Matthew 16: 13-20 — Focus Verse – “He said to them, ‘But who do you say that I am?'”

I was on a flight back from New Orleans listening to Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis and heard the famous trilemma of Christ (choice between three alternatives)…

Colossians 3:8 — “But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth.”

For about five weeks now, I have been having a pity party. It hasn’t been one that people can notice, but in my heart, I have been whining like a two-year-old. My lip is sticking out, and I have been pouting. But at the same time, I have been blessed! Ever been there?

God who delivered David from a bear, a lion and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:37 has also delivered me from the dirt and more turmoil in life called busyness, greed, and selfishness.  God’s role is evident in your life and mine.

I was seeking happiness and joy in all the wrong places.  I sadly felt busyness was associated with success, and I wanted everyone to see I was busy. I found approval through admiration and joy through the next best gadget.

Does how we speak matter? The scriptures are clear.

Ephesians 4:29 — “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

Today’s lesson is about the tearing down and building up of others. 

Men, have you lost direction? Have you lost your passion or zeal? Are you confused and don’t know what to do? Do you feel like you are stuck? Do you want to change? 

I can relate. 

What is Code Purple? 

It’s the overlap of blue and pink. It’s where men and women interact with each other in a way that may be different than the way they are used to being. The Blue Man shows up to hear the problem, dole out a fix and get back to the game. The Pink Woman shows up desiring to talk things through and wanting you to listen. Where they overlap is what we call, CODE PURPLE.