Scripture:
When pride comes, disgrace follows,
but with humility comes wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2
Observation: Again, the Proverbs address pride and humility, in this case directly associated humility and wisdom. Conversely, pride is aligned to disgrace.
Application: In the last two weeks, I have been getting so angry and frustrated, and I feel myself crossing over the line where I will begin engaging in confrontation. This will ruin credibility, create enemies, and eliminate the possibility of progress for both my work and the people around me. At its root is my pride - or at the very least, my lack of humility. Being humble is hard, especially around arrogant people who will attack and deride and insult. Those things ... hurt. Yes, maybe they shouldn't as I know I should look to God for my value. However, they do, though of course my efforts to fight against them hurt too, just in different ways.
I would seek wisdom. Therefore, I must find humility. I think it will hurt to do so, but God's truth is likely that humility will instead produce true joy, success, and worth.
Prayer: Lord, I ask today for the strength to not fight, the temperament to not get angry, the heart of leadership that would make me the least. I serve you alone, and not myself. Amen.
Monday, April 30, 2018
Friday, April 27, 2018
The Bonfire of Life
Scripture: So they said to each other, “Weren’t our hearts ablaze within us while He was talking with us on the road and explaining the Scriptures to us?” Luke 24:32
Observation: The disciples have been confused about what happened regarding Jesus crucifixion, but while two of them are leaving Jerusalem Jesus has spent time with them explaining everything about the Messiah. When they figure out that this person is in fact Jesus, this is their emotion - that their "hearts" were "ablaze" while learning the scriptures.
The Holy Spirit has not yet come to them to fill them with understanding, yet learning from Jesus himself has the same effect. It gives them hope, lifts their spirits, provides them with wisdom and understanding, and finally also energizes them from the inside out. They have so much energy, in fact, that after walking seven miles to Emmaus, they joyfully turn right around and walk the seven miles back to report in with the other disciples.
Application: It is the energy of the truth and of hope that sustains me every day. I cannot imagine my life without that power. I cannot imagine what I would "live for" if not for faith in Jesus. The emptiness couldn't be filled by things as superficial as work, money, or sports.
The disciples were learning of this hope - they were about to transition from confusion and fear to joy and purpose - and that learning set their hearts ablaze. Ablaze!! On fire, empowered, ignited, burning hot. I imagine that as they listed to Jesus - not knowing who he was - the revelation of the scripture ignited all that hope ... like their three years of following Jesus and hoping he was Messiah had built a pile of wood and kindling ready to be lit, and hearing the lesson that made it all true was like pouring gas on the pile and throwing a match on it.
Understanding the truth lit their lives. It continues to light my life every day. While I get distracted - in constructive and destructive, good and bad, ways - every day, Jesus is my center and my purpose. I will stay on fire for him.
Prayer: Lord, light a fire in me today. Amen.
Observation: The disciples have been confused about what happened regarding Jesus crucifixion, but while two of them are leaving Jerusalem Jesus has spent time with them explaining everything about the Messiah. When they figure out that this person is in fact Jesus, this is their emotion - that their "hearts" were "ablaze" while learning the scriptures.
The Holy Spirit has not yet come to them to fill them with understanding, yet learning from Jesus himself has the same effect. It gives them hope, lifts their spirits, provides them with wisdom and understanding, and finally also energizes them from the inside out. They have so much energy, in fact, that after walking seven miles to Emmaus, they joyfully turn right around and walk the seven miles back to report in with the other disciples.
Application: It is the energy of the truth and of hope that sustains me every day. I cannot imagine my life without that power. I cannot imagine what I would "live for" if not for faith in Jesus. The emptiness couldn't be filled by things as superficial as work, money, or sports.
The disciples were learning of this hope - they were about to transition from confusion and fear to joy and purpose - and that learning set their hearts ablaze. Ablaze!! On fire, empowered, ignited, burning hot. I imagine that as they listed to Jesus - not knowing who he was - the revelation of the scripture ignited all that hope ... like their three years of following Jesus and hoping he was Messiah had built a pile of wood and kindling ready to be lit, and hearing the lesson that made it all true was like pouring gas on the pile and throwing a match on it.
Understanding the truth lit their lives. It continues to light my life every day. While I get distracted - in constructive and destructive, good and bad, ways - every day, Jesus is my center and my purpose. I will stay on fire for him.
Prayer: Lord, light a fire in me today. Amen.
Thursday, April 26, 2018
All from the Lord's Blessing
Scripture:
The Lord’s blessing enriches,
and struggle adds nothing to it.
Proverbs 10:22
Observation: As many of the proverbs are very straightforward, so is this one. For those who honor God and receive blessings, working even harder to achieve more and more for yourself is pointless. God's blessing is all you need, and everything you receive - you earn nothing through your own efforts.
Application: I am completely aware that all I have - job, family, life, health, home, rest, food, comfort - is from the Lord. He is my total provider. I have failed in almost every possible way to advance my own life, and he has succeeded in giving to me a full life despite my failures. I cannot receive more by struggling more, by working harder, or by grasping for something greater. The Lord provides.
Prayer: Yahweh Yireh, you are my provider, my strength, my hope. Lord, I seek you every day. May I always embrace only your will for my life, my work, my home, and my family. Thank you, my Lord and my God. Amen.
The Lord’s blessing enriches,
and struggle adds nothing to it.
Proverbs 10:22
Observation: As many of the proverbs are very straightforward, so is this one. For those who honor God and receive blessings, working even harder to achieve more and more for yourself is pointless. God's blessing is all you need, and everything you receive - you earn nothing through your own efforts.
Application: I am completely aware that all I have - job, family, life, health, home, rest, food, comfort - is from the Lord. He is my total provider. I have failed in almost every possible way to advance my own life, and he has succeeded in giving to me a full life despite my failures. I cannot receive more by struggling more, by working harder, or by grasping for something greater. The Lord provides.
Prayer: Yahweh Yireh, you are my provider, my strength, my hope. Lord, I seek you every day. May I always embrace only your will for my life, my work, my home, and my family. Thank you, my Lord and my God. Amen.
Wednesday, April 25, 2018
Leading by God's Example
Scripture: There on the stones, Joshua copied the law of Moses, which he had written in the presence of the Israelites. Joshua 8:32
Observation: One of the laws from Moses was that, when Israel had a king, the king is to write out his own copy of the law. With the defeat of Jericho and Ai, Joshua does exactly this.
Joshua is never the king of Israel. He is the next leader after Moses, commanding the military efforts, and aiding all the people in judging their actions and discerning right from wrong according to the law, but he is not 'king'. However, he is fulfilling that role, and in performing the commanded tasks he is publicly assuming that mantle. From now until the land is opened and the tribes granted their portions, Joshua is the indisputable leader of the country in every possible way. Yet he never really has a title ... Joshua is not king, or judge, or prophet, or general, or priest.
Joshua is the consummate leader. He may have been granted authority by God and visibly handed that authority by Moses' conference and God's miracles, but he retains that authority simply by exercising leadership. He follows the law, establishes goals, defines strategy, communicates vision, orders tactics. In all of this, he does the right things when he confers with God, and fails when he fails to do so.
Application: While I have leadership by both position and gifting, I am better at it when I confer with God. I don't do that enough. I may do it on some individual matters, and in a very general way in seeking overall guidance, but I do not bring daily decisions to God. This would be an interesting practice, asking God about ... application strategy, project recovery issues, and service quality standards. It would be interesting, and it would also be ... helpful. Perhaps God doesn't care about all those things, and perhaps I wouldn't always hear answers. Or I might get amazing instructions, visible ways to proceed, and tremendous success.
Running an IT department is not like conquering the promised land or settling God's chosen people. But I don't need to worry about a grand title to lead like Joshua.
Prayer: Lord, I will try to remember to bring my daily work to you more often. I do have decisions to make, issues to address, and challenges to overcome. I have people who need vision and direction. May I consult you more and more. Amen.
Observation: One of the laws from Moses was that, when Israel had a king, the king is to write out his own copy of the law. With the defeat of Jericho and Ai, Joshua does exactly this.
Joshua is never the king of Israel. He is the next leader after Moses, commanding the military efforts, and aiding all the people in judging their actions and discerning right from wrong according to the law, but he is not 'king'. However, he is fulfilling that role, and in performing the commanded tasks he is publicly assuming that mantle. From now until the land is opened and the tribes granted their portions, Joshua is the indisputable leader of the country in every possible way. Yet he never really has a title ... Joshua is not king, or judge, or prophet, or general, or priest.
Joshua is the consummate leader. He may have been granted authority by God and visibly handed that authority by Moses' conference and God's miracles, but he retains that authority simply by exercising leadership. He follows the law, establishes goals, defines strategy, communicates vision, orders tactics. In all of this, he does the right things when he confers with God, and fails when he fails to do so.
Application: While I have leadership by both position and gifting, I am better at it when I confer with God. I don't do that enough. I may do it on some individual matters, and in a very general way in seeking overall guidance, but I do not bring daily decisions to God. This would be an interesting practice, asking God about ... application strategy, project recovery issues, and service quality standards. It would be interesting, and it would also be ... helpful. Perhaps God doesn't care about all those things, and perhaps I wouldn't always hear answers. Or I might get amazing instructions, visible ways to proceed, and tremendous success.
Running an IT department is not like conquering the promised land or settling God's chosen people. But I don't need to worry about a grand title to lead like Joshua.
Prayer: Lord, I will try to remember to bring my daily work to you more often. I do have decisions to make, issues to address, and challenges to overcome. I have people who need vision and direction. May I consult you more and more. Amen.
Monday, April 23, 2018
When the Manna Stops
Scripture: The day after Passover they ate unleavened bread and roasted grain from the produce of the land. And the day after they ate from the produce of the land, the manna ceased. Since there was no more manna for the Israelites, they ate from the crops of the land of Canaan that year. Joshua 5:11-12
Observation: Israel crosses the Jordan, celebrates Passover, eats a normal meal from the produce in the promised land for the first time, and ... manna ceases to exist. The bread of heaven, which had fallen every morning, six days a week, for 40 years, will never be seen again. The obvious reason is simple - Israel doesn't need it anymore. God has always promised to provide for Israel, and that provision is now the good abundance of Canaan. They simply don't need another food source anymore.
Still, it is a little sad that the manna stops. Manna was supernatural. It was unexplainable in texture and taste. Its name effectively means 'what is this'. It didn't have a lot of substance, but it was fulfilling. It fell like moisture but would dry out. It had some qualities similar to spice seeds. It spoiled quickly, except on the Sabbath. Yet it was its own thing, not quite like any other thing. To our knowledge, it lasted here on earth only for the one purpose of feeding Israel during their wilderness journey. And just like that - one the day Israel can now eat food from the promised land - it is gone.
Application: When God provides for me - for anyone - he does so in perfect alignment to his promises. However, God's timing may mean that his provision comes to us in increments and changes over time. In this example, God promised the people an abundant life. He eventually delivered them into that life in the promised land. That said, during the intervening 40 years, he provided an alternative food source. This food was not the fulfillment of the promise, but it was aligned to it in that they were never in a state of want while they awaited the abundant land.
Today, I seek God's promises. I wonder how much of my life is the fulfilled promise, and how much is a stop-gap blessing until I grow and live into the promise. Either way, I see that even God's stop-gaps are amazing! They are wondrous, ponderous, and marvelous. They themselves are true blessings, even if there is something even better on the way.
Just as I feel a little sad when I read that manna stops forever, I feel I could comfortably and happily live with whatever blessings God provides. Yet I don't want to get content if he has other things even greater planned. I wish to continue to live into his love, and I will be prepared to leave behind certain things in order to move forward, if it is the Lord's will.
Prayer: Lord, your word is my answer to prayer today. I will be comfortable with new stages of life and changes in my world, when it is your will and your plan for the lives of my family. I may be a little sad, but I will anticipate the next phase of your provision. Amen.
Observation: Israel crosses the Jordan, celebrates Passover, eats a normal meal from the produce in the promised land for the first time, and ... manna ceases to exist. The bread of heaven, which had fallen every morning, six days a week, for 40 years, will never be seen again. The obvious reason is simple - Israel doesn't need it anymore. God has always promised to provide for Israel, and that provision is now the good abundance of Canaan. They simply don't need another food source anymore.
Still, it is a little sad that the manna stops. Manna was supernatural. It was unexplainable in texture and taste. Its name effectively means 'what is this'. It didn't have a lot of substance, but it was fulfilling. It fell like moisture but would dry out. It had some qualities similar to spice seeds. It spoiled quickly, except on the Sabbath. Yet it was its own thing, not quite like any other thing. To our knowledge, it lasted here on earth only for the one purpose of feeding Israel during their wilderness journey. And just like that - one the day Israel can now eat food from the promised land - it is gone.
Application: When God provides for me - for anyone - he does so in perfect alignment to his promises. However, God's timing may mean that his provision comes to us in increments and changes over time. In this example, God promised the people an abundant life. He eventually delivered them into that life in the promised land. That said, during the intervening 40 years, he provided an alternative food source. This food was not the fulfillment of the promise, but it was aligned to it in that they were never in a state of want while they awaited the abundant land.
Today, I seek God's promises. I wonder how much of my life is the fulfilled promise, and how much is a stop-gap blessing until I grow and live into the promise. Either way, I see that even God's stop-gaps are amazing! They are wondrous, ponderous, and marvelous. They themselves are true blessings, even if there is something even better on the way.
Just as I feel a little sad when I read that manna stops forever, I feel I could comfortably and happily live with whatever blessings God provides. Yet I don't want to get content if he has other things even greater planned. I wish to continue to live into his love, and I will be prepared to leave behind certain things in order to move forward, if it is the Lord's will.
Prayer: Lord, your word is my answer to prayer today. I will be comfortable with new stages of life and changes in my world, when it is your will and your plan for the lives of my family. I may be a little sad, but I will anticipate the next phase of your provision. Amen.
Friday, April 20, 2018
God's Ongoing Partnership with Us
Scripture: They discussed it among themselves: “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say, ‘Why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ all the people will stone us, because they are convinced that John was a prophet.” So they answered that they did not know its origin. And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” Luke 20:5-8
Observation: In response to the question about his authority Jesus asks the Pharisees about the authority of John. They have two possible options - God or humans - and choose not to answer, and therefore Jesus will not answer.
In this, we see there are two options when in comes to heavenly authority. One is God ... that it is the Lord who provides all authority and power to prophets, saints, and Jesus. The other option is mankind ... that it is humans who decide to grant authority over themselves and thus respond to teaching. The Pharisees believed these were independent concepts - valid teaching came from God's authority, but behavior like John and Jesus was simply being responded to by ignorant people and thus they had "power" from their followers only. On the other hand, since they followed the law, they had authority of heaven, though obviously had zero validation from people.
The Pharisees failed to recognize that the true authority has always been a partnership between God and people. God grants his spirit for power and words, but it is in the response of people that authority manifests. God doesn't need people to respond to his teaching, but he teaches in order for people to respond. The supernatural gifting of authority by God, and the responsive granting of authority by believers, are the unified fulfillment of God's teaching.
Application: God always has authority over my life. However, his authority is complete when I join with him. This partnership could be in obedience to law, service to others, prayer and conversation, and reflection on his word. This is a loving way to command ... this is God choosing to not force me and bend me to his will, but rather allowing me to join him in his plan. This I seek to do better and better.
Prayer: Lord, I ask again for forgiveness of my sins and wayward heart. I desire to follow, obey, join, and walk with you. I truly seek your spirit to aid in my repentance from evil, and strength to align my life with your authority. Amen.
Observation: In response to the question about his authority Jesus asks the Pharisees about the authority of John. They have two possible options - God or humans - and choose not to answer, and therefore Jesus will not answer.
In this, we see there are two options when in comes to heavenly authority. One is God ... that it is the Lord who provides all authority and power to prophets, saints, and Jesus. The other option is mankind ... that it is humans who decide to grant authority over themselves and thus respond to teaching. The Pharisees believed these were independent concepts - valid teaching came from God's authority, but behavior like John and Jesus was simply being responded to by ignorant people and thus they had "power" from their followers only. On the other hand, since they followed the law, they had authority of heaven, though obviously had zero validation from people.
The Pharisees failed to recognize that the true authority has always been a partnership between God and people. God grants his spirit for power and words, but it is in the response of people that authority manifests. God doesn't need people to respond to his teaching, but he teaches in order for people to respond. The supernatural gifting of authority by God, and the responsive granting of authority by believers, are the unified fulfillment of God's teaching.
Application: God always has authority over my life. However, his authority is complete when I join with him. This partnership could be in obedience to law, service to others, prayer and conversation, and reflection on his word. This is a loving way to command ... this is God choosing to not force me and bend me to his will, but rather allowing me to join him in his plan. This I seek to do better and better.
Prayer: Lord, I ask again for forgiveness of my sins and wayward heart. I desire to follow, obey, join, and walk with you. I truly seek your spirit to aid in my repentance from evil, and strength to align my life with your authority. Amen.
Thursday, April 19, 2018
God's Promise is Always a Choice
Scripture: I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live. Deuteronomy 30:19
Observation: Even as Moses gives his final words to Israel, speaking the summary of the commands, he encourages them to make the choice to love God. This has always been a choice of the people, and always will be a choice for them. It is an permanent choice for all people. God has never forced himself on mankind - it is freewill that is within the likeness of God of mankind - and every human can choose 'life' or 'death'.
Application: I choose life. I worry daily that others have chosen death without even knowing it. We are not in a time and place where a modern-day Moses has spelled it out for everyone and then offered them the choice. Today, there are many who have chosen a life in rebellion against God without full understanding of the nature of the love of God that they are rebelling against.
But they are against God. They do know of laws, and actively fight against them. They, in fact, do know that there are two paths for them to select, and they intentionally choose a path lined with earthly visions that stands opposed to God's law. They choose the path that is well-kept by Satan. It is easy to walk, surrounded by pleasant sights, well lit, and with plenty of professional guides to assist. The ignore the path that is straight, narrow, unadorned, lined with cautionary signs, with one Jewish carpenter inviting them to select this option and several amateur travelers waving to them to join them.
They may be ignorant of God, but they are not ignorant of the choice.
Prayer: Lord, make me this day a better fellow traveler. May I invite more to join me on your path. May I introduce them to Jesus so they can trust his invitation and advice. Amen.
Observation: Even as Moses gives his final words to Israel, speaking the summary of the commands, he encourages them to make the choice to love God. This has always been a choice of the people, and always will be a choice for them. It is an permanent choice for all people. God has never forced himself on mankind - it is freewill that is within the likeness of God of mankind - and every human can choose 'life' or 'death'.
Application: I choose life. I worry daily that others have chosen death without even knowing it. We are not in a time and place where a modern-day Moses has spelled it out for everyone and then offered them the choice. Today, there are many who have chosen a life in rebellion against God without full understanding of the nature of the love of God that they are rebelling against.
But they are against God. They do know of laws, and actively fight against them. They, in fact, do know that there are two paths for them to select, and they intentionally choose a path lined with earthly visions that stands opposed to God's law. They choose the path that is well-kept by Satan. It is easy to walk, surrounded by pleasant sights, well lit, and with plenty of professional guides to assist. The ignore the path that is straight, narrow, unadorned, lined with cautionary signs, with one Jewish carpenter inviting them to select this option and several amateur travelers waving to them to join them.
They may be ignorant of God, but they are not ignorant of the choice.
Prayer: Lord, make me this day a better fellow traveler. May I invite more to join me on your path. May I introduce them to Jesus so they can trust his invitation and advice. Amen.
Tuesday, April 17, 2018
Upon Considering her Future
Dear Lord,
I guess we are near the point of making decisions about Kayla's future. I do not understand your plan. I see her through earthly eyes, filtered by a father's heart. I see a young woman who is brilliant, passionate, and driven. I see her amazing memory and he quick mind, along with her desire to help others, now coupled with a genuine interest in psychology, and I believe she could be a counselor for the broken, and a guide for the lost. I also know her brilliance in all other matters, and believe she could pursue those next phases of her life in any place you would choose for her.
And instead, there is a path laid before her that is completely independent of fulfilling that potential. It is a path of pain, poorness, and likely failure. It is a path she would walk alone and far away. It will have fear, doubt, hardship, and loneliness. Yet it aligns to her joy.
Yahweh, Abba, Adonai, Elohim, Jehovah, El Shaddai ... I only pray two things.
First, please forever have your hand on the life, safety, and direction of my daughter. May you guide her path and ways and thoughts and goals. May you set her mind on the path that both honors you and protects her. Please give her the full life of your promise.
And second, may I be strong enough to listen and obey your direction now, and to trust this great possession into your hands.
In the name of Jesus, amen, and amen.
I guess we are near the point of making decisions about Kayla's future. I do not understand your plan. I see her through earthly eyes, filtered by a father's heart. I see a young woman who is brilliant, passionate, and driven. I see her amazing memory and he quick mind, along with her desire to help others, now coupled with a genuine interest in psychology, and I believe she could be a counselor for the broken, and a guide for the lost. I also know her brilliance in all other matters, and believe she could pursue those next phases of her life in any place you would choose for her.
And instead, there is a path laid before her that is completely independent of fulfilling that potential. It is a path of pain, poorness, and likely failure. It is a path she would walk alone and far away. It will have fear, doubt, hardship, and loneliness. Yet it aligns to her joy.
Yahweh, Abba, Adonai, Elohim, Jehovah, El Shaddai ... I only pray two things.
First, please forever have your hand on the life, safety, and direction of my daughter. May you guide her path and ways and thoughts and goals. May you set her mind on the path that both honors you and protects her. Please give her the full life of your promise.
And second, may I be strong enough to listen and obey your direction now, and to trust this great possession into your hands.
In the name of Jesus, amen, and amen.
Monday, April 16, 2018
Behavior that Creates Awe
Scripture: The Lord will establish you as His holy people, as He swore to you, if you obey the commands of the Lord your God and walk in His ways. Then all the peoples of the earth will see that you are called by Yahweh’s name, and they will stand in awe of you. Deuteronomy 28:9-10
Observation: As Moses reveals the blessings that will come to Israel by following Jesus, he summarizes the covenant promises. The promises are contingent on obedience at the very simplest level - not committing the most obvious sins - and the resulting blessings involve good harvests, abundance from livestock, and strong families. However, one statement isn't about a blessing, it's about the observations of outsiders.
When Israel visibly obeys the Lord, outsiders will be in awe of them. It doesn't say the people of the earth will be jealous of their wealth, or in awe of their prosperity. And it doesn't tie the 'awe' to the outward results of their blessings. Instead ... when Israel is clearly the holy people of the Lord and called by his name, the nations of the earth will be in awe of them. This is more about a connection to God. The nations will be in awe of that connection and relationship - of the dedication to the Lord - and not the riches of the people.
Application: Jesus tells us repeatedly that it is not our words, but our lives, that reveal Jesus' love to others. By my life - not my words - others are to see my faith. Just like Israel, it is by the relationship that others are to be impressed and thus seek a deeper understanding of just what is going on.
I doubt my life provides "awe" to others. This is a problem to continue to address. I wish to live in a way that others would wonder just what in the world is going on ... that I would forsake worldly attention, honor, comfort, and material in exchange for obedience to God related to relationships, language, giving, and care for others. As God promises, this is the source to true blessing.
Prayer: Lord, I know I have been blessed by you. May I be a blessing to others. May my deeds this day and every day be about honoring you in action, thought, word, and deed, without concern for the views and attitude of the world. Amen.
Observation: As Moses reveals the blessings that will come to Israel by following Jesus, he summarizes the covenant promises. The promises are contingent on obedience at the very simplest level - not committing the most obvious sins - and the resulting blessings involve good harvests, abundance from livestock, and strong families. However, one statement isn't about a blessing, it's about the observations of outsiders.
When Israel visibly obeys the Lord, outsiders will be in awe of them. It doesn't say the people of the earth will be jealous of their wealth, or in awe of their prosperity. And it doesn't tie the 'awe' to the outward results of their blessings. Instead ... when Israel is clearly the holy people of the Lord and called by his name, the nations of the earth will be in awe of them. This is more about a connection to God. The nations will be in awe of that connection and relationship - of the dedication to the Lord - and not the riches of the people.
Application: Jesus tells us repeatedly that it is not our words, but our lives, that reveal Jesus' love to others. By my life - not my words - others are to see my faith. Just like Israel, it is by the relationship that others are to be impressed and thus seek a deeper understanding of just what is going on.
I doubt my life provides "awe" to others. This is a problem to continue to address. I wish to live in a way that others would wonder just what in the world is going on ... that I would forsake worldly attention, honor, comfort, and material in exchange for obedience to God related to relationships, language, giving, and care for others. As God promises, this is the source to true blessing.
Prayer: Lord, I know I have been blessed by you. May I be a blessing to others. May my deeds this day and every day be about honoring you in action, thought, word, and deed, without concern for the views and attitude of the world. Amen.
Friday, April 13, 2018
Asking Only Workman's Wages
Scripture: I’ll get up, go to my father, and say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired hands. Luke 15:18-19
Observation: There is a common understanding of the story of prodigal son that says, when the son has realized his errors, he finds the courage to return home to beg to rejoin his family. That isn't the case - the son returns home to request to become a bond servant. He doesn't seek to become part of the family, he seeks a job ... we wants to be paid wages, not inheritance. In other words, he doesn't even have an aspiration to be the son anymore, but rather he hopes he can just be a person who works hard enough to earn what he needs to survive.
Application: I remember this attitude about salvation ... that maybe, when I returned to God, I could then do the things I needed to do and work hard enough to just have a decent life. Maybe I would change, be a better person, and that would make things go better for me. Of course that isn't how it works. Instead, God just loves me, adopts me as his son, all because I believe in Jesus.
However, there is something to the prodigal's attitude and actions. He humbly returns without expectation, but with just some hope of an okay life. That sums up a lot of the people I see at Alpha. That sums up the necessary first step for a lot of the people I see daily ... a step they can't imagine taking. Maybe it's because they are eating from the pig trough and therefore aren't aware they are starving to death. Maybe it's because they can't possibly find humility before God. Maybe it's because their wild exploits provide artificial comforts. Maybe it's because they never had an example of the father with the resources needed to provide for them.
I had that example, and I knew I was starving. I wish I could help others find their reason for coming home.
Prayer: Lord, you are the father of the world, and the provider of all good things. You have created all things, planned all things, developed all things, observe all things, and guide all things. There are so many people who don't know you as that father who is available to love them if only they would come seeking their daily needs. Please aid myself and your church in showing them that home. Amen.
Observation: There is a common understanding of the story of prodigal son that says, when the son has realized his errors, he finds the courage to return home to beg to rejoin his family. That isn't the case - the son returns home to request to become a bond servant. He doesn't seek to become part of the family, he seeks a job ... we wants to be paid wages, not inheritance. In other words, he doesn't even have an aspiration to be the son anymore, but rather he hopes he can just be a person who works hard enough to earn what he needs to survive.
Application: I remember this attitude about salvation ... that maybe, when I returned to God, I could then do the things I needed to do and work hard enough to just have a decent life. Maybe I would change, be a better person, and that would make things go better for me. Of course that isn't how it works. Instead, God just loves me, adopts me as his son, all because I believe in Jesus.
However, there is something to the prodigal's attitude and actions. He humbly returns without expectation, but with just some hope of an okay life. That sums up a lot of the people I see at Alpha. That sums up the necessary first step for a lot of the people I see daily ... a step they can't imagine taking. Maybe it's because they are eating from the pig trough and therefore aren't aware they are starving to death. Maybe it's because they can't possibly find humility before God. Maybe it's because their wild exploits provide artificial comforts. Maybe it's because they never had an example of the father with the resources needed to provide for them.
I had that example, and I knew I was starving. I wish I could help others find their reason for coming home.
Prayer: Lord, you are the father of the world, and the provider of all good things. You have created all things, planned all things, developed all things, observe all things, and guide all things. There are so many people who don't know you as that father who is available to love them if only they would come seeking their daily needs. Please aid myself and your church in showing them that home. Amen.
Thursday, April 12, 2018
Pursuing Stuff Ahead of God
Scripture: However, he must not acquire many horses for himself or send the people back to Egypt to acquire many horses, for the Lord has told you, ‘You are never to go back that way again.’ He must not acquire many wives for himself so that his heart won’t go astray. He must not acquire very large amounts of silver and gold for himself. Deuteronomy 17:16-17
Observation: The Lord says that someday Israel will have a king, but there are things the king must not do. All of these are things typical kings do - among other ways of making oneself 'rich' when they are in power - but God uses these three as an example. In reverse order, the things a king must not collect and hoard for themselves ...
-- Money, as this represents greed itself and eventually the willingness to commit sin, create hardships for others, and focus your life's work on comfort instead of God.
-- Many wives, as this creates a division of the heart and forces one to provide attentions to many other family matters and personal issues, minimizing attention to God.
-- Horses, the key to military might, which therefore is about seeking both power and protection from worldly or external sources instead of from God.
In other words, the three examples of what a king must not do are all examples of one lesson ... all people must keep God as the foremost focus of their lives.
Application: I spend most of my waking time working a job in order to secure the money my family needs. I spend significant thought time considering and worrying about home and life issues. In all cases, I pursue security through various ways of finding either authority or protection.
While I try to pray for these things, and thank God for them when they arrive, I must be careful of pursing all these things instead of - not through or by - the Lord. I know the Lord provides for me. This must remain foremost in my mind and my heart and my soul. I do not collect riches, power, or worldly activities on my own. The Lord grants me what he determines I will have, he protects me and my family as his will decides, and he allows me to enjoy his creation and created people. These are not mine to pursue, but mine to receive - or not - as God allows and provides.
Prayer: Father, Abba, you are my provider. Jehovah Jireh! All I have is by you and from you, and thus it is for you. May I seek a humble understanding of your great love that has provided me with a wonderful life, and loving family, and the provisions we need to live every day. Amen.
Observation: The Lord says that someday Israel will have a king, but there are things the king must not do. All of these are things typical kings do - among other ways of making oneself 'rich' when they are in power - but God uses these three as an example. In reverse order, the things a king must not collect and hoard for themselves ...
-- Money, as this represents greed itself and eventually the willingness to commit sin, create hardships for others, and focus your life's work on comfort instead of God.
-- Many wives, as this creates a division of the heart and forces one to provide attentions to many other family matters and personal issues, minimizing attention to God.
-- Horses, the key to military might, which therefore is about seeking both power and protection from worldly or external sources instead of from God.
In other words, the three examples of what a king must not do are all examples of one lesson ... all people must keep God as the foremost focus of their lives.
Application: I spend most of my waking time working a job in order to secure the money my family needs. I spend significant thought time considering and worrying about home and life issues. In all cases, I pursue security through various ways of finding either authority or protection.
While I try to pray for these things, and thank God for them when they arrive, I must be careful of pursing all these things instead of - not through or by - the Lord. I know the Lord provides for me. This must remain foremost in my mind and my heart and my soul. I do not collect riches, power, or worldly activities on my own. The Lord grants me what he determines I will have, he protects me and my family as his will decides, and he allows me to enjoy his creation and created people. These are not mine to pursue, but mine to receive - or not - as God allows and provides.
Prayer: Father, Abba, you are my provider. Jehovah Jireh! All I have is by you and from you, and thus it is for you. May I seek a humble understanding of your great love that has provided me with a wonderful life, and loving family, and the provisions we need to live every day. Amen.
Wednesday, April 11, 2018
Different Types of Pharisees
Scripture: At that time some Pharisees came and told Him, “Go, get out of here! Herod wants to kill You!” Luke 13:31
Observation: It seems clear that, throughout Jesus' ministry, there are three distinct groups of Pharisees. There are those who oppose Jesus - they are against his teaching, jealous of his authority, and plotting his death. There are Pharisees who are intrigued by Jesus - they invite him for dinner and pose questions not as traps, but in an almost philosophical exercise of debate for intellectual purposes. And there is a small minority of Pharisees who border on belief ... they genuinely explore the possibility that Jesus is at least a prophet if not the Messiah.
So when Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod is out to kill him, we can only understand why if we can put that in context. Are they seeking to protect Jesus? Are they merely informing Jesus of a rumor? Or are they wishing to trick Jesus away from Jerusalem for some nefarious purpose? In context - given the very next thing that happens is an apparently not-too-confrontational dinner at a Pharisees' house - it is probably the second choice ... these are neutral Pharisees who seek to explore Jesus' unique teaching and are informing him of the rumor they have heard.
Application: How will I treat Jesus today in my life? Will I stand opposed to him by knowingly violating his teaching? Will I consider him as an intellectual study to see how his life applies to my life? Will I decide he is the Messiah and follow him?
In my mind, I clearly choose the latter. However, the choice about Jesus is a moment-by-moment, act-by-act decision. I am a different type of Pharisee hour by hour throughout the day. The greatest and most obvious battle in our hearts is to not be the type of person who opposes and rejects Jesus' teaching. However, being a "student" who seeks only an intellectual understanding is also a dangerous position, as it can appear to involve discipleship when it actually is just another Pharisee engaging in debate.
I do want to learn from Jesus as a disciple, and not as a Pharisee. This starts by ensuring every thought begins with one idea ... I believe Jesus is my Lord and Messiah. From that position, learning isn't about debate, but discovery. It isn't about exploring ideas, it's about hearing truth. And actions aren't based on ponding options, they are based on obedience.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I say again today, Jesus is my Lord and savior. I will obey and trust in him alone. Please forgive me of my disobedience, sin, and evil thoughts, as I too look to forgive others and deal kindly with all. Guide me today so that I may do you will alone. Amen.
Observation: It seems clear that, throughout Jesus' ministry, there are three distinct groups of Pharisees. There are those who oppose Jesus - they are against his teaching, jealous of his authority, and plotting his death. There are Pharisees who are intrigued by Jesus - they invite him for dinner and pose questions not as traps, but in an almost philosophical exercise of debate for intellectual purposes. And there is a small minority of Pharisees who border on belief ... they genuinely explore the possibility that Jesus is at least a prophet if not the Messiah.
So when Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod is out to kill him, we can only understand why if we can put that in context. Are they seeking to protect Jesus? Are they merely informing Jesus of a rumor? Or are they wishing to trick Jesus away from Jerusalem for some nefarious purpose? In context - given the very next thing that happens is an apparently not-too-confrontational dinner at a Pharisees' house - it is probably the second choice ... these are neutral Pharisees who seek to explore Jesus' unique teaching and are informing him of the rumor they have heard.
Application: How will I treat Jesus today in my life? Will I stand opposed to him by knowingly violating his teaching? Will I consider him as an intellectual study to see how his life applies to my life? Will I decide he is the Messiah and follow him?
In my mind, I clearly choose the latter. However, the choice about Jesus is a moment-by-moment, act-by-act decision. I am a different type of Pharisee hour by hour throughout the day. The greatest and most obvious battle in our hearts is to not be the type of person who opposes and rejects Jesus' teaching. However, being a "student" who seeks only an intellectual understanding is also a dangerous position, as it can appear to involve discipleship when it actually is just another Pharisee engaging in debate.
I do want to learn from Jesus as a disciple, and not as a Pharisee. This starts by ensuring every thought begins with one idea ... I believe Jesus is my Lord and Messiah. From that position, learning isn't about debate, but discovery. It isn't about exploring ideas, it's about hearing truth. And actions aren't based on ponding options, they are based on obedience.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I say again today, Jesus is my Lord and savior. I will obey and trust in him alone. Please forgive me of my disobedience, sin, and evil thoughts, as I too look to forgive others and deal kindly with all. Guide me today so that I may do you will alone. Amen.
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
Pain in Correcting Mockers
Scripture:
The one who corrects a mocker
will bring dishonor on himself;
the one who rebukes a wicked man will get hurt.
Don’t rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man, and he will learn more.
Proverbs 9:7-9
Observation: The teacher advises in how to share wisdom with others. Very bluntly, sharing wisdom with the mockers and evil doers - trying to correct those who adamantly reject wisdom - will only bring hardship and pain upon yourself. However, correcting and instructing wise people who seek even greater wisdom will yield fruit in their lives. Wise people embrace and cherish even more instruction, while ignorant people fight against wisdom itself along with anyone who attempts to provide wisdom.
Application: This is so practically relevant to my life today. As I attempt to guide people in improved ways of doing out jobs, I find two people ... those who a hungry to lessons, and those who resist any new idea. Many of those who resist dig in deep, and some of them fight and lash out and attack as if they are in conflict with me. These same people take actions that have no design to advance services or the community, but rather simply secure their authority and make them feel self-important.
Wisdom is clear in her teaching - attempting to bring wisdom to these wicked people will hurt me. If I correct them, they will hate me. If I persist in that correction, I will eventually be dishonored. This is timely guidance for my action today.
Prayer: Lord, you are wise and just and merciful. You are also loving and gentle and kind. May I have proper context today, focusing on that which is truly important, and working around issues that are not. I will seek to serve others following your path, and not a path through conflict. Amen.
The one who corrects a mocker
will bring dishonor on himself;
the one who rebukes a wicked man will get hurt.
Don’t rebuke a mocker, or he will hate you;
rebuke a wise man, and he will love you.
Instruct a wise man, and he will be wiser still;
teach a righteous man, and he will learn more.
Proverbs 9:7-9
Observation: The teacher advises in how to share wisdom with others. Very bluntly, sharing wisdom with the mockers and evil doers - trying to correct those who adamantly reject wisdom - will only bring hardship and pain upon yourself. However, correcting and instructing wise people who seek even greater wisdom will yield fruit in their lives. Wise people embrace and cherish even more instruction, while ignorant people fight against wisdom itself along with anyone who attempts to provide wisdom.
Application: This is so practically relevant to my life today. As I attempt to guide people in improved ways of doing out jobs, I find two people ... those who a hungry to lessons, and those who resist any new idea. Many of those who resist dig in deep, and some of them fight and lash out and attack as if they are in conflict with me. These same people take actions that have no design to advance services or the community, but rather simply secure their authority and make them feel self-important.
Wisdom is clear in her teaching - attempting to bring wisdom to these wicked people will hurt me. If I correct them, they will hate me. If I persist in that correction, I will eventually be dishonored. This is timely guidance for my action today.
Prayer: Lord, you are wise and just and merciful. You are also loving and gentle and kind. May I have proper context today, focusing on that which is truly important, and working around issues that are not. I will seek to serve others following your path, and not a path through conflict. Amen.
Friday, April 6, 2018
Happiness in the Listening
Scripture:
And now, my sons, listen to me;
those who keep my ways are happy.
Listen to instruction and be wise;
don’t ignore it.
Anyone who listens to me is happy,
watching at my doors every day,
waiting by the posts of my doorway.
For the one who finds me finds life
and obtains favor from the Lord.
Proverbs 8:32-35
Observation: The voice of wisdom provides lessons, but it often provides this overarching wisdom ... listen and obey! Head knowledge of the truth and of right actions are one objective to be achieved, but listening to and following that knowledge is the true source of happiness. We can seek wisdom, but truly listening to that wisdom, learning the nature of the wisdom, and applying it to your life ... this is the road to happiness and favor from the Lord.
Application: I have learned much in the last few years about the will and nature of God. I have learned more about his laws, his methods, and his ways. I don't understand them all, but understanding is likely not the goal. The goal is to listen and obey. The true objective is to find happiness, provided by my father in heaven, by wisely applying his instructions to my life, thoughts, deeds, and work. It is this I seek daily when I want to walk with God ... wise instructions that will guide me in my actions.
Prayer: Lord, again today I ask, may I walk hand in hand with you this day. May I humbly listen to your wise instruction, and follow it through my words and actions. Amen.
And now, my sons, listen to me;
those who keep my ways are happy.
Listen to instruction and be wise;
don’t ignore it.
Anyone who listens to me is happy,
watching at my doors every day,
waiting by the posts of my doorway.
For the one who finds me finds life
and obtains favor from the Lord.
Proverbs 8:32-35
Observation: The voice of wisdom provides lessons, but it often provides this overarching wisdom ... listen and obey! Head knowledge of the truth and of right actions are one objective to be achieved, but listening to and following that knowledge is the true source of happiness. We can seek wisdom, but truly listening to that wisdom, learning the nature of the wisdom, and applying it to your life ... this is the road to happiness and favor from the Lord.
Application: I have learned much in the last few years about the will and nature of God. I have learned more about his laws, his methods, and his ways. I don't understand them all, but understanding is likely not the goal. The goal is to listen and obey. The true objective is to find happiness, provided by my father in heaven, by wisely applying his instructions to my life, thoughts, deeds, and work. It is this I seek daily when I want to walk with God ... wise instructions that will guide me in my actions.
Prayer: Lord, again today I ask, may I walk hand in hand with you this day. May I humbly listen to your wise instruction, and follow it through my words and actions. Amen.
Wednesday, April 4, 2018
Long-Term Plan vs. Short-Term Action
Scripture: Then all of you approached me and said, ‘Let’s send men ahead of us, so that they may explore the land for us and bring us back a report about the route we should go up and the cities we will come to.’ The plan seemed good to me, so I selected 12 men from among you, one man for each tribe. Deuteronomy 1:22-23
Observation: As Moses is retelling to Israel the original events of the past 40 years, he recounts how they first approached the promised land but the people refused to enter. This retelling has an interesting detail. In other details, God tells Moses to do something, Moses tells it to the people, and they see that it is good. However, when it came to scouting the promised land ... here Moses says this was an idea of people, brought to him, and he deemed the plan to be good.
It was God's plan to immediately send the people into the promised land, and have them occupy it as the inheritance of Abraham. It was the people's plan - executed by Moses - to scout the land, foster their doubts and fears. God then made his plan one that involved a 40 year curse to wander the wilderness because they refused to enter the land, while waiting for all the men who had refused to trust in God to die.
In other words, God had a plan with an end result. When Israel refused to follow the plan, he took action to alter the near-term course of the plan. Yet the end result - the outcome - did not change, and there was punishment for those who failed to obey the original plan.
Application: Our best life involves following God's plan. When I refuse, God's will, direction, and ultimate outcome is unchanged. However, how his will is accomplished changes, and my life's direction is altered in a negative way.
I can see how this has played out in my life. I have had some great outcomes in my life! And I have had some terrible roads that got me here. Those terrible times all occurred during times where I was refusing to listen to God, and not even believing he existed. God never changed his planned outcomes for my life, but I had to go through some curses and hardships.
I know that my long-term future will be great. I also now know that the more I obey God, the better my day-to-day life will be.
Prayer: Abba, daddy, I listen for your instructions today. I seek to obey what you would have me do. I will go where you send me, and do what you ask. Please guide me. Amen.
Observation: As Moses is retelling to Israel the original events of the past 40 years, he recounts how they first approached the promised land but the people refused to enter. This retelling has an interesting detail. In other details, God tells Moses to do something, Moses tells it to the people, and they see that it is good. However, when it came to scouting the promised land ... here Moses says this was an idea of people, brought to him, and he deemed the plan to be good.
It was God's plan to immediately send the people into the promised land, and have them occupy it as the inheritance of Abraham. It was the people's plan - executed by Moses - to scout the land, foster their doubts and fears. God then made his plan one that involved a 40 year curse to wander the wilderness because they refused to enter the land, while waiting for all the men who had refused to trust in God to die.
In other words, God had a plan with an end result. When Israel refused to follow the plan, he took action to alter the near-term course of the plan. Yet the end result - the outcome - did not change, and there was punishment for those who failed to obey the original plan.
Application: Our best life involves following God's plan. When I refuse, God's will, direction, and ultimate outcome is unchanged. However, how his will is accomplished changes, and my life's direction is altered in a negative way.
I can see how this has played out in my life. I have had some great outcomes in my life! And I have had some terrible roads that got me here. Those terrible times all occurred during times where I was refusing to listen to God, and not even believing he existed. God never changed his planned outcomes for my life, but I had to go through some curses and hardships.
I know that my long-term future will be great. I also now know that the more I obey God, the better my day-to-day life will be.
Prayer: Abba, daddy, I listen for your instructions today. I seek to obey what you would have me do. I will go where you send me, and do what you ask. Please guide me. Amen.
Tuesday, April 3, 2018
Seeking Relief from Judgment
Scripture:
Let those who seek to take my life
be disgraced and confounded.
Let those who wish me harm
be driven back and humiliated.
Let those who say to me, “Aha, aha!”
be horrified because of their shame.
Psalm 40:14-15
Observation: As the writer confesses his many sins and seeks forgiveness from God, he also seeks protection from those who would judge him. These people are described by their actions - the seek to harm the writer and take his life. However, they also verbally call out his mistakes. They say "aha!" when he messes up ... or in today's language, they say, "there was your mistake, see what you did?!"
The writer seeks compassion from God. At the same time, he seeks the Lord's protection from people who judge him. The challenges are the same. On one hand, he is guilty and ashamed of his sin, and wishes forgiveness. However, he also wishes to put the sin behind him, and he can't do that when others are always calling it out and reminding him of it ... when the sin is thrown back upon him daily instead of being allowed to fall behind him.
Application: I know I sin, and I seek forgiveness regularly. I do often need my feet re-washed by God's love. However, I too fear the opinions of others about my past. I treated others poorly when I was young, and was an open sinner. There are many people who simply know me as "that" person. I don't associated with most of those people any more. But I often worry that someone will pop up and accuse me of my past ... and I have no defense other than to say that I am no longer that person.
Prayer: Lord, please do protect me from the accusations of my past. You know I am not longer that man. Even when evil thoughts and sins come to me now, they are nothing compared to the past, and I regret and seek to repent of them daily. Please continue to help me, and please do forgive me of my sins. I put you and your ways first in my life. I ask that my past be long gone, removed, erased, and forgotten. Amen.
Let those who seek to take my life
be disgraced and confounded.
Let those who wish me harm
be driven back and humiliated.
Let those who say to me, “Aha, aha!”
be horrified because of their shame.
Psalm 40:14-15
Observation: As the writer confesses his many sins and seeks forgiveness from God, he also seeks protection from those who would judge him. These people are described by their actions - the seek to harm the writer and take his life. However, they also verbally call out his mistakes. They say "aha!" when he messes up ... or in today's language, they say, "there was your mistake, see what you did?!"
The writer seeks compassion from God. At the same time, he seeks the Lord's protection from people who judge him. The challenges are the same. On one hand, he is guilty and ashamed of his sin, and wishes forgiveness. However, he also wishes to put the sin behind him, and he can't do that when others are always calling it out and reminding him of it ... when the sin is thrown back upon him daily instead of being allowed to fall behind him.
Application: I know I sin, and I seek forgiveness regularly. I do often need my feet re-washed by God's love. However, I too fear the opinions of others about my past. I treated others poorly when I was young, and was an open sinner. There are many people who simply know me as "that" person. I don't associated with most of those people any more. But I often worry that someone will pop up and accuse me of my past ... and I have no defense other than to say that I am no longer that person.
Prayer: Lord, please do protect me from the accusations of my past. You know I am not longer that man. Even when evil thoughts and sins come to me now, they are nothing compared to the past, and I regret and seek to repent of them daily. Please continue to help me, and please do forgive me of my sins. I put you and your ways first in my life. I ask that my past be long gone, removed, erased, and forgotten. Amen.
Monday, April 2, 2018
Other Alternative Explanations
Scripture: They answered, “John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, that one of the ancient prophets has come back.” “But you,” He asked them, “who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “God’s Messiah!” Luke 9:19-20
Observation: Before Peter declares Jesus the Messiah, the question of what other are saying is asked and answered. The explanations proffered are nonsensical. The idea that Jesus would be John the Baptist - who was just beheaded months before and whom many people had seen - makes no sense. The offer of Elijah makes sense from a Jewish perspective regarding prophesy of the return of Elijah, but there is no such possible alignment between Jesus and Elijah other than both being great. As for any other prophet, there is no expectation that any of the prophets would return.
The most logical explanation - that Jesus is himself a new prophet - isn't part of the scenario. This is because even the average people still seeking truth can tell Jesus is greater than a mere 'average prophet'. There is something great occurring, and the people know it. Yet they are willing to attribute the unprecedented concept of a resurrected ancient prophet to this greatness instead of the one concept they have been anticipating for hundreds of years ... the coming of Messiah.
Application: This is the nature of mankind's relationship with God ... that we are willing to make up wild guesses to explain him instead of listening to and believing his explanation. God said he was sending the Messiah. God never said he was bringing back any random prophets. Yet people make up the latter and ignore the former.
Today, God says he will care for his sheep, help us through all hard times, and work for the good for those who love him. Yet I rarely put my full trust in him. I take on struggles without prayer for help, and I worry about life without seeking comfort. I make up a narrative for taking care of myself and my family and my community and my city and my country and my planet, and I don't ask God what his plans for all these are so I can simply join him there.
I need to follow God's narrative, not my alternatives. I wish to walk in his will and by his chosen path, not wander lost and declaring I know the way.
Prayer: Lord, this day may I give my concerns to you. I am worried about our cash flow, and though I know we have plenty I desire to provide for children straining to find their way. I want to make all paths available to them. However, I know you have already chosen their path, and you have provided plenty for it. May I lean into your will, surrender to your guidance, and find comfort in your arms. Amen.
Observation: Before Peter declares Jesus the Messiah, the question of what other are saying is asked and answered. The explanations proffered are nonsensical. The idea that Jesus would be John the Baptist - who was just beheaded months before and whom many people had seen - makes no sense. The offer of Elijah makes sense from a Jewish perspective regarding prophesy of the return of Elijah, but there is no such possible alignment between Jesus and Elijah other than both being great. As for any other prophet, there is no expectation that any of the prophets would return.
The most logical explanation - that Jesus is himself a new prophet - isn't part of the scenario. This is because even the average people still seeking truth can tell Jesus is greater than a mere 'average prophet'. There is something great occurring, and the people know it. Yet they are willing to attribute the unprecedented concept of a resurrected ancient prophet to this greatness instead of the one concept they have been anticipating for hundreds of years ... the coming of Messiah.
Application: This is the nature of mankind's relationship with God ... that we are willing to make up wild guesses to explain him instead of listening to and believing his explanation. God said he was sending the Messiah. God never said he was bringing back any random prophets. Yet people make up the latter and ignore the former.
Today, God says he will care for his sheep, help us through all hard times, and work for the good for those who love him. Yet I rarely put my full trust in him. I take on struggles without prayer for help, and I worry about life without seeking comfort. I make up a narrative for taking care of myself and my family and my community and my city and my country and my planet, and I don't ask God what his plans for all these are so I can simply join him there.
I need to follow God's narrative, not my alternatives. I wish to walk in his will and by his chosen path, not wander lost and declaring I know the way.
Prayer: Lord, this day may I give my concerns to you. I am worried about our cash flow, and though I know we have plenty I desire to provide for children straining to find their way. I want to make all paths available to them. However, I know you have already chosen their path, and you have provided plenty for it. May I lean into your will, surrender to your guidance, and find comfort in your arms. Amen.
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