If you read this blog yesterday, you know that the Christian battle is not with the people by whom we have been offended or attacked, rather it is with Satan and his minions. While that thought gives us battle direction, it may also give us cause for concern: How am I supposed to take on Satan in all his power?
Answer: You're not. Come again - how is my battle with him but I'm not taking on his power? Because, while Satan is still active in this world, he does not have the power he once wielded. Remember Paul's statement in Ephesians 6:12 that "our battle is with the spiritual forces"? Jesus "disarmed the powers and authorities...triumphing over them by the cross" (Col 2:15).
Satan's power is diminished or bound at this time. Our job is not to defeat or disarm, rather we are to "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7). We resist him as we submit to God's will in our lives, as we go to the Father in prayer, as we forgive others, as we minister to the hurting and lost - our battle against Satan is a war against our own selfishness and self-reliance, which he tempts us to give in to time after time.
Jesus won the victory over Satan at the cross. Satan's iron-grip on the world has been broken but he has not given up his efforts to turn as many as time will allow away from the Father and into his camp of self-interest and self-will. Though he is a captive, he is able to take others captive with him through deceit and temptation. He is still "a roaring lion looking for someone to devour" (1 Pet 5:8) as his power of deception is great.
However, the truth is more powerful and if you arm yourself with God's word, "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:32).
Jus' Sayn.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
Love Your Enemies?
It's there, we may not like it but "love your enemies" is right there in Matthew 5:44. Jesus did, even as his enemies were cursing and mocking him upon the crossed they had nailed him: "Father forgive them..." (Luke 23:34).
Why? How? Where is the sense in loving those who seek your downfall or destruction? The sense is in the heavenly realms. Those who appear to be our enemies are not really our foes but captives of the Enemy, unwittingly doing his work The rest of Luke 23:34 above reads, "...for they know not what they do."
Paul clarifies this truth in Ephesians 6:12, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
People who seek harm or I'll for another are unwitting pawns in the hands of their captive, the devil or, at the least, their desire or evil thought is held hostage by him, which is why Christians are to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Cor 10:5). The marching orders for the church is to storm the "gates of hell [which] will not prevail against it" (Matt 16:18 KJV).
Those "enemies" and/or their thoughts are held captive by the Enemy and need redemption not retaliation. Our job is not to punish - that is God's: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay" (Rom 12:19) - our job is to "overcome evil with good" (vs 21).
If were were just physical, earthly beings, it would make sense to destroy our enemies. But as spiritual, heavenly beings, it makes perfect, godly sense to seek to reclaim a lost soul, striking not the captive but the Enemy. Take the battle to where it belongs - take it to the gates of hell itself and release the captive by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Jus' Proclaiming!
Why? How? Where is the sense in loving those who seek your downfall or destruction? The sense is in the heavenly realms. Those who appear to be our enemies are not really our foes but captives of the Enemy, unwittingly doing his work The rest of Luke 23:34 above reads, "...for they know not what they do."
Paul clarifies this truth in Ephesians 6:12, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."
People who seek harm or I'll for another are unwitting pawns in the hands of their captive, the devil or, at the least, their desire or evil thought is held hostage by him, which is why Christians are to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ" (2 Cor 10:5). The marching orders for the church is to storm the "gates of hell [which] will not prevail against it" (Matt 16:18 KJV).
Those "enemies" and/or their thoughts are held captive by the Enemy and need redemption not retaliation. Our job is not to punish - that is God's: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay" (Rom 12:19) - our job is to "overcome evil with good" (vs 21).
If were were just physical, earthly beings, it would make sense to destroy our enemies. But as spiritual, heavenly beings, it makes perfect, godly sense to seek to reclaim a lost soul, striking not the captive but the Enemy. Take the battle to where it belongs - take it to the gates of hell itself and release the captive by the power of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Jus' Proclaiming!
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Two Or More
The Prophet Malachi wrote, "those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard" (3:16). This is very similar verbiage as found in Matthew 18:20, "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them."
I often here the latter passage used to support the thesis that it only takes two to constitute a quorum for worship. But in neither passage is worship the object - it is unity or coming together in one spirit as opposed to being at odds or being a spiritual Lone Ranger.
This union of spirits could have worship application, but worship can just as easily be enjoined alone as did the apostle John in exile on the Isle of Patmus, Paul in the desert of Arabia or Jesus in the wilderness. But what can't be done alone, what we need to come together to accomplish is fellowship and encouragement: "Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves...but come together to encourage one another..." (Heb 10:25).
We need like-minded Christians with whom to share our troubles, open our hearts and bear our souls. When we face marital strife, family discord, financial meltdown, whatever - we need fellow Christians to lean on and perhaps be vulnerable with, "confess your sins to each other and pray for one another so that you might be healed" (Jas 5:16).
All you "I don't need to go to church, I can worship by myself and take care myself" might want to reconsider that position. You might want to ask yourself why Jesus went to the cross to "build My church" (Matt 16:16), if it wasn't needed.
Jus' Sayn.
I often here the latter passage used to support the thesis that it only takes two to constitute a quorum for worship. But in neither passage is worship the object - it is unity or coming together in one spirit as opposed to being at odds or being a spiritual Lone Ranger.
This union of spirits could have worship application, but worship can just as easily be enjoined alone as did the apostle John in exile on the Isle of Patmus, Paul in the desert of Arabia or Jesus in the wilderness. But what can't be done alone, what we need to come together to accomplish is fellowship and encouragement: "Do not forsake the assembling of yourselves...but come together to encourage one another..." (Heb 10:25).
We need like-minded Christians with whom to share our troubles, open our hearts and bear our souls. When we face marital strife, family discord, financial meltdown, whatever - we need fellow Christians to lean on and perhaps be vulnerable with, "confess your sins to each other and pray for one another so that you might be healed" (Jas 5:16).
All you "I don't need to go to church, I can worship by myself and take care myself" might want to reconsider that position. You might want to ask yourself why Jesus went to the cross to "build My church" (Matt 16:16), if it wasn't needed.
Jus' Sayn.
Monday, October 28, 2013
Look To The Rock
I watched the news yesterday. Guess what? It was all bad! Go figure. What with terrorists, armed lunatics, economic lunacy, climate change or climate change politics (you decide), super bugs, Obama Scare (er, uh, Care), identity thieves, identified thieves (synonym for politicians), etc. - what chance do we have? According to the doom and gloom crowd, not much, if any.
However, according to the Word, it is foolishness to listen to the nay sayers and fear mongers. Listen instead to the prophet Isaiah, "Who are you that you fear mere mortals...that you forget the Lord your Maker, who stretches out the heavens and who lays the foundations of the earth, that you live in constant terror every day…" (51:12, 13)?
Isaiah has a much better source for future hope: "Look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn" (51:1). Jesus uses the same imagery in Luke 6:46-49, in telling the parable of the wise man who built his house upon the rock and it withstood the storm compared to the foolish man who built upon the sand and was washed away.
If your life is built upon the Rock, Jesus Christ, you need not fear the future for God's got this. Therefore, instead of listening to the gloomy forecasts with trepidation, look to the Rock in assurance. If your life is built on other than that Rock, you might want to worry or better yet, rebuild on the solid Rock of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Jus' Sayn.
However, according to the Word, it is foolishness to listen to the nay sayers and fear mongers. Listen instead to the prophet Isaiah, "Who are you that you fear mere mortals...that you forget the Lord your Maker, who stretches out the heavens and who lays the foundations of the earth, that you live in constant terror every day…" (51:12, 13)?
Isaiah has a much better source for future hope: "Look to the rock from which you were cut and to the quarry from which you were hewn" (51:1). Jesus uses the same imagery in Luke 6:46-49, in telling the parable of the wise man who built his house upon the rock and it withstood the storm compared to the foolish man who built upon the sand and was washed away.
If your life is built upon the Rock, Jesus Christ, you need not fear the future for God's got this. Therefore, instead of listening to the gloomy forecasts with trepidation, look to the Rock in assurance. If your life is built on other than that Rock, you might want to worry or better yet, rebuild on the solid Rock of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Jus' Sayn.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
The Heart of The Father
In the parable of the Prodigal Son found in Luke 15:11-32, the older son stayed in the Father's house and faithfully worked in the Father's fields, but did not share the Father's heart or truly care about the Father's pain or joy - he was much more concerned with his own wants and desires.
The older son saw how broken the Father was when the younger son turned his back on him and walked away. He knew how the Father grieved over a son that was lost. When the prodigal returned, he could see how his Father's heart was lifted in joy. But the older son neither grieved with the Father's loss or rejoiced with his gain. The older son could only think of himself, how he felt, what he wanted. Forget the prodigal and forget the Father, what about me?
Do you grieve over those who turn away from God and are lost? Do you rejoice with those who return after they have perhaps selfishly ruined their own lives before hitting bottom and then coming back? Do you celebrate the attention given to those who repent while no celebration is thrown for your years of grinding it out in the trenches?
The Father's heart goes out to all His children but there is a rush of joy over one who was lost but now is found; over one who was dead but now is alive. If you ever had a child who ran away and was recovered or thought dead but was found, you would rejoice too. If you had the Father's heart,you would rejoice over every lost sinner who returns to the Father's house - even that ornery old cuss, that loud mouth biggot or that drunken so-n-so.
Does your heart break over the lost and rejoice over the found? Or, does your heart need tuning, do you need to turn to the Father yourself, seeking "the same mindset as Christ Jesus" (Phil 2:5)?
Jus' Askn.
The older son saw how broken the Father was when the younger son turned his back on him and walked away. He knew how the Father grieved over a son that was lost. When the prodigal returned, he could see how his Father's heart was lifted in joy. But the older son neither grieved with the Father's loss or rejoiced with his gain. The older son could only think of himself, how he felt, what he wanted. Forget the prodigal and forget the Father, what about me?
Do you grieve over those who turn away from God and are lost? Do you rejoice with those who return after they have perhaps selfishly ruined their own lives before hitting bottom and then coming back? Do you celebrate the attention given to those who repent while no celebration is thrown for your years of grinding it out in the trenches?
The Father's heart goes out to all His children but there is a rush of joy over one who was lost but now is found; over one who was dead but now is alive. If you ever had a child who ran away and was recovered or thought dead but was found, you would rejoice too. If you had the Father's heart,you would rejoice over every lost sinner who returns to the Father's house - even that ornery old cuss, that loud mouth biggot or that drunken so-n-so.
Does your heart break over the lost and rejoice over the found? Or, does your heart need tuning, do you need to turn to the Father yourself, seeking "the same mindset as Christ Jesus" (Phil 2:5)?
Jus' Askn.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
Spiritual Revitalization
Regardless of how intense or excitedly we begin our walk of faith, there are times when we seem to run dry, when our spiritual fervor is more of a flop. Distractions of life, busyness, influence of other or events of life; whatever - our spirituality ebbs and our relationship with God cools.
Even the pillars of faith like Moses, Elijah and Peter struggled with their weakened humanity in this way. I recall reading Mother Teresa's confession (someone who always seemed to walk close to God) of how much doubt she struggled with. It is not your problem - It is the problem of humanity.
So, bookstores are filled with self-help books to allow you to get refocused, re-centered, back on track, become the best you ever - whatever. But the trouble is you are not in control of the distance between you and God, you do not have the power to overcome the gap. Many try more prayer, more study, more giving, more...
But what we need, the only thing that will truly close the gap, is more God. We accomplish that only by asking Him to close the gap for “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them …" (Jn 6:44). Looking to God will involve prayer, study of His word. Worship, etc., but only if we are humbly seeking His will and power in our lives. Your great prayers, much study and impressive acts of service are of no value if they are your efforts rather than His work in you.
What I am getting at is the focus of your efforts. Are you focusing on what you can do or what God can do? The biblical message is clear, "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is" (Col 3:1). Where is your heart and your focus set?
Jus' Askn.
Even the pillars of faith like Moses, Elijah and Peter struggled with their weakened humanity in this way. I recall reading Mother Teresa's confession (someone who always seemed to walk close to God) of how much doubt she struggled with. It is not your problem - It is the problem of humanity.
So, bookstores are filled with self-help books to allow you to get refocused, re-centered, back on track, become the best you ever - whatever. But the trouble is you are not in control of the distance between you and God, you do not have the power to overcome the gap. Many try more prayer, more study, more giving, more...
But what we need, the only thing that will truly close the gap, is more God. We accomplish that only by asking Him to close the gap for “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them …" (Jn 6:44). Looking to God will involve prayer, study of His word. Worship, etc., but only if we are humbly seeking His will and power in our lives. Your great prayers, much study and impressive acts of service are of no value if they are your efforts rather than His work in you.
What I am getting at is the focus of your efforts. Are you focusing on what you can do or what God can do? The biblical message is clear, "set your hearts on things above, where Christ is" (Col 3:1). Where is your heart and your focus set?
Jus' Askn.
Friday, October 25, 2013
Watch and See
Whatever party you belong to and whatever promises you've heard or programs launched, unless your head is in the sand or you are totally insulated from the downturn in society, you know things aren't going very well and don't look promising anytime soon.
Millions have lost jobs and millions have dropped out of the labor pool. Millions have lost or are losing their homes. Gun-free zones are becoming killing fields. Towns like Piney, AR and cities like Detroit, MI are drying up. Islamic terrorists are still spreading violence. The Christian ten bents upon which country was built are still being assaulted while pagan and Islamic strongholds grow.
While you may not be surprised at the innefictiveness of our government to accomplish anything except its own enlargement and the self-promotion of its members, you may be wondering why God is silent, why he is not doing anything in response to his children's suffering, national decay or to our prayers. Or, is He?
Habakkuk lamented, "How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?" (1:2), seeing the demise of Israel and no hope in view. But the Lord's response was, "Look at the nations and watch - for I am raising up the Babylonians" (1:5, 6). God had been listening and already was acting, but the prophet was not seeing His hand in the affairs of the nations.
Just before the Berlin Wall fell, it appeared hopeless for the unarmed and poverty-stricken people behind the Iron Curtain to be set free, but without tanks or planes or guns, the wall came down. God had been working and the powerless overcame the powerful.
I don't know if God is preparing to tear down walls or bring America to its knees, but I know God is working and He will prevail, despite the odds or the depth of our national sin.
Jus' Sayn.
Millions have lost jobs and millions have dropped out of the labor pool. Millions have lost or are losing their homes. Gun-free zones are becoming killing fields. Towns like Piney, AR and cities like Detroit, MI are drying up. Islamic terrorists are still spreading violence. The Christian ten bents upon which country was built are still being assaulted while pagan and Islamic strongholds grow.
While you may not be surprised at the innefictiveness of our government to accomplish anything except its own enlargement and the self-promotion of its members, you may be wondering why God is silent, why he is not doing anything in response to his children's suffering, national decay or to our prayers. Or, is He?
Habakkuk lamented, "How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen?" (1:2), seeing the demise of Israel and no hope in view. But the Lord's response was, "Look at the nations and watch - for I am raising up the Babylonians" (1:5, 6). God had been listening and already was acting, but the prophet was not seeing His hand in the affairs of the nations.
Just before the Berlin Wall fell, it appeared hopeless for the unarmed and poverty-stricken people behind the Iron Curtain to be set free, but without tanks or planes or guns, the wall came down. God had been working and the powerless overcame the powerful.
I don't know if God is preparing to tear down walls or bring America to its knees, but I know God is working and He will prevail, despite the odds or the depth of our national sin.
Jus' Sayn.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Rejoicing in Lean Times
Times are a bit lean, and with the "Unaffordable Careless Act" combined with carbon based industry killing regulations, times may be getting leaner - at least for the middle class, who always has to bear the weight of government policies.
So, now might be a good time for middle America to rise up with one voice and rage against the powers that be - or maybe not. I think raging is over rated, while voting out all the cronies, left and right, would have better results. However, I don't think looking to the government to bless us or even attempt the right thing has nuch of a chance of success.
Let me suggest an alternative: Praising God! Really? Yes, really. Listen to what the prophet Habakkuk wrote: "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior …" (3:17, 18).
In the face of very difficult and uncertain times, Habakkuk chose to rejoice in the Lord, because he knew, as the contemporary catch-phrase says, "God's got this!" He was certain of the outcome of his life and the blessings God had in store for the future as well as the strength for the journey.
The apostle Paul, writing from a prison cell centuries later encouraged disciples to "rejoice always" (Phil 4:4) because he knew we can deal with any circumstance "through Christ who strengthens [us]" (v. 13).
Jus' Sayn.
So, now might be a good time for middle America to rise up with one voice and rage against the powers that be - or maybe not. I think raging is over rated, while voting out all the cronies, left and right, would have better results. However, I don't think looking to the government to bless us or even attempt the right thing has nuch of a chance of success.
Let me suggest an alternative: Praising God! Really? Yes, really. Listen to what the prophet Habakkuk wrote: "Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior …" (3:17, 18).
In the face of very difficult and uncertain times, Habakkuk chose to rejoice in the Lord, because he knew, as the contemporary catch-phrase says, "God's got this!" He was certain of the outcome of his life and the blessings God had in store for the future as well as the strength for the journey.
The apostle Paul, writing from a prison cell centuries later encouraged disciples to "rejoice always" (Phil 4:4) because he knew we can deal with any circumstance "through Christ who strengthens [us]" (v. 13).
Jus' Sayn.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
Second Chances
In Jonah 3:1, the writer says, "The word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time." Why was that? Because Jonah hadn't listened and obeyed the first time and God was not willing to turn his back on the city of Nineveh or give up on Jonah.
So, not being answered the first time, God comes knocking again, but this time, He knocks harder. This time God has Jonah swallowed by a great fish and spit out three days later near the city of Nineveh. This time Jonah is predisposed to listen and obey, this time God's will is accomplished and all of Nineveh is saved.
In this story, God reclaimed both the Ninevites and Jonah. He gave them both another opportunity to obey. That is because Jehovah is the God of second chances because "he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Pet 2:9).
God loves us and does not desire our destruction, He will go to great lengths to reclaim you. He is, as Francis Thompson's poem suggests, "The Hound of Heaven," who chases after you. However, do not think there is no end to His patience or His efforts to reclaim you, for "the day of the Lord will come...and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare" (2 Pet 3:10).
You are alive today, hopefully you have begun yielding your life to God, following the path marked out by Jesus, relying on the Spirit's help. But if not, God is still calling, offering you another chance. Why not accept His offer, why not say yes to a second chance, even if it is the 1000th time it has come? Why not listen to His call while His call can still be heard? Or before He knocks louder?
Jus' Askn.
So, not being answered the first time, God comes knocking again, but this time, He knocks harder. This time God has Jonah swallowed by a great fish and spit out three days later near the city of Nineveh. This time Jonah is predisposed to listen and obey, this time God's will is accomplished and all of Nineveh is saved.
In this story, God reclaimed both the Ninevites and Jonah. He gave them both another opportunity to obey. That is because Jehovah is the God of second chances because "he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Pet 2:9).
God loves us and does not desire our destruction, He will go to great lengths to reclaim you. He is, as Francis Thompson's poem suggests, "The Hound of Heaven," who chases after you. However, do not think there is no end to His patience or His efforts to reclaim you, for "the day of the Lord will come...and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare" (2 Pet 3:10).
You are alive today, hopefully you have begun yielding your life to God, following the path marked out by Jesus, relying on the Spirit's help. But if not, God is still calling, offering you another chance. Why not accept His offer, why not say yes to a second chance, even if it is the 1000th time it has come? Why not listen to His call while His call can still be heard? Or before He knocks louder?
Jus' Askn.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Revelation Not Excavation
When I was younger, I saw biblical understanding as a matter of excavation. Like an archeologist on a dig, I was uncovering layer after layer of truth and wisdom as I pursued and earned enough degrees to be a thermometer.
I became very educated in the process but I really hadn't gained all that much wisdom or truth. I have found that I have learned far more in my 50s as I've discovered how little I actually know. In fact, I have become increasingly aware of the growing number of things of which I know nothing about. And yet, The Lord has increased my wisdom and knowledge of truth immeasurably.
When I gave up excavating for the truth and began to seek revelation of the truth, I began to see clearly things that the wise of this world will never see for God has "hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children" (Luke 10:47).
I'm not against education, especially biblical education, but there can be a pride of learning that interferes with the humility of spirit needed to approach the Father seeking insight that only He can provide, insight that is revealed not uncovered. The Pharisees and the teachers of the Law, in Jesus' day, were very educated but their pride kept them from seeing the truth presented by the Truth himself personally.
Prayerfully studying your Bible daily and humbly paying attention to opportunities to hear truth as God allows, in whatever form they appear (ie. classes, books, nature, a small child, an old person, etc), opens us up to revelation of truth as we "encounter angels (messengers of God) without knowing it" (Heb 13:2).
Jus' Sayn.
I became very educated in the process but I really hadn't gained all that much wisdom or truth. I have found that I have learned far more in my 50s as I've discovered how little I actually know. In fact, I have become increasingly aware of the growing number of things of which I know nothing about. And yet, The Lord has increased my wisdom and knowledge of truth immeasurably.
When I gave up excavating for the truth and began to seek revelation of the truth, I began to see clearly things that the wise of this world will never see for God has "hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children" (Luke 10:47).
I'm not against education, especially biblical education, but there can be a pride of learning that interferes with the humility of spirit needed to approach the Father seeking insight that only He can provide, insight that is revealed not uncovered. The Pharisees and the teachers of the Law, in Jesus' day, were very educated but their pride kept them from seeing the truth presented by the Truth himself personally.
Prayerfully studying your Bible daily and humbly paying attention to opportunities to hear truth as God allows, in whatever form they appear (ie. classes, books, nature, a small child, an old person, etc), opens us up to revelation of truth as we "encounter angels (messengers of God) without knowing it" (Heb 13:2).
Jus' Sayn.
Monday, October 21, 2013
Come and See
As far as biblical history records, Andrew never preached a sermon, never wrote a book, never led a church - all we read about him is that he brought others to see Jesus. He brought his brother, Simon Peter (cf. Jn 1:40-43), he brought some unnamed Greeks (Jn 12:20-22) and he brought the little boy with the loaves and fish (Jn 6:8-9).
If I were asked to label his ministry, it would be "Come and See." He was not a proclaimer like Paul or a leader like James or a teacher like Apollos, he was a connector. He invited others to come and meet the Christ.
However, without him, there would have been no Peter. It was his introduction that provided the loaves and fish for a great miracle and his willingness to introduce that allowed the unwelcomed Greeks to see Jesus.
Inviting others to come and see is not as prominent as preaching, worship leading or teaching, but where would these prominent leaders be if not for those who invite others? Inviting friends, family and associates to worship, Bible studies, fellowships or seminars is the bedrock of outreach, allowing others to hear Jesus proclaimed.
Some Christians have a special gift, which allows them to attract others like a magnet - maybe that is you and perhaps "Come and See" is your ministry. Others of us may not be that magnetic but we have some opportunities to invite. All of us ought to live a life that encourages others to want to find out "the reason for the hope that lies within us" (1 Pet 3:15).
Jus' Sayn.
If I were asked to label his ministry, it would be "Come and See." He was not a proclaimer like Paul or a leader like James or a teacher like Apollos, he was a connector. He invited others to come and meet the Christ.
However, without him, there would have been no Peter. It was his introduction that provided the loaves and fish for a great miracle and his willingness to introduce that allowed the unwelcomed Greeks to see Jesus.
Inviting others to come and see is not as prominent as preaching, worship leading or teaching, but where would these prominent leaders be if not for those who invite others? Inviting friends, family and associates to worship, Bible studies, fellowships or seminars is the bedrock of outreach, allowing others to hear Jesus proclaimed.
Some Christians have a special gift, which allows them to attract others like a magnet - maybe that is you and perhaps "Come and See" is your ministry. Others of us may not be that magnetic but we have some opportunities to invite. All of us ought to live a life that encourages others to want to find out "the reason for the hope that lies within us" (1 Pet 3:15).
Jus' Sayn.
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Refiner's Fire
Regarding the Livites, who were the worship leaders of ancient Israel, the prophet Malachi said God would "sit as a refiner and purifier of silver" (Mal 3:3). Considering that a refiner does his work by subjecting the silver to fire, it doesn't sound good for the object of His refining process.
That is, however, until we understand the purpose of a refiner's fire. It is not to destroy or even harm the silver, it is to remove all the dross and impurities, leaving the silver free from those things which take away from its value. The refiner's fire gives birth to the real worth of the silver, allowing it to become a shining treasure.
Another very interesting and important fact of the refining process is how the ancient refiner knew the silver was finally pure: He could see his reflection in the finished product.
Not coincedentally, that is the work of a disciple, to reflect the life of the Master. God knows and others see that we are truly disciples of Jesus when we reflect his life in ours. And, not unlike the Levites of old, we will go through a refuner's fire in the process (cf. 1 Peter 1:6-9), not to harm us or because we are worthless, but because our true value is hiddened beneath the dross and impurity of sin.
Jus' Sayn.
That is, however, until we understand the purpose of a refiner's fire. It is not to destroy or even harm the silver, it is to remove all the dross and impurities, leaving the silver free from those things which take away from its value. The refiner's fire gives birth to the real worth of the silver, allowing it to become a shining treasure.
Another very interesting and important fact of the refining process is how the ancient refiner knew the silver was finally pure: He could see his reflection in the finished product.
Not coincedentally, that is the work of a disciple, to reflect the life of the Master. God knows and others see that we are truly disciples of Jesus when we reflect his life in ours. And, not unlike the Levites of old, we will go through a refuner's fire in the process (cf. 1 Peter 1:6-9), not to harm us or because we are worthless, but because our true value is hiddened beneath the dross and impurity of sin.
Jus' Sayn.
Saturday, October 19, 2013
Your Life
After 40 years leading the Nation of Israel, Moses was about to die and be "gathered to his people" on Mt Nebo. This was his last opportunity to speak to his followers this side of glory. He chose what he would say very carefully, what he would say would be his final gift to them..
There were so many things they would face as they crossed into the Promised Land, so many dangers and trials along the way. There wads so much he could say about the opposition they would face, the strategies they would need, how to prepare the land, develop herds, build a civilization - he chose only one last thing to share with them: speaking of the law of God, " … obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life …" (Deut 32:46 - 47).
Ultimate success would not be achieved by carefully crafted strategies or intimate knowledge of their enemies strengths and weaknesses or possessing a divinely inspired Farmers' Almanac. Victory against their enemies and prosperity in the land depended on one thing: Following the Word of God.
In our ever-changing world, this truth has not changed since the time of Moses: Our future well-being ultimately does not depend on the machinations of man but on the Word of God. As Peter queried, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68).
The Bible is the Word of Life. It is your Source of life. How much of your time (the stuff of which life is made) do you spend reading, studying or reflecting on it?
Jus' Askn.
There were so many things they would face as they crossed into the Promised Land, so many dangers and trials along the way. There wads so much he could say about the opposition they would face, the strategies they would need, how to prepare the land, develop herds, build a civilization - he chose only one last thing to share with them: speaking of the law of God, " … obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life …" (Deut 32:46 - 47).
Ultimate success would not be achieved by carefully crafted strategies or intimate knowledge of their enemies strengths and weaknesses or possessing a divinely inspired Farmers' Almanac. Victory against their enemies and prosperity in the land depended on one thing: Following the Word of God.
In our ever-changing world, this truth has not changed since the time of Moses: Our future well-being ultimately does not depend on the machinations of man but on the Word of God. As Peter queried, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68).
The Bible is the Word of Life. It is your Source of life. How much of your time (the stuff of which life is made) do you spend reading, studying or reflecting on it?
Jus' Askn.
Friday, October 18, 2013
Seeing God
There's an interesting statement at the end of the book of Job in chapter 42, verse 5, "My ears have heard of you but now my eyes have seen you." What makes it interesting to me is that when Job had been so greatly blessed, he only heard of God but through his suffering, he came to see God.
That's the reverse of how we normally think. When things are going well, we tend to feel God is with us. When things are falling apart, we wonder where God is, why He has left us. But the truth is that God walks with us always but we can come to know Him and learn to trust in Him more in times of struggle.
I know, for me, it has been in my worst periods of struggle that I learned to lean in closest to God and out of adversity I have seen His power working most clearly in my life. God is always with me, but as I look back, I see His hand holding me up and lifting me out of the muck that was pulling me down.
My point? When you are in the middle of calamity, instead of angrily or fearfully wondering where God is, prayerfully and trustfully know He is there, holding on to you as you "walk through the darkest valley" (Ps 23:4. NIV). God has not promised to take you around, over, under or out of the dark period but to walk with you through it. So then, we don't need clarity in the dark but faith. For "the righteous live by faith" (Rom 1:17).
Jus' Sayn.
That's the reverse of how we normally think. When things are going well, we tend to feel God is with us. When things are falling apart, we wonder where God is, why He has left us. But the truth is that God walks with us always but we can come to know Him and learn to trust in Him more in times of struggle.
I know, for me, it has been in my worst periods of struggle that I learned to lean in closest to God and out of adversity I have seen His power working most clearly in my life. God is always with me, but as I look back, I see His hand holding me up and lifting me out of the muck that was pulling me down.
My point? When you are in the middle of calamity, instead of angrily or fearfully wondering where God is, prayerfully and trustfully know He is there, holding on to you as you "walk through the darkest valley" (Ps 23:4. NIV). God has not promised to take you around, over, under or out of the dark period but to walk with you through it. So then, we don't need clarity in the dark but faith. For "the righteous live by faith" (Rom 1:17).
Jus' Sayn.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Unfair Consequences
In Joshua chapter 7, Achan's entire family, including his servants and livestock were killed along with Achan's when he was punished for sinning against The Lord. Many have pointed out how unfair this seems to be and I would agree - it is unfair, but it is real world.
What do I mean by that? Well, in a perfect world, say heaven, everything would be fair, however, we don't live in that world just yet. One day, faithful followers of Christ will, but not today. The world in which we live, the one real for now, is unfair. The ancient Israelites needed to know that individual sin will be unfairly visited on others in the circle of the sinner.
Think about it. Is it fair that an innocent party is killed because someone else drives drunk? Is it fair that the baby of an drug addict is born with an addiction? Is it fair that a drive by shooting aimed at a gang member results in the death of an innocent child? Is it fair that government officials don't have to live by the same rules as the rest of us? See my point? Real world experience often is void of fairness.
So what - what can we do about it? We cannot make the whole world fair but we can make it less unfair by being responsible for our own actions, by refusing to participate in activities that endanger others, by resisting the temptation to sin as vigorously as possible. We can make a difference, if we consider others before we act. The less selfish we act, the less sin we commit, the less unfair the world becomes.
Jus' Sayn.
What do I mean by that? Well, in a perfect world, say heaven, everything would be fair, however, we don't live in that world just yet. One day, faithful followers of Christ will, but not today. The world in which we live, the one real for now, is unfair. The ancient Israelites needed to know that individual sin will be unfairly visited on others in the circle of the sinner.
Think about it. Is it fair that an innocent party is killed because someone else drives drunk? Is it fair that the baby of an drug addict is born with an addiction? Is it fair that a drive by shooting aimed at a gang member results in the death of an innocent child? Is it fair that government officials don't have to live by the same rules as the rest of us? See my point? Real world experience often is void of fairness.
So what - what can we do about it? We cannot make the whole world fair but we can make it less unfair by being responsible for our own actions, by refusing to participate in activities that endanger others, by resisting the temptation to sin as vigorously as possible. We can make a difference, if we consider others before we act. The less selfish we act, the less sin we commit, the less unfair the world becomes.
Jus' Sayn.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Too Busy
In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 10, vss. 25-37, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan. In this parable, a man is beaten, robbed and left for dead. Along comes a priest, who would certainly help but doesn't passing by instead. Next a Levites, who was a temple worker, came by and surely he would help but passes by as well..
The priest and the Levites may well have been on their way to the Temple. They likely were in a hurry, to stop would have not only delayed them but, if the man were dead, could have defiled them causing them to be delayed further as they went through a purification process befor resuming duties at their posts. They probably felt there was no time and left the task for others who might travel by that day.
The other who came by was a Samaritan, despised by the Jews, one who would be expected to pass by but stops and helps the man. We don't know where he was heading or how pressed he was but we know that he was on his way somewhere but took time out to help.
The point? Divine appointments like the man needing help are all along the path we travel, even if we are on our way to do good things like church activities, hauling kids to soccer practice or going to a fund raiser walkathon. If we find that we are too busy to help the person broke down on the road, speak to the man living on the street, check in on the widow next door, etc, - we are too busy.
I know we can't help everyone we may encounter, but if we help no one who is not on our schedule, we can help no one God may have placed in our path by divine appointment. If we are too busy to deviate from our daily plans, how can we respond to His plans for us - plans we may not have scrawled on our calendars or put in our smart phones? Jus' Askn.
The priest and the Levites may well have been on their way to the Temple. They likely were in a hurry, to stop would have not only delayed them but, if the man were dead, could have defiled them causing them to be delayed further as they went through a purification process befor resuming duties at their posts. They probably felt there was no time and left the task for others who might travel by that day.
The other who came by was a Samaritan, despised by the Jews, one who would be expected to pass by but stops and helps the man. We don't know where he was heading or how pressed he was but we know that he was on his way somewhere but took time out to help.
The point? Divine appointments like the man needing help are all along the path we travel, even if we are on our way to do good things like church activities, hauling kids to soccer practice or going to a fund raiser walkathon. If we find that we are too busy to help the person broke down on the road, speak to the man living on the street, check in on the widow next door, etc, - we are too busy.
I know we can't help everyone we may encounter, but if we help no one who is not on our schedule, we can help no one God may have placed in our path by divine appointment. If we are too busy to deviate from our daily plans, how can we respond to His plans for us - plans we may not have scrawled on our calendars or put in our smart phones? Jus' Askn.
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
All In
In 1 Kings 19:19f, Elisha answers the call to ministry. His first act was to break up his plowing equipment to build a fire upon which he roasted his oxen and provided an impromptu banquet for others working the fields. Elisha, apparently, was the first "Celebrity Chef" (Sorry, couldn't help myself).
Interesting way to begin a life of ministry, but one that makes total sense. He literally burned his bridge back to farming. He wanted no fail safe opportunity or back up plan. Elisha was all in, there was no room left for turning back. Elisha, by the way, rocked as a prophet.
When I was finishing up the ministry program at Harding, a counselor advised me to complete a degree in business as I already had so many hours in that field and it would serve as a good fall back plan. I remember thanking him for his concern but then saying to him, "If I fall, I want God to catch me." Thirty plus years later, through it all, I'm still here and still in ministry.
Imagine applying this principle to marriage - what would that do to the divorce rate? What would an employer give to have a worker who was all in? What if our politicians were all in for America instead of in all our pockets? What if Christians in this country were all in, regardless of the distractions or roadblocks to faith? What if you were all in? Perhaps you are - do you recon so?
Jus' Askn.
Interesting way to begin a life of ministry, but one that makes total sense. He literally burned his bridge back to farming. He wanted no fail safe opportunity or back up plan. Elisha was all in, there was no room left for turning back. Elisha, by the way, rocked as a prophet.
When I was finishing up the ministry program at Harding, a counselor advised me to complete a degree in business as I already had so many hours in that field and it would serve as a good fall back plan. I remember thanking him for his concern but then saying to him, "If I fall, I want God to catch me." Thirty plus years later, through it all, I'm still here and still in ministry.
Imagine applying this principle to marriage - what would that do to the divorce rate? What would an employer give to have a worker who was all in? What if our politicians were all in for America instead of in all our pockets? What if Christians in this country were all in, regardless of the distractions or roadblocks to faith? What if you were all in? Perhaps you are - do you recon so?
Jus' Askn.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Bearing Burdens
The Bible doesn't always make sense to us - not because it is wrong but because we are wrong-thinking: "Where is the wise person? Where is the teacher of the law? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world?" (1Cor 1:20).
For instance, in Galatians 6:2, Paul says that we are to "Bear one another's burdens." Reason would say that if I carry your burden and you carry my burden, we are no better off, we've only exchanged loads.
But the biblical mandate does lighten our load, just as Jesus promised: "Take my yoke upon you...and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light …" (Matt 11:29).
Jesus' call is to a shared load. Sharing a load, even a combined load, is easier than carrying one by yourself. Are you aware that two draft horses can pull a weight together that is greater than the combined weight of their individual pulls? Haven't you experienced how much easier tasks are when shared with others?
Sharing a burden between two instead of two doing individual tasks changes the fulcrum or balance of the weight, making it less burdensome. Bearing or sharing burdens together actually lightens our individual load. Working together like this blesses one another and "so fulfills the law [the heart desire] of Christ" (Gal 6:2b).
Jus' Sayn.
For instance, in Galatians 6:2, Paul says that we are to "Bear one another's burdens." Reason would say that if I carry your burden and you carry my burden, we are no better off, we've only exchanged loads.
But the biblical mandate does lighten our load, just as Jesus promised: "Take my yoke upon you...and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light …" (Matt 11:29).
Jesus' call is to a shared load. Sharing a load, even a combined load, is easier than carrying one by yourself. Are you aware that two draft horses can pull a weight together that is greater than the combined weight of their individual pulls? Haven't you experienced how much easier tasks are when shared with others?
Sharing a burden between two instead of two doing individual tasks changes the fulcrum or balance of the weight, making it less burdensome. Bearing or sharing burdens together actually lightens our individual load. Working together like this blesses one another and "so fulfills the law [the heart desire] of Christ" (Gal 6:2b).
Jus' Sayn.
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Exposed
"No one will ever know, this will be our little secret." "Go ahead, no one's watching." "I know I shouldn't, but who's ever going to find out?" "Oh, go ahead and do it, nobody will ever know."
Sound familiar? These voices, whether in your head or from someone helping you make a bad decision, are voices that are constantly with us when an opportunity to do wrong presents itself.
The trouble with theses voices, wherever they originate, is that they are lying. The truth is, "there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open" (Luke 8:17).
There is always a witness to what you do. You are always bearing witness and the act is recalled in your heart. The one giving voice to the temptation is bearing witness, whether a friend, a stranger or Satan himself and God is ever present.
Everything you do is being observed and there will be an accounting: "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account" (Heb 41:13).
This truth is why Jesus warns to to "be careful how you listen" (Luke 8:18). Whenever we are faced with a decision, their are competing voices tugging at us - voices repeating lies and voices ringing truth. One truth you can be certain of is "your choice will not remain a secret, it will be exposed - whether good or ill.
Jus' Sayn.
Sound familiar? These voices, whether in your head or from someone helping you make a bad decision, are voices that are constantly with us when an opportunity to do wrong presents itself.
The trouble with theses voices, wherever they originate, is that they are lying. The truth is, "there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open" (Luke 8:17).
There is always a witness to what you do. You are always bearing witness and the act is recalled in your heart. The one giving voice to the temptation is bearing witness, whether a friend, a stranger or Satan himself and God is ever present.
Everything you do is being observed and there will be an accounting: "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account" (Heb 41:13).
This truth is why Jesus warns to to "be careful how you listen" (Luke 8:18). Whenever we are faced with a decision, their are competing voices tugging at us - voices repeating lies and voices ringing truth. One truth you can be certain of is "your choice will not remain a secret, it will be exposed - whether good or ill.
Jus' Sayn.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Where's The Blessing?
You often hear Christians affirm how blessed their lives have become since accepting Jesus as Lord. When asked how they are doing, they may reply, "I'm truly blessed." Some even have a bumper sticker reading, "I'm too blessed to be stressed,"
Then you look at your own life since you've accept the Lord and wonder where your blessing is? You're not too blessed to be stressed, you're to stressed to feel blessed. If asked how you were doing, you might answer, "Truly pressed."
"Why is that," you wonder, "why am I not being blessed?" Since you've accepted Jesus, your life has actually gone a little south. You may be asking,"What is wrong with me?"
While I cannot speak to the particulars of any one person's life, I do have some answers about blessings in general: 1) Feeling blessed and being blessed are not synonymous. 2) The fruit of blessing may grow in the soil of adversity, 3) Delayed blessing often means greater blessing and 4) While we "are blessed in the spiritual realm with every spiritual blessing" (Eph 1:3), our earthly experience may be one of opposition.
Consider the prophets of old, who were persecuted. The apostles lost all their worldly treasures as they gained heavenly ones. Faithful Christians around the world are being martyred to this day. The apostle Paul even warns, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Tim 3:12).
Here's the deal: Satan doesn't want you to realize your blessings. He will try to dampen your spirit with temporary trials. He seeks to divert your attention away from what God is accomplishing in you, through you and for you - don't let him. You are victorious in Christ though the Enemy has not lay down his weapons yet.
Jus' Sayn.
Then you look at your own life since you've accept the Lord and wonder where your blessing is? You're not too blessed to be stressed, you're to stressed to feel blessed. If asked how you were doing, you might answer, "Truly pressed."
"Why is that," you wonder, "why am I not being blessed?" Since you've accepted Jesus, your life has actually gone a little south. You may be asking,"What is wrong with me?"
While I cannot speak to the particulars of any one person's life, I do have some answers about blessings in general: 1) Feeling blessed and being blessed are not synonymous. 2) The fruit of blessing may grow in the soil of adversity, 3) Delayed blessing often means greater blessing and 4) While we "are blessed in the spiritual realm with every spiritual blessing" (Eph 1:3), our earthly experience may be one of opposition.
Consider the prophets of old, who were persecuted. The apostles lost all their worldly treasures as they gained heavenly ones. Faithful Christians around the world are being martyred to this day. The apostle Paul even warns, "In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted" (2 Tim 3:12).
Here's the deal: Satan doesn't want you to realize your blessings. He will try to dampen your spirit with temporary trials. He seeks to divert your attention away from what God is accomplishing in you, through you and for you - don't let him. You are victorious in Christ though the Enemy has not lay down his weapons yet.
Jus' Sayn.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Being Prepared
In Matthew 25:1-13, Jesus tells the parable of 10 virgins waiting for the arrival of the bridegroom so that they could enter with him into the wedding feast. Five of them had lamps and extra oil, in case he was late coming, five brought no extra oil
They all fell asleep waiting. When the bridegroom approached the virgins awoke and trimmed their lamps but five had no oil and had to go look for some to purchase. While they were gone, the bridegroom led the wedding procession into the feast. The five who were not present were not allowed to enter late.
The principle of this parable applies to all of life. Preparation for a final exam must not wait until the instructor hands out the test packet. Preparation for a particular job can't wait until there is an opening. Preparation for a marathon cannot wait until race day. Preparation is what one does in expectation of the arrival of an opportunity.
This principle finds it's greatest application in regards to the 2nd Coming of Christ. All the books claiming to have an insight as to when He will return are of no true value. All the efforts trying to read the signs of the times are not necessary.
Jesus doesn't give us a particular time to get ready: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matt 25:13). He tells us to"be" ready for the time is near, not "get" ready when the time is near. Live like today might be the last for it may be your last even if it's not The Last.
Jus' Sayn.
They all fell asleep waiting. When the bridegroom approached the virgins awoke and trimmed their lamps but five had no oil and had to go look for some to purchase. While they were gone, the bridegroom led the wedding procession into the feast. The five who were not present were not allowed to enter late.
The principle of this parable applies to all of life. Preparation for a final exam must not wait until the instructor hands out the test packet. Preparation for a particular job can't wait until there is an opening. Preparation for a marathon cannot wait until race day. Preparation is what one does in expectation of the arrival of an opportunity.
This principle finds it's greatest application in regards to the 2nd Coming of Christ. All the books claiming to have an insight as to when He will return are of no true value. All the efforts trying to read the signs of the times are not necessary.
Jesus doesn't give us a particular time to get ready: “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour" (Matt 25:13). He tells us to"be" ready for the time is near, not "get" ready when the time is near. Live like today might be the last for it may be your last even if it's not The Last.
Jus' Sayn.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Choosing a King
Ancient Israel began as a theocracy - God himself, through the prophets, priests and judges, ruled the nation. But the Israelites were not satisfied with a King they could not see and touch, they wanted a human king so they could "be like all the other nations" (1 Sam 8:20) with a visible king to lead them.
Although Samuel was offended by their choice, God allowed it because choice, and in particular choice of whom we will serve (note Josh 24:15), is integral to our personhood. It was not that their choice was not important or had no real consequences - nothing could be further from the truth. If Mr T had been in Samuel's sandals, he would no doubt had said, "pity the fool who chooses a king over The King." Nonetheless, the choice was theirs.
The Israelites chose a king and that choice caused them to suffer oppression, abuse and captivity. Their choice for a leader they could see up close caused them to become near-sighted and loose their vision as the people of God. Their choice truly enslaved them, barring them from the freedom found only in God's rule.
The kings we choose, apart from God, are no different - they cause us to lose vision and suffer unwanted consequences. Whether money, power, position, passions, drugs, self - whatever other than God, the ultimate result is the same: Loss of our true self as children of The King and our place in the Kingdom.
The choice is yours, and as Joshua said, it is your right and responsibility to "choose for yourself whom you will serve" (Josh 24:15). I hope you will choose The Lord Jesus Christ, for only in Him is there true freedom and life.
Although Samuel was offended by their choice, God allowed it because choice, and in particular choice of whom we will serve (note Josh 24:15), is integral to our personhood. It was not that their choice was not important or had no real consequences - nothing could be further from the truth. If Mr T had been in Samuel's sandals, he would no doubt had said, "pity the fool who chooses a king over The King." Nonetheless, the choice was theirs.
The Israelites chose a king and that choice caused them to suffer oppression, abuse and captivity. Their choice for a leader they could see up close caused them to become near-sighted and loose their vision as the people of God. Their choice truly enslaved them, barring them from the freedom found only in God's rule.
The kings we choose, apart from God, are no different - they cause us to lose vision and suffer unwanted consequences. Whether money, power, position, passions, drugs, self - whatever other than God, the ultimate result is the same: Loss of our true self as children of The King and our place in the Kingdom.
The choice is yours, and as Joshua said, it is your right and responsibility to "choose for yourself whom you will serve" (Josh 24:15). I hope you will choose The Lord Jesus Christ, for only in Him is there true freedom and life.
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Expensive Whine
From the White House, to Capitol Hill, to the man on the street; we are transforming from a nation of winners to a nation of whiners. Instead of assessing our problems and coming together as "one nation (people) under God," which was our strength, we point fingers, throw stones and whine about what the other is doing or not doing.
Don't get me wrong, I fully understand how much there is to complain about about and how many there are for which blame can be rightly assigned, but I don't see how becoming a house divided, filled with accusers and whiners brings about any good. Jesus clearly warned "Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall" (Luke 11:17).
I don't like the direction our leadership has been taking our country. I didn't vote for Obama, I don't care much for Leader Reed and I'm not particularly pleased with Speaker Boehner. Politicians, in general, don't inspire much admiration in me. Nonetheless, I pray for our leaders daily and the three mentioned above by name. My complaining and whining can never improve our lot with them, but my prayers can.
Let us discuss our problems and do what we can at the ballot box, in our communities as volunteers, in our letters, emails and calls to representatives, etc. but let us not be a nation of whiners, it simply costs too much. It erodes our faith, it robs our initiative, it dulls our witness.
The apostle Paul put it this way, "Do everything without grumbling...in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. …" (Phil 2:14-16).
Jus' Sayn.
Don't get me wrong, I fully understand how much there is to complain about about and how many there are for which blame can be rightly assigned, but I don't see how becoming a house divided, filled with accusers and whiners brings about any good. Jesus clearly warned "Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and a house divided against itself will fall" (Luke 11:17).
I don't like the direction our leadership has been taking our country. I didn't vote for Obama, I don't care much for Leader Reed and I'm not particularly pleased with Speaker Boehner. Politicians, in general, don't inspire much admiration in me. Nonetheless, I pray for our leaders daily and the three mentioned above by name. My complaining and whining can never improve our lot with them, but my prayers can.
Let us discuss our problems and do what we can at the ballot box, in our communities as volunteers, in our letters, emails and calls to representatives, etc. but let us not be a nation of whiners, it simply costs too much. It erodes our faith, it robs our initiative, it dulls our witness.
The apostle Paul put it this way, "Do everything without grumbling...in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. …" (Phil 2:14-16).
Jus' Sayn.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
Finding Home
One of the books I've been reading during my devotional time is entitled, The Prodigal God." In it, the author, Timothy Keller, talks about the elusive desire to go home. After we've grown up and moved on, we long, at times to go home, to reconnect with the feeling of fitting in and fully being ourself. Sadly, there is no going home. Returning to the place we grew up just leaves us feeling empty, sad, missing something.
The holidays, which are fast approaching, have a similar effect. We look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas, hoping to experience that joy we remember from our youth, only to find it just isn't what we remember, something is missing. It begins to dawn on us that no one can ever go home again, no one can relive that memory.
A question given rise in the afore mentioned book is, if what we "remembered itself turns out to be a remembering." In other words, does our remembering, our longing even exist in this world at all. Could our yearning go back to a place beyond here?
An old hymn, named 'Beulah Land," pines, "I'm kind of homesick for a country to which I've never been before," which reflects the book of Hebrews' affirmation that we are "foreigners and strangers on earth...longing for a better country - a heavenly one..." (Heb 11:13-16).
The thing is, I believe, home truly exists where the heart is and our hearts long for the Father and his house. Nothing, no place and no one in this world can fill that longing that only God can fill.
Jus' Sayn.
The holidays, which are fast approaching, have a similar effect. We look forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas, hoping to experience that joy we remember from our youth, only to find it just isn't what we remember, something is missing. It begins to dawn on us that no one can ever go home again, no one can relive that memory.
A question given rise in the afore mentioned book is, if what we "remembered itself turns out to be a remembering." In other words, does our remembering, our longing even exist in this world at all. Could our yearning go back to a place beyond here?
An old hymn, named 'Beulah Land," pines, "I'm kind of homesick for a country to which I've never been before," which reflects the book of Hebrews' affirmation that we are "foreigners and strangers on earth...longing for a better country - a heavenly one..." (Heb 11:13-16).
The thing is, I believe, home truly exists where the heart is and our hearts long for the Father and his house. Nothing, no place and no one in this world can fill that longing that only God can fill.
Jus' Sayn.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Questioning God
Job was a very righteous man, respected and admired by everyone who knew him. He was the last one people thought trouble should befall. It was a complete shock to Job when he lost his family, his wealth and his health - he simply coul not understand it. He felt there has been a cosmic mistake, he believed God needed to answer for this terrible wrong.
Job went further than just think God should answer for allowing or causing this injustice, he puts the divine challenge out there. After laying his claim to innocence, Job utters this challenge: "I sign now my defense—let the Almighty answer me" (Job 31:35).
God does not answer Job's defense nor does he answer for his decision to allow Job's trial. Rather, God dismisses Job's right or even ability to begin to question Him in a single question amplified with succeeding supporting questions: “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?" (Job 38:1).
Job saw the foolishness of trying to bring God to account for His choices, he realized that God's reasoning went beyond the here and now, beyond time and space or the reasoning of natural man. He still didn't know why God allowed his trials but he realized God was beyond questioning, that His reasons somehow had to make perfect sense. Job knew that, "Surely I spoke of things I did not understand" (Job 42:3).
Trials may come that make no earthly sense but we can trust in a God beyond the borders of worldly wisdom. We can rest in our knowledge of Him when our world defies our understanding.
Jus' Sayn.
Job went further than just think God should answer for allowing or causing this injustice, he puts the divine challenge out there. After laying his claim to innocence, Job utters this challenge: "I sign now my defense—let the Almighty answer me" (Job 31:35).
God does not answer Job's defense nor does he answer for his decision to allow Job's trial. Rather, God dismisses Job's right or even ability to begin to question Him in a single question amplified with succeeding supporting questions: “Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation?" (Job 38:1).
Job saw the foolishness of trying to bring God to account for His choices, he realized that God's reasoning went beyond the here and now, beyond time and space or the reasoning of natural man. He still didn't know why God allowed his trials but he realized God was beyond questioning, that His reasons somehow had to make perfect sense. Job knew that, "Surely I spoke of things I did not understand" (Job 42:3).
Trials may come that make no earthly sense but we can trust in a God beyond the borders of worldly wisdom. We can rest in our knowledge of Him when our world defies our understanding.
Jus' Sayn.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Choosing Hell
Given a choice, who, in their rift mind would take the punishment that rightly belonged to someone else? Mothers would, lovers would, close friends would, people who love deeply would and do offer to take the place of one they loved.
Moses even offered to be sent to hell in the place of Israel (Ex 27:37) and the apostle Paul asked to take their place centuries later the apostle Paul made the same offer (Rom 9:3). Can you imagine asking God to send you to hell in the place of another? If you deeply love another, for instance your children or spouse, you very likely could.
But, could you imagine choosing to take the curse of God earned by your enemy? Could you imagine, for instance, asking God to curse you in place of the Muslim Jihadists who seek to destroy us? Who, in their right mind, would make such a choice?
Jesus did! He "redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us" (Gal 3:13). And, this he did "while we were God’s enemies" (Rom 5:8). Can you imagine?
Can you imagine being asked to care for your enemies like Jesus does? Did you know God actually does ask that of you? "You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy .’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven" (Matt 5:43-45).
Moses even offered to be sent to hell in the place of Israel (Ex 27:37) and the apostle Paul asked to take their place centuries later the apostle Paul made the same offer (Rom 9:3). Can you imagine asking God to send you to hell in the place of another? If you deeply love another, for instance your children or spouse, you very likely could.
But, could you imagine choosing to take the curse of God earned by your enemy? Could you imagine, for instance, asking God to curse you in place of the Muslim Jihadists who seek to destroy us? Who, in their right mind, would make such a choice?
Jesus did! He "redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us" (Gal 3:13). And, this he did "while we were God’s enemies" (Rom 5:8). Can you imagine?
Can you imagine being asked to care for your enemies like Jesus does? Did you know God actually does ask that of you? "You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy .’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven" (Matt 5:43-45).
Jus' Askn.
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Mirror Vision
Decades ago I knew a man who was extremely jealous of his wife. He was certain she was seeing other men. He didn't have any proof, there wasn't anyone raising any questions about her and she was always at home with the children whenever he checked. But he could see unfaithfulness in her eyes. Oh, not in his wife's eyes, but in the eyes of whatever lover he happened to be with at the moment - every time he was unfaithful, he became more certain his wife could not be trusted.
One of the things I observed in three decades of preaching ministry was that, often times, when a preacher began to focus on a particular sin or, as we might say, "made a hobby of it," he would often be found later to have been caught up in an affair or addiction or dipping into the collection plate.
What happens is quite simple, we see things through the filter of our own soul. Until there is overwhelming evidence to the contrary, we tend to assign our own values to others. As Paul wrote, "To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure" (Titus 1:15).
It's hard to see the best in another when we know the worst lies within ourselves. It's nearly impossible to believe the other guy has good motives when ours are so bad. Liars think everyone lies, thieves suspect everyone of wanting to steal, and so it goes.
Jesus said that the eyes are the lamps of the body and if your eyes are healthy, we will be full of light, but if they are unhealthy, we will be full of darkness (cf. Matt 6:22, 23). What colors your perception of others? Do you tend to see the best or worst in them? Could you be seeing a reflection of yourself? Could you use a heart check?
Jus' Askn.
One of the things I observed in three decades of preaching ministry was that, often times, when a preacher began to focus on a particular sin or, as we might say, "made a hobby of it," he would often be found later to have been caught up in an affair or addiction or dipping into the collection plate.
What happens is quite simple, we see things through the filter of our own soul. Until there is overwhelming evidence to the contrary, we tend to assign our own values to others. As Paul wrote, "To the pure, all things are pure, but to those who are corrupted and do not believe, nothing is pure" (Titus 1:15).
It's hard to see the best in another when we know the worst lies within ourselves. It's nearly impossible to believe the other guy has good motives when ours are so bad. Liars think everyone lies, thieves suspect everyone of wanting to steal, and so it goes.
Jesus said that the eyes are the lamps of the body and if your eyes are healthy, we will be full of light, but if they are unhealthy, we will be full of darkness (cf. Matt 6:22, 23). What colors your perception of others? Do you tend to see the best or worst in them? Could you be seeing a reflection of yourself? Could you use a heart check?
Jus' Askn.
Friday, October 4, 2013
The Source
The shepherd boy, David, was ill matched and out gunned as he faced off with the giant veteran warrior Goliath. The odds makers would have given 30 to 1 or better.
Young David stepped onto the field of battle with a slingshot and 5 smooth stones, his opponent was fully armored and equipped with weapons of war - it did not look good for team Israel's champion.
But David saw things differently. He did not see advantage Philistines, instead he was confident in the strength of his position. Listen to his assessment: "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, …" (1 Sam 17:45, 46).
As you face the giants of your life, it is not the size of your challenge nor the sum of your resources that determines the outcome, it is the source of your faith. David's optimism was rooted in one simple fact: "God's got this!"
Jus' Sayn
Young David stepped onto the field of battle with a slingshot and 5 smooth stones, his opponent was fully armored and equipped with weapons of war - it did not look good for team Israel's champion.
But David saw things differently. He did not see advantage Philistines, instead he was confident in the strength of his position. Listen to his assessment: "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, …" (1 Sam 17:45, 46).
As you face the giants of your life, it is not the size of your challenge nor the sum of your resources that determines the outcome, it is the source of your faith. David's optimism was rooted in one simple fact: "God's got this!"
Jus' Sayn
Thursday, October 3, 2013
It's My Life
It's my life, my decision, what I do is nobody's business but mine! Really? When one chooses to have an abortion, is no one else's life impacted? Really? What about the baby's father, grand parents or the baby? If you choose to abuse drug or alcohol, are not our roads less safe, children more at risk, hospitals more taxed? If you choose to be a deadbeat dad, don't others have to take up your slack?
John Donne once wrote, in part, "No man is an island, entire unto himself. Each is a piece of the continent, a bit of the maine. Each man's death diminishes me." As Christians, the apostle Paul affirms, "For we are all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body....If one part suffers, each part suffers. If one part is honored, each part rejoices" (1 Cor 11:13, 26).
No one lives in a vacuum. If I throw a rock, it may hit someone. If I throw a fit, I may wound someone. If I throw my life away, others may be sucked down along with me. Like it or not, there is a ripple effect in everything we do, whether good or bad.
Our lives are intertwined. In that light, the question is not, "What will I do with my life?" Rather, "What will my choices do to the lives of those in my circle, including myself?" Bringing it closer to home, "How are my choices impacting my circle?"
Jus' Sayn.
John Donne once wrote, in part, "No man is an island, entire unto himself. Each is a piece of the continent, a bit of the maine. Each man's death diminishes me." As Christians, the apostle Paul affirms, "For we are all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body....If one part suffers, each part suffers. If one part is honored, each part rejoices" (1 Cor 11:13, 26).
No one lives in a vacuum. If I throw a rock, it may hit someone. If I throw a fit, I may wound someone. If I throw my life away, others may be sucked down along with me. Like it or not, there is a ripple effect in everything we do, whether good or bad.
Our lives are intertwined. In that light, the question is not, "What will I do with my life?" Rather, "What will my choices do to the lives of those in my circle, including myself?" Bringing it closer to home, "How are my choices impacting my circle?"
Jus' Sayn.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Opening Heaven
Regarding Jesus, in the Gospel of Luke we read, "… as he was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him …" (vv. 21, 22).
This passage reveals clearly that Jesus' prayer life was intimate and effective. As he prayed, the connection with the Holy Spirit was evident. However, that did not mean that he always received what he asked for in prayer, it only meant that his prayer was always answered. Do you recall Mark 14:36, where he prayed to have "this cup" (crucifixion) removed? Was it? Not.
Intimacy with the Spirit of God doesn't mean just one-way communication, it means listening as well as talking in prayer. More than just listening, it suggests being in alignment with the Spirit or accepting the answer given, even embracing an answer that is counter to your personal wishes and desires.
Opening Heaven in prayer opens us to the Spirit of God, not to a heavenly goody bag. Sometimes what we ask is in alignment with His will and, therefore, what is right and good, and we will receive that (1 Jn 5:13, 14). However, don't confuse right and good with warm and fuzzy.
Opening Heaven requires opening our heart, mind and soul to the will of the Father. In so doing, we will be drawn closer to Him and greatly blessed, which may require setting aside our idea of what being blessed looks likes.
Jus' Sayn.
This passage reveals clearly that Jesus' prayer life was intimate and effective. As he prayed, the connection with the Holy Spirit was evident. However, that did not mean that he always received what he asked for in prayer, it only meant that his prayer was always answered. Do you recall Mark 14:36, where he prayed to have "this cup" (crucifixion) removed? Was it? Not.
Intimacy with the Spirit of God doesn't mean just one-way communication, it means listening as well as talking in prayer. More than just listening, it suggests being in alignment with the Spirit or accepting the answer given, even embracing an answer that is counter to your personal wishes and desires.
Opening Heaven in prayer opens us to the Spirit of God, not to a heavenly goody bag. Sometimes what we ask is in alignment with His will and, therefore, what is right and good, and we will receive that (1 Jn 5:13, 14). However, don't confuse right and good with warm and fuzzy.
Opening Heaven requires opening our heart, mind and soul to the will of the Father. In so doing, we will be drawn closer to Him and greatly blessed, which may require setting aside our idea of what being blessed looks likes.
Jus' Sayn.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
A Stone's Throw
In Acts 14:8-20, we read about Paul and Barnabas in Lystra. They went there preaching the Gospel and after healing a man lame from birth, they had to beg the crowds not to worship them as gods.
Nonetheless, some Jewish agitators came from Antioch and Liconium, and were able to turn the crowds against them,who then stoned Paul, leaving him for dead.
Paul was not, in fact, dead but he apparently had come very close - perhaps one more stone's throw away. Some scholars think that his debilitating "thorn in the flesh" (2 Cor 12:7) resulted from this stoning. Perhaps the last stone cast was the final blow causing it.
What we do know is that Paul was serving God and everything was going so well when it went terribly wrong. But it wasn't the end of the story. Paul was injured but not undone. What appeared to be his end was just a painful pause.
Paul and Barnabas left Lystra and traveled to Derbe, where we read in the rest of chapter 14, "they won a great number of disciples." From there they went from city to city encouraging the church.
You may be a stone's throw away from giving up - one more loss, one more rejection, one more failure and you're ready to give up and give in. But, as long as you've got breath in you, it's not over. You may be a stone's throw away from receiving a blessing no one would have thought possible.
The stones thrown may become the path that directs you to the success God has in mind for you. As Paul would later write, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Gal 6:9).
Jus' Sayn.
Nonetheless, some Jewish agitators came from Antioch and Liconium, and were able to turn the crowds against them,who then stoned Paul, leaving him for dead.
Paul was not, in fact, dead but he apparently had come very close - perhaps one more stone's throw away. Some scholars think that his debilitating "thorn in the flesh" (2 Cor 12:7) resulted from this stoning. Perhaps the last stone cast was the final blow causing it.
What we do know is that Paul was serving God and everything was going so well when it went terribly wrong. But it wasn't the end of the story. Paul was injured but not undone. What appeared to be his end was just a painful pause.
Paul and Barnabas left Lystra and traveled to Derbe, where we read in the rest of chapter 14, "they won a great number of disciples." From there they went from city to city encouraging the church.
You may be a stone's throw away from giving up - one more loss, one more rejection, one more failure and you're ready to give up and give in. But, as long as you've got breath in you, it's not over. You may be a stone's throw away from receiving a blessing no one would have thought possible.
The stones thrown may become the path that directs you to the success God has in mind for you. As Paul would later write, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Gal 6:9).
Jus' Sayn.
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