about what He cares about – and that always leads to people.
If you want to say, “No, it leads to making God famous!” then I have to ask, “Famous to who?” And again, we’re talking about people.
The Bible is about God’s revelation of Himself and His redemption of people.
Some Christians seem to imply that people are irrelevant in ministry because it’s “all about God.” Um… Hello? I think something’s being missed, there…
Sometimes I want to shout to these well meaning Christians something along the lines of:
Yo! Dude! You are People! And that ‘whooshing sound’ you just heard was the point sailing past your head…
I understand what is meant by the phrase, “It’s all about God.” I’m just saying that if that is indeed the case, then we should care about what God cares about.
And God cares about people.
Scripture makes it clear that there is wisdom in seeking advice from a variety of counselors.
“Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many counselors bring success.” – Proverb 15:22 (NLT)
Scripture also makes it clear that some advice is to be avoided.
“In the mouth of a fool, a proverb becomes as limp as a paralyzed leg.” – Proverb 26:7 (NLT)
“A proverb in a fool’s mouth is as dangerous as a thornbush brandished by a drunkard.” – Proverb 26:9 (NLT)
“What a shame, what folly, to give advice before listening to the facts!” – Proverb 18:13 (NLT)
Who are you listening to?
Choose your counselors wisely.
Heads Up: ”Book Review Posts” are always going to be a bit longer than most posts.
I’m reviewing two books, this time around. One I’m almost finished reading, and the other I haven’t gotten to, yet. Unfortunately, because I wasn’t clear in my communication with the publisher about the giveaway copies, I only received one review copy of each book. My fault. Sorry about that.
But fear not. I’m still giving one away – the one I haven’t already scribbled in!
Let’s start with the aforementioned “scribbled in” copy.
Several years ago, the workbook, book and eventual phenomenon called “Experiencing God” by Henry Blackaby and Claude King was a powerful eye opener for me. This book, “Experiencing The Spirit” by Drs. Henry & Melvin Blackaby, brings to mind the themes and truths of that earlier work, but with an emphasis on the work and Person of the Holy Spirit.
Straight up, let me just say that I’m loving this book. It’s balanced, rings true and is highly motivating. In a time when some Christians are basing their theology of the Trinity on works of fiction, the Blackabys provide a Biblically sound portrait of the Holy Spirit, His role in the Trinity and His work in the life of believers. And they do it in a way that isn’t stuffy or dry.
These guys are not known for parroting the latest trend or towing along with the oldest tradition, and this book reflects that.
I was particularly excited to read their take on “Spiritual Gifts” and “Spiritual Gift Inventories” in particular. I think this is because it is something that I’ve been saying for a long time, and it was nice to realize I’m not alone in my thinking.
Here’s a sample:
“Taking a spiritual gift inventory can help you understand where you’re strong and where you’re weak. It can even help identify how God has used you since you’ve become a Christian. But it shouldn’t be used as a guide for how God desires to use you in the future, for God’s purposes are based upon His strengths, not yours alone.”
And:
“One of the dangers of relying on a spiritual gift inventory is that you’ll be tempted to trust the test results and not turn to God to seek His perspectives about your giftedness. After all, why spend time seeking after God when you can take a test and get immediate results?”
The authors also stress the importance of relationship and obedience for a life that experiences the power of the Holy Spirit in all of His fullness:
“The Holy Spirit doesn’t need to equip you for what you’re not going to do, so if you’re in rebellion against Jesus and refusing His right to be Lord, he doesn’t need to send the Holy Spirit to equip you for service. And, tragically, you miss out on the joy that He brings.”
Also:
“If we seek the gifts of the Spirit and not the Holy Spirit Himself, we’ll always focus on self. We must learn to understand that there are no gifts apart from an intimate relationship with the Spirit. And the work of the Spirit is directly connected to the lordship of Christ in our lives.”
The book incudes a study guide, and I’m strongly considering using it as a resource for Stoneview Church.
A few caveats:
- This book is definitely written with Christ Followers in mind, and is not really intended for those who are not already following Christ.
- There is a smattering of ”Christianese” sprinkled throughout the book. If you’re a new Christ follower you may not know some of the lingo.
- The authors use expressions like “intimate love relationship” referring to our interaction and connection with God. These types of phrases make most men cringe. I’d prefer phrases like “connection with God that is based on love” or something similar that communicates the same truth without the “creepy” factor.
That said, there is some incredible truth communicated in this book, and I highly recommend it. Find info on purchasing a copy here.
Now on to book two, “The Treasure Principle” by Randy Alcorn.
Because I haven’t read it, yet, I’m providing the summary from the publisher. But I will say that I’ve heard wonderful things about this book and have wanted to read it for some time. Below the summary you’ll find information on how to receive my copy of the book.
From the Publisher:
Flip-Flop Your Concept of Giving!
“Bestselling author Randy Alcorn introduced readers to a revolution in material freedom and radical generosity with the release of the original The Treasure Principle in 2001. Now the revision to the compact, perennial bestseller includes a provocative new concluding chapter depicting God asking a believer questions about his stewardship over material resources. Readers are moved from the realms of thoughtful Bible exposition into the highly personal arena of everyday life.
Because when Jesus told His followers to “lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” He intended that they discover an astounding secret: how joyful giving brings God maximum glory and His children maximum pleasure. Discover a joy more precious than gold!”
I’m going to read this book (without marking in it) then give it to the first person who leaves a comment on this post on this blog (johnnyleckie.com) correctly answering this question: “What is the name of Johnny & Leona Leckie’s new dog? ” (Hint: The answer can be discovered on my Twitter feed: http://www.twitter.com/jrleckie.)
Or you can purchase a copy here.
Several years ago, my lovely wife, Leona and I sensed God’s call to plant a church in the Alliance, Texas area. It was a huge step of faith for us. I had been on staff at the same church for almost 12 years, we had 3 kids, and the challenges before us were great. But we trusted God, and went for it.
Just under 4 years later, however, the church plant drew to a close.
Bam. The end. …Or was it?
Of all of the twists, turns, adventures and surprises I have experienced in following Christ over the years, probably none was more surprising to me than when I realized that He was calling me to go back. To try it again. To start over.
And so we are. And God has taught me a few things about “do-over’s” in the process.
Here are 5 things I’ve learned about “Starting Over”:
- “Starting over” doesn’t mean doing the same things all over again. It’s not about going backward. It’s about going forward, differently. Our strategy is different, our team is different, our attitude is different, and our time table is different, but our goal is the same. The first attempt allowed us to understand what needs to be done more effectively this time around.
- Mistakes and failures do not disqualify us from God’s mission. More often than not, God uses us in spite of our mistakes, disobedience and failures when we turn to Him. He is truly the God of second, third and sometimes even 20th chances. Really, what qualifies us to be doing anything for God in the first place?
- Genuine restarts place the glory squarely upon God alone. Our “starting over” isn’t a testimony to our own resilience, tenacity or resolve. We’ve already proven that we can’t do it. Instead, it is a testimony to God’s ability to bring life from brokenness and a reminder that’s it’s about Him, not us.
- “Starting over” requires faith and courage. We can be paralyzed by dwelling on the questions, “What will people think if I do this?” and “What if I blow it again?” The better question we should ask is, “Does God want me to do this?” Then we must go forward, learning from our mistakes, not fearing their reappearance.
- God cares more about who I am becoming than what I can do for Him. Ironically, this truth alone provides incredible power for actually accomplishing the task. When it’s done right, we never do it for Him. We do it with Him.
Moses went back to Egypt to free the slaves. Jonah was given a second opportunity to go to Nineveh. Onesimus went back to his master to make things right.
Where do you need to return? What do you need to start over?
…What are you waiting for?
I’m not interested in making scholars of Jesus. I’m interested in making disciples of Jesus.
If they become scholarly disciples, I’m ok with that.
Disciples know and do. They learn and obey. They follow their Leader.
They become like their Leader.
Merry Christmas from my family to yours!
Luke 2:10-11
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. – KJV
“A Christmas Carol” has been done to death. I know the story and am not really interested in experiencing it again…
At least that’s what I thought before I read a copy of the “complete and unabridged” version of the actual book by Charles Dickens, a few years ago. Masterfully crafted with a powerful and moving story of the redemption of an old sinner, the book had an emotional impact on me on the first read.
The Christian overtones are usually removed from modern retellings of the story, so I was surprised by it in the book. I saw parts of myself in Scrooge, and was moved by the reminder that there is hope for the hardest of hearts. It reminded me of the joy, peace and purpose that I now have because of the amazing grace of Christ.
One startling passage that I had not seen in other versions involved the “Ghost of Christmas Present” revealing to Scrooge two freaky looking children clinging to the spirit’s robes:
“Spirit! Are they yours?” Scrooge could say no more.
“They are Man’s,” said the Spirit, looking down upon them. ”and they cling to me, appealing from their fathers. This boy is Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware of them both, and all of their degree, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow I see that writen which is Doom, unless the writing be erased. Deny it!” cried the Spirit, stretching out its hand toward the city…
Ignorance and Want. They go together. And of the two, “Ignorance” is the most dangerous, because among other things, he causes “Want” to increase.
But an amazing truth is this: ”Ignorance” and “Want” begin to fade when Truth is communicated and Needs are met. And churches of people who know what it’s like “to be forgiven much” are perfectly suited for this task.
Now if you don’t read the book (only 113 pages total in paperback, by the way) then the definitive movie version of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is the 1951 version starring Alastair Sim. I dare you to turn down the lights, turn up the fire (or a few candles) and watch this version of the movie without being stirred. It gets me every time.
Share the Truth and meet needs.
Go change the world.
And may God truly bless us…every one.
A while back I received an email from a Christian who wanted to know more about our new Church. It is typical of emails and questions I’ve received along the way, so I thought I would post a couple of his questions with my responses.
He: What is your teaching syle? Topical? Inductive?
Me: Yes. We value the Bible too highly to be limited to any one “Bible Study Method.”
He: What is your vision for your church? Briefly, of course – I ask because I noticed on your website something about “reaching the unchurched.” What does that mean, and how does it affect your teaching and other elements of your service, leadership, etc.? We are not “unchurched,” and not at all interested in a “seeker friendly” approach, where you may try hard to make everything palatable to the seeker. That’s all fine, but I’ve been there, don’t want to be anymore. it’s time to move on to growth and maturity. No offense, of course!
Me: None taken. Our vision is developing More, Stronger and Closer followers of Jesus Christ. (I then shared some of the values that I discuss in this talk: North Point Compass – Part 1 and North Point Compass – Part 2. The audio is pretty bad, but the info is clear.)
Me (continued): It sounds as though you may have had a bad experience with “seeker friendly” churches. As with “seeker un-friendly” churches, there are certainly extremes that are way off base. Our service and teaching is designed to be “obstacle free” for those who do not yet know Christ and “believer enriching” for those who do.
That said, however, we do believe that spiritual maturity does not exist apart from the mission of Jesus. This means that believers who are growing and maturing are becoming more and more selfless and compassionate towards those who do not know Christ, because they are becoming more and more like Christ Himself. Growth and maturity are demonstrated by Christ-likeness. That’s impossible without being sensitive to seekers in the process. But by “sensitive” we don’t mean “watered down.” We mean we are kind and “understandable” with the only obstacle being the “Stumbling Block” of Jesus Himself.
But if I’m understanding your questions correctly, this could be where the deal is most likely broken for you. I hope that is not the case, but there are many, many churches in the area who are no longer interested in reaching people who do not know Christ. It should not be difficult to find one to plug into if that is your desire.
However, if you are still interested in our church, I’d be happy to get to know you better and share with you a bit more of what we’re all about. Thanks for asking, and may God bless you as you seek to follow Him with all of your heart.
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If these types of questions are asked about Stoneview, the response will be basically the same.
