LV Ministries

https://luisvergara.org Sun, 08 Jun 2014 18:27:00 +0000 Sun, 08 Jun 2014 18:27:00 +0000 hourly 1 3600 SnapPages.com The Church in America https://luisvergara.org/blog/2021/04/16/the-church-in-america Fri, 16 Apr 2021 16:33:05 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2021/04/16/the-church-in-america

The Church has an assignment to seek the peace of the nation that God has brought them to (Jeremiah 29:7). In this case, America needs the Church today in an urgent way. The Chu
rch has been powerful and effective when it is united and saturated in prayer - we will see that church again in America. Today I share these thoughts not to be accusatory or divisive, but as an observation that is clear and present and cannot be ignored anymore. My prayer is that it is received as a plea that sparks change in our hearts, our churches and in this country. Satan has this nation by the throat and its soul in the grips of his talons, and there is a church playing politics. The salt and light is playing diplomacy with darkness in the name of compromise, veiled as tolerance and grace. The lamp on the table is in danger of coming into covenant with the world for the sake of meaningless significance. The enemy has seduced the Church into a division through politics and pride. The division is fueled with hatred, disdain and curses masked as righteous indignation. We have been here before and only one thing has reconciled the Church. It is not through insincere calls for unity, vain appeals for healing or disingenuous demands for reconciliation. It starts with telling the truth about the problem and applying the only effective biblical solution, repentance!
The problem is basic: both sides insist that God is on their political side. Perhaps they believe that a Holy and Just God would condone abortion, appeal to racism, applaud sexual immorality or advocate for injustice. Both sides are flawed because the focus is on man and their hope is in the idolization of political ideology. When God is the center and foundation of any institution, that institution prospers and no oppression in Hell could stop it. When the church is united and saturated in prayer, it looks to the King, not to man kings. It seeks the peace of the nation. It pursues the will of the Kingdom and not the agenda of men!
The American Church is at a crossroads of becoming something that is unidentifiable scripturally, an institution that is driven by the will of man instead of the Spirit, with an agenda of humanism instead of the Kingdom. It is at the verge of experiencing unprecedented persecution in this nation. The time has come (again) and the Church must choose between God and Baal. The solution is simple, the Church must turn to God in repentance. If we want unity, healing and reconciliation, then we must repent for what we have approved with our voice or with our silence. We must repent for allowing politics and pride to divide us. We must repent for treating the brethren with hate and hostility. We must repent for making man’s agenda greater than the Will and Word of The Lord. Only God can heal our land. It starts with those who are called by His name - the Church.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

]]> Tell Your Story! https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/11/23/tell-your-story Mon, 23 Nov 2020 13:26:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/11/23/tell-your-story

The most unfortunate thing about telling “your story” is that some people will attempt to keep you there. It is especially sad when this is perpetrated by those who already know your story or that share the same saving grace as you. It doesn’t matter the sphere that the story is shared in, people have a tendency to move you back to that place, even if that place was embarrassing, dark or low. You will know who they are when they constantly refer to your past, in jest, in memory or simply in an attempt to have conversation. It is just pitiful and weak-minded when the only source of conversation is your (negative) past. There is just so much awesome in your present! Don’t let them silence you, tell your story, Unashamed!

They may choose to see you through a former lens. They may even attempt to treat you with the disdain of your past. Perhaps it makes them feel better about themselves. Perhaps it’s an internalized sense of superiority that drives them to that inclination. OR maybe they have not experienced the life giving, mind renewing, value shifting change that comes from meeting the King of kings. Your story was never meant to take you back. It was never meant to hold you down. It has power to inspire hope in others. Don’t let them diminish your dignity. Don’t let them take the air out of the sails of your victory. Don’t let them cause you to silence.

Tell your story, unashamed. Only a hypocrite and a fool would try to mix your transformed present to your unredeemed past (it had to be said). To do such an ugly thing, is to dismiss and undermine the life changing power of saving grace. The moment that Christ saved you, He also forgave you of all of your past faults. You were forgiven. Your errors and shortcomings were forgotten. The power of guilt and shame were defeated! It is true that the past may leave scars, but scars should only remind us of our healing. If scars bring us down, we may be looking at the wrong scars. Look at the scars of Jesus that redeemed us, healed us, forgave us and helps us walk in the newness of this redeemed life! You are a new creation in Christ!

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]” (2 Corinthians 5:17 Amplified).

Tell your story! Shout it from the mountain top. Let fools ramble, but your story will change lives. God will use it to change others for the better, just like He did for you. Your story is a weapon. It is an auxiliary. It is a breath of fresh air. It’s okay to share about where you came from and what you have been through, only glory in the Lord that you are not there anymore. You were once bound, but now you are free. You were once blind, but now you see. You were once lost, but now you are found. That’s what God can do. That’s what God does. Let your story be the thing that God uses to inspire life in others; let it be a directional arrow that points to Christ. Let your story be the evidence that the past can’t define us, when Christ has changed our identity and the entire course of our lives!

Don’t let them silence you, tell your story, Unashamed!

]]> My God is... https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/10/08/my-god-is Thu, 08 Oct 2020 13:35:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/10/08/my-god-is

My God is a waymaker, Red Sea parter, mountain mover, provision provider, breaker of chains, and sender of rain. He is the healer of souls, the reconciler of homes, the rebuilder of cities, the shifter of wealth, the giver of life, and restorer of health. He is the provoker of praise, the giver of joy, and the extender of days!

He is looking for those who will dare to tread the way He has made; Red Sea walkers and mountain talkers, calling those things that are not as though they were. Those who trust Him for their daily needs. He is looking for those who would dare to declare broken chains; those with radical faith willing to set pots out before the rain. He is seeking compassionate servants that will sing psalms to the afflicted souls; role models that reflect godly homes. He is searching for builders to work in the most desolate places, noble stewards, and heralds of life to every nation. He seeks intercessors for the ill, worshipers who will not withhold their praise, and champions of the faith that will glorify Him for all of their days!

“It is good to give thanks to the LORD, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, And Your faithfulness every night, On an instrument of ten strings, On the lute, And on the harp, With harmonious sound. For You, LORD, have made me glad through Your work; I will triumph in the works of Your hands. O Lord, how great are Your works!...

The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the LORD Shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing, To declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.” Psalms‬ ‭92:1-5, 12-15‬ ‭NKJV

]]> Prayer & Expectation https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/05/30/prayer-expectation Sat, 30 May 2020 13:57:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/05/30/prayer-expectation

Who packs a suitcase without the hopes of travel? Who buys a baby crib when there is no conception? In this same manner who prays without expecting the heavens to move? Prayer is not cosmetic; it is not ritualistic and never should be seen as a labor for the gift of salvation. It is Power! It is refuge! It is life! It is victory and abounding joy for those who render it!

Prayer should always be followed with great expectation, with faith that is induced by Hope! “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Romans 5:5). This great love that has been poured into our hearts is our assurance in the moments where it is typical to lose heart. The hope that provokes faith reminds us of His love and this undoes the cords of fear that wearies expectation. Be renewed! Be vigilant! It’s coming!

What you have declared according to His will shall come to pass! Do not weary because it tarries. Keep warring in prayer! There is a battle in the heavens and the manifestation of your hope will be brought forth in faith!

The 120 servants of the Most High, “soon to be trail blazing, pioneers, church planting, gospel preaching, paradigm shifting, tongue talking, demon chasing, city transforming, harvest gatherers” waited with an eager expectation for the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1). On Pentecost there was a wind. A strong wind that introduced to the world the power that the saints would be dressed in, the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:11)! It was the snow ball that caused an avalanche that shook the foundation of darkness and empowered believers throughout Church history! To this very day the power poured out at Pentecost is available to those who call on His name (Luke 11:13).

What is your expectation? If you bought a suitcase, plan a vacation! If you are praying for your baby, buy a crib! God is about to do what your eyes have not seen nor your ears have heard. Brace yourself for the Glory! Don’t be shocked when it happens, say “I expected it!”

Psalm 40:1-5 “I waited patiently for the Lord; And He inclined to me, And heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, Out of the miry clay, And set my feet upon a rock, And established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth-- Praise to our God; Many will see it and fear, And will trust in the Lord. Blessed is that man who makes the Lord his trust, And does not respect the proud, nor such as turn aside to lies. Many, O Lord my God, are Your wonderful works Which You have done; And Your thoughts toward us Cannot be recounted to You in order; If I would declare and speak of them, They are more than can be numbered.”

By: Pastor Luis A.Vergara

(Revised: 39 of 40 days of prayer and fasting, 2013)

]]> Helping Others Heal https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/05/20/helping-others-heal Wed, 20 May 2020 13:59:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2020/05/20/helping-others-heal

For some people, giving friends or even strangers a helping hand is almost a reflex of their own nature. Most of the time the helping hand is given in areas that are outside of the person such as projects or errands. These “helping” types often attempt to use their helpful qualities to assist others heal internally. That’s a good thing, but the helpful should understand that external help and internal healing are distinct. Helping others heal from spiritual or emotional scars is not the same as helping someone change a flat tire on the side of the road. Healing requires consistency and genuineness. It’s not an easy or a speedy process. It will take pureness of motive and time.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” Hebrews 6:10

Don’t Be Discouraged

Sometimes your kindness, love or encouragement may not always yield the proper response from those that you share it with. Don’t be discouraged and don’t stop being you. There is a chance that their lack of proper response is connected to what you may represent to them. If you represent (subconsciously) a paternal figure, a former spouse, or a friend that has hurt, betrayed or abandoned them, your goodness is suspect.

Stay The Course Don’t be offended by their skepticism or resistance. They are not rejecting you with malice. Painful memories are at work. Hurt people tend to be attracted to those who don’t care, because those that were supposed to care have disappointed them. If you can, stay the course, your genuineness will become clear or their pain will keep them bound in a world of insecurity and barriers. They need your genuine heart to outlast their healing process. You can’t help everybody, but you can try to help someone realize that genuineness, love, loyalty and honor still exists.

“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25

Be Tender and Tough

Sometimes pain creates backbiting and manipulation in people who are hurt. Those traits, along with other forms of distorted thinking, must be confronted if healing is going to happen. The prepackaged responses (defense mechanisms) must be brought to light with both tenderness and toughness. Those healing must come to the revelation that the pain they have experienced has had a negative impact on their view of life and people.

“Faithful are the wounds of a friend, But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.” Proverbs 27:6

Final Thought

Helping others should never be done from a perception of self-superiority. Helping others heal is not about what’s better about you or your life. It’s about getting them to see what’s better about them and the world around them. It is to ignite hope so that they can have peace and become intelligently vulnerable. It is to help them bring down unnecessary barriers while upholding healthy boundaries.

Reflection by: Pastor Luis Vergara

]]> Talking About Sin https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/07/01/talking-about-sin Mon, 01 Jul 2019 14:00:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/07/01/talking-about-sin

Why does it seem like the topic of sin is a lost doctrine?

It seems like there is a trend in Christian teaching that detours around the subject of sin. No one wants to be the messenger that reminds a generation that sin still offends God and that un-repented sin will always bear bad fruit. The truth is that the doctrine of sin is a major component to the Gospel message. In fact, without this teaching there is no real reason for Christ's death on the Cross and the Good News is reduced to just to News. Christ died for sin – past, present, and future, but He will never condone flagrant un-repented sin under the guise of Grace.

Why is this teaching hidden? Why do ministers swerve from this doctrine? Why are believers hesitant in speaking on it?

I believe that a major part of the answers lies in the cultures inability to deal with challenging and confrontational truth. The truth of sin does not appear to sensationalize the Gospel in a way that it is appealing to human nature and culture. It is clear that every good thing that people hope for, the very biblical promise they are in expectation of, was once theirs but lost in sin [but Christ came to restore]. We recognize that sin itself can devastate entire families, ministries, and communities. But most troubling is that sin mares the image of God in man. To keep silent on the issue is to indirectly endorse a failing society. I understand that this is a very broad topic to which I will not dive into detail here. For the sake of brief reading I will offer some concise points on issues to consider when “talking about sin.”

The Platform

The right platform will determine if you will have success in “talking about sin.” People tend to respond better to confrontational issues when the source is authoritative or familiar. Jesus was recognized as a good teacher, who was able to make righteous and authoritative judgment. When He was presented with the sin of an adulterous woman, He was in the position to deliberate on the subject of her sin (John 8:3). Of course the case can be made that Jesus always was and always will be on the right platform to judge sin. But here it is important to recognize that even Jesus did not utilize His platform to condemn sinners, but rather to reveal restorative truth.

John the Baptist was a unique character with a unique message, “REPENT…broad of vipers” (Luke 3:7-8). He was bold and successful on his platform (among the Jews). But as soon as he moved onto a platform of a heathen King, he was imprisoned and later beheaded (Mathew 14:1-12). Paul was slapped on the mouth for speaking outside of his platform (Acts 23:2). The point is that not only speaking outside of our assigned platforms can be fruitless, but it can be dangerous. Prayer will prepare you and position you to speak at the right time, in the right places, to the right people.

The Delivery

How you say it can determine if someone will receive or reject it. In reframing the accusation of those who condemned the adulterous woman, Jesus did not rant and rave about their sin. He only wrote in the sand; some suggest that Jesus was writing the individual sins of each accuser. Taken back by Christ's subtle but impacting delivery, these men being convicted dropped their stones one-by-one and turned away. He then turns to the woman who was on trial for adultery and forgives her and charges her with this command, “go and sin no more” (John 8:10-11). His delivery was flawless!

If the delivery is not bearing fruit, then you must reexamine your delivery, platform, or both. We cannot overlook the biblical truth that reveals that men desire their ears to be satisfied with sweet nothings – as a result anything that is not a “sweet nothing” is rejected (2 Timothy4:3). But this does not mean that the heralds of truth need to always be blunt, crass, or without etiquette. The delivery can determine if the listener will be set free or remain in the bondage of sin. Tell it (deliver) like Jesus did.

The Heart

The heart of the herald and the heart of the listener are both essential in any discussion of sin. The first thing that anyone preaching sin must recognize is that they are sinners too. The listener must also recognize that just because the messenger is flawed, that will not stop the

truth from being truth – God is not pleased with sin.

It is important to recognize the potential of skewed delivery, when a heart is contaminated by religiosity or carnality it can hinder the message. The legalistic (religious) heart will only see sin as the breaking of rules and condemn the sinner. A liberalistic (carnal) heart will interpret Grace as a right to sin. But those who are led by the Holy Spirit will neither condone nor condemn those who are entertaining sin. [To be judgmental towards those who are sin is to forget that God has delivered us from the power of sin and we still have a daily struggle against it.] The qualified messenger has the heart of God, filled with compassion and a desire to see themselves, their family, friends, and community free from the power and deception of sin.

Final Thought

We cannot afford to call good evil and evil good (Isaiah 5:20). Sin is a real problem in our society and our churches. A healthy church preaches sin in a way that it compels the sinner to turn from it. To look away from sin as if it is only a problem between an individual and God, is to reject the biblical call for community.

Telling professing Christians to refrain from sin is to help position them in the perfect will and purpose of God for this life. Teaching sinners about sin, should be followed with the full Gospel: Christ died for sin and He can set them free from its power, restore their identity, and reconcile their relationship with God. I encourage you to ask God to give you the tact and charisma to “talk about sin” with boldness and pure love. It may be your voice the Lord help others overcome.

From: (Day 18 of 50 days of Prayer, Fasting, and Action)

]]> Are you a Pastor? https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/03/01/are-you-a-pastor Fri, 01 Mar 2019 14:02:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/03/01/are-you-a-pastor

The answer to this question is helpful for Pastoral hopefuls and is useful for those seeking to become familiarized with the qualities and calling of a Pastor. The office of Pastors may seem to be the most coveted of offices, that is, until the demand of the office is made real to those that desire it without calling. To be without calling does not mean to be without the particular gift that accompanies the office of Pastor. Neither does it mean that other gifts and offices are not extremely purposeful and valuable to the Church and God’s people. The point here is not that the office of Pastor is superior to other offices, but that it is a stand-out unique office.

The Teacher is not a Pastor.

The Preacher is not a Pastor.

The Evangelist is not a Pastor.

The Prophet is not a Pastor.

The Worship Leader is not a Pastor.

The gift of teaching, preaching, evangelizing, prophesying or leading worship does not make anyone qualified for the office of Pastor.

The Pastor that is ordained by God will operate in all of the above gifts/offices. The Pastor can teach, preach, win souls and encourage soul winning, prophesy and lead worship (exhort with or without musical talent). But the gifts, by themselves, are not evidence of a Pastoral call. Evidence of a Pastoral call is Love (1 Corinthians 13:1). If you can’t love people, if you don’t have an action-backed passion for souls, if there is no stir in your spirit to help people do better, you are not called to be a Pastor.

Two years of Bible Institute, 4 years of Christian University, Seminary, Theological degrees, MDivs and Doctorates are all extraordinary and a worthy conquest, but none of them impart the gift of Pastor. You don’t go to school to become a Pastor, you go because you are a disciple or because you are certain that you have been called; this is the Work of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:11).

The Church needs teachers, preachers, evangelist, prophets and worship leaders. All whom are passionate about the purpose that is relative to their gift. What the Church does not need are Pastors that are dispassionate about souls and carefree of the lives of other people, those living in saving Grace and those that are on their way. The Apostle Paul made two powerful self-assessments, useful for all that aspire to lead. First, he says, “If I don’t have love, I am only a loud gong or a noisy cymbal,” then he says, “If I don’t have love, I am nothing at all” (1 Corinthians 13:1-2). Without love, the most extraordinary and even polished gifts/charisma are unpleasant and ineffective. Without love you cannot be a Pastor.

- This Love can be developed - If you have aspirations to be a Pastor, don’t bail out just yet. The gift can be developed, by the working of the Holy Spirit. However, love must be present. Love must be present in the one called to Pastoral office and it must continue to progressively develop (grow). Peter, the disciple of Jesus that became an apostle, was challenged by the Lord with this question in series, “Peter, do you love me.” At this very moment Peter was being restored for his denial of Jesus and at the same time he was given a Pastoral assignment.

It is like Jesus is saying, “the pain you suffered from denying me was not in vain. Now you will understand that love is not just flowery words or unharnessed emotion, but that it is active. That same love you say that you have for me, make it manifest for my people… at one time you said you will go to prison and even death with me and for me, it was not necessary then. Now I need you to provide that same tenacity for my people. Lay down your life.”

Peter would have understood best that the love that was being referred to here was not emotions, but that it is a pure, altruistic, sacrifice. He also would have understood that love must be present and it can also be developed. He started as a disciple who cared about his teacher, his church (group he belonged to) and himself. Now, through growth and the revelation for the mandate to love, he was positioned to be an overseer of the children of God.

The Church needs teachers, preachers, evangelist, prophets and worship leaders which are, primarily, complimentary to the office of a Pastor. As the ministry grows, those with special gifts begin to assist the Pastor in their area of talent. It is in those areas of service that many will discover and develop that love for people and the gift for the office of Pastor.

-Without the anointing you won’t make it as a Pastor-

It is too easy and unwise to look at what the Pastor does on a Sunday for 45 minutes and say, “I can do that.” What the Pastor is doing in that small timeframe, depending on the present congregation, is exercising his/her gift of preacher, teacher, evangelist, prophet or leading in worship. The ability to operate in the former is called anointing, but the true anointing of Pastoral work is not limited to a platform. It goes on much longer, it requires much sacrifice and consistency and strict dependency on the Holy Spirit.

The anointing of the Pastor’s office will carry the minister gracefully through what they do. What they do is out of love, care and passion, not mere obligation:

* The Pastor has three thoughts that are always present at waking up and laying down: God’s glory, their family, their kingdom family (church).

* The Pastor’s duties are not 9-5, but from sun up to sundown and often in the middle of the night.

* The Pastor teaches, so they study hours and days on end.

* The Pastor loses sleep for those that they serve.

* The Pastor wakes up on the 3rd watch to pray for his church.

* The Pastor reschedules and even cancels personal activities and goals for the sake of the people.

* The Pastor endures ridicule, resentment, disloyalty, dishonor, deception, slander, and they still love.

* The Pastor will strive to make disciples while those disciples may strive against learning.

* The Pastor stands in the gap to protect the Kingdom family from cultural ideals and heretical teaching.

* The Pastor ministers to 1 or 99, because they are not moved by crowd , but by love.

* The Pastor loves the Kingdom family (church) in the same way that they love their biological family.

This can become a heavy weight if God has not prepared you to make these sacrifices. Without the anointing you won’t make it as a Pastor. The anointing is evident when loving God’s people is not optional in the heart of the minister. The anointing helps the minister consider the great and beautiful things over the trials and sacrifices. They will smile more, rejoice more, celebrate more, because the anointing brings joy that is steadfast.

Some may think that Pastors fake having endurance, fake having joy or fake that they love what they do. Not for the called. It’s not fake! They have been empowered by an anointing and they are propelled by love. In the most difficult of moments the Pastor that has been truly called by God believes Him when He says, “But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). The anointing will get you through.

-Without Love people get hurt- When teachers, preachers, evangelist, prophets and worship leaders misunderstand their gift and anointing they will assume that their gift qualifies them to be a Pastor of a church. This is an unfortunate misunderstanding that will end up with people being hurt, including the misplaced teacher, preacher, evangelist, prophet or worship leader (or any other gift for that matter). We cannot minister effectively if we are out of position and we will not receive effectively from those that are imparting from a place they have not been called to.

But even for the anointed Pastor who has been called, they have to consider the social and psychological issues that are often present in those that become part of or interact with a Kingdom family. Social norms and expectations held by an individual can cause them to feel disillusioned and even hurt. In many cases these people unfortunately believe that the church is perfect and everyone in it is perfect. They become distraught and let down when they find out otherwise. Church people need Jesus too! People with psychological issues such as megalomania, narcissism, or introversion (shortlist), are easy to let down. The church focuses on humility not megalomania, on being second not narcissism, on fellowship not introversion. As a result of the church’s focus those with these issues may feel unloved.

HOWEVER, the church may struggle identifying and helping these types flourish, but the Pastor should strive for their success. The Pastor is not intimidated or offended by the personal needs nor demands of people – that are in clear contrast to the Bible. The Pastor, that has been called and motivated by love, does not see these social and psychological issues as stigmas to stay away from. They strive to bring every disciple to the revelation of truth, a healthy mind, and renewed thinking. The Pastor speaks, believes, and lives this biblical truth, “Jesus did not come for the healthy but the sick.” Love covers over a multitude of sin (1 Peter 4:8).

In order to rightly and effectively pastor people that are [hurting, needy, good, intelligent, self-willed, humble, defiant, obedient, loving, grumpy, know-it-all, slow-to-transform, graceful, crass, generous, selfish, hard-to-love, honorable, pessimist and peaceful] Love is necessary along with all of its attributes, every step of the way!

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

-The Pastor takes on a role that is paternal- Spiritual parents are not those who can impart any spiritual gift or regenerate any part of any person, even themselves. This is strictly the work of the Holy Spirit. The endearments given to spiritual parents (mom/dad) is just that and nothing more, an endearment. It is born from a deep sense of gratitude that God has assigned someone over our lives to care for our souls (Hebrews 13:7). Not someone that would only teach us, preach to us, encourage us to win souls, or lead us in worship, but someone who will pass the plate for us, cry for us, wake up in the middle of the night and intercede for us.

Parents are like your personal cheerleaders, sincere advocates for your success. In the same way Pastors will declare and share victories with us, hurt when we hurt and rejoice when we rejoice. The Pastor is like a parent that would love us more than our purpose, who refuse to burden us with their vicarious dreams. Someone that does not despise us when we make the wrong or badly timed decisions… although their heart may ache, they will love you anyway.

The Pastor increases in love:

* Every time they are indignant, they will remember the cross.

* Every time they want to quit, they will remember their call.

* Every time you go astray, they will be their when you return with open arms.

* Every time Pastors are offended, they do their best to forgive.

* They are not divine, they are not perfect, they are not all-knowing, they are not God.

* But they do all that they possibly can to remind you of God’s unfailing, everlasting, and unconditional love.

While it is every Christian’s duty to represent and model Christ, it is the unique duty of Pastors to model both the life of Christ and the Love of the Father.

Are you sure you are a Pastor? Pray, ask for wisdom. If being a Pastor is your desire, make sure that the love you have is not only an emotion, but an action-backed passion for souls. There must be a stir in your spirit to help people do better. If you have taken a role that you cannot fulfill step down in grace. If you have been appointed as a Pastor, but you feel unprepared or unqualified, pray and ask God to show you, if you truly have the love. God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called. If your Pastor is not demonstrating the qualities listed here, don’t leave immediately. Spend some time praying for them and over them, they may still be in the developing stages and you may be the intercessor that God has chosen to nudge them into the next level.

Do all things in love. Do all things in prayer and in supplication.

Pastor Luis Vergara Edited by Pastora Francisca Vergara

#Tag a friend #Pastor

]]> Decisions in the Valley https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/01/22/decisions-in-the-valley Tue, 22 Jan 2019 14:03:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/01/22/decisions-in-the-valley

Making decisions is part of everyday life. It is a process that impacts every sphere of our lives. Decisions can have an enormous impact on our present and future. Good and sober decisions will lead to success and happiness. Bad decisions will lead to failure and regret. The Bible teaches that haste in our decisions is foolishness (Proverbs 29:20). We also see that the Bible commends those that carefully consider their steps (Proverbs 14:15). But the question is, “how do we know if our judgment is sober or haste?” It may depend on what your current spiritual situation is.

Will we make life altering decisions in a place of prayerlessness? Will we make decisions that will impact our world, when we are in a valley of uncertainty?

I urge you to refrain from making life decisions in the valley. The valley represents a place and time of darkness and uncertainty. For the believer, it may represent a time of spiritual weakness. In the valleys of life, some have left their places of worship, quit their jobs, left their spouses, and have even abandoned their families. The Psalmist David said “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23:4). In a time of his life, when all seemed grim and helpless, David resolved in his heart to trust and wait on God.

When we are experiencing pain or the discomfort of uncertainty, the last thing we want to do is wait. I encourage you to take the attitude of David. In one of the darkest valleys of his life, he waited on God. He did not overlook the reality that was before him, but neither did he act in a way that would have hurt himself or those around him. The impact of bad decisions is very difficult to overturn and the path they take us down is more than often far from our divine destiny. The time will come when you will have to make swift and stern decisions. Let those moments be from a place of clarity and prayer.

If in this day you find yourself in a state of uncertainty or spiritual weakness, and now you are at the edge of making a decision that will have a great impact – Don’t Do It! Again, I urge you to refrain from making life decisions in the valley. Let everything you do be seasoned with prayer. Let the Lord guide you. Wait on the Lord to pull you up from the valley. And from that position of prayer and strength, execute His perfect will for your life, through sound and sober decisions.

“Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:14)

Pastor Luis Vergara

]]> Look what God did! https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/01/04/look-what-god-did Fri, 04 Jan 2019 14:03:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2019/01/04/look-what-god-did

I cannot keep quiet! I must boast in the Lord! “I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make its boast in the Lord; the humble shall hear of it and be glad. Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together” (Psalm 34:1-3).

During our first Sunday service of 2019 we listened to some awesome testimonies. It was an opportunity for those who have experienced the Mercy and Goodness of God in a marvelous way to Glorify His Name, publicly. The God of wonders was with DESATAR in 2018, and we have a great expectation for 2019. He has done, will do, and is doing great things among us! Only a handful were able to share this Sunday, but I know personally that there are many, many, more with a “Look What God Did” testimony!

This is what has happened/happening at DESATAR Ministry (verified testimonies):

-Cancers are rebuked people are being healed!

-Addictions are canceled – people are being set free!

-Internal organs are renewed – The Great Physician is blowing the mind of doctors!

-Death sentences are overturned – Those sentenced to death have risen and are walking!

-Depressions are canceled – the Joy of the Lord is casting away depressiveness!

-Financial breakthrough is happening – the children are experiencing unprecedented advancement in their careers and finances.

-Salvation and Reconciliation are manifested (my favorite kind of testimony!) – Sons and daughters are coming home, many are leaving the darkness to come to the light! Families are being restored and souls are being saved!!

Will you try God in this? If there are only a few miracles in the Church today, it is because there are only a few willing to proclaim the move of God. We cannot attribute what we prayed for fervently to the natural, what we deemed at one point impossible, as to suggest that it was by the power or intelligence of men. Don’t get me wrong, God will still use a mule and cause rocks to cry out – because He can use the natural means to establish a miracle in your life.

The Holy Spirit is still moving! The supernatural is not reserved for the Book of Acts/NT, it has not ceased, as some suggest. Miracles, signs, and wonders CONTINUE to be the present-day reality for those who believe! Will you try God in this? Pray without ceasing! Believe without wavering! Wait with assurance! And when it manifests, TESTIFY for His Glory!!

Why Testify? If you want to see an increase of the supernatural in your life and in the Church, Then TESTIFY! I believe that once the Church begins to increase its proclamation of what God has done, no matter how small or great, miracles will multiply! We cannot keep silent. We must be witnesses of the Gospel that contains the primary and superior message of Salvation (there is no greater miracle than salvation), but it also includes the Truth that God is still willing to move in the lives of believers in an Awesome way!

We must Testify! To testify is a legal term. It is to give evidence as a witness in a court of law. We are called to be witnesses of God (in this world). We can stand before any court, judge and jury and testify of The Lord’s Salvation and of His unending Mercy, Goodness, and Grace! If we remain silent, we are in danger of becoming practical antagonists. We would unwittingly become corroborating witnesses with the accuser (the enemy). If we fail to be steadfast and believe that God can still move mountains and speak contrary to the Lord’s Mercy, Goodness, and Grace, then we are in danger of becoming false witnesses.

We need to go into this New Year with expectation and a proclamation of the supernatural. Put away the cynicism, which is that the Word proclaimed is NOT God’s word for your life. Put away Skepticism – and believe that the promises of God are yes and amen! Beloved, God Still Performs Miracles! This is why: They are a foreshadow of things to come. They are a demonstration of His Omnipotence – proof that nothing can limit God. They are an expression of His Compassion and Love towards us. But, most importantly they are the evidence of the things we Hope for! Your Testimony will inspire hope, shatter doubt, and increase faith! Will you Testify!

In 2019 you need to be ready to testify of the Goodness, Mercy, and Grace of God. Be Bold and unashamed. You don’t need a platform to stand upon on a Sunday morning. Your pulpit is in front of you, everywhere you go, any day of the week. Be ready to proclaim “Look at what God did!” Then get ready for fruitfulness and multiplication in your life and church!

I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all Your marvelous works.

Psalm 9:1

]]> Would God ever say, “Let them go?” https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/07/20/would-god-ever-say-let-them-go Fri, 20 Jul 2018 14:04:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/07/20/would-god-ever-say-let-them-go

There are relationships that God will direct us to let go and it would be wise to obey. For many, this is an obvious statement, but what if this is not about a business or intimate relationship? What if “let them go”, is in reference to other believers? What if it meant to disassociate or no longer have dealings with them? In the western world there is a very bad habit by believers to assume that they can love more than God. For this reason the question “Would God ever say, “Let them go”, is difficult to grasp. It appears cultish, sectarian(ish), even loveless. The truth is that, this thesis is biblical and to ignore it can be costly to the unity and peace of the local church. When the church pretends to love more than God it will dismiss any biblical passage that supports the thesis with opinion and feelings. The Bible makes it clear there are some who are called believers that we should have no dealings with [a].

The attitude and heart of the genuine disciple is never division or sectarianism. It is right to be cautious and reluctant to lose a relationship with someone that is seen as a believer. The disciple should have a passion and commitment to win souls to the kingdom and an equal passion and commitment to see them grow and remain in their walk with God. This is fulfilled by obeying the Great Commission of Making disciples [b]. The command to make disciples can be summarized in the following: win them to the Kingdom, teach them about the Kingdom, help them become built up in the Kingdom. The disciple’s call is not and will never be winning someone over to personal, political, racially biased, or legalistic agendas. The church is not intended to be a corporation or a social club, but an advancing healthy family of faith. When would-be disciples fail to make relationships or if the local church fails to foster these relationships, the disciple or would-be disciple is in danger of turning away.

To witness someone turn away from their Kingdom walk is a heartbreaking. Often they are returning to the life they once knew or pursuing heresies and/or cult-like ideals [c]. Some would argue that in this case, that person was never born-again. I would agree with that argument, but I also consider that apostasy (turning from the faith) is a sad biblical truth [d]. Therefore, turning away is not always a lack of regeneration (being born again), but it is a result of resisting the need for biblical transformation. This resistance to discipleship includes the refusal to learn the biblical truth (Bible) in an objective environment. It also includes a religious approach to prayer instead of a relational one or in some cases there is no prayer life at all, resulting in an unfortunate compound of ignorance, instability and distortions [e].

When someone turns away it is right and natural for fellow disciples to reach out, sometimes with cords of love, encouragement, and if necessary rebuke [f]. The approach often matches the confronting party’s personality, none-the-less, any approach should be on the merits of love and not on the need to be right or vain religious zeal. Reaching out can become very passionate, but the act of love cannot turn into a contest. In the case that the person has turned to pursue heresies and cult-like ideals be careful not to give too much back-and-forth with foolish arguments. The very act of the acknowledging their foolishness for the sake of civility will “make the fool wise in their own eyes” [g].

To be filled with the love of Christ in such away that compels a person to stand in the gap and fight for those that they believe are part of God’s sheepfold is absolutely noble and necessary. However, is there a point that we should scale down our attempts to win them back? The answer is yes. There will be a time that God will say, “Let them go,” especially if their only intention is to stimulate contention for attention and stir up divisions - warn them once, maybe twice then respectfully retreat [h]. Genuine disciples struggle with the idea of letting someone they consider a brother/sister go. Rightfully, they are reluctant because they may have broken bread with that person and in many cases they felt like they were family. It may be helpful to remember that Judas lived with Jesus for 3 1/2 years, ate with Him often and on the night before Judas betrayed the Lord he was breaking bread and sitting right next to Jesus. No disciple should go through life paranoid and invulnerable, but they should be humble and keen - astute and discerning.

This is without question a difficult and heart wrenching task. This is why it is very important to discern what has drawn the person away. Through this reason it can be determined how to approach them, if we are to approach them at all. It provides insight if the person must be approached with sensible apologetics (defending the faith) or with message of reconciliation. If the person has been drawn away in pursuit of heresies and/or cult-like ideals - they should be met with apologetics. Their bases is to undermine the Gospel through heretical ideas that are often based on eisegetical opinion (inserting personal ideas into the Bible), blatant blasphemies, and both are conveyed by satirical arguments. If they persist - Let them go [i]! It may not be easy, but rest assured that it is biblical and healthy for the unity and peace.

When a person turns away to heresies and/or cult-like ideals, all kinds of blasphemies can arise in their heart, leading them to attack the very Gospel that saved their lives. There is only one Gospel! Any other teaching is not from God and for this reason it is wise to avoid them, they are in danger of becoming accursed [j]. Just as every disciple has an assignment to fulfill the Great Commission, as agents of God here on earth, those that turn away to blasphemies unwittingly become agents of darkness and their assignment is to disrupt the work of the Kingdom. This disruption is nothing more than an attempt to drag the Gospel through the mud, to discredit the Disciples of the Most High and to hinder Kingdom work. Let them go! If they sincerely repent receive them again.

On the other hand if the person that has turned away is returning to the life they once knew, it may be for many reasons such as carnality, but it can also be because of pain, confusion, or church hurt. Their former way of life is familiar place, therefore in their minds, a safe place. Carnality will cause those that are turning away to hide from the church with shame. The loss of a loved one can cause pain, getting a hold of bad teaching can cause confusion, and unresolved conflict among the brotherhood can cause church hurt. We should not be so quick to let them go, but we should do our best to help them. We are to meet them with the message of reconciliation and love. This is where we extend our love and time. Here we cannot become weary. No matter the struggle they are facing, despite the immaturity they may be overcoming, disciples stand in the gap and are the representatives of God’s unfailing love. It is here that we refrain from letting go - and we hold on with long-suffering [k].

Bible Verses Cited: [a]“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. Do not even eat with such people” 1 Corinthians 5:11

[b] “And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go [a]therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” Matthew 28:18-20

[c] “For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. What the true proverb says has happened to them: “The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire” 2 Peter 2:20-22

[d] The Great Apostasy - The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 2 Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron” 1 Timothy 4:1-2

[e] He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand, which ignorant and unstable people distort, as they do the other Scriptures, to their own destruction” 2 Peter 3:16

[f] “My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins” James 5:19-20

[g] “Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes” Proverbs 26:5.

[h] “As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned” Titus 3:10-11

[i] “I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. Romans 16:7”

[j]“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed” Galatians 1:8-9

[k] Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” Galatians 6:10

]]> Take a stand against manipulation! https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/05/09/take-a-stand-against-manipulation Wed, 09 May 2018 14:05:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/05/09/take-a-stand-against-manipulation

Have you ever heard someone claim that their “hustle” is so strong that they can sell ice to an Eskimo? They are probably operating in a spirit of manipulation. Using deceitful antics to persuade someone to do what they want them to do is not “hustle” its witchcraft! A pure hustle is being dedicated to success without deceiving or hurting other people. A pure hustle never compromises integrity and self-respect for gains. Bottom line, if they have to lie, cheat, or steal to get it, that’s not hustle that is manipulation.

Manipulators seek to control and influence their victims in order to remain in control or take advantage of them in one manner or another. This pursuit for control goes well beyond the unscrupulous salesperson that sells ice to Eskimos, but it is present in every sphere of life, including marriage, parenting, friendship, work, entrepreneur-ism, politics, sports, etc...

Some of the weapons used in manipulation are deception, confusion, sex or sex appeal, guilt, and power:

Deception can be in the form of boldface lies or equivocations (half-truths).

Confusion is a result of the manipulator’s deception causing the person under siege to be disoriented to what the present reality is.

Sex or sex appeal is used to seduce victims into desired behaviors or to string them along with selfish ambition. One may rightfully argue that this is just another facet of prostitution. Guilt is used by manipulators to shame another person into actions or behaviors. It becomes the heavy yoke that is used to steer the manipulated and remain in control.

Power is the chief weapon that can be in form of position, rank, access, money, and notoriety. It is used to coerce, establish dependency (you need me), and establish or solidify dominance.

Manipulators will use all of their power to get more power in order to remain in control over the mind and spirit of those being controlled. Whether it is consciously or unconsciously, they launch a dual attack on their victims that is both spiritual and psychological. A person that is affected spiritually will demonstrate a loss of peace and courage. In many cases, the state of the manipulated can cause a downcast spirit in them (depressiveness). Those that are affected psychologically become disoriented to reality, forgetting who they are in exchange for what the controller(s) suggest that they are. In some instances the manipulated may lose sight of self-worth and purpose.

In the Bible we find the account of Elijah who encountered the manipulative spirit of Jezebel. Like many of us, I can imagine Elijah laughing at the idea of being controlled or dominated by any person through the witchcraft of manipulation. Unfortunately, Jezebel succeeded in (temporally) controlling several areas of Elijah’s life (1 Kings 19:1-18). This spiritual and psychological attack produced in him a loss of courage, so he ran, hoping to escape the grip of Jezebel; He forgot who he was, a prophet and child of God, so he hid; He was deceived by the message, so he became depressed and complained about his situation; He Forgot who God IS, because he was confused by the antics of Jezebel.

Please understand that Elijah still remains an amazing hero of faith, like all of the children of God, he had a “bounce back.” What we can learn from this event in his life is that manipulation makes no exception of persons. It doesn’t matter how great or small a person is, they too can be effected if they are caught off guard. The Scriptures gives us the wisdom needed to become equipped and stand against all sorts of attacks by being dressed in the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:13). The full armor is spiritual and it will prevent the sons and daughters from being seduced, coerced, dominated, or played with.

It is not easy to move a person that is standing their ground dressed in the full armor. Instead of running from the influence of Jezebel, they will stand strong against the power of manipulation. Instead of hiding they will make war against any corrupt thing seeking to dominate or destroy their lives. Instead of complaining about the present circumstances, they praise the Name of God, who is our deliverer and strength. Instead of confusion they move in faith, conquering all things that are contrary to the abundant life promised them (John 10:10).

Take a stand against manipulation! If you are moved by manipulators you will soon forget how to stand or the reason you took a stand in the first place.

“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand” (Ephesians 6:13).

#UnmaskingManipulation

#KingdomKeen #WisdomRecognizeWisdom

#TakeAStand

]]> "I want the whole CAKE!" https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/05/07/i-want-the-whole-cake Mon, 07 May 2018 18:18:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/05/07/i-want-the-whole-cake

A survey conducted by Barna suggest that 85% of Christians are NOT discipled. The reason for this imbalance is that Christians aren’t getting the whole CAKE! Yes, I said CAKE! Let me briefly explain: The nature of Biblical teaching, at the very least, should produce Conviction, Assurance, Knowledge, and Encouragement.

Conviction – opens the believer up to the direction and correction of the Holy Spirit. This is the MOST important element for spiritual growth. (See Romans 8:1-2; John 16:13; Galatians 5:16).

Assurance – reaffirms that a Christian can and should have certainty about their own salvation, purpose, and identity in Christ. (See Ephesians 2:8; Jeremiah 29:11; John 1:12).

Knowledge – is imparted by sound Biblical teaching, which produces life (in every sense). It informs and equips believers. Those that are rightly trained delight in studying the Scripture on their own. (See Hosea 4:6; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Acts 17:11).

Encouragement – to overcome the obstacles of this life and to believe in the impossible, by faith. It inspires believers to encourage one another and to keep their eyes fixed on God. (See Romans 8:37-39; Philippians 4:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Hebrews 12:2).

The pulpit (in some cases) has reduced the message for the sake of the culture's palate. By presenting these great biblical truths, but shying away from what evokes healthy Convictions, the message is reduced to Assurance, Knowledge, and Encouragement. All of these are exceptional and necessary. However, without C (conviction) all we have is AKE - HeadAKE, HeartAKE, and MistAKE.

All of these combined help develop the kind of disciple that the Bible promotes. CAKE draws the believer into a genuine and unadulterated Worship of our Lord and Savior!

Say it with me, "I want the whole CAKE!"

"But speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in ALL ASPECTS into Him who is the head, even Christ" (Ephesians 4:15 NASB).

#ShareIt #WeNeedCAKE #ConvictionIsKey

]]> Never let an obstacle become and excuse! https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/03/26/never-let-an-obstacle-become-and-excuse Mon, 26 Mar 2018 18:17:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/03/26/never-let-an-obstacle-become-and-excuse

If you are going to be a trailblazer, a way maker for the next generation; if you are going to leave a legacy, if you are going to posses the fullness of your inheritance in Christ you will have to break-through! Breakthrough the obstacles of accusations, lack, rejection, troubles, slander, threats, self-disqualification, hate, being counted out, and fear!

There are many Biblical Heroes that bear witness to us that with God Breakthrough in any situation is possible! Even when the obstacles seemed like a good excuse to withdraw, they remained on course. God gave them "umph" to get through and in every situation they had victory. It is in you like it was in them!

Abraham became the Father of the Promise...

-He had to break-through the self-disqualification of "being old."

Gideon became a Judge in Israel...

-He had to break-through the stigma of insignificance, fear, and self-disqualification.

David became King of Israel...

-He had to break-through rejection, threats, and being counted out.

Nehemiah became the Governor over Judah...

-He had to break-through the threats and the accusations of his enemies.

Joseph became a great leader in Egypt...

-He had to break-through abandonment, hate, slander, lack, and accusations.

-Daniel brought honor and glory to the name of God in Babylon...

He had to break-through the slander, hate, threats, and troubles.

It is too easy to surrender at the first encounter of resistance. But you have been made for more. There is more fuel in you, there is more fight in you. The Kingdom DNA that flows through your veins and the faith that you posses are the power behind your fight. Obstacles can detour you or they can make you stronger, versatile, and innovative.

Let nothing stop you! Let nothing stand in your way!! Never let an obstacle become an excuse! You can breakthrough, take hold of what is yours; leave a legacy of honor!

#NoExcuses #Authority #Faith #TrailBlazers #WayMakers #Legacy #Breakthrough

]]> Being Single & Unashamed https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/03/06/being-single-unashamed Tue, 06 Mar 2018 18:19:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/03/06/being-single-unashamed

This statement is initially clever and cute. It is also close to being borderline ignorance (Shirt slogan) that can serve as an unnecessary defense mechanism for those that somehow think that being "single" is something to be ashamed of - It's not! Parts of the culture in general have stigmatized this status and in response single people treat singleness as a rare disease.

I get it, having this kind of statement (Shirt slogan) at one's disposal seems to ease the familial, cultural, and self-imposed pressures. But, to be honest it only makes the person seem out of touch with reality and God's perfect plan when they suggest that a proper relationship with the Lord is a substitute for marriage. If you are single, you are blessed in a different way. Every believer, married, single, or engaged should have a relationship with Jesus. Your relationship with Jesus is not and should not be a substitute for an intimate relationship with the person that you are destined to be with, the person that will compliment the blessings that is your life.

Beloved, there is no need to defend your singleness. "Being Single and Unashamed" represents a state and an attitude. The state is the relationship status and the attitude is how you respond to that status - it should always be positive and humble. Family and friends will sometimes push the envelope on inquiring about your relationship status. However, never react with negative attitudes or declarations that are filled with pride, resentment, or shame. Unwise words can distract you and worse they can create unwanted delays. You are blessed - act like it, walk like it, talk like it! Don't rush it! Don't deny or despise your singleness, you are in the waiting and The Lord is perfecting you for your divine destiny.

God's plans are perfect. Don't waste time defending your status, spend it in preparing to be the wife or husband that God is calling you to be. Embrace this season and draw closer to the Lord. Let Him sharpen you, shape you, and pull you out of your comfort zone; outside of that place of comfort is where the Man or Woman of your dreams awaits.

"God's plans are higher than our plans and His ways Higher than ours" (paraphrased).

]]> Kingdom Minded https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/03/02/kingdom-minded Fri, 02 Mar 2018 18:20:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2018/03/02/kingdom-minded

We have all heard the saying, "so heavenly minded to be any earthly good." I agree to a certain point, but can the opposite be true? Can someone be "so earthly minded to be any heavenly good?"

A person that is "too heavenly minded" forgets "earthly purpose," which can consist of:

- Being a light in a World of darkness (Matthew 5:14-16)

- Displaying and demonstrating the Love of God to the World (Mark 12:31)

- Proclaiming the Gospel in Truth and in Grace (Mark 16:15)

- Pursuing peace (Jeremiah 29:7)

- Seeking Justice, Loving Mercy, and Walking Humbly (Micah 6:8)

The person that is "too earthly minded" forgets their heavenly purpose, which can consist of: - Glorifying God in ALL things (1 Corinth 10:31)

- Loving and Living for God at ALL times (Proverbs 8:17)

- Not becoming entangled with the ways of this World (1 John 2:15-17)

- Striving to obey His Word (John 14:23)

- Making Worship a way of life (Romans 12:1-2)

Believers/Disciples are called to have a Kingdom Mind. Those with this mind understand that they need to be concerned with the affairs of both Heaven and Earth; doing one without the other is not the way of The Kingdom, it's not Kingdom minded.

Being Heavenly minded keeps us focused on God our Creator and Lord. This focus intensifies the intimacy of our relationship and love for our Heavenly Father above earthly ways and materialism (Colossians 3:1-3). This relationship with God will inspire wholesome earthly mindfulness.

Being Earthly minded causes the compassion of God to flow through us, so that we might be agents of righteousness and biblical change in the world that we live in (Matthew 6:33). This mind promotes the right kind of Love for a World that is in need of a Savior.

I am not suggesting perfection - I am only suggesting that being mindful and caring about both realms (Heaven and Earth) is Kingdom mindedness. We can be both earthly and heavenly good; both Glorify God and are marks of a Kingdom Mind.

Matthew 6:10 "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."

]]> Reverence Is Key https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/10/09/reverence-is-key Mon, 09 Oct 2017 18:21:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/10/09/reverence-is-key

The House of God is a place of worship, fellowship, and engagement. This spectrum has caused some to treat it as a circus platform, where ministers behave like performers. Theatrics is the feel good fuel and playing church is a normality. The primary reason Jesus flipped tables in the Temple was because a space that was dedicated to worship was occupied with distracting activity. This is why He defended His actions by saying, "My house shall be called a house of prayer" (Matthew 21).

Reverence is key. Without it our worship and service is dulled. Playing church, performing at church, or un-repented sin only dulls the atmosphere and can hinder a move of God. However, Reverence does not mean having a somber, lifeless, joyless attitude while attending church. We come to the house of the Lord with gladness (Psalm 122:1), with joy (Psalm 84:1-2 ), with dancing and shouts of praise (Psalm 150), and most importantly with a heart of expectation!

Reverence is to approach anything associated with the worship and glory of God with deep respect and admiration (Psalm 89:7). If it is preaching or teaching, reverence is with a pure heart and humility. If it is ministering worship, it is with direct focus on His Glory. If it is through service it is without complaining. If it is to receive, it is to open your heart to God and become engaged with a holy expectation.

Playing church and a lack of reverence are symptoms of conformity (Matthew 15:8). Breaking the monotony is not in a performance, it is in the heart of truly surrendered worshipers (John 4:23). On the platform and in the pew when there is heart surrendered worship and a holy expectation there will be a Move of God. The Glory of God fills the house and His fire consumes sin, breaks chains, heals the sick, gives peace to the weary, joy to the downcast, revival to the conformed, and breakthrough to the warriors!"

#Reverence #Expectation #PureWorship #Hebrews 12:28-29 #HisGlory

NIV Study Bible, 2011, Grand Rapids: Zondervan.

]]> Grace & Freedom https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/07/04/grace-freedom Tue, 04 Jul 2017 18:23:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/07/04/grace-freedom

(A Kingdom Perspective)

On this 4th of July we celebrate our independence, we celebrate our freedom as Americans. I am grateful for this God-given grace and towards those that have and continue to uphold our American freedom! Happy Independence Day!

In my opinion, being an American is an amazing blessing. However, there is no freedom like the freedom found in Christ our Lord. After receiving Christ, prisoners have declared themselves free while still in physical chains, even citizens of oppressive countries have declared the same, the spiritually oppressed that have been set free sing freedom songs “I am free!”

I am proud to be an American. However, I take greater joy in knowing that I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, a citizen of the Kingdom of Heaven. When Jesus said “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed” (John 8:36), it is a truth that reaches every part of our being – we have been made free by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8). However, when the words grace and freedom are used interchangeably it can lead to confusion or wrong thinking. Understanding the difference will sharpen our thinking, compliment our transformation, and advance our maturity as disciples.

The Difference

I consider myself blessed to have the grace of being called a Christian and the freedom to live like one. It is wise to consider the difference between freedom and grace. Freedom is not grace, but freedom comes from grace.The (abbreviated) theological definition of Grace is - getting what you do not deserve (Grudem), it is to receive a gift that is realized without merit.Freedom is the “state of exemption from the power or control of another” (Webster 1828).Using both terms in a sentence may read like this, “By God’s saving grace, we are free from the power or control of sin.”

I have heard many professing believers describe the activities that they participate in, what they consume, how they dress, the entertainment they choose, or the way that they live, as grace. These are all products of freedom – and in many cases they are referring to freedom from a works based religious system. In some cases, once the person is freed from the yoke of legalism, they erroneously translate their shift from works to grace as “freedom to sin” or as some would call it “libertinism.”

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love” (Galatians 5:13).

Freedom To Error

Our freedom allows us to make decisions on our own and on occasion those decisions will lead to error. Under the New Testament Covenant of Grace we have freedom to error, before you tear your garments and shout out heresy, please read the context. We have freedom to error in the sense that if we miss the mark / commit error - the throne of Grace does not close off on us. Without this freedom we revert back to a system of works. Error in an instant or error for a season does not cut us off – God knows who we are and He delights in helping us grow. After error we continue to have access to the presence of God, to find help in our time of need – to bring us to genuine repentance (Hebrew 4:16).

Unfortunately this idea of Freedom to error (make mistakes) is misinterpreted as “I can do whatever I want.” You can hear it in the undertone of this culture’s sayings, “do you and I will do me,” “do whatever makes you happy,” or my favorite [sarcasm]“only God can judge me.” These attitudes are only recipes for arrested spiritual development.

God did not give us sin by grace. He does not give social alcoholism, cohabitation, profane entertainment, promiscuity, and the like – these things come from a misapplication of freedom. God, by His divine grace has given us power over sin. We have the power to overcome the lure of sin. We have the freedom to walk away from it and the grace to seek God’s pardon when we “miss the mark.”

“Grace is not simply leniency when we have sinned. Grace is the enabling gift of God not to sin. Grace is power, not just pardon” (Piper).

Mercy Is Present

When believers claim that overt-willing-continuous sin is their right by grace, they are wrong. What they are speaking of is their freedom to make decisions based on their own will and not God’s. When the immediate consequences of sin are not present they feel as if it is proof of their “grace”, but what they are really experiencing is the effective mercy of God. When a person is consistent at living how they please under the pretext of grace, what is sustaining them is God’s enduring mercy (Psalm 136).

Mercy is not getting what we deserve – sin deserves consequences. When we error, God in His Goodness displays all the attributes of His Love, especially longsuffering, patience, and slowness to anger. When He displays Mercy towards us it sustains the freedom that we have to access to the Father by Grace to seek forgiveness.

“God’s Grace convicts when we sin and gives us the desire to confess and forsake our sin” (DeMoss, Grissom).

Freedom Has Responsibility

As I mentioned earlier, “I have heard many professing believers describe the activities that they participate in, what they consume, how they dress, the entertainment they choose, or the way that they live as grace.” For the most part I will not argue with what a believer understands they can do with their freedom. The argument is that freedom is not grace; rather it is product of grace. Like all freedoms, Christian Freedom has responsibility.

The Apostle Paul responding to the Corinthian church said, ““I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but not everything is constructive” (1 Corinthians 10:23).

Our practice of freedom should be both beneficial and constructive – it takes a responsible and selfless person to live up to this kind of freedom. Freedom is not always abstaining; it is engaging with prudence. Freedom is not isolation; it is being in community with dignity and decorum. Freedom is not operating in fear, but it is as the Apostle Paul has stated, “power, love and self-discipline” (1 Timothy 1:7), emphasis on “self-discipline.”

True Freedom is

God welcomes sinners into His Kingdom; His intentions are to transform them from the inside out. This transformation inspires us to use our freedom for the glory of God. The Lord is patient and long suffering in this process. God is not looking to exclude anyone who sins, because that would require excluding everyone; we all fall short (Romans 3:23). His desire is to save, by grace, whoever believes on Him (John 3:16). Believers are not perfect, sinless individuals, but they strive to live in their freedom with discretion and responsibility.

When believers live with freedom, discretion, and responsibility the world is intrigued. This intrigue inspires them to inquire or draw near to God. Sadly, it has been said’ “why become a Christian, if they are no different than us.” For the most part, the world understands that Christians are living, breathing human beings that are also capable of mistakes, what is being implied by “they are no different than us,” is that they don't see the God of the Bible reflecting in their lives.

The irony is that some will elect to live in a bubble as a means to prove that they

are the light of the world. This is not necessary; believers have the freedom to enjoy this life just like anyone else. But maturing believers will strive to do so with discretion and responsibility.

Again, true freedom is not using grace as a cover for sin, but it is living free, enjoying life, partaking in all that is good and knowing the proper limits. This includes the freedom to wisely elect the “activities that [we] participate in, what [we] consume, how [we] dress, the entertainment [we] choose, or the way that [we] live” – yet we do so without being controlled by any of them. Grace will give us the freedom and desire to glorify God in all things.

“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12).

Cited

Webster’s Online Dictionary 1828

http://www.desiringgod.org/articl…/grace-is-pardon-and-power

DeMoss, Nancy Leigh, Grissom, Tim Seeking Him: Experiencing the Joy of Personal Revival. (2009). Chicago: Moody

Grudem, Wayne, Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Bible Doctrine: 1994, Grand Rapids: Zondervan

NIV Study Bible, 2011, Grand Rapids: Zondervan.

]]> Why does the Bible warn us to stay away from gossip and to run away from gossipers? https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/06/29/why-does-the-bible-warn-us-to-stay-away-from-gossip-and-to-run-away-from-gossipers Thu, 29 Jun 2017 18:24:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/06/29/why-does-the-bible-warn-us-to-stay-away-from-gossip-and-to-run-away-from-gossipers

It is wicked entertainment (Proverbs 18:8)

It corrupts a person (2 Timothy 2:16) It is among the things that God hates (Proverbs 6:19)

It is destructive and corrupts the speaker and listener (Proverbs 17:4)

It produces hatred (Proverbs 26:20-28).

Gossip is the venom that paralyzes.

It paralyzes purpose.

It paralyzes unity.

It paralyzes peace.

It paralyzes relationships.

It paralyzes transformation.

It paralyzes progress.

This paralysis can affect the gossiper and the unrestrained listener.

The profile of a Gossip:

- A gossip talks too much (Proverbs 10:19)

- A gossip will not flinch at speaking against of his own brother (Psalm 50:19-21)

- A gossip is a busybody

- always talking about another's business (1 Timothy 5:13).

- A gossip hates (Proverbs 26:26).

- A gossip is liar and equivocator.

- A gossip spreads their gossip as "concern." (Proverbs 29:19).

- A gossip separates friends (Proverbs 16:28).

- A gossip prefers to live in offense/unresolved conflict instead of establishing a resolution (Pride).

- A gossip is a fake friend (Psalm 41:6)

- A gossip poses as a defender, they pretend to care about justice.

How can we avoid and/or overcome the venomous impact of gossip/gossipers?

The truth is that everyone has been guilty of some level of gossip, incidental or perpetual. But it is refreshing to discern the wheels of gossip turning and wisely refusing to engage. Wisdom will stop the gossip in mid-sentence and redirect the conversation.

It is honorable to speak with dignity, truth, and decorum. It is better to speak life and to demonstrate respect and love. It is wise to resolve conflict instead of spreading a matter. We should strive for unity instead of discord. We should seek peace and not vindication.

Above all, it is right to love! Love covers, it cares, it is without duplicity, it defends with sincerity, it is not easily offended, love builds up, love speaks truth. Love is above all!

Consider this Biblical counsel:

Proverbs 21:23 Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

James 1:26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless.

Proverbs 20:19 Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets; therefore do not associate with a simple babbler.

Matthew 12:36 I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.

]]> "Social Media - La Comay de esta hora" https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/04/23/social-media-la-comay-de-esta-hora Sun, 23 Apr 2017 18:26:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2017/04/23/social-media-la-comay-de-esta-hora

When the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law brought the adulterous woman to Jesus to be condemned, our Lord did not react as they expected. He stooped down, almost as a gesture to accompany this woman in her moment of shame, and He wrote on the ground. What Jesus wrote is open to much speculation, but when He spoke there is no equivocation on what He meant. Jesus turned His attention to those accusers and invited the one without sin to cast the first stone (see John 8:1-11).

*** "El hecho de mi problema sea publico

No quiere decir que fallando soy el unico Si la diferencia entre tu y yo es que mis cosas las riega la Comay y las tuyas no. .. Pero el que este libre de pecado que me zumbe el primer peñon" El Filósofo ***

It is the product of sinful human nature that those accusers were seeking to boost themselves up at the expense of this woman's failure. But Jesus was not fooled, our Lord knew about their internal and hidden sin. He knew about the adultery and murder in their hearts, about their drunkenness and hidden addictions, and about their lust and dishonest lips.

Sadly, in the hour that we live in, social media can sometimes be the platform for condemnation and negative commentary are the stones that are being used. It is becoming a common place where jeering and gloating over another person's shortcoming is acceptable. But the words of Jesus are fitting even here, "he that is without sin cast the first stone," In a radical way that only The Lord can produce, He gave both the accused and the accusers a way out. His invitation to self examine their own lives before condemning the accused helped them realize that their sins were no different from this woman's. This caused them to drop their stones and turn away from their desire to see her punished. Her sin was ugly, but not unforgivable. Jesus displays His enduring Mercy and everlasting Grace when He turns to this woman and says, "neither do I (condemn you), go and sin no more."

Let me encourage you. Let no one condemn you. If you have missed the mark, bow your head before the Father in Heaven and ask for forgiveness. Let the conviction of the Holy Spirit lead and transform you, but never let another person condemn you. God's Love for you will not fade away at your error and it cannot be undone by stone throwers. Keep your head up, go and sin no more.

"But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8

Translation of Spanish quote: "The fact that my issues are public does not mean that I'm the only one (falling short), the difference between you and me is that my issues are announced by the Comay (Hispanic Gossip TV host) and yours are not ... But the one who is free of sin let them cast the first stone at me" The Philosopher

]]> Outpouring (Pente Praise!) https://luisvergara.org/blog/2014/06/08/outpouring-pente-praise Sun, 08 Jun 2014 18:27:00 +0000 https://luisvergara.org/blog/2014/06/08/outpouring-pente-praise

Pente represents the number of the Lord’s Grace. To give a Pente praise is to praise God for His perfect Grace. He has provided all that we need before we needed it. He is a merciful and wonderful God. Pente is enough! We need a Pentecost praise, not a praise induced by failing dogmatic systems, but a praise that recognizes that His grace is sufficient. Revival will come when the house is placed in order. Before the Lord moved in a glorious way He would command His people “get ready (consecrate yourselves), because tomorrow I will do great things among you.” Get ready, get that place reformed – God is about to do a new thing! (see Joshua 3:5).

Isaiah 45:18, "For thus says the Lord, Who created the heavens, Who is God, Who formed the earth and made it, Who has established it, Who did not create it in vain, Who formed it to be inhabited: "I am the Lord, and there is no other."

God does not create to take a back seat; He creates and intends to reign. His perfect grace, provided man with sufficient authority to rule. He did not place man on earth without the appropriate provision. On the 5th day man had all that he would need to survive; there was sufficiency on earth before there was man. Man arrived with the breath of the Almighty in his loins, having the image and likeness of God. Yet the Lord did not cease to decorate history with the glory of His provision. He gave man enough through the Pentateuch till the Fullness of Christ. The wonders of Pente was promised to His warriors, “Five of you shall chase a hundred, and a hundred of you shall put ten thousand to flight…” He displayed His sufficiency when He multiplied 5 loaves for 5000 men. His Holy Spirit descended on Pentecost and brought revival and 3000 were saved!

Before a paradigm shift, before the Outpouring touches your life, the Lord will be sure to have the right provision in place. He does nothing on a whim, it all has purpose. Reformation is the precursor to revival. The earth was without form and void, there was darkness over the face of the deep and the Spirit of God hovered over the earth. Something was about to happen. What was once in chaos and empty, was about to be reformed and filled! He is hovering over your life waiting for you to invite Jesus in! He is waiting for you to move in faith and declare the glory of Pentecost for yourself!

The Holy Spirit is alive and actively Outpouring empowerment, gifts, and marvelous wonders on those who believe! His Glory will not cease! An absence of the Spirit’s outpouring in the believer’s life has caused what was sturdy and functional to become weak and dysfunctional. Make no mistake the Spirit is over you and over your household, waiting to bring reform and to restore His glory in your life! The Lord wants to and is willing to revive what was once dead, bring form to that which was destroyed, and strength to what has become weak. For this reason the Outpouring of Pentecost has come, to reestablish and reassert your authority and dominion. He came so that you may have a place to stand and stand with power!

You are about to experience a paradigm shift! The deformed will be reformed and revival will fall on His Church, the young sons and daughters will take the reins, the older men and woman will march in the spirit of Caleb. They will refuse to go out without a fight. They will speak in the Words of their Creator, “Let there Be!” They will declare - Let there be healing! Let there be life! Let there be Glory! Let there be breakthrough! Let there be revival!

His Goodness is worthy of a Pente Praise!!!

(Pente Praise Devotional: Day 50 of 50 days of Prayer, Fasting ,and Action)

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