Scripture: If it is possible, as much as it depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to God’s wrath, for it is written: “Vengeance is Mine. I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:18-19
Observation: God is clear about this many times - the faithful are not to take retribution on enemies or to seek revenge for wrongs done against them, but to at the very least remain passive in allowing God's vengeance, and maybe even to love and bless their enemies. He describes the outcomes of such actions in two ways. First, God himself will then be able to show judgment, as he is both the proper and final judge of all matters. Second guilt will still weigh on the hearts of others for their wrongs, which may be worse than what we ourselves can do to them.
Application: As I sit here at work - with our wireless network shut off due to the operational hostility of one individual against our business unit - I wonder how this applies to business scenarios.
I am not certain how I sit idly by and not perform a job for which I am well paid. I cannot ignore the situation and do/say nothing, as it is my responsibility to act and correct, and I seek to do my job well so that I may honor God. However, I cannot discuss the truth of the situation without an accusation against a clear 'enemy' in the workplace.
I find guidance in two phrases today.
First is the direction of "live peaceably". This is about confrontation and anger ... it is about a certain energy that emerges from conflict. If I discuss only facts in a manner that does not attack, that may allow everyone to discuss the situation peaceably.
Second is the instruction "do not avenge yourselves". I am not to be the one to seek correction, action, or punishment. I am simply to stick to my job, and allow another to perform theirs. God's response will likely take the form of someone's action, and it must not be my action.
Prayer: Lord, I ask for your calm heart today. May I be a man of your integrity in all matters this day, speaking honestly, addressing problems, and allowing room for your protection and guidance in my life. This is really about our relationship today, and it is my will to walk with you today and every day. Amen.
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Tuesday, May 30, 2017
The Mystery of Minority Opinion Leadership
Scripture: For I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers, lest you be wise in your own estimation, for a partial hardening has come upon Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. And so all Israel will be saved, as it is written:
Observation: Paul makes a difficult claim - "all Israel will be saved" despite the fact they are currently hardened against the gospel. This sounds a lot like a way to salvation independent of Jesus. However, we know that cannot be as stated throughout the New Testament. Therefore, what Paul is really saying, I believe, is more along the lines of clarifying whether or not Israel has been entirely abandoned. He recalls Elijah's battle against the Baal's as an example that God never abandoned Israel.
In other words, this is not a conversation about individuals, but people-groups. Israel as a people-group remains the chosen people and God's chosen vessel for promise in the world. However, they still need to make individual choices about accepting Jesus. Meanwhile, their leadership's response to the Messiah fostered and drove the gospel out of Israel to the Gentiles, and thus benefits that people-group by allowing individual choices about accepting Jesus. Paul's discussion, therefore, is not about individual sanctification, but rather about the function of Israel in blessing the world, which has always been the nature of their election.
Application: It is interesting today to see the idea of individual groups of people driving worldwide events, while individuals within those groups make personal decisions contrary to the primary narrative. This is true of all politics in the U.S., with both sides being filled with hatred and anger while most Americans watch on TV. I expect this is true of Muslim extremists, who attack and kill innocent people while most Muslims is seems are saddened by those actions.
The "mystery" then is in understanding how God raises leaders by which a minority becomes the visible action of a group, while the majority avoid such activity and often behave the opposite. And honestly, I do not fully understand this myself. This is especially true for terrorist groups ... actions primarily from a religious group that are consistent with their actions for over 500 years, but now with much more deadly consequence through the progress of technology. How can this be?
With Israel, God's plan was evident - the blessing of the world through the undeniable revelation of the Messiah and spread of the gospel, which required minority leaders to oppose their own evidence. I do not understand how radical Muslim extremists and terrorism fit into God's plan. I do not see how the current state of American politics possibly supports any positive outcome. I see a similar pattern, but it is a mystery.
Prayer: Lord, thy kingdom come. Soon. Please. Amen.
“The Deliverer will come out of Zion,
and He will remove ungodliness from Jacob”;
“for this is My covenant with them,
when I shall take away their sins.”
and He will remove ungodliness from Jacob”;
“for this is My covenant with them,
when I shall take away their sins.”
As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sake, but as regarding the election, they are beloved for the sake of the patriarchs. For the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable. Romans 11:25-29
Observation: Paul makes a difficult claim - "all Israel will be saved" despite the fact they are currently hardened against the gospel. This sounds a lot like a way to salvation independent of Jesus. However, we know that cannot be as stated throughout the New Testament. Therefore, what Paul is really saying, I believe, is more along the lines of clarifying whether or not Israel has been entirely abandoned. He recalls Elijah's battle against the Baal's as an example that God never abandoned Israel.
In other words, this is not a conversation about individuals, but people-groups. Israel as a people-group remains the chosen people and God's chosen vessel for promise in the world. However, they still need to make individual choices about accepting Jesus. Meanwhile, their leadership's response to the Messiah fostered and drove the gospel out of Israel to the Gentiles, and thus benefits that people-group by allowing individual choices about accepting Jesus. Paul's discussion, therefore, is not about individual sanctification, but rather about the function of Israel in blessing the world, which has always been the nature of their election.
Application: It is interesting today to see the idea of individual groups of people driving worldwide events, while individuals within those groups make personal decisions contrary to the primary narrative. This is true of all politics in the U.S., with both sides being filled with hatred and anger while most Americans watch on TV. I expect this is true of Muslim extremists, who attack and kill innocent people while most Muslims is seems are saddened by those actions.
The "mystery" then is in understanding how God raises leaders by which a minority becomes the visible action of a group, while the majority avoid such activity and often behave the opposite. And honestly, I do not fully understand this myself. This is especially true for terrorist groups ... actions primarily from a religious group that are consistent with their actions for over 500 years, but now with much more deadly consequence through the progress of technology. How can this be?
With Israel, God's plan was evident - the blessing of the world through the undeniable revelation of the Messiah and spread of the gospel, which required minority leaders to oppose their own evidence. I do not understand how radical Muslim extremists and terrorism fit into God's plan. I do not see how the current state of American politics possibly supports any positive outcome. I see a similar pattern, but it is a mystery.
Prayer: Lord, thy kingdom come. Soon. Please. Amen.
Friday, May 26, 2017
A Matter of Trust
Scripture:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Observation: This is the challenge I struggle with, fully articulated ... trust. I have been calling it faith and hope, but it comes down to this proverb. I am to trust Yahweh, not desiring my own understanding of the situation and the world, and if I acknowledge his sovereign control, he will take care of the situation.
Application: I wish it were that simple right now.
I know in my heart that as I am expressing a lack of trust ... it doesn't make any sense. I do trust. I do have faith. I do hope. Yet I worry and fret and despair. Certainly these actions are not improving anything, and they are a detriment to myself.
I am certainly not observing this wisdom. Just this week, I have said I doubt. I have said I would like to understand. I have said I would like to better know the direction in which God is guiding the lives of my children. And the wisdom of God responds ... trust God, not your own understanding, and the very creator of the universe will himself take care of the future of your family.
I see an order here - I must first trust. But that isn't true, for that understanding ignores the step about God's love. The very first proverb is that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge. That phrase - fear of the Lord - is a poor interpretation of the intended language. It is really about honor and respect, born from a relationship, and that relationship began with God's love for ... me. He acted first. He loves, then I honor, then he shows mercy, then I submit, then he instructs, then I obey, then he guides, then I walk with him.
And this is what I have been hearing for months. This challenge may be the way into another level of relationship with God - a way to take his hand and walk humbly with my Lord and father.
I will redouble my efforts to trust. I will get out of my own head and my own understanding, and acknowledge that God has the situation under control, for his purposes, by his plan, and that plan is for good and for hope and a future for my children.
Prayer: Lord, my children are in your hands, and not just of my doing. You know they have chosen you. I trust in your love for certain. I will try to ignore my own understanding of how to construct a future for them, and I leave it all to you. Amen.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will direct your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
Observation: This is the challenge I struggle with, fully articulated ... trust. I have been calling it faith and hope, but it comes down to this proverb. I am to trust Yahweh, not desiring my own understanding of the situation and the world, and if I acknowledge his sovereign control, he will take care of the situation.
Application: I wish it were that simple right now.
I know in my heart that as I am expressing a lack of trust ... it doesn't make any sense. I do trust. I do have faith. I do hope. Yet I worry and fret and despair. Certainly these actions are not improving anything, and they are a detriment to myself.
I am certainly not observing this wisdom. Just this week, I have said I doubt. I have said I would like to understand. I have said I would like to better know the direction in which God is guiding the lives of my children. And the wisdom of God responds ... trust God, not your own understanding, and the very creator of the universe will himself take care of the future of your family.
I see an order here - I must first trust. But that isn't true, for that understanding ignores the step about God's love. The very first proverb is that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all knowledge. That phrase - fear of the Lord - is a poor interpretation of the intended language. It is really about honor and respect, born from a relationship, and that relationship began with God's love for ... me. He acted first. He loves, then I honor, then he shows mercy, then I submit, then he instructs, then I obey, then he guides, then I walk with him.
And this is what I have been hearing for months. This challenge may be the way into another level of relationship with God - a way to take his hand and walk humbly with my Lord and father.
I will redouble my efforts to trust. I will get out of my own head and my own understanding, and acknowledge that God has the situation under control, for his purposes, by his plan, and that plan is for good and for hope and a future for my children.
Prayer: Lord, my children are in your hands, and not just of my doing. You know they have chosen you. I trust in your love for certain. I will try to ignore my own understanding of how to construct a future for them, and I leave it all to you. Amen.
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
Hope Does Not Disappoint
Scripture: Not only so, but we also boast in tribulation, knowing that tribulation produces patience, patience produces character, and character produces hope. And hope does not disappoint, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Roman 5:5
Observation: Hard times develop us to the point of hopefulness in God, with the aid of the Holy Spirit. Hope, in other words, is a learned process. Our attitudes in life don't begin with being hopeful. Rather, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, during hardships - if we can be patient and thus develop character to endure - we will learn how to be hopeful in all situations.
Application: In praying for my son last night, I realized this is my real struggle. I am struggling with hope. I want to hope ... I wish I could simply relax and sit back ... but I am struggling. With weak hope, and have all those other emotions - fear, nervousness, sorrow, anger.
I need some patience. I need my character to develop. And I need some hope.
Prayer: Lord, I will continue to try to start to with patience. May I be still and know that you are God. The Lord of the universe, sitting on his throne, guiding all action of all creation, can certainly take care of the hopes of my son. So I will try to be patient, because I really, really need some hope. Amen.
Observation: Hard times develop us to the point of hopefulness in God, with the aid of the Holy Spirit. Hope, in other words, is a learned process. Our attitudes in life don't begin with being hopeful. Rather, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, during hardships - if we can be patient and thus develop character to endure - we will learn how to be hopeful in all situations.
Application: In praying for my son last night, I realized this is my real struggle. I am struggling with hope. I want to hope ... I wish I could simply relax and sit back ... but I am struggling. With weak hope, and have all those other emotions - fear, nervousness, sorrow, anger.
I need some patience. I need my character to develop. And I need some hope.
Prayer: Lord, I will continue to try to start to with patience. May I be still and know that you are God. The Lord of the universe, sitting on his throne, guiding all action of all creation, can certainly take care of the hopes of my son. So I will try to be patient, because I really, really need some hope. Amen.
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
God Doesn't Owe Me
Scripture: Now to him who works, wages are not given as a gift, but as a debt. But to him who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness. Romans 4:4-5
Observation: In the "faith vs. works" conversation comes this logical statement from Paul - if salvation came as a result of deeds, then it is not a gift but rather a payment. Earning faith is the equivalent of God owing us a salary for our work. That cannot be a gift, and it does not make sense. Paul uses the example of Abraham, to whom blessing was credited to as faith, as one example. Abraham could not earn any blessing because there was no law, no Jews, no ritual sacrifice. Abraham had faith, and it was credited to him as righteousness.
That is not to say righteousness and blessing is earned in any way. But to the extent that we enter into a relationship with God, it is clearly by faith. And to the extent that we enter into the gift of eternal salvation it is clearly by faith in Jesus Christ.
Application: Faith makes ALL the difference in life. It was interesting last night when the video presenter stated that believing in God is an act of faith ... and believing their is no God is an act of faith.
I have faith in Jesus Christ as Messiah - my lord and savior. However, my faith in God has been wavering lately.
I am sad to see what is happening to Garrett at school, how the institution can systematically deny his goals in a manner manifestly unfair, and I keep waiting for God to act and move him forward. It now seems it won't happen, and I am ... confused.
I am sad to see what I think I am seeing when it comes to Kayla's dance career. I hear her data points about corrections she isn't receiving, that she doesn't execute on an elite level, and I fear what is next because I know what is next. I walked that path. I walked the path of being a peer with those who would be offered scholarships and contracts in the future, while I fell to the wayside and backwaters of the sport because I just wasn't quite 'there'. And I fear that I don't know how God will carry Kayla through those future times ... if he will uplift her professionally to success in dance, or uplift her personally to joy in her post-dance life. And I am ... nervous.
I am ... scared about my abilities at work. I am ... worried about Laurie's stress and health. And in the end I am ... weak in my faith right now. This isn't a faith issue about turning away from God and Jesus, it's a faith issue of wondering why God isn't acting, active, present, engaged, correcting, and rewarding us and our situations. I am doubting his plan. I don't have to understand it ... but I would really, really like to.
Prayer: Lord, you know my heart. Please forgive me weaknesses. I believe in you. At the core, I am sad for my children and the idea that their dreams may pass. Most of me knows you have it all in your hands, and that your ways will be so much better for them and for all of us. Maybe I just wish I understood. I am sorry for my weakness. Amen.
Observation: In the "faith vs. works" conversation comes this logical statement from Paul - if salvation came as a result of deeds, then it is not a gift but rather a payment. Earning faith is the equivalent of God owing us a salary for our work. That cannot be a gift, and it does not make sense. Paul uses the example of Abraham, to whom blessing was credited to as faith, as one example. Abraham could not earn any blessing because there was no law, no Jews, no ritual sacrifice. Abraham had faith, and it was credited to him as righteousness.
That is not to say righteousness and blessing is earned in any way. But to the extent that we enter into a relationship with God, it is clearly by faith. And to the extent that we enter into the gift of eternal salvation it is clearly by faith in Jesus Christ.
Application: Faith makes ALL the difference in life. It was interesting last night when the video presenter stated that believing in God is an act of faith ... and believing their is no God is an act of faith.
I have faith in Jesus Christ as Messiah - my lord and savior. However, my faith in God has been wavering lately.
I am sad to see what is happening to Garrett at school, how the institution can systematically deny his goals in a manner manifestly unfair, and I keep waiting for God to act and move him forward. It now seems it won't happen, and I am ... confused.
I am sad to see what I think I am seeing when it comes to Kayla's dance career. I hear her data points about corrections she isn't receiving, that she doesn't execute on an elite level, and I fear what is next because I know what is next. I walked that path. I walked the path of being a peer with those who would be offered scholarships and contracts in the future, while I fell to the wayside and backwaters of the sport because I just wasn't quite 'there'. And I fear that I don't know how God will carry Kayla through those future times ... if he will uplift her professionally to success in dance, or uplift her personally to joy in her post-dance life. And I am ... nervous.
I am ... scared about my abilities at work. I am ... worried about Laurie's stress and health. And in the end I am ... weak in my faith right now. This isn't a faith issue about turning away from God and Jesus, it's a faith issue of wondering why God isn't acting, active, present, engaged, correcting, and rewarding us and our situations. I am doubting his plan. I don't have to understand it ... but I would really, really like to.
Prayer: Lord, you know my heart. Please forgive me weaknesses. I believe in you. At the core, I am sad for my children and the idea that their dreams may pass. Most of me knows you have it all in your hands, and that your ways will be so much better for them and for all of us. Maybe I just wish I understood. I am sorry for my weakness. Amen.
Monday, May 22, 2017
Faith IS the Law
Scripture: Also concerning the foreigner who is not of Your people Israel and comes from a far country for Your name’s sake (for they will hear of Your great name and of Your strong hand and of Your outstretched arm), when he comes and prays toward this house, may You hear in heaven, Your dwelling place, and do all that the foreigner asks of You, so all people of the earth will know Your name. 1 Kings 8:41-43a
This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all and upon all who believe, for there is no distinction. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God ... Is He the God of the Jews only? Is He not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also, seeing it is one God, who shall justify the circumcised by faith, and the uncircumcised through faith. Do we then make the law void through faith? God forbid! Instead, we establish the law. Romans 3:22-23,29-31
Observation: In consecrating the temple in Jerusalem, Solomon claims the mercy of God for the foreigners if they will submit to the power, judgment, and merciful love of Yahweh and pray in his name. Over a thousand years later, Paul explains exactly this same thing to the church in Rome ... that the sacrifice of Jesus is for all people, Jews and Gentiles, if they will only have faith in Jesus Christ.
It is this very last verse of Romans 3 that makes the full connection. In praying over the temple and all Israel, Solomon declared that all the laws, promises, and judgments of God were perfect and fulfilled. Paul connects that law to faith in Jesus, stating that faith doesn't void the law, but establishes it. In other words, it is by faith in Jesus that the promise of the law - the promise of full reconciliation to God and reception of his great love - is fulfilled, and it is fulfilled not only for the Jews (whose chief difference from the Gentiles is that the law was entrusted to them (Romans 3:2)), but for all mankind.
Application: In the end, faith in Jesus is the law of the Old Testament. The Old Testament law was not about rules that proved obedience, but about sanctification and justification in order to align one's self to God. However, all those practices were always about one thing ... no person is "good enough" and thus we require a different medium for engaging with God. Jesus became that medium, but not just for the Jews.
And that was ALWAYS God's intention. In Solomon's time there were non-Israelite believers - in fact, we see them all through the Old Testament - and in his wisdom Solomon understood they had a right and a claim upon God's love, mercy, attention, and aid.
And today, all people have the same right. This includes "non-Christians" ... anyone who at any moment turns to God in faith. This was always the purpose of the "law", that anyone who is humble before God can receive his judgment and mercy.
Prayer: Lord, I ask that you continue to work within my heart. Keep your Holy Spirit upon me as I go forward today. May my compliance with your law, and my faith in Jesus Christ, be interdependent and inseparable, in my deeds and thoughts. Amen.
This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all and upon all who believe, for there is no distinction. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God ... Is He the God of the Jews only? Is He not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also, seeing it is one God, who shall justify the circumcised by faith, and the uncircumcised through faith. Do we then make the law void through faith? God forbid! Instead, we establish the law. Romans 3:22-23,29-31
Observation: In consecrating the temple in Jerusalem, Solomon claims the mercy of God for the foreigners if they will submit to the power, judgment, and merciful love of Yahweh and pray in his name. Over a thousand years later, Paul explains exactly this same thing to the church in Rome ... that the sacrifice of Jesus is for all people, Jews and Gentiles, if they will only have faith in Jesus Christ.
It is this very last verse of Romans 3 that makes the full connection. In praying over the temple and all Israel, Solomon declared that all the laws, promises, and judgments of God were perfect and fulfilled. Paul connects that law to faith in Jesus, stating that faith doesn't void the law, but establishes it. In other words, it is by faith in Jesus that the promise of the law - the promise of full reconciliation to God and reception of his great love - is fulfilled, and it is fulfilled not only for the Jews (whose chief difference from the Gentiles is that the law was entrusted to them (Romans 3:2)), but for all mankind.
Application: In the end, faith in Jesus is the law of the Old Testament. The Old Testament law was not about rules that proved obedience, but about sanctification and justification in order to align one's self to God. However, all those practices were always about one thing ... no person is "good enough" and thus we require a different medium for engaging with God. Jesus became that medium, but not just for the Jews.
And that was ALWAYS God's intention. In Solomon's time there were non-Israelite believers - in fact, we see them all through the Old Testament - and in his wisdom Solomon understood they had a right and a claim upon God's love, mercy, attention, and aid.
And today, all people have the same right. This includes "non-Christians" ... anyone who at any moment turns to God in faith. This was always the purpose of the "law", that anyone who is humble before God can receive his judgment and mercy.
Prayer: Lord, I ask that you continue to work within my heart. Keep your Holy Spirit upon me as I go forward today. May my compliance with your law, and my faith in Jesus Christ, be interdependent and inseparable, in my deeds and thoughts. Amen.
Thursday, May 18, 2017
Living in Lawless Times
Scripture: For the mystery of lawlessness is already working. Only He who is now restraining him will do so until He is taken out of the way. Then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth, and destroy with the brightness of His presence, even him, whose coming is in accordance with the working of Satan with all power and signs and false wonders, and with all deception of unrighteousness among those who perish, because they did not receive the love for the truth that they might be saved. Therefore God will send them a strong delusion, that they should believe the lie: that they all might be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12
Observation: Even Peter said that Paul's letters were difficult to understand ...
Paul introduces here the concept of what has become known as the "antichrist", but is really associated with a time where people completely fall away from God and all lawful teaching to follow ways that are completely divergent. As one of the "mysteries" in Paul's letters, he calls this the mystery of lawlessness, which he appears to summarize as follows:
-- Evil people will formulate a message of completely false teaching.
-- These false teachings will carry power but will be fully opposed to God's righteousness.
-- Many will accept this teaching because they have abandoned God's love and truth.
-- God will allow this and even reinforce their decision as a means of removing any gray area with regards to salvation and thus clearly delineating them as unrighteous.
Application: It is in looking at these explanations of the New Testament where we get the idea that we live in the end times. We live in a time of massive and clear-cut delusions over issues that are in total conflict with God's righteous love. These delusions over ... marriage, sexual relationships, welfare practices, discrimination, genocide ... these things and more are effecting every area of the world. Some in some places, others in others, but they have progressed to the point of strong and clear divisions. In each case, there are groups who absolutely believe that a opinion that is adamantly opposed to God's love is clearly correct, and that opinion is now held by millions or even billions of people.
This is a mystery to me. It was declared a mystery by Paul. But Paul also tells us what to do about it: "Because God has from the beginning called you to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief of the truth" we are to "stand firm and hold the traditions which you have been taught, whether by word or by our letter."
Prayer: Lord, may thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Amen.
Observation: Even Peter said that Paul's letters were difficult to understand ...
Paul introduces here the concept of what has become known as the "antichrist", but is really associated with a time where people completely fall away from God and all lawful teaching to follow ways that are completely divergent. As one of the "mysteries" in Paul's letters, he calls this the mystery of lawlessness, which he appears to summarize as follows:
-- Evil people will formulate a message of completely false teaching.
-- These false teachings will carry power but will be fully opposed to God's righteousness.
-- Many will accept this teaching because they have abandoned God's love and truth.
-- God will allow this and even reinforce their decision as a means of removing any gray area with regards to salvation and thus clearly delineating them as unrighteous.
Application: It is in looking at these explanations of the New Testament where we get the idea that we live in the end times. We live in a time of massive and clear-cut delusions over issues that are in total conflict with God's righteous love. These delusions over ... marriage, sexual relationships, welfare practices, discrimination, genocide ... these things and more are effecting every area of the world. Some in some places, others in others, but they have progressed to the point of strong and clear divisions. In each case, there are groups who absolutely believe that a opinion that is adamantly opposed to God's love is clearly correct, and that opinion is now held by millions or even billions of people.
This is a mystery to me. It was declared a mystery by Paul. But Paul also tells us what to do about it: "Because God has from the beginning called you to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief of the truth" we are to "stand firm and hold the traditions which you have been taught, whether by word or by our letter."
Prayer: Lord, may thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Amen.
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Focusing One's Memory
Scripture:
Today if you hear His voice,
do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,
and as in the day of Massah in the wilderness,
when your fathers tested Me and tried Me,
though they had seen My deeds.
Psalm 95:7b-9
Observation: Through the psalmist, God explicitly calls for people to listen to his words and soften their hearts, recalling the failings of the wilderness generation as an example. God points out that generation had a hard heart, but even more to the point they challenged and doubted the capabilities and love of the Lord despite the fact they had personally witnessed all his miracles and wonders during the exodus.
Application: I find it hard sometimes today to soften my heart when I have not seen all the elements of God. I believe this is not an issue of faith, but an issue of mindfulness. I have faith in God, but I do not think through the proper context and thus do not apply God's love and might to every situation. Perhaps I am doubting God's ... willingness to be with me.
For in my life, my experience is focused on my failures. Every day, I fail some, and over my life I have failed innumerable times. It is easier for me to recall those times than to apply God's love and actions to my memory, though I absolutely know how he has acted in my life ... some every day, and over my life innumerable times.
This is the failure of my heart and my mind. I focus on the wrong things. To paraphrase Paul, I focus on that which I hate and fail to focus on that which I love.
Prayer: Abba, please take my hand. I repent of the actions in my life that prevent my daily walk with you. Help me to break cycles of anger and distrust. I do not wish for those elements in my life, but want a soft heart of joy, peace, and self control. Please, father, may I focus on your love and help this day and every day. Amen.
Today if you hear His voice,
do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,
and as in the day of Massah in the wilderness,
when your fathers tested Me and tried Me,
though they had seen My deeds.
Psalm 95:7b-9
Observation: Through the psalmist, God explicitly calls for people to listen to his words and soften their hearts, recalling the failings of the wilderness generation as an example. God points out that generation had a hard heart, but even more to the point they challenged and doubted the capabilities and love of the Lord despite the fact they had personally witnessed all his miracles and wonders during the exodus.
Application: I find it hard sometimes today to soften my heart when I have not seen all the elements of God. I believe this is not an issue of faith, but an issue of mindfulness. I have faith in God, but I do not think through the proper context and thus do not apply God's love and might to every situation. Perhaps I am doubting God's ... willingness to be with me.
For in my life, my experience is focused on my failures. Every day, I fail some, and over my life I have failed innumerable times. It is easier for me to recall those times than to apply God's love and actions to my memory, though I absolutely know how he has acted in my life ... some every day, and over my life innumerable times.
This is the failure of my heart and my mind. I focus on the wrong things. To paraphrase Paul, I focus on that which I hate and fail to focus on that which I love.
Prayer: Abba, please take my hand. I repent of the actions in my life that prevent my daily walk with you. Help me to break cycles of anger and distrust. I do not wish for those elements in my life, but want a soft heart of joy, peace, and self control. Please, father, may I focus on your love and help this day and every day. Amen.
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
Paul's Soundbites
Scripture: Now we exhort you, brothers, warn those who are unruly, comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, and be patient toward everyone. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone. But always seek to do good to one another and to all. Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Examine all things. Firmly hold onto what is good. Abstain from all appearances of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22
Observation: In his closing to the Thessalonian church, Paul gives this series of one-line instruction. He follows the "we exhort you" statement with 14 instructions, some as short as two or three words. They cover ... avoiding evil, looking to goodness, examining teachings, accepting certain gifts, acknowledging the work of the Holy Spirit, thanking God, prayer, worship, pursuing good actions, helping others avoid pitfalls, showing patience, assisting the weak, comforting those in pain, and warning others in the church against wrong actions.
In other letters from Paul, these topics aren't phases, they are chapters. These are critical and important lessons regarding the behavior of the church, covered often, and certainly all are important ... so important that Paul just couldn't write a letter on a different topic without at least throwing these into the mix as reminders. However, in the middle of this entire list are two instructions that seem to trump all others for their urgency and volume, but also for their stark brevity.
Rejoice always - Worship and rejoice over everything. Praise God for the good, celebrate with God for the everyday, and sing to God through hardship.
Pray continually - Never stop talking to God. God is your father, counselor, savior, and guide who loves you. Talk to him about everything, at all times, in all circumstances.
In the construction of these soundbites, these two little tiny phrases - each so important that they are their own two verses - mark a transition from "here is how to behave with each other" to "here is how to behave toward God." These are the bedrock of a relationship with God - worship and prayer.
Application: I seek daily to walk closer with God. These, then, are the keys - my prayer life, and my worship and rejoicing in daily life. These are not to be things I do daily. They are to be things I do continually - always - at all times, without ceasing, all day. I am not to pray in the morning and in the evening, I am to pray in every thought, step, action, situation, consideration. I am not to rejoice only when I have a good day and then hear a good song, I am to rejoice in all circumstances and regarding all situations in my life.
This is a true daily walk with God.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your lessons, your love, your counsel, your correction, your judgment, and your mercy. I do seek you daily. May I truly foster our relationship through this continual connection with you in prayer and worship. I turn my thoughts, my life, my ways, and my heart over to you. Amen.
Observation: In his closing to the Thessalonian church, Paul gives this series of one-line instruction. He follows the "we exhort you" statement with 14 instructions, some as short as two or three words. They cover ... avoiding evil, looking to goodness, examining teachings, accepting certain gifts, acknowledging the work of the Holy Spirit, thanking God, prayer, worship, pursuing good actions, helping others avoid pitfalls, showing patience, assisting the weak, comforting those in pain, and warning others in the church against wrong actions.
In other letters from Paul, these topics aren't phases, they are chapters. These are critical and important lessons regarding the behavior of the church, covered often, and certainly all are important ... so important that Paul just couldn't write a letter on a different topic without at least throwing these into the mix as reminders. However, in the middle of this entire list are two instructions that seem to trump all others for their urgency and volume, but also for their stark brevity.
Rejoice always - Worship and rejoice over everything. Praise God for the good, celebrate with God for the everyday, and sing to God through hardship.
Pray continually - Never stop talking to God. God is your father, counselor, savior, and guide who loves you. Talk to him about everything, at all times, in all circumstances.
In the construction of these soundbites, these two little tiny phrases - each so important that they are their own two verses - mark a transition from "here is how to behave with each other" to "here is how to behave toward God." These are the bedrock of a relationship with God - worship and prayer.
Application: I seek daily to walk closer with God. These, then, are the keys - my prayer life, and my worship and rejoicing in daily life. These are not to be things I do daily. They are to be things I do continually - always - at all times, without ceasing, all day. I am not to pray in the morning and in the evening, I am to pray in every thought, step, action, situation, consideration. I am not to rejoice only when I have a good day and then hear a good song, I am to rejoice in all circumstances and regarding all situations in my life.
This is a true daily walk with God.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your lessons, your love, your counsel, your correction, your judgment, and your mercy. I do seek you daily. May I truly foster our relationship through this continual connection with you in prayer and worship. I turn my thoughts, my life, my ways, and my heart over to you. Amen.
Monday, May 15, 2017
Men at Work
Scripture: Azmaveth the son of Adiel was over the king’s treasures, and Jonathan the son of Uzziah was over the storehouses in the fields, in the cities, and in the villages, and in the towers. Ezri the son of Kelub was over those who did the work of the field to till the ground. Shimei the Ramathite was over the vineyards, and Zabdi the Shiphmite was over what was in the vineyards for the stores of wine. Baal-Hanan the Gederite was over the olive trees and the sycamore trees that were in the Shephelah, and Joash was over the stores of oil. Shitrai the Sharonite was over the herds that fed in Sharon, and Shaphat the son of Adlai was over the herds that were in the valleys. Obil the Ishmaelite was over the camels, and Jehdeiah the Meronothite was over the donkeys. Jaziz the Hagrite was over the flocks. All these were the overseers of King David’s property. 1 Chronicles 27:25-31
Observation: Outside of the temple, the city defenses and the army, and tribal leaders, these are the kings officials. They oversee the treasures, the storehouses, the farms and farmers, the vineyards and wine production, the olives and oil production, and all kinds of livestock. In other words, these people are responsible for the economy.
Application: I find these parts of the bible ... boring, confusing, fascinating, challenging ... all at the same time. Why would I care who is in charge of the camels around Jerusalem in ~975 BC? Then again, God cared enough to have it put in the bible, so what does it mean? In this section, we have covered massive lists of musicians, and gatekeepers around the wall, and temple treasurers. I can think of two possible lessons.
First, God cares about all work done well. These individuals were not running temple worship, they were overseeing the details required in a stable society, and God cares about it.
Second, God cares about service to others. All of these items, even if they represent employment, ultimately created the infrastructure needed for all of Israel to live well. God acknowledges this kind of service.
In both cases, I see a "holy vocation" message and lesson. This is a situation where being an olive picker, or a donkey rancher, or a money counter ... matters. Doing a job of service well serves God's people, God's ways, and God's desires for all mankind, ourselves included.
Prayer: Lord, may I execute well in my holy vocation this week. Help me to serve others through the work of my mind, hands, thoughts, and words. And in so doing, may all glory and honor come to you and you alone. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
Observation: Outside of the temple, the city defenses and the army, and tribal leaders, these are the kings officials. They oversee the treasures, the storehouses, the farms and farmers, the vineyards and wine production, the olives and oil production, and all kinds of livestock. In other words, these people are responsible for the economy.
Application: I find these parts of the bible ... boring, confusing, fascinating, challenging ... all at the same time. Why would I care who is in charge of the camels around Jerusalem in ~975 BC? Then again, God cared enough to have it put in the bible, so what does it mean? In this section, we have covered massive lists of musicians, and gatekeepers around the wall, and temple treasurers. I can think of two possible lessons.
First, God cares about all work done well. These individuals were not running temple worship, they were overseeing the details required in a stable society, and God cares about it.
Second, God cares about service to others. All of these items, even if they represent employment, ultimately created the infrastructure needed for all of Israel to live well. God acknowledges this kind of service.
In both cases, I see a "holy vocation" message and lesson. This is a situation where being an olive picker, or a donkey rancher, or a money counter ... matters. Doing a job of service well serves God's people, God's ways, and God's desires for all mankind, ourselves included.
Prayer: Lord, may I execute well in my holy vocation this week. Help me to serve others through the work of my mind, hands, thoughts, and words. And in so doing, may all glory and honor come to you and you alone. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.
Friday, May 12, 2017
Among Stronger Enemies
Scripture:
He rescued me from my strong enemy,
from those who hate me;
for they were stronger than I.
They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the Lord was my support.
He brought me to the open expanse;
He rescued me, for He delighted in me.
2 Samuel 22:18-20
Observation: David ... the mightiest warrior of Israel, defeater of Goliath, king of blood, defender of God, who led and won battle after battle against the Amorites, Hittites, Philistines, and three civil rebellions ... knows his enemies were stronger than him.
David does not believe he is a mighty warrior. What he DOES know about himself is that ... he is a little shepherd boy and youngest of seven sons ... he is a poet and artist willing for his epitaph to be "favorite psalmist of Israel" (2 Samuel 23:1) ... and he believes in God and obeys his commands. It is by these things - not personal might - that David became the leader of a nation in turmoil, and defeated every enemy in a war-torn region.
Application: In my time of honest reflection, I know that I cannot do my job. I am not knowledgeable or educated well enough to manage a hundred people, spending many millions of dollars, while establishing future vision. I'm just not. If I continue to sit here and try, leveraging my intelligence and research to make decisions, I will fail.
I absolutely need David's understanding of self. I am a child of a middling family, averagely schooled, with a writer's heart, who has been thrust into leadership in an industry for which I was never prepared. My only hope is to trust in God's rescue and delight, by honoring, worshiping, and relying upon him.
Prayer: My Lord, please forgive my pride. Pride is my root issue in life, in all mistakes I make. I only seek to humbly know that I am your child, without knowledge or authority, who would like to hold your hand and walk gently with you daily. Again, please forgive me of my faults, and soften my heart. I seek your path. Amen.
He rescued me from my strong enemy,
from those who hate me;
for they were stronger than I.
They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the Lord was my support.
He brought me to the open expanse;
He rescued me, for He delighted in me.
2 Samuel 22:18-20
Observation: David ... the mightiest warrior of Israel, defeater of Goliath, king of blood, defender of God, who led and won battle after battle against the Amorites, Hittites, Philistines, and three civil rebellions ... knows his enemies were stronger than him.
David does not believe he is a mighty warrior. What he DOES know about himself is that ... he is a little shepherd boy and youngest of seven sons ... he is a poet and artist willing for his epitaph to be "favorite psalmist of Israel" (2 Samuel 23:1) ... and he believes in God and obeys his commands. It is by these things - not personal might - that David became the leader of a nation in turmoil, and defeated every enemy in a war-torn region.
Application: In my time of honest reflection, I know that I cannot do my job. I am not knowledgeable or educated well enough to manage a hundred people, spending many millions of dollars, while establishing future vision. I'm just not. If I continue to sit here and try, leveraging my intelligence and research to make decisions, I will fail.
I absolutely need David's understanding of self. I am a child of a middling family, averagely schooled, with a writer's heart, who has been thrust into leadership in an industry for which I was never prepared. My only hope is to trust in God's rescue and delight, by honoring, worshiping, and relying upon him.
Prayer: My Lord, please forgive my pride. Pride is my root issue in life, in all mistakes I make. I only seek to humbly know that I am your child, without knowledge or authority, who would like to hold your hand and walk gently with you daily. Again, please forgive me of my faults, and soften my heart. I seek your path. Amen.
Thursday, May 11, 2017
When did it Become Breaking the Rules
While I spend the next two days attempting to get approval to promote the biggest leadership conference in the world ... to a bunch of government leaders ... because it's run by a church ...
Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Those on Their Own
Scripture: When Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that He was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, “I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? You must see to that.” So he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed. And he went and hanged himself. Matthew 27:3-5
Observation: When Judas attempts to undo his betrayal by returning the money, the priests give an interesting response. Effectively, in Judas' request for forgiveness, they respond that his forgiveness is none of their business, but that Judas must reconcile the issue of his sin on his own. Judas' response to this, of course, is suicide, rather than observing any Jewish law or process for sanctification.
In his mind, Judas had no other way to get forgiveness. It is just as interesting, however, to note that the priests also had no idea about how to intervene for his forgiveness. This was their job! Jewish priests worked in the temple, whose primary "business" function if you will was the industry of forgiveness through sacrifice. By law there were animal, grain, food, and drink offerings spelled out clearly for forgiveness of sin, reconciliation of lives, friendship with God, and cleansing of self. In this first century time, monetary offerings for equivalent value were acceptable. By their own law, the priests had a half dozen ways to intervene for and/or with Judas ... yet they declared nothing was possible ... Judas had to work things out between God and himself all on his own.
Application: Even before he was crucified, Jesus completely changed the dynamic between mankind and God. At one time, mankind could not really resolve their sins against God, but could become ceremonial ... okay. However, once Jesus entered the picture, that ended. Now mankind can be made pure, but it is only through Jesus. Otherwise, we must work out our relationship with God on our own ... and there is no way to do that.
I once saw a pastor state this exact thing. He stated belief Jesus was the way to a relationship with God, and anyone who didn't have that belief would "have to work out their relationship with God on their own." This issue was first exemplified with Judas. Judas is left with one clear choice - reconcile with Jesus, or find some other way back to God. Having betrayed Jesus, he couldn't figure out how to reconcile, but he knew there was no other way.
Since everyone around me has heard of Jesus, for them I know there too is no other way. The choice is, in fact, black or white. The choice is a) believe in Jesus, or b) find another way for yourself. SO many seek that other "way" and find it empty and devoid, unfulfilling in the present and hopeless in the future. As Judas quickly saw, that other way - working out your relationship with God on your own without Jesus - is called 'death'.
Prayer: Lord, the people I truly interact with fall into three categories. There are believers, there are seekers, and there are those completely on their own and seeking their own way. I do pray for seekers like Don, who are trying to figure out Jesus. They are realizing that seeing to their issues for themselves doesn't work. But Lord, I know and care about way too many rejecters. They are far down the dark and lonely paths of working out life on their own, searching for joy they will never find. And I have learned I cannot go down that path and bring them back. Please Lord. Please. Go get them. Amen, and amen.
Observation: When Judas attempts to undo his betrayal by returning the money, the priests give an interesting response. Effectively, in Judas' request for forgiveness, they respond that his forgiveness is none of their business, but that Judas must reconcile the issue of his sin on his own. Judas' response to this, of course, is suicide, rather than observing any Jewish law or process for sanctification.
In his mind, Judas had no other way to get forgiveness. It is just as interesting, however, to note that the priests also had no idea about how to intervene for his forgiveness. This was their job! Jewish priests worked in the temple, whose primary "business" function if you will was the industry of forgiveness through sacrifice. By law there were animal, grain, food, and drink offerings spelled out clearly for forgiveness of sin, reconciliation of lives, friendship with God, and cleansing of self. In this first century time, monetary offerings for equivalent value were acceptable. By their own law, the priests had a half dozen ways to intervene for and/or with Judas ... yet they declared nothing was possible ... Judas had to work things out between God and himself all on his own.
Application: Even before he was crucified, Jesus completely changed the dynamic between mankind and God. At one time, mankind could not really resolve their sins against God, but could become ceremonial ... okay. However, once Jesus entered the picture, that ended. Now mankind can be made pure, but it is only through Jesus. Otherwise, we must work out our relationship with God on our own ... and there is no way to do that.
I once saw a pastor state this exact thing. He stated belief Jesus was the way to a relationship with God, and anyone who didn't have that belief would "have to work out their relationship with God on their own." This issue was first exemplified with Judas. Judas is left with one clear choice - reconcile with Jesus, or find some other way back to God. Having betrayed Jesus, he couldn't figure out how to reconcile, but he knew there was no other way.
Since everyone around me has heard of Jesus, for them I know there too is no other way. The choice is, in fact, black or white. The choice is a) believe in Jesus, or b) find another way for yourself. SO many seek that other "way" and find it empty and devoid, unfulfilling in the present and hopeless in the future. As Judas quickly saw, that other way - working out your relationship with God on your own without Jesus - is called 'death'.
Prayer: Lord, the people I truly interact with fall into three categories. There are believers, there are seekers, and there are those completely on their own and seeking their own way. I do pray for seekers like Don, who are trying to figure out Jesus. They are realizing that seeing to their issues for themselves doesn't work. But Lord, I know and care about way too many rejecters. They are far down the dark and lonely paths of working out life on their own, searching for joy they will never find. And I have learned I cannot go down that path and bring them back. Please Lord. Please. Go get them. Amen, and amen.
Monday, May 8, 2017
Merciful Protection
Scripture:
I acknowledged my sin to You,
and my iniquity I did not conceal.
I said, “I will confess
my transgressions to the Lord,”
and You forgave
the iniquity of my sin. Selah
For this cause everyone who is godly will pray to You
in a time when You may be found;
surely in the floods of great waters
they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place;
You will preserve me from trouble;
You will surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah
Psalm 32:5-7
Observation: The psalmist (David) explicitly ponders the idea of God's forgiveness, and comes to a wonderful image of that mercy. Upon request, God forgives sins. However, even greater than that, God then becomes a refuge - a hiding place - where one may seek protection and delivery from the bad things of the world as a result of that same mercy. God is not a judge to hid from in shame. Instead, when we have confessed our sins, God becomes a merciful protectors and deliverer.
Selah.
Application: In my mind and heart, I am sinning way too much, and I feel ashamed even by the thoughts in my head. I am so angry at others, so judgmental of others. In my head is a fantasy world where my "what if's" are contrary to God's ways. And I am ashamed of all this.
However, David would tell me that, by turning to God and confessing my sins, my situation is not to be feared. Rather, God will embrace me and protect me. I would prefer that I turn away and repent of the sin, focusing my mental energy on meditating on the word of God. However, true mercy and forgiveness is critical as well.
Prayer: Father, please do forgive me. Please forgive my anger, my harsh tone and words, my evil thoughts. I seek to repent of all that. In the meantime, please wrap me in your protection, and allow your spirit to protect me from the inside out. Amen.
I acknowledged my sin to You,
and my iniquity I did not conceal.
I said, “I will confess
my transgressions to the Lord,”
and You forgave
the iniquity of my sin. Selah
For this cause everyone who is godly will pray to You
in a time when You may be found;
surely in the floods of great waters
they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place;
You will preserve me from trouble;
You will surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah
Psalm 32:5-7
Observation: The psalmist (David) explicitly ponders the idea of God's forgiveness, and comes to a wonderful image of that mercy. Upon request, God forgives sins. However, even greater than that, God then becomes a refuge - a hiding place - where one may seek protection and delivery from the bad things of the world as a result of that same mercy. God is not a judge to hid from in shame. Instead, when we have confessed our sins, God becomes a merciful protectors and deliverer.
Selah.
Application: In my mind and heart, I am sinning way too much, and I feel ashamed even by the thoughts in my head. I am so angry at others, so judgmental of others. In my head is a fantasy world where my "what if's" are contrary to God's ways. And I am ashamed of all this.
However, David would tell me that, by turning to God and confessing my sins, my situation is not to be feared. Rather, God will embrace me and protect me. I would prefer that I turn away and repent of the sin, focusing my mental energy on meditating on the word of God. However, true mercy and forgiveness is critical as well.
Prayer: Father, please do forgive me. Please forgive my anger, my harsh tone and words, my evil thoughts. I seek to repent of all that. In the meantime, please wrap me in your protection, and allow your spirit to protect me from the inside out. Amen.
Friday, May 5, 2017
Making a Bad Assumption
Scripture: But the Ammonite officials said to Hanun, their lord, “Has David honored your father in your eyes by sending comforters to you? Was it not in an effort to search out the city, to scout it in order to overthrow it, that he sent his servants to you?” So Hanun seized the servants of David, shaved half of the beard of each, cut their robes in half so that they were exposed, and sent them away. 2 Samuel 10:3-4
Observation: David has sent attendants to Hanun to honor him as a courtesy to Nahash, and Ammonite king who aided him when Saul was after him. Hanun's advisors give him ... some pretty bad advice, and the outcome of all of this is David will defeat the Ammonites and the Arameans who come to their aid.
Israel and the Ammonites were thiiiis close to peaceful existence, but Hanun decided he couldn't trust a simple gesture of friendship.
Hanun's and his officials did not understand why a foreign king would send people to their palace who were not spies. This is likely because of two flaws in their understanding. First, they themselves would not have considered mercy and comfort as an act of foreign relations, but would have taken the opportunity to spy on Israel. Therefore, they believed that was Israel's intent. Second they did not understand the character of David, and thus they dismissed the idea that he cared for Nahash.
The bad assumption that the Israelites were spies was born out of their own lack of faith and understanding of Yahweh. Without understanding the love and mercy of God, they could not believe David was expressing sincere love and mercy.
Application: Similar to yesterday, I see a connection between someone who makes a bad decision, and a lack of understanding about the nature of God, faith, the law, and love. I am in a season of inviting people into activities at church, primarily GLS. I need to remember they might make bad assumptions about my words, my invitation, and my engagement. These bad assumptions may lead them to merely ignore the invitation, or it may lead them to rash and unintended actions that are even opposed to the objective. I must be careful in my message.
Prayer: Lord, I pray this every week at Alpha, may my words not be of myself, but purely of you and of the Spirit. My invitations to others may bear my name, or be from my email account, but they need to be from you. Please be with me as I seek to engage others into what I pray will be an eternal conversation. Amen.
Observation: David has sent attendants to Hanun to honor him as a courtesy to Nahash, and Ammonite king who aided him when Saul was after him. Hanun's advisors give him ... some pretty bad advice, and the outcome of all of this is David will defeat the Ammonites and the Arameans who come to their aid.
Israel and the Ammonites were thiiiis close to peaceful existence, but Hanun decided he couldn't trust a simple gesture of friendship.
Hanun's and his officials did not understand why a foreign king would send people to their palace who were not spies. This is likely because of two flaws in their understanding. First, they themselves would not have considered mercy and comfort as an act of foreign relations, but would have taken the opportunity to spy on Israel. Therefore, they believed that was Israel's intent. Second they did not understand the character of David, and thus they dismissed the idea that he cared for Nahash.
The bad assumption that the Israelites were spies was born out of their own lack of faith and understanding of Yahweh. Without understanding the love and mercy of God, they could not believe David was expressing sincere love and mercy.
Application: Similar to yesterday, I see a connection between someone who makes a bad decision, and a lack of understanding about the nature of God, faith, the law, and love. I am in a season of inviting people into activities at church, primarily GLS. I need to remember they might make bad assumptions about my words, my invitation, and my engagement. These bad assumptions may lead them to merely ignore the invitation, or it may lead them to rash and unintended actions that are even opposed to the objective. I must be careful in my message.
Prayer: Lord, I pray this every week at Alpha, may my words not be of myself, but purely of you and of the Spirit. My invitations to others may bear my name, or be from my email account, but they need to be from you. Please be with me as I seek to engage others into what I pray will be an eternal conversation. Amen.
Thursday, May 4, 2017
Lacking the Proper Context
Scripture: Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you one question. If you tell Me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things. Where did the baptism of John come from? From heaven or from men?” They reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ we are afraid of the people, for all hold John as a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” Matthew 21:24-27
Observation: Jesus asks the priests and elders a question, and interestingly enough they give what might be considered an honest answer. They do not know where the baptism authority of John came from. They may have given this answer out of fear of the crowd, but the bottom line is that they had to discuss this question because they weren't sure of the answer.
This is then the lesson Jesus is teaching. They have asked about Jesus' own authority. He points out to them they do not understand the basics about the source of authority, therefore he cannot give them an answer they will understand. They lack the proper context for receiving the correct answer.
Application: Discussing all matters of faith - the will of God, reality of miracles, basic faith, mission of Jesus, power of the Holy Spirit, compliance with the law, forgiveness versus judgment - requires a basic context about ... God's love. It is by that love that God seeks to guide behavior, forgive sin, sacrifice his only son, intervene in crisis, mold character, allow free will, and judge responses.
I am moving out of a time where I have been trying to find God's context for what is happening around me. I have sought direction and guidance, while taking action, and praying for outcomes. I believe the last 15 hours have now shown results. God cares SO much MORE about character, lives, and the long-term soul of people than he cares about their earthly status, rewards, and station. He seeks growth of our hearts, and he is willing to take people through the dark valley of their lives to achieve that growth ... while staying with them every step of the way.
And my task is to aid some people through that valley. That seems like a hard call, but it also seems to be more clear.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for Randy and Dave. I have never said that before, because I have not appreciated them from a "professional" perspective. However, I do appreciate them now, from your perspective, seeing them through your eyes. You love them. May I simply join you in how you manifest that love. Amen.
Observation: Jesus asks the priests and elders a question, and interestingly enough they give what might be considered an honest answer. They do not know where the baptism authority of John came from. They may have given this answer out of fear of the crowd, but the bottom line is that they had to discuss this question because they weren't sure of the answer.
This is then the lesson Jesus is teaching. They have asked about Jesus' own authority. He points out to them they do not understand the basics about the source of authority, therefore he cannot give them an answer they will understand. They lack the proper context for receiving the correct answer.
Application: Discussing all matters of faith - the will of God, reality of miracles, basic faith, mission of Jesus, power of the Holy Spirit, compliance with the law, forgiveness versus judgment - requires a basic context about ... God's love. It is by that love that God seeks to guide behavior, forgive sin, sacrifice his only son, intervene in crisis, mold character, allow free will, and judge responses.
I am moving out of a time where I have been trying to find God's context for what is happening around me. I have sought direction and guidance, while taking action, and praying for outcomes. I believe the last 15 hours have now shown results. God cares SO much MORE about character, lives, and the long-term soul of people than he cares about their earthly status, rewards, and station. He seeks growth of our hearts, and he is willing to take people through the dark valley of their lives to achieve that growth ... while staying with them every step of the way.
And my task is to aid some people through that valley. That seems like a hard call, but it also seems to be more clear.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for Randy and Dave. I have never said that before, because I have not appreciated them from a "professional" perspective. However, I do appreciate them now, from your perspective, seeing them through your eyes. You love them. May I simply join you in how you manifest that love. Amen.
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Give Thanks to the Lord
Scripture:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
for His mercy endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34
Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good,
for His mercy endures forever.
Psalm 106:1b
Observation: The first of these verses is attributed to David as a song he presented at the relocation of the ark to Jerusalem. The psalm is certainly not from David, as it later makes specific references to the atrocities and calamities associated with the fall of Israel at the hands of the Assyrians several hundred years later.
Other than that, the two songs are different in theme. David's song is about remembering the love and wonders of God. The psalm is about remembering the mercy and judgment of God while the Israelites repeatedly grumbled and sinned going all the way back to Egypt right up to their destruction. David summarizes his message about the glory, wonder, and greatness of God by giving thanks, pronouncing God as good and with eternal mercy. The psalmist introduces the righteous judgment of God the same way.
Application: There is a specific truth revealed here. In all ways, at all times, in all situations, through all results ... the Lord is eternally merciful, completely good, and we are to give thanks to him. Whether recalling good times or bad - acknowledging our failings or anticipating blessings - we thank God for his love, goodness, and mercy.
We are in the midst of blessing in many ways, but we are also in the midst of very difficult times. Life goes both ways, often at the same time, especially when our family looks at life through many lenses ... work stress, marriage connection, children's success, church progress, overall relaxation. Today I am reminded that, in every situation and condition, regardless of which lens I choose to look through at any given moment, there is one appropriate and excellent sentiment.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord! You are exceedingly good. Your love and mercy endures forever and forever. Again I say, thank you, Lord!! Amen, and amen.
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
for His mercy endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34
Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good,
for His mercy endures forever.
Psalm 106:1b
Observation: The first of these verses is attributed to David as a song he presented at the relocation of the ark to Jerusalem. The psalm is certainly not from David, as it later makes specific references to the atrocities and calamities associated with the fall of Israel at the hands of the Assyrians several hundred years later.
Other than that, the two songs are different in theme. David's song is about remembering the love and wonders of God. The psalm is about remembering the mercy and judgment of God while the Israelites repeatedly grumbled and sinned going all the way back to Egypt right up to their destruction. David summarizes his message about the glory, wonder, and greatness of God by giving thanks, pronouncing God as good and with eternal mercy. The psalmist introduces the righteous judgment of God the same way.
Application: There is a specific truth revealed here. In all ways, at all times, in all situations, through all results ... the Lord is eternally merciful, completely good, and we are to give thanks to him. Whether recalling good times or bad - acknowledging our failings or anticipating blessings - we thank God for his love, goodness, and mercy.
We are in the midst of blessing in many ways, but we are also in the midst of very difficult times. Life goes both ways, often at the same time, especially when our family looks at life through many lenses ... work stress, marriage connection, children's success, church progress, overall relaxation. Today I am reminded that, in every situation and condition, regardless of which lens I choose to look through at any given moment, there is one appropriate and excellent sentiment.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord! You are exceedingly good. Your love and mercy endures forever and forever. Again I say, thank you, Lord!! Amen, and amen.
Monday, May 1, 2017
It's Always About Others
Scripture: At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Matthew 18:1
Observation: Jesus responds to this question by calling a child to him and stating everyone must become humble like the child in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. However, he then follows this up with four stories in succession:
-- A lesson about temptation - how we are tempted, and that we must not tempt others
-- The parable celebrating finding the one lost sheep, not the 99 who were never lost
-- Instructions on confronting others and having two or three believers in agreement
-- A parable about forgiving others for their debts/wrongs as we have been forgiven
In this way, Jesus explains the greatest in heaven ... one who radically cares about others. In so doing, that person is humble, ensures they do not tempt others into wrongdoing, seeks out those who are lost and hurting to help them, offers well-founded correction when necessary, and forgives all wrongs done by others. In the kingdom of heaven, greatness is about how we treat, love, and serve others.
Application: This is clearly a theme God is teaching me lately ... to continue to focus on my love of others as a way to mature as a Christian. I see this often now. My question today, then, is how do I do all these things?
I can avoid tempting others to sin by not behaving in a manner that causes anger.
I can actively seek out a hurting person and care for them instead of focusing on the entire crowd.
I can address specific issues with brothers and sisters in constructive ways instead of holding the concern within and perhaps gossiping about them.
I can absolutely let go of any wrong I feel I have received from others, knowing that God has forgiven me of so much more!
Prayer: Lord, I have no thought be being "the greatest" in the kingdom. I simply want to be a humble member of the kingdom. Please continue to aid me in softening my heart and improving my attitude toward others, so I may be humble in all ways. Amen.
Observation: Jesus responds to this question by calling a child to him and stating everyone must become humble like the child in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. However, he then follows this up with four stories in succession:
-- A lesson about temptation - how we are tempted, and that we must not tempt others
-- The parable celebrating finding the one lost sheep, not the 99 who were never lost
-- Instructions on confronting others and having two or three believers in agreement
-- A parable about forgiving others for their debts/wrongs as we have been forgiven
In this way, Jesus explains the greatest in heaven ... one who radically cares about others. In so doing, that person is humble, ensures they do not tempt others into wrongdoing, seeks out those who are lost and hurting to help them, offers well-founded correction when necessary, and forgives all wrongs done by others. In the kingdom of heaven, greatness is about how we treat, love, and serve others.
Application: This is clearly a theme God is teaching me lately ... to continue to focus on my love of others as a way to mature as a Christian. I see this often now. My question today, then, is how do I do all these things?
I can avoid tempting others to sin by not behaving in a manner that causes anger.
I can actively seek out a hurting person and care for them instead of focusing on the entire crowd.
I can address specific issues with brothers and sisters in constructive ways instead of holding the concern within and perhaps gossiping about them.
I can absolutely let go of any wrong I feel I have received from others, knowing that God has forgiven me of so much more!
Prayer: Lord, I have no thought be being "the greatest" in the kingdom. I simply want to be a humble member of the kingdom. Please continue to aid me in softening my heart and improving my attitude toward others, so I may be humble in all ways. Amen.
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