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Monthly Archives: February 2024

Please Pray for Us

14 Feb
Please Pray for Us

As some of you who follow me may know, a couple of years ago my wife and I began caring for my parents who were in their nineties. We wanted to be a blessing to them.

Last March, my father went home to be with the Lord. He had cancer. He passed peacefully in his sleep.

At this point we’re caring for my mother. She’s 91 and has dementia which seems to be progressing rapidly.

Recently, she fainted multiple times, causing us to call 911. They admitted her into the hospital, where she immediately began hallucinating. They found some issues with her heart and are currently trying to stabilize her.

The problem is that she will probably be too weak to walk when this is over. Our hope is to get her into a rehab facility. Then, we want to continue caring for her at home.

This may require hospice services since she may need 24-hour care. The big issue is that her dementia makes her unaware that she is no longer capable of walking around and caring for herself the way she used to.

Currently, we’re in the process of changing the setup of our home to make it a safe place for her. It requires a lot of time and effort.

The reason I’m sharing this is so that first of all, you can pray for our family to have the grace to weather this season.

Secondly, I needed to explain this because I am temporarily suspending this blog so that I can prioritize my needs at home. I’m sure you will understand this.

So, for I while, I will no longer be publishing these posts. Please keep us in your prayers, and may God continue to bless you.

Blessings!

Pastor Nick Zaccardi

 
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Posted by on February 14, 2024 in Newsletters, Prayer

 

Pray Before Speaking

12 Feb
Pray Before Speaking

As we go through the book of Colossians, we’ve come to chapter 4. This is the final chapter of this short letter. You may want to read this chapter before continuing with this post.

In Colossians, chapter 4, Paul is giving some final exhortations and then he greets a number of people who will be receiving this. His first statement is about prayer.

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Colossians 4:2 NIV

Paul first gives us a general call to prayer. He gives us three important aspects of prayer. Devotion, watchfulness, and thankfulness. This is what our prayer times should look like.

The word, devote, means to be diligent. Prayer is not something to be neglected. It’s the most important part of your day, as a believer.

The Creator of the universe has given us total access to His throne. How can we neglect that great gift.

But, more than that, we need to be watchful, awake and alert. Our Lord is not simply a God who listens. He wants to speak to us as well. We need to be attentive for His voice in our spirit.

Finally, the apostle talks about thankfulness. That must be our overall attitude towards God. So often we stress over the little stuff. We get upset because we didn’t get a good parking space at the mall.

Don’t let that carryover into your times with the Lord. Come with a grateful attitude for the grace He has bestowed on you.

And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should.

Colossians 4:3-4 NIV

Then Paul exhorts them to pray for him. Specifically, so that he can proclaim Christ effectively. That’s important.

Instead of criticizing what church leadership says and does, we need to be praying for them. Pray for open doors of ministry. Pray for the effectiveness of what they say and do. Pray that they have clear direction and wisdom from God.

Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Colossians 4:5-6 NIV

In this final part, Paul doesn’t specifically mention prayer, but I think it’s implied. How else can we walk in wisdom? James tells us that it comes through prayer (James 1:5).

If we start in the place of prayer, then we have the wisdom and grace that Paul talks about. Too often we answer out of our own thoughts or emotions. That usually causes more problems than it solves.

This is the best advice Paul could give us. Prayer first. When we prepare our hearts with prayer, the day goes a lot smoother.

In the final part of Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he greets a number of people. In part of his encouragement, he mentions their pastor again.

Epaphras, who is one of you and a servant of Christ Jesus, sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.

Colossians 4:12 NIV

Prayer changes things. We need to be diligent to see all of God’s will accomplished in us. So, the book of Colossians closes with a clear call to prayer.

Question: How consistent is your prayer life?

© 2024 Nick Zaccardi

 
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Posted by on February 12, 2024 in Leadership, Ministry, Prayer, Prayer in the Spirit

 

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Working for Christ

09 Feb
Working for Christ

We’re continuing through the book of Colossians. Paul is winding down to his conclusion. He has talked about relationships in the home. Now he goes to the workplace.

Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God.

Colossians 3:22 NKJV

First of all, let me say a word about slavery. There are those who wrongly accuse the Scripture of condoning slavery. This is not an accurate view.

At the time this was written, slavery was a normal part of society. It existed either by forced slavery, or with some, a voluntary slavery to pay off a debt.

The Scripture acknowledges the existence of slavery. Here, Paul writes to show the attitude needed to serve Christ if someone found themselves in that position.

The teaching against this institution is found in the letter to Philemon. But I’ll get to that in some future posts.

For now, we can apply this teaching to the employer-employee relationship. In most cases, workers are under a contractual obligation to work certain hours for a certain amount of money. Like it or not, that’s a form of voluntary servitude.

If you notice, I didn’t use my normal translation for the above verse. That’s because it leaves out an important phrase that’s in the original.

That phrase is, according to the flesh. There’s a qualification to us obeying those over us in all things. If I’m ordered to do something that’s against my spiritual nature, I don’t have to obey.

That being said, there’s more to it than simply being disobedient. I should first try and reason with my boss about an alternative way to accomplish their goals. It’s all about attitudes.

That’s especially true as Paul talks about not just doing good work while I’m being watched. I need to understand that I represent Christ. I’m under the Lord’s watchful eye all the time.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.

Colossians 3:23-25 NIV

We live with the knowledge that ultimately, our rewards (or lack thereof) come from the Lord. Christ is the One that we’re truly working for.

There may be some things that I can get away with here on earth. My natural supervisor only sees so much.

But my heavenly Supervisor is on a whole different level. I know that He’s with me at all times, in all things. Christ is the person who I’m really trying to please. That knowledge should spur me on to my best work.

Of course, employers don’t get a free pass.

Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.

Colossians 4:1 NIV

We all need to bring this understanding with us into the workplace. We are Christians not just at home or in church. We represent Christ in every environment or position we find ourselves in.

Question: How well do you represent Christ in your workplace?

© 2024 Nick Zaccardi

 
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Posted by on February 9, 2024 in Ministry, Spiritual Walk

 

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Spiritual Relationships

07 Feb
Spiritual Relationships

We’re looking at Paul’s letter to the Colossians. He now starts a new section. He’s giving some final exhortations before concluding.

In the past, Paul has written about family issues in detail. Now, he’s simply reminding them of his teaching. Paul makes a statement about each member of the family.

Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.

Colossians 3:18 NIV

He is saying to wives that they need to make a choice to view themselves as under their husband in rank. This is not something the husband can force. It’s a matter of the heart.

This doesn’t imply that the wife is inferior to the husband. It’s also not a matter of blind obedience. It’s about what’s fitting – proper – in the Lord.

Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.

Colossians 3:19 NIV

To husbands, he says that they must make a choice to actively, positively participate in the lives of their wives. In this way, the husband is not striving to please himself, but doing the best for his wife’s sake.

You’re not to be harsh. You’re not ordering them as their lord. The wife is not a slave to the husband. You’re in this together to make the best family environment.

Children, obey your parents in everything, for this pleases the Lord.

Colossians 3:20 NIV

When it comes to the children, we get to the word, obey. Just a note; this is NOT the same word as submit, above. The children’s place is a place of obedience.

All throughout Scripture it’s clear that children are to obey their parents. I would even say that if you’re a single adult living with your parents, then you still need to follow the “house rules”.

Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.

Colossians 3:21 NIV

I believe this is more about dealing with older children. As they mature, they begin to question certain things. That’s when we must learn to communicate.

They may ask, “Why?”

“Because I’m the father and I said so.” is not an appropriate answer. As I parent, I need to show some respect for them as a thinking person.

The word, discouraged in this verse, literally means to be without passion. There are too many people in this generation who have grown up passionless. They spend their lives trying to self medicate with entertainment, social media, alcohol, or any of a thousand other things that can fill their time.

This is why the home is a sacred place. For believers, it should be a small picture of the church of Jesus Christ.

Christ is the head of the home and each of the members are striving to fulfill the corporate calling. Yes, every home has a calling. Every member of the family has a part to play.

That’s why how we treat one another is so important. Selfishness by any one member can bring the whole structure down. That’s why so many homes are in turmoil.

As believers, our goal should be a home where Christ is portrayed in all of His glory. It should be an example to the world of how life should be.

Question: How well do you fulfill your spiritual role in your family?

© 2024 Nick Zaccardi

 
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Posted by on February 7, 2024 in Relationships

 

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In the Name of Jesus

05 Feb
In the Name of Jesus

We’re continuing through Paul’s letter to the Colossians. He about to wrap up a section where he talked about our corporate walk as the body of Christ on earth.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17 NIV

Think about what Paul says in this short statement. Do everything in the name of Jesus. It doesn’t matter if it’s speaking, doing the dishes or driving the car. We must do it all in His name.

Many believers don’t know what this means. When we talk about “in Jesus’ name”, it’s usually in regards to prayer. Most of us use the formula of tacking on “…in Jesus’ name, amen.” at the end of our prayers.

Actually, doing things “in Jesus’ name” is part of a lifestyle of service to God. We need to see it as more than just a last line for a prayer. It means living our lives as if Jesus Himself were living through us.

We sometimes get the idea that Jesus only wants to be involved in the religious parts of our lives. That kind of thinking couldn’t be more wrong. We are, by nature, spiritual beings. We carry the spiritual with us wherever we go, whatever we do.

The challenging part is learning to cultivate the spirit no matter what the activity. That’s the goal of these posts. I want us to see our daily activities in a new light. We are representatives of Jesus Christ.

But, we also need to realize that it’s not always an easy assignment. The name of Jesus Christ is becoming more and more hated throughout society. You can talk about anything else, but not the Lord.

We need to come to the realization that it’s not us that the hatred is aimed at. It’s the name of Jesus that’s the target. We just happen to be the bearers of that precious name.

There’s a reason why this is the case. The ruler of this present age hates that name. He knows that his time is short and that soon the King will come to take His rightful place.

Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:9-11 NIV

This is the reason that society hates that name. They may not know why this is so. There’s just an underlying move to do away with its impact on the lives of individuals. This even includes using this name as a swear word to try and water down its power.

The good news is that the name of Jesus Christ will never be defeated. It’s the name that’s above all other names. For us, it’s all that we need.

The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.

Proverbs 18:10 NIV

The same name that’s so hated in society is our greatest victory. If we will hold fast to that name, we’ll have the power we need to stand strong in the faith.

I don’t have to fear what’s ahead. The future may be uncertain, but I know the One who has already been there. If I put my trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, then I have nothing to fear, and everything to gain.

The more time you spend in the Lord’s presence, the more power you’ll receive to walk in the fullness of that name. Then you’ll be a clear representative of Christ to the world around you.

Question: How has the name of Jesus changed your life?

© 2024 Nick Zaccardi

 
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Posted by on February 5, 2024 in Anointing, Ministry, Power of God, Spiritual Walk

 

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Singing Together

02 Feb
Singing Together

As we’ve been going through Paul’s letter to the Colossian church, we see that he’s talking about our spiritual relationships. The Apostle is exhorting us to be led by the Holy Spirit in our dealings with each other.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

Colossians 3:16 NIV

As we allow the Spirit to engraft God’s Word in us, it begins to overflow and brings glory to God in our meetings. Singing is one of the greatest ways to praise the Lord. It shows our gratefulness to Him.

There are two main ways that we can focus our singing. The first is probably the most obvious.

Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.

Psalms 96:1-2 NIV

Our music can be directed toward God in the praise of His glory. This is an important part of our relationship with the Lord. Singing His praises transports us into His presence.

I get so upset when believers view the praise and worship time as merely the “warm-up act” for the pastor’s preaching. Nothing could be further from the truth. As we sing praise and thanksgiving to God, we’re brought into a deeper spiritual place. We become more open to the move of the Holy Spirit.

Praising God in song is an important part of a spiritual walk.

The second aim of music may surprise some of you.

Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord…

Ephesians 5:19 NIV

Our music can be directed toward each other. There are many people (and I used to be one of them) that dislike the use of songs that are not directed toward God. This verse clearly shows the necessity of both types of music.

There are times when we need to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to one another. Why is that so important? Look back at the verse we started with.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.

Colossians 3:16 NIV

It’s through music that the Word of Christ can live richly in you. Singing music that’s directed at each other is a form of teaching and admonishing. As we sing, we learn.

This is an incredible truth. When my children were small, they learned all the states and their capitals because they were put to music. How much more important is it to get the Word into our hearts?

Through music, the Word of Christ can enter our lives and stay with us. That’s why I’m so adamant about not singing songs that contain bad doctrine. Too many Christians believe error because they learned it in their music.

We give praise to our God. We teach and admonish each other. Both of these can and should be done through the music of God’s people.

Question: Is there a song that opened up your eyes to a spiritual truth?

© 2024 Nick Zaccardi

 
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Posted by on February 2, 2024 in Relationships, Spiritual Walk, The Church, Word of God, Worship

 

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