Scripture: One of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all! You’re not considering that it is to your advantage that one man should die for the people rather than the whole nation perish.” He did not say this on his own, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but also to unite the scattered children of God. John 11:49-52
Observation: Throughout the book of John, John takes a little license as the narrator to explain circumstances. He interjects explanations for why people (usually Jesus) said or did certain things. However, this explanation in verses 51-52 is interesting. He is effectively taking something completely terrible that Caiaphas is saying and then later doing - pronouncing that Jesus must be killed in order to save the nation - and explaining it away as ... the prophesy of the high priest, pronouncing the sacrifice and salvation of all mankind.
In other words, in the midst of the high priest openly pronouncing the plot to kill Jesus, John jumps in as narrator and points out that the action is a prophetic word from God, pronounced through Caiaphas. This shows that God is at work in every circumstance, even in those who are resisting him.
John's narration in general is interesting, as his gospel has the advantage of time ... written 50+ years after the other gospels, he knows what elements need to be highlighted and better explained. However, "Caiaphas as prophetic leader" wouldn't seem to be such an element, until one looks at verse 52 stating that Jesus' death and resurrection is intended to "unite the scattered children of God." In that light, John is clarifying that the prophesy extends to ... all Jews regardless of where they are (and by the time of John's writing, they are all dispersed as the Romans have destroyed Jerusalem), and the Gentiles everywhere in the world.
The explanation isn't about Caiaphas, it is about God's plan being executed through Jesus to redeem the entire world ... and the fact that even those opposed to that plan are actors making it happen.
Application: Many times I pray about God's plan for my life. However, I would be happy to be an actor contributing to God's plan in someone else's life. I don't want to be the kind of actor who sentences Jesus to die! But I'd welcome being an actor who ... helps my son become a good man serving God; provides for my daughter to reach and inspire others; supports my wife in her amazing ministry that touches others every day.
I don't know why God has gifted me with leadership, then shown me why I must serve silently behind the scenes. I do know that I will never be great - I lost that path long, long ago - and that my best contribution to his kingdom will be to support someone else's greatness. Perhaps someday the narrator of my life can explain that "Trever did this because _______ needed help in performing this great deed."
Prayer: Lord, here I am. I seek to serve you in any small way you desire. May I serve others, and in so doing bring greatness to your name in a way that is never associated with me. I will become less, and I know this and welcome it. Your will be done. Amen.
Thursday, December 21, 2017
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
The Lie of Hopeless Fate
Scripture: “We are descendants of Abraham,” they answered Him, “and we have never been enslaved to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will become free’?” John 8:33
Observation: In the midst of this long debate with the Jews about Jesus' claim as the Messiah is this direct message from the Pharisees. They claim Abraham as their patriarch, but then say they have never been enslaved. This is most perplexing because ... the Jews' national history is defined as beginning in slavery, two other times they were taken as an enslaved people, and at that very moment they are under the occupying command of the Roman empire.
For the Jews to claim they have always and are already "free" is nonsensical. However, this also reinforces one reason they are rejecting Jesus, which is that they do not see a need for God to provide the Messiah. If they have never been slaves, then they did not really need God to help them out of Egypt, or Assyria, or Babylon. And they don't need him now to help with the Romans. Or more to the point ... they need God to physically help them out of those situations, but reject the idea they need God's spiritual correction and teaching to help them with eternal salvation.
Application: If a person does not need salvation, they don't need Jesus. This is the first lie of Satan ... "surely you will not die." It is a lie that says there is no future option ... either you are going to die, or you are going to live forever, but there is no future decision point that will influence that outcome. Believing that first lie takes the possibility of judgment for sins and eternal life in heaven off the table, without which there is no need to someday stand before God and wish for a savior who, by your faith, has washed away your sin.
I know people - and meet people - with this lie in their hearts. They are not sure what happens when they die, but they are not holding any belief of a future fork in the road. They will either terminate to exist, or transcend into some other form of reality, and the path is the same for all. This idea removes room for hope. This is sad.
I hope, I know, I trust, I even fear, and therefore I need.
Prayer: Jesus, you are my savior and my lord. Please show me this day your right way. May I obey you because I know who you are, acknowledge your authority, and trust in your love. Amen.
Observation: In the midst of this long debate with the Jews about Jesus' claim as the Messiah is this direct message from the Pharisees. They claim Abraham as their patriarch, but then say they have never been enslaved. This is most perplexing because ... the Jews' national history is defined as beginning in slavery, two other times they were taken as an enslaved people, and at that very moment they are under the occupying command of the Roman empire.
For the Jews to claim they have always and are already "free" is nonsensical. However, this also reinforces one reason they are rejecting Jesus, which is that they do not see a need for God to provide the Messiah. If they have never been slaves, then they did not really need God to help them out of Egypt, or Assyria, or Babylon. And they don't need him now to help with the Romans. Or more to the point ... they need God to physically help them out of those situations, but reject the idea they need God's spiritual correction and teaching to help them with eternal salvation.
Application: If a person does not need salvation, they don't need Jesus. This is the first lie of Satan ... "surely you will not die." It is a lie that says there is no future option ... either you are going to die, or you are going to live forever, but there is no future decision point that will influence that outcome. Believing that first lie takes the possibility of judgment for sins and eternal life in heaven off the table, without which there is no need to someday stand before God and wish for a savior who, by your faith, has washed away your sin.
I know people - and meet people - with this lie in their hearts. They are not sure what happens when they die, but they are not holding any belief of a future fork in the road. They will either terminate to exist, or transcend into some other form of reality, and the path is the same for all. This idea removes room for hope. This is sad.
I hope, I know, I trust, I even fear, and therefore I need.
Prayer: Jesus, you are my savior and my lord. Please show me this day your right way. May I obey you because I know who you are, acknowledge your authority, and trust in your love. Amen.
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
Testimony From Every Angle
Scripture: But I have a greater testimony than John’s because of the works that the Father has given Me to accomplish. These very works I am doing testify about Me that the Father has sent Me. The Father who sent Me has Himself testified about Me. You have not heard His voice at any time, and you haven’t seen His form. You don’t have His word living in you, because you don’t believe the One He sent. You pore over the Scriptures because you think you have eternal life in them, yet they testify about Me. And you are not willing to come to Me so that you may have life. John 5:36-40
Observation: Jesus previously has been challenged that he cannot testify about himself as the Messiah. Jesus points out John the Baptist has testified about him, but then even dismisses that as sufficient and calls out the three most powerful sources of truth about him as Messiah. These are his miracles and works, God himself, and the scriptures. He eventually even tells them that he does not judge them for their lack of faith, and Moses judges them, for it was Moses who first wrote about Jesus and therefore they are refusing to believe Moses.
These three sources of truth should each individually be enough to testify about Jesus. Seeing great signs that were reserved for the Messiah should especially inform a religious leader like a Pharisee about the truth of the matter. Hearing from God - having your spirit moved inside you because you have faith in God and then perceiving through his spirit that Jesus is Messiah - would influence a person with great faith in God. Reading scripture, understanding the prophets and teachings, and then seeing how they are fulfilled, would influence any scholar.
Everyone has a way of being influenced ... by observation of events, scholarly examination of facts, internal "gut feel", or teaching from an expert. Jesus had all the bases covered, and it wasn't enough for some.
Application: Jesus tells others that they see and believe, so blessed are those who never see and will still believe. Sure the converse is true ... in danger are those who never see and thus don't believe, so cursed were those who saw and rejected.
How difficult does that make our evangelism. People who had before them Jesus, and with him every type of influential testimony available for them to connect with, rejected Jesus. Today, people without any knowledge, background, information, or connection with Jesus will only have our words (at first) to guide them ... and somehow that is to work. It is a tough assignment, but one I'm ready to do - standing in the rain - tonight.
Prayer: Lord, this week many will receive you testimony. They will hear a little bit about one miracle, your birth. They will hear our words. They may get one shot of scripture from the book of Mark. And your spirit will nudge them. I know that can be enough. May I have wisdom to speak, love to guide, and faith to continue. Amen.
Observation: Jesus previously has been challenged that he cannot testify about himself as the Messiah. Jesus points out John the Baptist has testified about him, but then even dismisses that as sufficient and calls out the three most powerful sources of truth about him as Messiah. These are his miracles and works, God himself, and the scriptures. He eventually even tells them that he does not judge them for their lack of faith, and Moses judges them, for it was Moses who first wrote about Jesus and therefore they are refusing to believe Moses.
These three sources of truth should each individually be enough to testify about Jesus. Seeing great signs that were reserved for the Messiah should especially inform a religious leader like a Pharisee about the truth of the matter. Hearing from God - having your spirit moved inside you because you have faith in God and then perceiving through his spirit that Jesus is Messiah - would influence a person with great faith in God. Reading scripture, understanding the prophets and teachings, and then seeing how they are fulfilled, would influence any scholar.
Everyone has a way of being influenced ... by observation of events, scholarly examination of facts, internal "gut feel", or teaching from an expert. Jesus had all the bases covered, and it wasn't enough for some.
Application: Jesus tells others that they see and believe, so blessed are those who never see and will still believe. Sure the converse is true ... in danger are those who never see and thus don't believe, so cursed were those who saw and rejected.
How difficult does that make our evangelism. People who had before them Jesus, and with him every type of influential testimony available for them to connect with, rejected Jesus. Today, people without any knowledge, background, information, or connection with Jesus will only have our words (at first) to guide them ... and somehow that is to work. It is a tough assignment, but one I'm ready to do - standing in the rain - tonight.
Prayer: Lord, this week many will receive you testimony. They will hear a little bit about one miracle, your birth. They will hear our words. They may get one shot of scripture from the book of Mark. And your spirit will nudge them. I know that can be enough. May I have wisdom to speak, love to guide, and faith to continue. Amen.
Monday, December 18, 2017
Making It So
Scripture: For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
Observation: This most famous verse in the bible is stated differently in this translation, but with a footnote explanation. It states the Greek word houtus translates as "so", but has two meanings. As an adjective, it describes a quantity (e.g., "so much"), but as an adverb it means the manner in which something is done. To put this in a modern context ... "Make it so" means "do it in the way you said" and not "do it much".
In this second interpretation, Jesus is saying "God chooses to love the world by doing the following ... giving his son." It is clearly true this also indicates how much he loves the world - sacrificing his child - but the new context makes even this fact stronger. God still had choices about how to address sin, evil, and human redemption, and he chose the method of handing over his one and only son - himself in fact - to scorn, ridicule, humiliation, pain, and death.
Application: The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus remains amazing for its implications and meaning. It is overly simple, and hugely complex, at the same time. It is both plain and metaphorical. It is aggressive yet whispered at night. It was said in secret then pronounced worldwide forever. And even the most basic and well known verse that every kid in Sunday School memorizes actually has a second, deeper meaning.
God loves us all so much to seek our redemption. However, he had choices about how to do that, and he chose the option that ultimately cost him the most, while causing his son the greatest hardship and pain, but that provides us with the most basic, simple, easy, and free option for eternal life ... simple faith. No more is required of us, because God chose to take every bit of the hard part upon himself.
Prayer: Lord, as we continue in our Christmas celebration, may we keep sight of the fact that this was all your idea. You didn't need to grant us with options for salvation, and you didn't need to make the option a matter of simple belief. You just love us so. Thank you. Amen.
Observation: This most famous verse in the bible is stated differently in this translation, but with a footnote explanation. It states the Greek word houtus translates as "so", but has two meanings. As an adjective, it describes a quantity (e.g., "so much"), but as an adverb it means the manner in which something is done. To put this in a modern context ... "Make it so" means "do it in the way you said" and not "do it much".
In this second interpretation, Jesus is saying "God chooses to love the world by doing the following ... giving his son." It is clearly true this also indicates how much he loves the world - sacrificing his child - but the new context makes even this fact stronger. God still had choices about how to address sin, evil, and human redemption, and he chose the method of handing over his one and only son - himself in fact - to scorn, ridicule, humiliation, pain, and death.
Application: The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus remains amazing for its implications and meaning. It is overly simple, and hugely complex, at the same time. It is both plain and metaphorical. It is aggressive yet whispered at night. It was said in secret then pronounced worldwide forever. And even the most basic and well known verse that every kid in Sunday School memorizes actually has a second, deeper meaning.
God loves us all so much to seek our redemption. However, he had choices about how to do that, and he chose the option that ultimately cost him the most, while causing his son the greatest hardship and pain, but that provides us with the most basic, simple, easy, and free option for eternal life ... simple faith. No more is required of us, because God chose to take every bit of the hard part upon himself.
Prayer: Lord, as we continue in our Christmas celebration, may we keep sight of the fact that this was all your idea. You didn't need to grant us with options for salvation, and you didn't need to make the option a matter of simple belief. You just love us so. Thank you. Amen.
Friday, December 15, 2017
Pausing for Discernment
Scripture: My dearly loved brothers, understand this: Everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for man’s anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness. Therefore, ridding yourselves of all moral filth and evil, humbly receive the implanted word, which is able to save you. But be doers of the word and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. James 1:19-22
Observation: The direction to be quick to hear but slow to speak is well known. However, after giving this instruction, James also gives further clarification. When a believer hears the word - instructions or correction or teaching that is of God - we are to act. In this clarification, James is providing instruction in the gift of discernment. He is telling us that the process of hearing something and then responding - through word or deed - is actually a three-step process:
1) We are to listen.
2) We are to discern good from evil.
3) We are to promptly act upon God's good instructions, while resisting any response to evil words that may elicit anger or harshness.
Application: I am, of course, quick to act in many situations. It is a strength in many elements of my earthly life, but of course a major detriment in my spiritual walk. James is a tremendous teacher in this regards, and this lesson of discernment is strong. For James, the issue is black and white ... throw yourself into good action, and completely ignore any sort of evil words that may anger you. It is that "step 2" - that pause for discernment - that makes the difference.
I have often learned that pausing is a strength in many situations. It is a skill I lack. Clearly, it is a place for me to improve ... an actionable method for improving other elements of my spiritual walk. In that pause, I can figure out if good and right action is appropriate, or if silence is a better course. These are two paths that diverge rapidly, and pausing at the crossroads is clearly my chance to better walk with God.
Prayer: Today, Lord, I continue to work with others who are deceptive and quick to antagonize me. It is easy for me to respond and achieve a certain outcome. However, it is harder for me to pause, consider, and find the noble path. I know you would always walk down that better path, and if I am to walk with you I must consistently find that way forward. Please take my hand this day, daddy. Amen.
Observation: The direction to be quick to hear but slow to speak is well known. However, after giving this instruction, James also gives further clarification. When a believer hears the word - instructions or correction or teaching that is of God - we are to act. In this clarification, James is providing instruction in the gift of discernment. He is telling us that the process of hearing something and then responding - through word or deed - is actually a three-step process:
1) We are to listen.
2) We are to discern good from evil.
3) We are to promptly act upon God's good instructions, while resisting any response to evil words that may elicit anger or harshness.
Application: I am, of course, quick to act in many situations. It is a strength in many elements of my earthly life, but of course a major detriment in my spiritual walk. James is a tremendous teacher in this regards, and this lesson of discernment is strong. For James, the issue is black and white ... throw yourself into good action, and completely ignore any sort of evil words that may anger you. It is that "step 2" - that pause for discernment - that makes the difference.
I have often learned that pausing is a strength in many situations. It is a skill I lack. Clearly, it is a place for me to improve ... an actionable method for improving other elements of my spiritual walk. In that pause, I can figure out if good and right action is appropriate, or if silence is a better course. These are two paths that diverge rapidly, and pausing at the crossroads is clearly my chance to better walk with God.
Prayer: Today, Lord, I continue to work with others who are deceptive and quick to antagonize me. It is easy for me to respond and achieve a certain outcome. However, it is harder for me to pause, consider, and find the noble path. I know you would always walk down that better path, and if I am to walk with you I must consistently find that way forward. Please take my hand this day, daddy. Amen.
Thursday, December 14, 2017
When Angels Come Calling
Scripture: Don’t neglect to show hospitality, for by doing this some have welcomed angels as guests without knowing it. Hebrews 13:2
Observation: In his final encouragement to the Jews regarding how to proceed as the church of Jesus, the writer includes this instruction ... to show hospitality even to strangers because it is possible that the strangers are actually angels.
This seems absurd until one remembers that this happened in scriptures multiple times. Lot's visitors in Sodom, Abraham's strangers at his camp, Joshua's lone warrior, Mary's visitor, the disciples themselves at the ascension, John on Patmos. Angels appear, sometime to bring messages, and sometimes to examine a situation. In most cases, the angels await to be recognized and acknowledged - to be addressed and spoken to in a friendly manner - before proceeding with the message or mission. In a couple circumstances, they take no meaningful action nor give any word until after they have been shown hospitality.
The author of Hebrews is simply saying that this still occurs. We do not know when and where it happens, but do not neglect strangers because it would be quite embarrassing if you neglected an angel.
Application: I have thought about this before ... have angels ever attended our church's light show? Did our team receive them and welcome them? Were we hospitable? Was I there? Did I do it? Or did we fall short? Did I fail? Did I ignore an angel, or worse find myself too tired/distracted at the moment and consciously bypassed them?
I do want to care for strangers. That is a difficult proposition these days. We rightly worry about the true motives of strangers seeking help. We are overwhelmed by ever increasing issues and need. We have concerns about reactions related to certain words or actions that have become misunderstood in our politically correct society. As a result, we enter conversations hesitantly and with reserve, or we hold back and await a more obvious and explicit indication of an openness to hospitality. It is hard to comprehend the idea of inviting wandering strangers into your home for the night.
That said, we can succeed with kindness at events. I will stay focused on serving others in those situations. I would love to serve an angel. However, I will ensure that I also love serving all of God's beloved people.
Prayer: Lord, as we continue through the Christmas season, may we serve you by serving others. Help us all - myself, my wife, and my brothers and sisters in Christ - to find the joy, love, and strength to be your hands and feet. Amen.
Observation: In his final encouragement to the Jews regarding how to proceed as the church of Jesus, the writer includes this instruction ... to show hospitality even to strangers because it is possible that the strangers are actually angels.
This seems absurd until one remembers that this happened in scriptures multiple times. Lot's visitors in Sodom, Abraham's strangers at his camp, Joshua's lone warrior, Mary's visitor, the disciples themselves at the ascension, John on Patmos. Angels appear, sometime to bring messages, and sometimes to examine a situation. In most cases, the angels await to be recognized and acknowledged - to be addressed and spoken to in a friendly manner - before proceeding with the message or mission. In a couple circumstances, they take no meaningful action nor give any word until after they have been shown hospitality.
The author of Hebrews is simply saying that this still occurs. We do not know when and where it happens, but do not neglect strangers because it would be quite embarrassing if you neglected an angel.
Application: I have thought about this before ... have angels ever attended our church's light show? Did our team receive them and welcome them? Were we hospitable? Was I there? Did I do it? Or did we fall short? Did I fail? Did I ignore an angel, or worse find myself too tired/distracted at the moment and consciously bypassed them?
I do want to care for strangers. That is a difficult proposition these days. We rightly worry about the true motives of strangers seeking help. We are overwhelmed by ever increasing issues and need. We have concerns about reactions related to certain words or actions that have become misunderstood in our politically correct society. As a result, we enter conversations hesitantly and with reserve, or we hold back and await a more obvious and explicit indication of an openness to hospitality. It is hard to comprehend the idea of inviting wandering strangers into your home for the night.
That said, we can succeed with kindness at events. I will stay focused on serving others in those situations. I would love to serve an angel. However, I will ensure that I also love serving all of God's beloved people.
Prayer: Lord, as we continue through the Christmas season, may we serve you by serving others. Help us all - myself, my wife, and my brothers and sisters in Christ - to find the joy, love, and strength to be your hands and feet. Amen.
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
Monday, December 11, 2017
Taking Action Today
Scripture: But encourage each other daily, while it is still called today, so that none of you is hardened by sin’s deception. For we have become companions of the Messiah if we hold firmly until the end the reality that we had at the start. As it is said:
Observation: The writer of Hebrews reflects on the term "today" several times, and comes to this logical and clear statement - "today" is each and every day, right up until the end of the age, and therefore is a way of expressing both urgency in action and repetition of daily activity.
"Today" is when to obey, act, love, encourage, serve, and especially believe. We do not know what tomorrow may bring, but if it is the same then it is just another "today" in which we have the opportunity to again believe and serve.
Application: Every day I have a chance to serve God deeper and better than I have before. This is an opportunity - a blessing from God - that I should take advantage of. I do not know what tomorrow holds, or if there will even be a tomorrow. I know there is a today, and opportunities to believe in Jesus, obey his commands, and serve God.
Prayer: Lord, this is your day, and I do rejoice in it. I think you for the beauty of life, and the chance to experience you in this day again. May I serve you today, and if tomorrow is another today, may I serve you again. Amen.
Today, if you hear His voice,
do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.
Hebrews 3:13-15do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.
Observation: The writer of Hebrews reflects on the term "today" several times, and comes to this logical and clear statement - "today" is each and every day, right up until the end of the age, and therefore is a way of expressing both urgency in action and repetition of daily activity.
"Today" is when to obey, act, love, encourage, serve, and especially believe. We do not know what tomorrow may bring, but if it is the same then it is just another "today" in which we have the opportunity to again believe and serve.
Application: Every day I have a chance to serve God deeper and better than I have before. This is an opportunity - a blessing from God - that I should take advantage of. I do not know what tomorrow holds, or if there will even be a tomorrow. I know there is a today, and opportunities to believe in Jesus, obey his commands, and serve God.
Prayer: Lord, this is your day, and I do rejoice in it. I think you for the beauty of life, and the chance to experience you in this day again. May I serve you today, and if tomorrow is another today, may I serve you again. Amen.
Friday, December 8, 2017
The Gift of Teaching
Scripture: Until I come, give your attention to public reading, exhortation, and teaching. Do not neglect the gift that is in you; it was given to you through prophecy, with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. 1 Timothy 4:13-14
Observation: Timothy had the spiritual gift of teaching. In this section alone, Paul encourages Timothy's teaching gift three times, here telling him that this gift was decried by prophecy. He previously tells Timothy to not let others diminish his teaching due to his young age, and concludes the paragraph instructing him to pay close attention to his teaching. Going even broader ... Paul started the entire book by instructing Timothy to engage in the issues associated with false teachings; Paul outlines some of the false doctrines being taught so they can be dismissed; And Paul outlines the qualifications for teachers.
Teaching others is clearly a critical and important function. It is entered into through prayer (and again Paul outlines guidelines for prayer) and the reading then discernment of scripture. It is the scriptures that are to be taught - their meaning and application in our lives - and not any other sort of "practices" or "myths" that are not about God's love, mercy, authority, justice, and grace.
Application: When I read these sections now, I know I should never again be in church leadership. I am too judgmental, hot headed, and confident in my knowledge. I am quick to correct, slow to pray. I will tell others right and wrong, not guide them to discern truth.
I am in a better position behind the scenes, laboring and administering. I am poorly positioned when I am out front teaching and overseeing. God blesses the things I lead when I use that gift to organize and plan, not to instruct and correct. I am happy that I have been corrected by God in this area, and have found the places I can serve him.
Prayer: Lord, I do thank you for guiding me into humility in my areas of service. Your wisdom in this has proven true, as of course it would. May I never aspire for any activity that is not of your design for me. I enjoy being part of the great efforts we have to reach others for Christ. May I only measure myself against your call in my life. Amen.
Observation: Timothy had the spiritual gift of teaching. In this section alone, Paul encourages Timothy's teaching gift three times, here telling him that this gift was decried by prophecy. He previously tells Timothy to not let others diminish his teaching due to his young age, and concludes the paragraph instructing him to pay close attention to his teaching. Going even broader ... Paul started the entire book by instructing Timothy to engage in the issues associated with false teachings; Paul outlines some of the false doctrines being taught so they can be dismissed; And Paul outlines the qualifications for teachers.
Teaching others is clearly a critical and important function. It is entered into through prayer (and again Paul outlines guidelines for prayer) and the reading then discernment of scripture. It is the scriptures that are to be taught - their meaning and application in our lives - and not any other sort of "practices" or "myths" that are not about God's love, mercy, authority, justice, and grace.
Application: When I read these sections now, I know I should never again be in church leadership. I am too judgmental, hot headed, and confident in my knowledge. I am quick to correct, slow to pray. I will tell others right and wrong, not guide them to discern truth.
I am in a better position behind the scenes, laboring and administering. I am poorly positioned when I am out front teaching and overseeing. God blesses the things I lead when I use that gift to organize and plan, not to instruct and correct. I am happy that I have been corrected by God in this area, and have found the places I can serve him.
Prayer: Lord, I do thank you for guiding me into humility in my areas of service. Your wisdom in this has proven true, as of course it would. May I never aspire for any activity that is not of your design for me. I enjoy being part of the great efforts we have to reach others for Christ. May I only measure myself against your call in my life. Amen.
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Finding Time to Pray
Scripture: Devote yourselves to prayer; stay alert in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us that God may open a door to us for the message, to speak the mystery of the Messiah, for which I am in prison, so that I may reveal it as I am required to speak. Colossians 4:2-4
Observation: As previously seen, Paul is writing to a church he has not visited and did not plant, but has only heard their story. It is as he notes his final thoughts that he reveals a little of his circumstance - this is being written while he is in prison.
One can reach a lot of assumptions about why Paul chose to write to Colossae, but perhaps the most simple and logical reason is also the correct one ... he simply had a lot of time on his hands. Paul does not dwell on his condition, or spend time lamenting his circumstance. He is locked up, so he chooses to spend that spare time praying for everyone, and encouraging strangers he has never met.
Application: How do I spend my spare time? I tend to ... play video games, revisit problems in my head, and watch sports. I complain that I do not pray enough, yet clearly I have all the time I need to pray. This is the opportunity of down time, to spend time in reflection with God. As I continue to seek a stronger relationship with God, I will also be reminded of Paul's proper use of idle time. He turned idle time into eternal value. I may not have that call, but I can turn idle time into meaningful prayer that can aid my family, friends, church, community, peers, staff, and ... myself.
Prayer: Lord, I spend time in unfocused and small prayers, but I do wish to have focused time with you, in relationship. You have shown me the opportunity I have for this. Please remind me when the time comes, so I may indeed focus on you and things above during my down time. Amen.
Observation: As previously seen, Paul is writing to a church he has not visited and did not plant, but has only heard their story. It is as he notes his final thoughts that he reveals a little of his circumstance - this is being written while he is in prison.
One can reach a lot of assumptions about why Paul chose to write to Colossae, but perhaps the most simple and logical reason is also the correct one ... he simply had a lot of time on his hands. Paul does not dwell on his condition, or spend time lamenting his circumstance. He is locked up, so he chooses to spend that spare time praying for everyone, and encouraging strangers he has never met.
Application: How do I spend my spare time? I tend to ... play video games, revisit problems in my head, and watch sports. I complain that I do not pray enough, yet clearly I have all the time I need to pray. This is the opportunity of down time, to spend time in reflection with God. As I continue to seek a stronger relationship with God, I will also be reminded of Paul's proper use of idle time. He turned idle time into eternal value. I may not have that call, but I can turn idle time into meaningful prayer that can aid my family, friends, church, community, peers, staff, and ... myself.
Prayer: Lord, I spend time in unfocused and small prayers, but I do wish to have focused time with you, in relationship. You have shown me the opportunity I have for this. Please remind me when the time comes, so I may indeed focus on you and things above during my down time. Amen.
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Because the Days are Evil
Scripture: Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk - not as unwise people but as wise - making the most of the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16
Observation: This is an interesting phrase - 'the days are evil.' It can have two basic interpretations. One is that every day brings evil with it. The other is that the times in which one lives are evil. While in both cases Paul is warning the church in Ephesus - and us - to be wise in how we live, there are different connotations about the dangers that will come.
If every day brings unique issues, then the challenge is to actively apply God's word in our lives to new circumstances every day. New issues will arise, and we must understand God's laws and instructions in order to avoid temptations.
If the current times are problematic, then the challenge is to hold fast to our faith and not waiver in the face of cultural and popular pressure. We must understand God's will for our lives and be able to apply it despite continual messages that undermine God's truth.
Of course ... both are true today.
Application: The timeless issues of the early church, and how closely they apply to today's world, is fascinating. For wildly different reasons, the first Christians faced cultural pressures that fought against God's word, very similar to the "western world" today. This always makes Paul's letters so pointed toward current situations.
Today, I will face unique issue. I will face pressure that requires peace and love, or else I will grow angry and sin. I will think ill of others for their decisions, and judge them without knowing their circumstances. I will grow mentally weary and not be able to give of myself when someone needs kindness.
Today, I will read the news. I will learn of racial conflict that speaks of man's willingness to hate their neighbors. I will receive information about the systemic violations of marriage and sexual morality in conflict with God's will for human relationships. I will hear someone speak on tolerance of belief systems and push the creator of the universe completely out of the picture of the world.
And I will need God's grace, love, and strength - his full armor - to endure.
Prayer: Lord, just like Paul suggested, I ask for your full armor. Please protect my heart, my head, my soul, my body. May I obey your word and your will this day and every day. Help me, please, make the most of the time today. Because the days are evil. Amen.
Observation: This is an interesting phrase - 'the days are evil.' It can have two basic interpretations. One is that every day brings evil with it. The other is that the times in which one lives are evil. While in both cases Paul is warning the church in Ephesus - and us - to be wise in how we live, there are different connotations about the dangers that will come.
If every day brings unique issues, then the challenge is to actively apply God's word in our lives to new circumstances every day. New issues will arise, and we must understand God's laws and instructions in order to avoid temptations.
If the current times are problematic, then the challenge is to hold fast to our faith and not waiver in the face of cultural and popular pressure. We must understand God's will for our lives and be able to apply it despite continual messages that undermine God's truth.
Of course ... both are true today.
Application: The timeless issues of the early church, and how closely they apply to today's world, is fascinating. For wildly different reasons, the first Christians faced cultural pressures that fought against God's word, very similar to the "western world" today. This always makes Paul's letters so pointed toward current situations.
Today, I will face unique issue. I will face pressure that requires peace and love, or else I will grow angry and sin. I will think ill of others for their decisions, and judge them without knowing their circumstances. I will grow mentally weary and not be able to give of myself when someone needs kindness.
Today, I will read the news. I will learn of racial conflict that speaks of man's willingness to hate their neighbors. I will receive information about the systemic violations of marriage and sexual morality in conflict with God's will for human relationships. I will hear someone speak on tolerance of belief systems and push the creator of the universe completely out of the picture of the world.
And I will need God's grace, love, and strength - his full armor - to endure.
Prayer: Lord, just like Paul suggested, I ask for your full armor. Please protect my heart, my head, my soul, my body. May I obey your word and your will this day and every day. Help me, please, make the most of the time today. Because the days are evil. Amen.
Monday, December 4, 2017
How to Properly Administer
Scripture: This grace was given to me - the least of all the saints - to proclaim to the Gentiles the incalculable riches of the Messiah, and to shed light for all about the administration of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things. Ephesians 3:8-9
Observation: Paul introduces the "mystery" of the unification of all people, specifically this idea that the Messiah now makes it possible for Gentiles to be co-heirs to all of God's promises through faith in Jesus. Having declared this, he then says he is about to shed light on the "administration" of this mystery, and promptly goes into teaching about ... the Church.
The Church is one body, where all beliers are to share their gifts with one another. They should not sin against each other - stealing or cursing or lying - and they should be kind and loving toward each other. The Church is the body of Christ, and thus must have unity even while all the members individually represent a multitude of diversities and difference is position, ethnicity, background, and ages. This unity of the Church is summarized as a new way of life, independent of whatever old life everyone experienced.
Application: This is the full summary of the Church - 'big C' - of Jesus. We are one people. In addition, we are wildly diverse. We speak different languages and worship in different ways. We have different hopes, different struggles, and different experiences. We have different skills and strengths.
I am very glad to be part of a local church that gets this ... that truly tries to reach out to the diverse community around us and engage people where they are. I hope I never end up in a different type of situation, at a local congregation that simply attends services together on Sundays and exists as a type of club. I love the work we do now, despite the occasional degree of difficulty, as I think it better aligns to the mystery of God's administration of all believers.
Prayer: Lord, as we continue into this Advent season, may I remember to be thankful for your Church, and for the church I attend. I do not take this for granted, and know it is part of your work and your plan. I seek to serve others following and through your plan. Amen.
Observation: Paul introduces the "mystery" of the unification of all people, specifically this idea that the Messiah now makes it possible for Gentiles to be co-heirs to all of God's promises through faith in Jesus. Having declared this, he then says he is about to shed light on the "administration" of this mystery, and promptly goes into teaching about ... the Church.
The Church is one body, where all beliers are to share their gifts with one another. They should not sin against each other - stealing or cursing or lying - and they should be kind and loving toward each other. The Church is the body of Christ, and thus must have unity even while all the members individually represent a multitude of diversities and difference is position, ethnicity, background, and ages. This unity of the Church is summarized as a new way of life, independent of whatever old life everyone experienced.
Application: This is the full summary of the Church - 'big C' - of Jesus. We are one people. In addition, we are wildly diverse. We speak different languages and worship in different ways. We have different hopes, different struggles, and different experiences. We have different skills and strengths.
I am very glad to be part of a local church that gets this ... that truly tries to reach out to the diverse community around us and engage people where they are. I hope I never end up in a different type of situation, at a local congregation that simply attends services together on Sundays and exists as a type of club. I love the work we do now, despite the occasional degree of difficulty, as I think it better aligns to the mystery of God's administration of all believers.
Prayer: Lord, as we continue into this Advent season, may I remember to be thankful for your Church, and for the church I attend. I do not take this for granted, and know it is part of your work and your plan. I seek to serve others following and through your plan. Amen.