Today I read three chapters of Proverbs and one of Romans, and became overwhelmed the theme of taming one's tongue in order to be wise, avoid foolishness, and to be kind. As a result, I thought I wouldn't blog about that (too much to reference and say) and instead look for a video, and of the first videos Youtube recommended to me was ... a man telling his secret about how he went from being broke to buying a Lamborghini.
I would love a nice car as much as the next guy, and I do fantasize about owning a very, very nice car. However, I could never, ever own something that was so expensive that it's price far exceeded its logical value. Still, I am not pointing a finger at this person in any way.
Instead, let's just consider the fact that, for some reason, someone is promoting a video where their great claim is "you, too, could own a six-figure sports car!"
What if Christians actually cared enough about the world to promote a video that proclaimed "you, too, could be eternally, blissfully, immeasurably happy!"
Seriously, isn't the good news more important than a car? Isn't it more valuable than a sporty status symbol? Isn't it more eternal than steel and rubber and glass?
We need to figure out what to do about this.
Friday, May 29, 2015
Wednesday, May 27, 2015
Control of the Mind
Scripture: Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:5-6
Observation: There is a clear instruction here about our thought life ... our minds do NOT control our actions, but are actually controlled by either our flesh or God's spirit.
Now, based on those influences, our minds then drive our actions. However, it is important to understand whom the first actor is in our lives. It is either our earthly, sinful desires, or it is the Holy Spirit working within us.
There are long lists about those sinful desires, and it is by these lists, therefore, we can understand when we are listening in our minds to the base desires of our flesh. These are almost always tied toward the objective of bodily pleasure and physical relaxation.
Application: This provides an interesting roadmap to understanding when I am behaving outside of the will of God, and when I am within his will. When I am seeking to physically please myself - and that can take many forms, including just basic idleness - I am allowing my flesh to drive my mind.
So what does a Spirit lead mind pursue? It pursues the relaxation of the spirit. And we know that relaxation manifests as "fruit" ... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control. When I experience these things, I know I am always in a great mood. I am often uplifted, happy, thriving, and in turn relaxed in body and mind.
Bodily pursuits are meaningless and earthly, and they are evidence of a flesh-driven mind. Spiritual pursuits produce tremendous results to ourselves and others, and are evidence of a spirit-filled mind. In seeking my way daily, then, paying attention to which pursuits benefit which element of my life can then guide me to discern the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Lord, may I listen carefully for your still, small voice. I will strive to follow the Holy Spirit in my daily walk, forgoing earthly pursuits of the flesh. Amen.
Observation: There is a clear instruction here about our thought life ... our minds do NOT control our actions, but are actually controlled by either our flesh or God's spirit.
Now, based on those influences, our minds then drive our actions. However, it is important to understand whom the first actor is in our lives. It is either our earthly, sinful desires, or it is the Holy Spirit working within us.
There are long lists about those sinful desires, and it is by these lists, therefore, we can understand when we are listening in our minds to the base desires of our flesh. These are almost always tied toward the objective of bodily pleasure and physical relaxation.
Application: This provides an interesting roadmap to understanding when I am behaving outside of the will of God, and when I am within his will. When I am seeking to physically please myself - and that can take many forms, including just basic idleness - I am allowing my flesh to drive my mind.
So what does a Spirit lead mind pursue? It pursues the relaxation of the spirit. And we know that relaxation manifests as "fruit" ... love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control. When I experience these things, I know I am always in a great mood. I am often uplifted, happy, thriving, and in turn relaxed in body and mind.
Bodily pursuits are meaningless and earthly, and they are evidence of a flesh-driven mind. Spiritual pursuits produce tremendous results to ourselves and others, and are evidence of a spirit-filled mind. In seeking my way daily, then, paying attention to which pursuits benefit which element of my life can then guide me to discern the Holy Spirit.
Prayer: Lord, may I listen carefully for your still, small voice. I will strive to follow the Holy Spirit in my daily walk, forgoing earthly pursuits of the flesh. Amen.
Tuesday, May 26, 2015
My Wisdom
Scripture:
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil.
This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.
Proverbs 3:7-8
Observation: The first three chapters of Proverbs make a direct connection between "wisdom" and the understanding of God's will. In many ways, it echoes back to Deuteronomy, encouraging all to understand God's teachings, to think about the teachings, to etch them on your hearts, as the means to a good and fruitful life.
This verse itself provides the context of another source of wisdom - one's self. It clearly states that one should not use your own opinion to determine if you are wise, but rather to look to God and turn away from what he has shown to be evil.
Application: So many times, the daily narrative in my head says something very simple ... "What should I do next?" I am constantly considering my opinion about what I should be doing, and evaluating my actions against my opinions.
This is wrong headed.
There is only one person who I should look to for guidance in my daily activity, and that is God. The more I look to myself, the more mislead I am likely to be, as my sinful nature is likely to overwhelm my desire to follow Jesus in my daily walk. As Paul points out, "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do - this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it." (Romans 7:19-20)
This is why I need to meditate on God's word. It is only through having his word in my heart that I can seek his guidance, and exercise his - not my - wisdom.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to follow your wisdom more and more every day. I know I fail often, and I thank you so much for the forgiveness you have provided through Jesus Christ, for without that I could not ever seek your face or be worthy of love. Every day, may I do one more thing correctly - aligned to your wisdom and your law - than I have done in the past, so I may know you better day by day. Amen.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord and shun evil.
This will bring health to your body
and nourishment to your bones.
Proverbs 3:7-8
Observation: The first three chapters of Proverbs make a direct connection between "wisdom" and the understanding of God's will. In many ways, it echoes back to Deuteronomy, encouraging all to understand God's teachings, to think about the teachings, to etch them on your hearts, as the means to a good and fruitful life.
This verse itself provides the context of another source of wisdom - one's self. It clearly states that one should not use your own opinion to determine if you are wise, but rather to look to God and turn away from what he has shown to be evil.
Application: So many times, the daily narrative in my head says something very simple ... "What should I do next?" I am constantly considering my opinion about what I should be doing, and evaluating my actions against my opinions.
This is wrong headed.
There is only one person who I should look to for guidance in my daily activity, and that is God. The more I look to myself, the more mislead I am likely to be, as my sinful nature is likely to overwhelm my desire to follow Jesus in my daily walk. As Paul points out, "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do - this I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it." (Romans 7:19-20)
This is why I need to meditate on God's word. It is only through having his word in my heart that I can seek his guidance, and exercise his - not my - wisdom.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to follow your wisdom more and more every day. I know I fail often, and I thank you so much for the forgiveness you have provided through Jesus Christ, for without that I could not ever seek your face or be worthy of love. Every day, may I do one more thing correctly - aligned to your wisdom and your law - than I have done in the past, so I may know you better day by day. Amen.
Friday, May 22, 2015
Which am I Doing?
Scripture: When the priests withdrew from the Holy Place, the cloud filled the temple of the Lord. And the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the Lord filled his temple. 1 Kings 8:10-11
Observation: The ark has been moved to the temple and placed in the Most Holy Place ... and the ceremony is stopped by God himself. As a result, instead Solomon launches into a speech about how wonderful and great and loving God is, then says a lengthy public prayer appealing to God to be with the people, to punish them righteously, and to forgive them when they return to God and worship him with sorrowful hearts.
And then ... they promptly sacrifice almost 150,000 animals over 14 days.
Application: "I desire worship, not sacrifice."
God really wanted the worship. He wanted the music and the honest dialogue from Solomon. He wanted the celebration, and he wanted the honor-filled praise, and he wanted the communal love. He wanted that so much, that he interposed himself to stop the ritual ceremony and cut straight to the worship.
Maybe Solomon understood that, but the Jews didn't really. And perhaps ... neither do I.
Why do I do God's work? Why am I spending my evening trying to organize a parade and 'sell' the idea of serving to others. Why am I going to spend two hours mowing the lawn and church tonight instead of seeing my family? Is it because I worship God and want to spend that time with him? Or is it because I am making a sacrifice and thinking that is what he requires of me?
Am I just doing works?
My service needs to be done as an act of worship, not a deed. God doesn't need me to mow the grass - he's the one GROWING the grass! He wants me to worship him - to spend time with him - to realize that pushing a mower around a big field gives me time to meditate on him, his word, and his love.
God doesn't need me to organize parade volunteers. He wants me to pray to him about each volunteer and find a way to love them while they serve, to seek his will in where people will best fulfill his purposes, and to find joy when I realize I have merely joined him in a process.
Serving with my mind and body - my living sacrifice - is my true act of worship.
Prayer: Lord, I place my service in your hands, as my act of worship and community with you. May you be the master of my thoughts and deeds today and every day. Amen.
Observation: The ark has been moved to the temple and placed in the Most Holy Place ... and the ceremony is stopped by God himself. As a result, instead Solomon launches into a speech about how wonderful and great and loving God is, then says a lengthy public prayer appealing to God to be with the people, to punish them righteously, and to forgive them when they return to God and worship him with sorrowful hearts.
And then ... they promptly sacrifice almost 150,000 animals over 14 days.
Application: "I desire worship, not sacrifice."
God really wanted the worship. He wanted the music and the honest dialogue from Solomon. He wanted the celebration, and he wanted the honor-filled praise, and he wanted the communal love. He wanted that so much, that he interposed himself to stop the ritual ceremony and cut straight to the worship.
Maybe Solomon understood that, but the Jews didn't really. And perhaps ... neither do I.
Why do I do God's work? Why am I spending my evening trying to organize a parade and 'sell' the idea of serving to others. Why am I going to spend two hours mowing the lawn and church tonight instead of seeing my family? Is it because I worship God and want to spend that time with him? Or is it because I am making a sacrifice and thinking that is what he requires of me?
Am I just doing works?
My service needs to be done as an act of worship, not a deed. God doesn't need me to mow the grass - he's the one GROWING the grass! He wants me to worship him - to spend time with him - to realize that pushing a mower around a big field gives me time to meditate on him, his word, and his love.
God doesn't need me to organize parade volunteers. He wants me to pray to him about each volunteer and find a way to love them while they serve, to seek his will in where people will best fulfill his purposes, and to find joy when I realize I have merely joined him in a process.
Serving with my mind and body - my living sacrifice - is my true act of worship.
Prayer: Lord, I place my service in your hands, as my act of worship and community with you. May you be the master of my thoughts and deeds today and every day. Amen.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015
More Bold Prayer
Scripture:
The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad;
let the distant shores rejoice.
Psalms 97:1
To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. Romans 1:7-8
Observation: At the time Psalm 97 was written, Yahweh was the Lord of Israel - a small nation on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean. While they believed God was the creator and Lord of the entire earth, he was foremost in their minds the God of their nation, his chosen people. It was out of that boldness that the psalmist declared that the Lord reigns ... over ALL the earth, and that distant shores - places few Jews had even visited and none really cared that much about - should rejoice in God.
And ~1,100 years later, Paul is writing to the greatest city in the world - a place on one of those distant shores - celebrating their faith in Jesus and the fact they are loved by God.
It is very, very possible to connect these dots. The Jews celebrated God, worshipped him, and prayed that the entire world would likewise worship and celebrate God. Eventually, this happened through the advent of the Messiah and the good news that resulted and was spread throughout the world. The Messiah, therefore, while being God's plan for salvation, is also the response to bold prayer asking for the redemption of the entire world.
Application: Bold prayer is more than just being audacious enough to ask for something specific, assuming you can discern God's will. It is also praying for something SO HUGE that you cannot even conceive how it could be possible. It might be so big that you can't even understand what you yourself are asking for!
The psalmist probably didn't understand. When he prayed for worship on distant shores, "distant" might have been the Aegean Sea. When he prayed for 'the earth' to be glad ... his idea of the earth's population was likely less than modern day Mexico City. Yet he threw a bold pronouncement out there, and God did it.
Do I have the faith to pray that bold? Do I have the faith to pray for something that is so inconceivable in my mind that I don't even understand the 'ask' itself, with the faith that God will know what to do anyway? We'll see ...
Prayer: Lord, you know the prayers I have asked, and that I continue to ask. The "bold" ones I ask seem impossible to me, but I ask them anyway. Lord, I have friends that are so entrenched in unbelief that they refuse to acknowledge you as something to be considered - please, Lord, reach them ... find their hearts, enter their lives, display your love, and become irrevocably real to them. Lord, ISIS must be stopped, and I pray for the man who will reach them with a message of love in Jesus and begin turning hearts and thus destroy that hate through love and conversion. And dear Lord, I pray for the claiming of Bothell ... for the revival of the people of our small city to occur in such a way that it becomes an anomalous beacon of light in the Pacific Northwest without any possible explanation.
Amen, and amen.
The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad;
let the distant shores rejoice.
Psalms 97:1
To all in Rome who are loved by God and called to be his holy people: Grace and peace to you from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world. Romans 1:7-8
Observation: At the time Psalm 97 was written, Yahweh was the Lord of Israel - a small nation on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean. While they believed God was the creator and Lord of the entire earth, he was foremost in their minds the God of their nation, his chosen people. It was out of that boldness that the psalmist declared that the Lord reigns ... over ALL the earth, and that distant shores - places few Jews had even visited and none really cared that much about - should rejoice in God.
And ~1,100 years later, Paul is writing to the greatest city in the world - a place on one of those distant shores - celebrating their faith in Jesus and the fact they are loved by God.
It is very, very possible to connect these dots. The Jews celebrated God, worshipped him, and prayed that the entire world would likewise worship and celebrate God. Eventually, this happened through the advent of the Messiah and the good news that resulted and was spread throughout the world. The Messiah, therefore, while being God's plan for salvation, is also the response to bold prayer asking for the redemption of the entire world.
Application: Bold prayer is more than just being audacious enough to ask for something specific, assuming you can discern God's will. It is also praying for something SO HUGE that you cannot even conceive how it could be possible. It might be so big that you can't even understand what you yourself are asking for!
The psalmist probably didn't understand. When he prayed for worship on distant shores, "distant" might have been the Aegean Sea. When he prayed for 'the earth' to be glad ... his idea of the earth's population was likely less than modern day Mexico City. Yet he threw a bold pronouncement out there, and God did it.
Do I have the faith to pray that bold? Do I have the faith to pray for something that is so inconceivable in my mind that I don't even understand the 'ask' itself, with the faith that God will know what to do anyway? We'll see ...
Prayer: Lord, you know the prayers I have asked, and that I continue to ask. The "bold" ones I ask seem impossible to me, but I ask them anyway. Lord, I have friends that are so entrenched in unbelief that they refuse to acknowledge you as something to be considered - please, Lord, reach them ... find their hearts, enter their lives, display your love, and become irrevocably real to them. Lord, ISIS must be stopped, and I pray for the man who will reach them with a message of love in Jesus and begin turning hearts and thus destroy that hate through love and conversion. And dear Lord, I pray for the claiming of Bothell ... for the revival of the people of our small city to occur in such a way that it becomes an anomalous beacon of light in the Pacific Northwest without any possible explanation.
Amen, and amen.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Busybodies Defined
Scripture: We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 2 Thessalonians 3:11-12
Observation: In the church, Paul has repeatedly taught that the people are to love and care about one another, just like Jesus taught. However, Paul says this is not the kind of people who are to be in the church: Those who receive that care without contributing back into the society of believers.
Everyone has gifts, and while some may receive from others, they too are to give to others. anyone who is "not busy" doing something for the church, is worse than just a non-contributor - they are a disruptive busybody.
Application: This may not sound like a loving thing to say, but there are people who attend the church because they want people to take care of them. They do not serve, they do not support, they do not tithe. They instead get free meals, attend classes, receive counseling, ask for prayer, seek handouts. They are often also the ones who ... complain about the music, don't like the sermons, nit pick small issues.
For someone who is doing these things, there are only two explanations:
1) They aren't actually a believer ... which is great that they are therefore at church seeking Jesus! They must be loved, cared for, and engaged to show them Jesus.
2) They are idle, disruptive busybodies. Paul says, "Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer." (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15)
In other words, someone who "takes" from the church is either a non-believer, or in need of correction. BOTH must be treated with love - not anger as one would an enemy. But the former needs the love of Jesus, the latter needs the correction of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, in the church it is easy to get angry at those who "take". Please forgive me for when I have done that. At the same time, please also give me the courage to correct believers who suck the resources of your church (especially the staff). May I do so gently and kindly and lovingly and effectively, and not for my reasons but so that they may better join our body to serve your purposes. Amen.
Observation: In the church, Paul has repeatedly taught that the people are to love and care about one another, just like Jesus taught. However, Paul says this is not the kind of people who are to be in the church: Those who receive that care without contributing back into the society of believers.
Everyone has gifts, and while some may receive from others, they too are to give to others. anyone who is "not busy" doing something for the church, is worse than just a non-contributor - they are a disruptive busybody.
Application: This may not sound like a loving thing to say, but there are people who attend the church because they want people to take care of them. They do not serve, they do not support, they do not tithe. They instead get free meals, attend classes, receive counseling, ask for prayer, seek handouts. They are often also the ones who ... complain about the music, don't like the sermons, nit pick small issues.
For someone who is doing these things, there are only two explanations:
1) They aren't actually a believer ... which is great that they are therefore at church seeking Jesus! They must be loved, cared for, and engaged to show them Jesus.
2) They are idle, disruptive busybodies. Paul says, "Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer." (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15)
In other words, someone who "takes" from the church is either a non-believer, or in need of correction. BOTH must be treated with love - not anger as one would an enemy. But the former needs the love of Jesus, the latter needs the correction of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, in the church it is easy to get angry at those who "take". Please forgive me for when I have done that. At the same time, please also give me the courage to correct believers who suck the resources of your church (especially the staff). May I do so gently and kindly and lovingly and effectively, and not for my reasons but so that they may better join our body to serve your purposes. Amen.
Monday, May 18, 2015
Discerning Right from Wrong
Scripture: "So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?" 1 Kings 3:9
"Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?" 2 Chronicles 1:10
Observation: What did Solomon ask God for??
We are ALWAYS taught that Solomon asked for wisdom - it's even the 'heading' added to both of these passages. However, in 1 Kings (the more detailed of the telling of this story), he asks for discernment ... and in 2 Chronicles he asks for wisdom AND knowledge.
It is also telling to see his explanation for the requests. Discernment is intended to be used to govern the people and distinguish right from wrong. Wisdom and knowledge is to lead the people. The former, therefore, is for the purpose of proper administration of a government, while the latter is for leadership and authority.
These honestly seem contradictory to me, and I wish it were clearer. Perhaps there is not really a difference here - the great point of the story is that Solomon did not seek earthly gains, but rather requested a skill that would benefit God's chosen people ... and in turn was granted all other greatness and riches by God. However, I find it interesting that, in 1 Kings, the word 'wisdom' in not mentioned by Solomon. It doesn't appear until God says he will give Solomon a "wise and discerning heart."
Application: What is the most wise thing a person can do? It is to discern the will of God and proceed in accordance with that will! So true wisdom is not about earthly understanding, but rather about an understanding of God's will. That was Solomon's request - discernment of right and wrong - to be closer to God and hear his guidance in all matters.
This, then is wisdom: To draw close to God, discern his will, and then to speak and act in accordance and alignment with that will.
Prayer: Lord, there are times when I get this half right - when I believe I know your will. However, I need to lean into that will better, and then act according to that will. I would love the gift of discernment, Lord!!! If it is your will, may you pass that spiritual gift to me, so that I may serve your people - all people - in a manner aligned to your great and perfect will. Amen!
"Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?" 2 Chronicles 1:10
Observation: What did Solomon ask God for??
We are ALWAYS taught that Solomon asked for wisdom - it's even the 'heading' added to both of these passages. However, in 1 Kings (the more detailed of the telling of this story), he asks for discernment ... and in 2 Chronicles he asks for wisdom AND knowledge.
It is also telling to see his explanation for the requests. Discernment is intended to be used to govern the people and distinguish right from wrong. Wisdom and knowledge is to lead the people. The former, therefore, is for the purpose of proper administration of a government, while the latter is for leadership and authority.
These honestly seem contradictory to me, and I wish it were clearer. Perhaps there is not really a difference here - the great point of the story is that Solomon did not seek earthly gains, but rather requested a skill that would benefit God's chosen people ... and in turn was granted all other greatness and riches by God. However, I find it interesting that, in 1 Kings, the word 'wisdom' in not mentioned by Solomon. It doesn't appear until God says he will give Solomon a "wise and discerning heart."
Application: What is the most wise thing a person can do? It is to discern the will of God and proceed in accordance with that will! So true wisdom is not about earthly understanding, but rather about an understanding of God's will. That was Solomon's request - discernment of right and wrong - to be closer to God and hear his guidance in all matters.
This, then is wisdom: To draw close to God, discern his will, and then to speak and act in accordance and alignment with that will.
Prayer: Lord, there are times when I get this half right - when I believe I know your will. However, I need to lean into that will better, and then act according to that will. I would love the gift of discernment, Lord!!! If it is your will, may you pass that spiritual gift to me, so that I may serve your people - all people - in a manner aligned to your great and perfect will. Amen!
Thursday, May 14, 2015
Press On
Today, I read three chapters of 1 Chronicles, and a chapter of Thessalonians, and nothing really jumps out as something I want to blog about. My mind is on so many things, I just cannot unplug. I am worried about some projects, I am thinking about people, and I am concerned about my wife and her impending surgery.
In today's reading, God revealed to David that Solomon would be a king of peace, protected from all sides. I need that peace, as right now I feel that there are issues on every side. I am not "stressed" per se - I trust God with my job and my family and my wife's health and my other activities. However, my mind is turning in too many areas, on too many bad things. I need relief.
So let's just go with a little upbeat encouragement from one of my favorite bands ...
In today's reading, God revealed to David that Solomon would be a king of peace, protected from all sides. I need that peace, as right now I feel that there are issues on every side. I am not "stressed" per se - I trust God with my job and my family and my wife's health and my other activities. However, my mind is turning in too many areas, on too many bad things. I need relief.
So let's just go with a little upbeat encouragement from one of my favorite bands ...
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Time and Attention
Scripture: So we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. 1 Thessalonians 2:8
Observation: When we love someone, we share the gospel of them ... but we also share ourselves. We share our time, our attention, and our lives with them.
Application: Throughout this section, Paul talks about just these two ideas in demonstrating his love for the believers in Thessalonica - that he shared with them all about Jesus and taught them the gospel even while there was pressure not to; and that he thinks about them often, wishes to be able to visit them, and was glad to spend his time with them.
This is a sign of loving others - giving of yourself, and yourself starts with your actual time and attention. This is true of parents with their kids, and it is true of spouses, and it is true of bosses with their staff. Our time represents our love.
Where do I spend my time? I spend too much of it online, or watching sports. When I am giving my family my time, I need to also give them my attention. When I am at work, I need to start demonstrating God's love by giving true attention to the lives of others. And when I am doing none of the above, I need to give my time and attention to God.
I need more time in prayer. And I need to be more present with everyone when I am giving them my time.
Prayer: Thank you for your teaching today, Lord. My love for others cannot just be about "how do I tell them about Jesus." It needs to be about "how do I give them time and attention to show them God's love." And ... this starts with giving YOU my love through my time and attention, Abba. May I focus on you more and more, and on myself less and less. Amen.
Observation: When we love someone, we share the gospel of them ... but we also share ourselves. We share our time, our attention, and our lives with them.
Application: Throughout this section, Paul talks about just these two ideas in demonstrating his love for the believers in Thessalonica - that he shared with them all about Jesus and taught them the gospel even while there was pressure not to; and that he thinks about them often, wishes to be able to visit them, and was glad to spend his time with them.
This is a sign of loving others - giving of yourself, and yourself starts with your actual time and attention. This is true of parents with their kids, and it is true of spouses, and it is true of bosses with their staff. Our time represents our love.
Where do I spend my time? I spend too much of it online, or watching sports. When I am giving my family my time, I need to also give them my attention. When I am at work, I need to start demonstrating God's love by giving true attention to the lives of others. And when I am doing none of the above, I need to give my time and attention to God.
I need more time in prayer. And I need to be more present with everyone when I am giving them my time.
Prayer: Thank you for your teaching today, Lord. My love for others cannot just be about "how do I tell them about Jesus." It needs to be about "how do I give them time and attention to show them God's love." And ... this starts with giving YOU my love through my time and attention, Abba. May I focus on you more and more, and on myself less and less. Amen.
Monday, May 11, 2015
Death is Always Sad
Scripture: Joab was told, “The king is weeping and mourning for Absalom.” And for the whole army the victory that day was turned into mourning, because on that day the troops heard it said, “The king is grieving for his son.” 2 Samuel 19:1-2
Observation: There is something about death that is so ultimately sad even when it brings about victory. For David, Absalom was an abomination that nearly destroyed his kingship and Israel with it, yet when David defeated Absalom he was bitterly sad. It is said it was similar for God himself - that he was sad when Jesus died despite the fact that this was his plan and his way to achieve ultimate victory over death and evil, reconciling mankind to him.
It is also this way for believers. We are confident that, when a believing loved one dies, they are immediately in a glorious place and filled with joy. However, we are so sad at the passing itself.
Application: I think sadness about death is a "in God's image" quality that exists to teach us two critical lessons:
1) Death itself is evil. It was NOT God's intention for mankind to die. We chose death by the acceptance of evil. Thus, the advent of death is itself something we do not wish to witness or experience in any manner.
2) We love others to the point of wanting to be near them. When they pass, we lose our immediate access to them, and this makes us sad even when we know they are in a wonderful place and we will see them again someday.
Prayer: Lord, I wish the combine these ideas for your purposes ... that I love others enough to want to know that their death is simply a passing into heaven. May I care enough about everyone to wish to see them accept Jesus as their lord and savior, and secure eternal life. Amen.
Observation: There is something about death that is so ultimately sad even when it brings about victory. For David, Absalom was an abomination that nearly destroyed his kingship and Israel with it, yet when David defeated Absalom he was bitterly sad. It is said it was similar for God himself - that he was sad when Jesus died despite the fact that this was his plan and his way to achieve ultimate victory over death and evil, reconciling mankind to him.
It is also this way for believers. We are confident that, when a believing loved one dies, they are immediately in a glorious place and filled with joy. However, we are so sad at the passing itself.
Application: I think sadness about death is a "in God's image" quality that exists to teach us two critical lessons:
1) Death itself is evil. It was NOT God's intention for mankind to die. We chose death by the acceptance of evil. Thus, the advent of death is itself something we do not wish to witness or experience in any manner.
2) We love others to the point of wanting to be near them. When they pass, we lose our immediate access to them, and this makes us sad even when we know they are in a wonderful place and we will see them again someday.
Prayer: Lord, I wish the combine these ideas for your purposes ... that I love others enough to want to know that their death is simply a passing into heaven. May I care enough about everyone to wish to see them accept Jesus as their lord and savior, and secure eternal life. Amen.
Friday, May 8, 2015
Acknowledge and Confess
Scripture:
Then I acknowledged my sin to you
and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, “I will confess
my transgressions to the Lord.”
And you forgave
the guilt of my sin.
Then I acknowledged my sin to you
and did not cover up my iniquity.
I said, “I will confess
my transgressions to the Lord.”
And you forgave
the guilt of my sin.
I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.
Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the Lord’s unfailing love
surrounds the one who trusts in him.
I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.
Do not be like the horse or the mule,
which have no understanding
but must be controlled by bit and bridle
or they will not come to you.
Many are the woes of the wicked,
but the Lord’s unfailing love
surrounds the one who trusts in him.
Psalm 32:5,8-10
Observation: There is a progression expressed: First, acknowledge your sin and pray for forgiveness; Then, not only does God forgive you, but he begins teaching you in love so that you are not longer like a slave animal that must be guided, but you can live into God's love.
Application: When anyone refuses to even acknowledge their sin, there is no way forward. God is removed from you, and you bask in guilt without hope. It is when you confess and are forgiven that God can THEN properly guide you.
All Christians - myself included (especially) - need to remember this. The path to struggles in life begins with unconfessed sin.
Prayer: Lord, please do forgive my sins! I have evil thoughts and hate toward others. My actions I justify, and my thoughts I feel do no harm. But they are all harming me and keeping me from the full experience of a blessed life ... they keep me from the daily warmth of your amazing love. Please forgive me, and help me to repent. I sincerely seek your guidance, and I do fully trust in you. Amen.
Thursday, May 7, 2015
Blessing the Hater
Scripture: Joab son of Zeruiah knew that the king’s heart longed for Absalom. 2 Samuel 14:1
Observation: David always had a soft spot for Absalom ... a son who was violent, rebelled against David, killed his household, committed atrocities, disgraced the king several times in terrible ways, and eventually whom David had to kill to win back Israel. Through it all, David inexplicably loved Absalom.
Application: If David was a man after God's own heart, what can I learn from David's love for Absalom?
I see Absalom as a rebel against God - one whom, despite being the favored son of the first family of God's chosen people, is going to violently fight to overthrow that family and commit every sin in the book. He will do many of these things not for selfish desire, but actually to disgrace and display his contempt for David (and therefore God).
How is that like non believers today? Some are simply ambivalent, but many hate God, Jesus, and his church. They don't ignore God, they rebel. They hate and attack and sin not for their pleasure or just because they don't care, but they do so in order to lash out and harm God. Evil like ISIS falls into this category, but so do internet trolls who spew hate at Christians, and those who take up some "politically correct cause" by rampaging against Christianity.
David would ... love these people. He would miss them when they aren't at church. He would invite them over, seek to be near them, cry when they verbally lash out at him. He would lose his family and home to them, and mourn for them - not his family - over their lost souls. And only then would he - as a last resort - fight back and retake ground.
So, what phase is the church in now? Are we in the "let them attack, maybe we can win them back with our love" phase? Are we in the "we're getting killed so let's retreat and hide" phase? Are we in the "time to strike back" phase?
Most churches would like to say we're in the first phase ... most churches would say that is the ONLY option that actually exists for the Church of Jesus Christ. In that case, David is an example of how to try to reach others.
Prayer: Lord, Absalom was a curse upon David, but David tried to be a blessing back to him. May we somehow have that sort of strength in dealing with non-believers every day. Amen.
Observation: David always had a soft spot for Absalom ... a son who was violent, rebelled against David, killed his household, committed atrocities, disgraced the king several times in terrible ways, and eventually whom David had to kill to win back Israel. Through it all, David inexplicably loved Absalom.
Application: If David was a man after God's own heart, what can I learn from David's love for Absalom?
I see Absalom as a rebel against God - one whom, despite being the favored son of the first family of God's chosen people, is going to violently fight to overthrow that family and commit every sin in the book. He will do many of these things not for selfish desire, but actually to disgrace and display his contempt for David (and therefore God).
How is that like non believers today? Some are simply ambivalent, but many hate God, Jesus, and his church. They don't ignore God, they rebel. They hate and attack and sin not for their pleasure or just because they don't care, but they do so in order to lash out and harm God. Evil like ISIS falls into this category, but so do internet trolls who spew hate at Christians, and those who take up some "politically correct cause" by rampaging against Christianity.
David would ... love these people. He would miss them when they aren't at church. He would invite them over, seek to be near them, cry when they verbally lash out at him. He would lose his family and home to them, and mourn for them - not his family - over their lost souls. And only then would he - as a last resort - fight back and retake ground.
So, what phase is the church in now? Are we in the "let them attack, maybe we can win them back with our love" phase? Are we in the "we're getting killed so let's retreat and hide" phase? Are we in the "time to strike back" phase?
Most churches would like to say we're in the first phase ... most churches would say that is the ONLY option that actually exists for the Church of Jesus Christ. In that case, David is an example of how to try to reach others.
Prayer: Lord, Absalom was a curse upon David, but David tried to be a blessing back to him. May we somehow have that sort of strength in dealing with non-believers every day. Amen.
Tuesday, May 5, 2015
The Law vs. The Law
Scripture: Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him in his words. They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” Matthew 22:15-17
Observation: Later in this chapter, the Pharisees and Sadducees try to trap Jesus with interpretations of scripture. However, this exchange begins with a legal ploy ... is it "right" to give money to Rome?
This isn't really a ploy to trap Jesus in a misunderstanding of scripture or in a "sin" of some kind. Instead, it is an attempt to set Jesus in a conflict with human authority and public opinion. In this scenario, one answer will declare him an opponent to Rome, and the other will set him against the opinion of the people around him.
Application: This section is all about how Christians today can function in a secular society where both laws and "political correctness" run in conflict to God's laws and teachings.
Jesus gives an answer that "amazes" the Pharisees - his response effectively creates a scenario where one can comply with human law without violating ones faith and trust and belief in God. It is a lesson of complying with civil authority, without allowing that compliance to in any way become support or facilitation of the underlying civil law.
This is the challenge for us today. There are many components of current society we must now comply with, but must not create scenarios where that compliance indicates approval. At the same time, we must not approve while at the same time avoiding the trap of illegal opposition. That opposition comes across by society as "bad" - one of the ways the Pharisees set the trap against Jesus was to talk about his goodness and integrity, and breaking the law damages that reputation regardless of the nature of the law.
This is a difficult concept ... to accept without accepting ... to love without condoning ... to acknowledge without complying ... to teach without judging ... to resist without opposing ...
Prayer: Lord, I do pray on this idea today. I am unsure of this teaching, and unsure how one would respond to it either way. In all things, may I hear your guidance and follow your will in all interactions and actions. Amen.
Observation: Later in this chapter, the Pharisees and Sadducees try to trap Jesus with interpretations of scripture. However, this exchange begins with a legal ploy ... is it "right" to give money to Rome?
This isn't really a ploy to trap Jesus in a misunderstanding of scripture or in a "sin" of some kind. Instead, it is an attempt to set Jesus in a conflict with human authority and public opinion. In this scenario, one answer will declare him an opponent to Rome, and the other will set him against the opinion of the people around him.
Application: This section is all about how Christians today can function in a secular society where both laws and "political correctness" run in conflict to God's laws and teachings.
Jesus gives an answer that "amazes" the Pharisees - his response effectively creates a scenario where one can comply with human law without violating ones faith and trust and belief in God. It is a lesson of complying with civil authority, without allowing that compliance to in any way become support or facilitation of the underlying civil law.
This is the challenge for us today. There are many components of current society we must now comply with, but must not create scenarios where that compliance indicates approval. At the same time, we must not approve while at the same time avoiding the trap of illegal opposition. That opposition comes across by society as "bad" - one of the ways the Pharisees set the trap against Jesus was to talk about his goodness and integrity, and breaking the law damages that reputation regardless of the nature of the law.
This is a difficult concept ... to accept without accepting ... to love without condoning ... to acknowledge without complying ... to teach without judging ... to resist without opposing ...
Prayer: Lord, I do pray on this idea today. I am unsure of this teaching, and unsure how one would respond to it either way. In all things, may I hear your guidance and follow your will in all interactions and actions. Amen.
Monday, May 4, 2015
Proof of Authority
Scripture: Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?” Matthew 21:23
Observation: This is actually an amazing question. The priests are not challenging the veracity of Jesus' teaching, but are instead asking about his authority - does Jesus have an authoritative right to teach? However, the question is rooted in two items - by what and from whom is the authority.
It is also interesting that, while Jesus has answered this similar challenge before (stating on other occasions that he has authority from God as the Messiah), in this situation he refuses to answer. There is something about this specific context and manner of question that is different, and Jesus instead refuses to answer.
Application: The authority of certain teachings in the church today is very important, and very relevant. There are certain churches, pastors, and denominations claiming authority to teach certain doctrine, and it must be asked ... by what authority are they teaching?
And going right back to Jesus, there is only one answer to that question:
-- Authority is granted by God.
-- One's authority is validated by its alignment to the scriptures.
Matthew - the gospel writer who specifically wrote to first century Jews - knows this. Over and over, he quotes Jesus quoting the prophets, correcting others about the law, and aligning his actions to predictions about Messiah. In fact, in the first 16 verses of this chapter, five different times Jesus' words and actions are ascribed as fulfilling Old Testament scripture. Thus the "these things" the priests are discussing are directly out of and aligned to scripture.
Today, as many churches are moving away from scriptural authority, it is critical to see that Jesus himself believed in scriptural authority. He would not claim any authority from others - the crowds, their songs and praise, even miracles did not give him authority. However, the fact his words and deeds aligned to scripture ... that was his authority, and with that alignment in place he did not need to make any other defense of claim.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the chance I have had to be in your word today, and to do so many days. I do need to meditate on your word more often instead of being inside my own thoughts. Your word is perfect, and your teaching through the Bible is wonderful. My I align my thoughts and deeds to scripture, and evaluate others only within that context.
Observation: This is actually an amazing question. The priests are not challenging the veracity of Jesus' teaching, but are instead asking about his authority - does Jesus have an authoritative right to teach? However, the question is rooted in two items - by what and from whom is the authority.
It is also interesting that, while Jesus has answered this similar challenge before (stating on other occasions that he has authority from God as the Messiah), in this situation he refuses to answer. There is something about this specific context and manner of question that is different, and Jesus instead refuses to answer.
Application: The authority of certain teachings in the church today is very important, and very relevant. There are certain churches, pastors, and denominations claiming authority to teach certain doctrine, and it must be asked ... by what authority are they teaching?
And going right back to Jesus, there is only one answer to that question:
-- Authority is granted by God.
-- One's authority is validated by its alignment to the scriptures.
Matthew - the gospel writer who specifically wrote to first century Jews - knows this. Over and over, he quotes Jesus quoting the prophets, correcting others about the law, and aligning his actions to predictions about Messiah. In fact, in the first 16 verses of this chapter, five different times Jesus' words and actions are ascribed as fulfilling Old Testament scripture. Thus the "these things" the priests are discussing are directly out of and aligned to scripture.
Today, as many churches are moving away from scriptural authority, it is critical to see that Jesus himself believed in scriptural authority. He would not claim any authority from others - the crowds, their songs and praise, even miracles did not give him authority. However, the fact his words and deeds aligned to scripture ... that was his authority, and with that alignment in place he did not need to make any other defense of claim.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the chance I have had to be in your word today, and to do so many days. I do need to meditate on your word more often instead of being inside my own thoughts. Your word is perfect, and your teaching through the Bible is wonderful. My I align my thoughts and deeds to scripture, and evaluate others only within that context.
Friday, May 1, 2015
A Corrupted Promise
Scripture: As the ark of the covenant of the Lord was entering the City of David, Michal daughter of Saul watched from a window. And when she saw King David dancing and celebrating, she despised him in her heart. 1 Chronicles 15:29
Observation: There is complexity in the relationship between David and Michal. She was betrothed to him by Saul, then when Saul turned against David she was married to anther man, but when Saul died David reclaimed her and expelled the other husband. Michal loathes David - to the point here where she despises him because he is worshiping God - but David keeps her close.
I think this goes back to David's persistent honoring of Saul. Even when Saul was trying to kill David, David would not harm him since he was God's anointed king, and even killed those who dishonored Saul and his family. So Michal is both a promise from Saul (even though Saul himself revoked it) and a method to honor Saul's bloodline. Perhaps ... and I'm really just guessing here ... Michal is the manifestation of the idea that God appointed Saul, and just because Saul screwed that up it doesn't undo God's will and purpose. Thus, regardless the pain and discomfort, as God's anointed one 'good Saul's' promise cannot be undone by 'bad Saul'.
Application: People around me who "hate" God and would seek to persecute the church are like Saul. From a heavenly perspective, they have a 'good' side - the side for which God has delivered the promise of salvation if only they would believe in Jesus. And they have a 'bad' side - the side that rejects Jesus and God, and now lives in a world that is further and further removed from hope and love.
David was a man after God's own heart, and as such he respected God's decisions and promises even when the people through whom those promises were supposed to be passed had turned bad and rejected God's direction. Saul turned jealous and spiteful, trying to kill David and eventually rejecting faith in God for mediums and other forms of belief. Michal (though perhaps part victim of Saul's game-playing) has turned so much from God that the sight of worship angers her. Yet David keeps aligned to the promise.
Can I do that? Can we any of us see through people when they totally reject everything we believe - and do so with vitriolic anger and insult - and instead see in them the promise God has for them, and maybe even the promise God has for us that is supposed to be delivered through them?
It's hard.
Prayer: Lord, you know how my thoughts have wandered lately. Please bring my mind back to you. May I see others as your creations, and see them only through your lens. May I meditate on your word day and night, and not on my own thoughts, so I can love others as you would have me love them. Amen.
Observation: There is complexity in the relationship between David and Michal. She was betrothed to him by Saul, then when Saul turned against David she was married to anther man, but when Saul died David reclaimed her and expelled the other husband. Michal loathes David - to the point here where she despises him because he is worshiping God - but David keeps her close.
I think this goes back to David's persistent honoring of Saul. Even when Saul was trying to kill David, David would not harm him since he was God's anointed king, and even killed those who dishonored Saul and his family. So Michal is both a promise from Saul (even though Saul himself revoked it) and a method to honor Saul's bloodline. Perhaps ... and I'm really just guessing here ... Michal is the manifestation of the idea that God appointed Saul, and just because Saul screwed that up it doesn't undo God's will and purpose. Thus, regardless the pain and discomfort, as God's anointed one 'good Saul's' promise cannot be undone by 'bad Saul'.
Application: People around me who "hate" God and would seek to persecute the church are like Saul. From a heavenly perspective, they have a 'good' side - the side for which God has delivered the promise of salvation if only they would believe in Jesus. And they have a 'bad' side - the side that rejects Jesus and God, and now lives in a world that is further and further removed from hope and love.
David was a man after God's own heart, and as such he respected God's decisions and promises even when the people through whom those promises were supposed to be passed had turned bad and rejected God's direction. Saul turned jealous and spiteful, trying to kill David and eventually rejecting faith in God for mediums and other forms of belief. Michal (though perhaps part victim of Saul's game-playing) has turned so much from God that the sight of worship angers her. Yet David keeps aligned to the promise.
Can I do that? Can we any of us see through people when they totally reject everything we believe - and do so with vitriolic anger and insult - and instead see in them the promise God has for them, and maybe even the promise God has for us that is supposed to be delivered through them?
It's hard.
Prayer: Lord, you know how my thoughts have wandered lately. Please bring my mind back to you. May I see others as your creations, and see them only through your lens. May I meditate on your word day and night, and not on my own thoughts, so I can love others as you would have me love them. Amen.
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