We (#iamjustthepen) have recently begun a new writing project focused on the Christian’s second most deadly enemy: the world. The reference passage for the project is Romans 12:2 –

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

With the storms and chaos of this decade threatening to intensify (think presidential elections and artificial intelligence), it is now more important than ever to know God’s perfect will. The dichotomy of “conformed” and “transformed” represents a fork in the road where everyone will be forced to choose between this temporal world and eternity.

Furthermore, transformation from our existing individual and corporate conformity with the world will become a major issue for all Christians and Christian institutions. The call to “come out of her” will intensify throughout the remainder of this decade.

In our last blog article, we stressed the importance of motivation for our initial escape and continued progress through unchartered waters of transformation, arguing that the destination for Christians offered the most powerful inspiration. Here, we offer a couple of additional reasons for going there.

1. To enjoy the good work God created and saved us to walk in (Ephesians 2:8-10). Transformation prepares us to participate in God’s good work.
2. To see God’s glory (Matthew 5:16). Good work is God’s work, work so undeniably God that men will not be confused about its source, work that is inexplicably supernatural.
3. To experience the promises of Psalm 37:6 – He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday – and Isaiah 58:8-9:

   Then your light shall break forth like the morning,
   Your healing shall spring forth speedily,
   And your righteousness shall go before you;
   The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.
   Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer;
   You shall cry, and He will say, “Here I am.”
   

Perhaps it is so obvious we have forgotten: The promises of God are out there. He has called us to come, and He is enough. “Follow Me” does not mean “Stay where you are, and I will come to you.”

God bless you with an overwhelming desire to stop settling for less and to get on with the journey.

Have a strong day in the Lord,

Rob

#iamjustthepen

Ministry Updates and Prayer Requests

My research for the new writing project has led me to believe we are living in a Kairos moment of great challenge and opportunity. Here are three reasons I am do convinced:

1. The Decade of Discord – transition points for the socio-economic and institutional cycles have merged in the 2020s (George Friedman). We can now add technological and philosophical upheaval, as well. We are approximately one-third of the way through this chaotic decade. What will the Church look like on the other side?
2. The Meaning Crisis – with religion long having been replaced by the now rejected Modernity, people do not know where to turn for meaning and purpose. The kingdom of God has much to offer, but is the Church prepared for the opportunity?
3. The Remnant’s Return – those exiled to Babylon (God giving them what they asked for) are coming out of her in singles and small groups. Who will lead them into the kingdom?

I am hoping to search out these BIG topics with several other similarly interested Christians, to understand how God might use us to address them in our spheres of influence. Please pray for our understanding and discernment.

The Lord is using inLight to encourage, edify, and equip several groups facing transformational adventures. Two are going through the stress of leaving a church they have loved for many years. Please pray for their courage and discernment.

Please pray for the workplace leaders who have joined the Douglas County Trusted Advisor Forum. God has called, positioned, and authorized them to help lead the Church out of its depressed state.

Please join me in prayer for our brothers and sisters in India, who are under tremendous persecution from the radical Hindus there. Please pray with me for their encouragement, protection, and faithfulness in the face of severe trial and tribulation. 

Continue to pray for the workplace leaders you know. And let me know how I can help you minister to them (we have tons of resources for you to share).

Beth and I are now hosting a prayer meeting in our home – the first ministry we have done together since Beth’s retirement, and the first offering of our home to the local church community. Please continue to pray – particularly regarding our ministry to our adult children (and our wonderful, beautiful grandchild).

Partnering with inLight Consulting

God’s purpose for inLight Consulting is beyond human capability. We are desperately dependent on Him; and would have it no other way. We are grateful for the continued support of those that trust God to use this ministry to further His kingdom. Please pray for our vision and mission.

Share the truths you find here with the leaders in your life; it will make them free.

God bless you with wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him; and may He give you the grace and courage to walk in the work He has prepared for you.

Humbly yours and forever His,

Rob