Scripture: A Jew named Apollos, a native Alexandrian, an eloquent man who was powerful in the use of the Scriptures, arrived in Ephesus. This man had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught the things about Jesus accurately, although he knew only John’s baptism. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. After Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him home and explained the way of God to him more accurately. Acts 18:24-26
Observation: Paul leaves Corinth with Priscilla and Aquila. In Ephesus they meet Apollos, and it is Priscilla and Aquila who advance and mature Apollos' ministry. Apollos will later go to Corinth, and collectively he and Paul bounce around the region to strengthen the churches in eastern Greece. In this way, there are some who see Apollos as a rival to Paul - some claiming they follow Paul's teaching and others Apollos - but Paul will eventually shut that down by stating it is all about Jesus and they are just two men with the same good news.
Through Priscilla and Aquila, we see Paul and Apollos are not rivals, but rather part of a team. They partner and speak differently, but they grow and mature and speak and educate others through a collective community ... a community that, in the end, is actually organized by two other people. Paul and Apollos come and go, but Priscilla and Aquila are the constants.
Application: It is easy for churches to see the speakers, teachers, and worship leaders as the ones who run everything. That is rarely the case. In our church, Bob and Cheryl are the Priscilla and Aquila. There are others as well in that mold ... people around whom activities organize, who lead from the sideline, and who council the "leaders" because of their hearts and their wisdom.
It is good to see that the ancient churches ran the same way. Traveling evangelists - the ones held up as "leaders" - came and went. A few core leaders administered and provided a foundation of faith for others.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for Evergreen Church, a place with different strengths and gifts that focus on evangelism. May our service bless you next week, by blessing others in a way that demonstrates your love, and perhaps brings hopes and thoughts to others. Amen.
Thursday, June 28, 2018
Wednesday, June 27, 2018
Playing Before an Apathetic Crowd
Scripture: So Ahab summoned all the Israelites and gathered the prophets at Mount Carmel. Then Elijah approached all the people and said, “How long will you hesitate between two opinions? If Yahweh is God, follow Him. But if Baal, follow him.” But the people didn’t answer him a word. 1 Kings 18:20-21
Observation: Elijah is about to take on 450 "prophets" from the false gods through a contest of fire. However, he will make this productive - he won't just demonstrate the Lord's authority to Ahab, but to all the people of Israel. He ensures a large audience is on hand ... all of the Israelites. However, he also prepares the conditions around that audience by asking with whom their loyalty lies. They are disturbingly silent.
Elijah now has an audience that is totally uncommitted to any belief system. They don't stand with Elijah who is before them and speaking, and they don't stand with Baal who has 450 prophets on hand. They won't take a position despite being a very, very large group that collectively should not fear either side of the argument. They are apathetic.
Application: The Israelites are just like today's society. They might care about a lot of "issues" and have "beliefs" that align to that level of care, but they don't really have faith in anything. So many people, if asked "take a definitive stand on a belief system" would firmly remain silent, not seeking to commit to any single truth.
Today's crowd is apathetic, too. They are open to any concept, and thus firmly cling to none. They respect anyone's belief system, except for any belief system that declares itself to be the truth. It is the irony that, when people are open to all beliefs, they are by definition closed to reality.
What would have to happen to reach the hearts of everyone regarding the truth of Jesus? Surely we shouldn't need public miracles. Then again, in this age ... would that even work?
Prayer: Lord, we need a new Elijah, a new Moses, a new Elisha, a new Isaiah, in this age. But mostly, we need Jesus in the hearts of many, and renewed strength within this apathetic world. Most of the leaders war against truth, and have twisted even that idea into public scorn. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Observation: Elijah is about to take on 450 "prophets" from the false gods through a contest of fire. However, he will make this productive - he won't just demonstrate the Lord's authority to Ahab, but to all the people of Israel. He ensures a large audience is on hand ... all of the Israelites. However, he also prepares the conditions around that audience by asking with whom their loyalty lies. They are disturbingly silent.
Elijah now has an audience that is totally uncommitted to any belief system. They don't stand with Elijah who is before them and speaking, and they don't stand with Baal who has 450 prophets on hand. They won't take a position despite being a very, very large group that collectively should not fear either side of the argument. They are apathetic.
Application: The Israelites are just like today's society. They might care about a lot of "issues" and have "beliefs" that align to that level of care, but they don't really have faith in anything. So many people, if asked "take a definitive stand on a belief system" would firmly remain silent, not seeking to commit to any single truth.
Today's crowd is apathetic, too. They are open to any concept, and thus firmly cling to none. They respect anyone's belief system, except for any belief system that declares itself to be the truth. It is the irony that, when people are open to all beliefs, they are by definition closed to reality.
What would have to happen to reach the hearts of everyone regarding the truth of Jesus? Surely we shouldn't need public miracles. Then again, in this age ... would that even work?
Prayer: Lord, we need a new Elijah, a new Moses, a new Elisha, a new Isaiah, in this age. But mostly, we need Jesus in the hearts of many, and renewed strength within this apathetic world. Most of the leaders war against truth, and have twisted even that idea into public scorn. Come, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Customizing Your Presentation
Scripture: Then some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, including a great number of God-fearing Greeks, as well as a number of the leading women. Acts 17:4
Observation: In Thessalonica, Paul begins by preaching in the Jewish synagogue, but only some of the Jews believe. However, a "great number" of Greeks - and a significant number of women - do believe. As we see next, most of the Jewish populace turns against Paul and Silas. Therefore, it feels like Thessalonica becomes the first church that is primarily Greek from its outset.
This is interesting in that - in Paul's later letters - it is the two to the Thessalonians that are the most intellectually challenging. They are deep in thought, and include prophesy well beyond the near-term future of the church. While other letters have spiritual encouragement, and others still a full of moral correction, and some of procedural instruction, the letters to the Thessalonians 'feel' like they have an intellectual tone. This is likely do to the membership, being comprised of Greeks who welcome philosophical discussion and intellectual understanding.
In other words, we see a little glimpse of the fact that Paul tailored his encouragement to the specific people he was writing. He did not write on general themes for everyone, but focused his message to the nature of the recipients.
Application: The good news of Jesus is specific to everyone. To some of my friends, it involves emotional connection. To some, it involves hope in the midst of struggle. Again to others, it requires scientific alignment.
This is Paul's true spirit of love ... that he could be all things to all people, from a prophet, to a tent maker, to a teacher, to a friend. Paul could be Greek educated, a Jewish scholar, and a Roman citizen. And he didn't define what he would be based on his mood, but rather based on others' needs.
Does my testimony have multiple variations? And can I tell it differently to others in a way that will connect with them? Most importantly, am I willing to customize my identity and attitude based on the needs of others, instead of the pride of self?
Prayer: Lord, I seek wisdom from you in how I relate to others. It is only by your spirit that I can discern your will, your words, and your love toward others. May I be available to your spirit daily. Amen.
Observation: In Thessalonica, Paul begins by preaching in the Jewish synagogue, but only some of the Jews believe. However, a "great number" of Greeks - and a significant number of women - do believe. As we see next, most of the Jewish populace turns against Paul and Silas. Therefore, it feels like Thessalonica becomes the first church that is primarily Greek from its outset.
This is interesting in that - in Paul's later letters - it is the two to the Thessalonians that are the most intellectually challenging. They are deep in thought, and include prophesy well beyond the near-term future of the church. While other letters have spiritual encouragement, and others still a full of moral correction, and some of procedural instruction, the letters to the Thessalonians 'feel' like they have an intellectual tone. This is likely do to the membership, being comprised of Greeks who welcome philosophical discussion and intellectual understanding.
In other words, we see a little glimpse of the fact that Paul tailored his encouragement to the specific people he was writing. He did not write on general themes for everyone, but focused his message to the nature of the recipients.
Application: The good news of Jesus is specific to everyone. To some of my friends, it involves emotional connection. To some, it involves hope in the midst of struggle. Again to others, it requires scientific alignment.
This is Paul's true spirit of love ... that he could be all things to all people, from a prophet, to a tent maker, to a teacher, to a friend. Paul could be Greek educated, a Jewish scholar, and a Roman citizen. And he didn't define what he would be based on his mood, but rather based on others' needs.
Does my testimony have multiple variations? And can I tell it differently to others in a way that will connect with them? Most importantly, am I willing to customize my identity and attitude based on the needs of others, instead of the pride of self?
Prayer: Lord, I seek wisdom from you in how I relate to others. It is only by your spirit that I can discern your will, your words, and your love toward others. May I be available to your spirit daily. Amen.
Monday, June 25, 2018
Think Before You Speak
Scripture:
The mind of the righteous person thinks before answering,
but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things.
Proverbs 15:28
Observation: This straightforward wisdom - think before you speak - is one we all know. It is good to think in your mind about what you should say before answering. However, there is a 'good vs. evil' context to this proverb that is new. I righteous person does indeed think before answering. However, when someone just blurts out something, it is associated with evil. They are likely to say an 'evil thing' and themselves are called wicked.
The leap of logic here is in the difference between the behavior of good and wicked people. A wicked person is quick to respond because they are quick to anger and aggressive in nature. They look to either attack or quickly justify and defend. On the other hand, a good person carefully considers their words. They are patient by nature - one of the fruits of the spirit - and are therefore likely to think through their response to any situation. They also seek to be kind even in poor circumstances or conflict.
Application: I have seen in myself lately the fact that I am quick to respond, and not taking the time to process situations. I often produce conflict this way, which is not my intent. I must be more considered in my responses and words. Careful consideration is not just wise, but righteous.
This does, of course, come from a spirit of kindness, goodness, and patience. When I am calm in spirit, I will be slow to anger, and thus considered in my responses. I would do well personally, professionally, and spiritually to slow my responses and find not only the "right" response, but the well-timed and uplifting response.
Prayer: My great Lord and God, may I have patience this day in all matters. Patience is the well from which kindness may be drawn, especially in matters of the words the come from my mouth. I seek to show patience and practice righteousness through my thoughtful words. Thank you for your practical education and guidance in all matters. Amen.
The mind of the righteous person thinks before answering,
but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things.
Proverbs 15:28
Observation: This straightforward wisdom - think before you speak - is one we all know. It is good to think in your mind about what you should say before answering. However, there is a 'good vs. evil' context to this proverb that is new. I righteous person does indeed think before answering. However, when someone just blurts out something, it is associated with evil. They are likely to say an 'evil thing' and themselves are called wicked.
The leap of logic here is in the difference between the behavior of good and wicked people. A wicked person is quick to respond because they are quick to anger and aggressive in nature. They look to either attack or quickly justify and defend. On the other hand, a good person carefully considers their words. They are patient by nature - one of the fruits of the spirit - and are therefore likely to think through their response to any situation. They also seek to be kind even in poor circumstances or conflict.
Application: I have seen in myself lately the fact that I am quick to respond, and not taking the time to process situations. I often produce conflict this way, which is not my intent. I must be more considered in my responses and words. Careful consideration is not just wise, but righteous.
This does, of course, come from a spirit of kindness, goodness, and patience. When I am calm in spirit, I will be slow to anger, and thus considered in my responses. I would do well personally, professionally, and spiritually to slow my responses and find not only the "right" response, but the well-timed and uplifting response.
Prayer: My great Lord and God, may I have patience this day in all matters. Patience is the well from which kindness may be drawn, especially in matters of the words the come from my mouth. I seek to show patience and practice righteousness through my thoughtful words. Thank you for your practical education and guidance in all matters. Amen.
Thursday, June 21, 2018
Not If but When
Scripture:
When they sin against You -
for there is no one who does not sin -
and You are angry with them
and hand them over to the enemy,
and their captors deport them to the enemy’s country -
whether distant or nearby ...
1 Kings 8:46
Observation: Solomon knew Israel would continue sinning, and eventually all the punishments pronounced by Moses and Joshua - concluding with exile - would come to pass. In his prayer of dedication for the temple, he repeats please about their future sin and failure, and asks God to listen to them when they repent. It isn't that Israel is so evil they cannot avoid sin, it is that everyone is evil and cannot avoid sin. Even when God speaks to Solomon directly, promising his line a permanent kingship if only he will avoid worshipping other gods, eventually Solomon himself will fail at that.
Application: It is not if, but when, I will sin. I hate this element of human weakness, and it is one of the components I cannot understand ... the fact that everyone seeks to do right but instead does wrong. Paul lamented it, and I lament it. It is a condition that affects me mentally and physically, and even when I strive to repent things creep into my mind.
I can logically think this through, wrestle with sin and Satan, and just "try harder". But what I need is more of the Holy Spirit. I need a softer heart, and a changed mind. I need full surrender.
Prayer: Lord, I do seek full surrender today. As I move forward in faith regarding the future of our children, I also trust in you with all elements of my life. Help me to repent of sin, and find a way to live according to your statutes. I seek the life of your promise, and of salvation in Jesus. Please continue your work within me. Amen.
When they sin against You -
for there is no one who does not sin -
and You are angry with them
and hand them over to the enemy,
and their captors deport them to the enemy’s country -
whether distant or nearby ...
1 Kings 8:46
Observation: Solomon knew Israel would continue sinning, and eventually all the punishments pronounced by Moses and Joshua - concluding with exile - would come to pass. In his prayer of dedication for the temple, he repeats please about their future sin and failure, and asks God to listen to them when they repent. It isn't that Israel is so evil they cannot avoid sin, it is that everyone is evil and cannot avoid sin. Even when God speaks to Solomon directly, promising his line a permanent kingship if only he will avoid worshipping other gods, eventually Solomon himself will fail at that.
Application: It is not if, but when, I will sin. I hate this element of human weakness, and it is one of the components I cannot understand ... the fact that everyone seeks to do right but instead does wrong. Paul lamented it, and I lament it. It is a condition that affects me mentally and physically, and even when I strive to repent things creep into my mind.
I can logically think this through, wrestle with sin and Satan, and just "try harder". But what I need is more of the Holy Spirit. I need a softer heart, and a changed mind. I need full surrender.
Prayer: Lord, I do seek full surrender today. As I move forward in faith regarding the future of our children, I also trust in you with all elements of my life. Help me to repent of sin, and find a way to live according to your statutes. I seek the life of your promise, and of salvation in Jesus. Please continue your work within me. Amen.
Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Our Lord the Pillar
Scripture:
When I choose a time,
I will judge fairly.
When the earth and all its inhabitants shake,
I am the One who steadies its pillars. Selah
Psalm 75:2-3
Observation: This song calls out to God and asks him to tell of his wonderful works, and this is his response. It is a future tense statement about a coming time of judgment, and God is declaring that ... such a time will come, he will treat everyone fairly in that time, but when everyone is scared and concerned about those days he is the one who will provide strength and steadiness. Reflect on that.
Application: The time of judgment is of course upon us, and the inhabitants of the earth shake daily. There is fear, hate, anxiousness, pain, disease, anger, depression ... everywhere. However, the Lord is my foundation. He is the only place in which I ever find peace, rest, comfort, control, strength, joy, and hope. Everyone all around is yelling and fighting - over everything from drugs to immigration practices to race relations to money - yet I have a father who provides a way for me to rest and reflect. In the Lord, I find comfort of every kind, and shelter from the shaking of this world.
Prayer: Father, Abba, I feel like your arms are around me today, and at most times. I do not seek ignorance of the issues of this world, but rather your love as the guidepost and context and comfort through those issues. Thank you for your loving grace, and your fair lordship of this life. Amen.
When I choose a time,
I will judge fairly.
When the earth and all its inhabitants shake,
I am the One who steadies its pillars. Selah
Psalm 75:2-3
Observation: This song calls out to God and asks him to tell of his wonderful works, and this is his response. It is a future tense statement about a coming time of judgment, and God is declaring that ... such a time will come, he will treat everyone fairly in that time, but when everyone is scared and concerned about those days he is the one who will provide strength and steadiness. Reflect on that.
Application: The time of judgment is of course upon us, and the inhabitants of the earth shake daily. There is fear, hate, anxiousness, pain, disease, anger, depression ... everywhere. However, the Lord is my foundation. He is the only place in which I ever find peace, rest, comfort, control, strength, joy, and hope. Everyone all around is yelling and fighting - over everything from drugs to immigration practices to race relations to money - yet I have a father who provides a way for me to rest and reflect. In the Lord, I find comfort of every kind, and shelter from the shaking of this world.
Prayer: Father, Abba, I feel like your arms are around me today, and at most times. I do not seek ignorance of the issues of this world, but rather your love as the guidepost and context and comfort through those issues. Thank you for your loving grace, and your fair lordship of this life. Amen.
Monday, June 18, 2018
Acting Wisely Toward Others
Scripture: When Hiram heard Solomon’s words, he greatly rejoiced and said, "May the Lord be praised today! He has given David a wise son to be over this great people!" 1 Kings 5:7
Observation: Solomon earns this praise from Hiram over a message that simply has two points - he is going to build a temple to God, and so send him cedar. Why would this make Solomon wise?
First, because he has chosen to honor God. His wisdom is evident in his dedication to the Lord, and in his decision to in fact carry out the instruction given to him by God through David to create the house where God my again live with the people. Second, Solomon treats Hiram as a peer. He has the authority to place Hiram under his authority and command obedience. He instead offers a deal to leverage Hiram's expertise, send his own labor to help, and to pay for the cedar.
Solomon could treat Hiram as a weaker subject to be ordered into action. Instead, he treats Hiram as a person of value, with both skills and needs, and seeks to work with him.
Application: This is a sign of Godly love ... to treat others with value. When I can command others, it is better to ask. When I can order work to be done, it is better to work together. When I can take, it is better to purchase. When I can win a conflict, it is better to win a friend.
Prayer: Lord, may I continue to find ways to love others today in a wise manner. I do not seek to wield authority, but rather to wield your love and kindness. Amen.
Observation: Solomon earns this praise from Hiram over a message that simply has two points - he is going to build a temple to God, and so send him cedar. Why would this make Solomon wise?
First, because he has chosen to honor God. His wisdom is evident in his dedication to the Lord, and in his decision to in fact carry out the instruction given to him by God through David to create the house where God my again live with the people. Second, Solomon treats Hiram as a peer. He has the authority to place Hiram under his authority and command obedience. He instead offers a deal to leverage Hiram's expertise, send his own labor to help, and to pay for the cedar.
Solomon could treat Hiram as a weaker subject to be ordered into action. Instead, he treats Hiram as a person of value, with both skills and needs, and seeks to work with him.
Application: This is a sign of Godly love ... to treat others with value. When I can command others, it is better to ask. When I can order work to be done, it is better to work together. When I can take, it is better to purchase. When I can win a conflict, it is better to win a friend.
Prayer: Lord, may I continue to find ways to love others today in a wise manner. I do not seek to wield authority, but rather to wield your love and kindness. Amen.
Friday, June 15, 2018
Thursday, June 14, 2018
A Reflection on Pride
Scripture:
You rescue an afflicted people,
but Your eyes are set against the proud -
You humble them.
2 Samuel 22:28
Observation: As David sings in honor of the Lord, he states that God is wonderful, faithful, and pure to those who have those qualities, but to those who are evil and crooked he is strong in judgment. In this sentence, he says God cares for the afflicted, but humbles those with pride.
Application: We sit here today in ... "pride month". People who have considered themselves afflicted and marginalized, have had the government declare that theirs is an opportunity to be proud of themselves and who they are. I completely agree that it is wrong to oppress, marginalize, or even hate anyone. However, there is an interesting parallel I was considering just yesterday, and which David here highlights.
Those who have chosen to turn away from God's laws - who set up their own ways as the rules by which they will conduct their lives - fall into the trap of pride. David knew this 3,200 years ago. We know this now. The fact that a very large group of people, including everyone in support of the movement, has adopted 'pride' as their mantra, strengthens and informs the conversation about the nature of their overall understanding of God and his compassion, mercy, peace, faithfulness, goodness, righteousness, and love.
God would love nothing more than to care for and bless anyone who feels marginalized, hated, hurt, outcast, or confused. However ... he will judge the proud.
I suffer from pride, and it manifests as anger of disagreements and perceived disrespect. It is the part of my heart I most wish I could overcome. With God's love and strength, I will achieve that goal. I know my heart has changed over time, and God is not finished with me yet. He has not given up on me, and will never forsake me. I hope I learn how to humble myself before God decides to humble me. I choose humility. You can have your pride.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for everyone who feels so desperate and hopeless and confused in their lives that they would choose total denial of your teaching over your love. Surely they do that from ignorance and the lies whispered to them by this world. May your love resonate even above the din of the crowds. Amen.
You rescue an afflicted people,
but Your eyes are set against the proud -
You humble them.
2 Samuel 22:28
Observation: As David sings in honor of the Lord, he states that God is wonderful, faithful, and pure to those who have those qualities, but to those who are evil and crooked he is strong in judgment. In this sentence, he says God cares for the afflicted, but humbles those with pride.
Application: We sit here today in ... "pride month". People who have considered themselves afflicted and marginalized, have had the government declare that theirs is an opportunity to be proud of themselves and who they are. I completely agree that it is wrong to oppress, marginalize, or even hate anyone. However, there is an interesting parallel I was considering just yesterday, and which David here highlights.
Those who have chosen to turn away from God's laws - who set up their own ways as the rules by which they will conduct their lives - fall into the trap of pride. David knew this 3,200 years ago. We know this now. The fact that a very large group of people, including everyone in support of the movement, has adopted 'pride' as their mantra, strengthens and informs the conversation about the nature of their overall understanding of God and his compassion, mercy, peace, faithfulness, goodness, righteousness, and love.
God would love nothing more than to care for and bless anyone who feels marginalized, hated, hurt, outcast, or confused. However ... he will judge the proud.
I suffer from pride, and it manifests as anger of disagreements and perceived disrespect. It is the part of my heart I most wish I could overcome. With God's love and strength, I will achieve that goal. I know my heart has changed over time, and God is not finished with me yet. He has not given up on me, and will never forsake me. I hope I learn how to humble myself before God decides to humble me. I choose humility. You can have your pride.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for everyone who feels so desperate and hopeless and confused in their lives that they would choose total denial of your teaching over your love. Surely they do that from ignorance and the lies whispered to them by this world. May your love resonate even above the din of the crowds. Amen.
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
Successes out of Failures
Scripture: The Gibeonites were not Israelites but rather a remnant of the Amorites. The Israelites had taken an oath concerning them, but Saul had tried to kill them in his zeal for the Israelites and Judah. So David summoned the Gibeonites and spoke to them. He asked the Gibeonites, “What should I do for you? How can I make atonement so that you will bring a blessing on the Lord’s inheritance?” 2 Samuel 21:2-3
Observation: Israel is being punished due to a sin committed by Saul in attempting to kill the Gibeonites. This is interesting because ... Joshua was instructed to destroy the Gibeonites, but through an act of deceit instead made a treaty of them. Saul attempted to reverse that treaty, and all Israel is punished years later. David must then seek them out and attempt to resolve this act, in a way to bring blessing back to Israel.
In other words, Joshua was to drive the Gibeonites out of the land. His failure to do so was a kind of sin. However, once he made a treaty with them, it was a sin to violate that agreement. This is an example of God using our mistakes to work out his will. It was a mistake for Joshua to fall for the trick the Gibeonites played on him. That said, with the treaty in place, it was God's will to use that treaty to manage the obedience of Saul. When Saul made the mistake of attempting to wipe out the Gibeonites, God used that mistake to test the discernment of David in coming to him for a resolution to the famine.
Application: God acts within our failures. He can take my mistakes, and turn them into opportunities for myself or others. I have made many, many mistakes, and there are others out there who have had opportunities to grow out of my failure to obey.
That said, failure for the sake of others isn't the point. The point is, David obeyed when God used this series of mistakes to test him. As I have learned from my mistakes, am I ready to properly respond and obey? Could I pass a test of faith and trust? Do I take the time to pray and discern when faced with challenges? I would like to answer 'yes' to those first two questions, but the problem is that the answer to the third question is 'no'. I don't pray enough, thus I cannot hear God's leading in most situations.
Prayer: Lord, I ask only that you guide me today. May I have just enough wisdom to know that I don't have enough wisdom, and that I need to turn to you. Amen.
Observation: Israel is being punished due to a sin committed by Saul in attempting to kill the Gibeonites. This is interesting because ... Joshua was instructed to destroy the Gibeonites, but through an act of deceit instead made a treaty of them. Saul attempted to reverse that treaty, and all Israel is punished years later. David must then seek them out and attempt to resolve this act, in a way to bring blessing back to Israel.
In other words, Joshua was to drive the Gibeonites out of the land. His failure to do so was a kind of sin. However, once he made a treaty with them, it was a sin to violate that agreement. This is an example of God using our mistakes to work out his will. It was a mistake for Joshua to fall for the trick the Gibeonites played on him. That said, with the treaty in place, it was God's will to use that treaty to manage the obedience of Saul. When Saul made the mistake of attempting to wipe out the Gibeonites, God used that mistake to test the discernment of David in coming to him for a resolution to the famine.
Application: God acts within our failures. He can take my mistakes, and turn them into opportunities for myself or others. I have made many, many mistakes, and there are others out there who have had opportunities to grow out of my failure to obey.
That said, failure for the sake of others isn't the point. The point is, David obeyed when God used this series of mistakes to test him. As I have learned from my mistakes, am I ready to properly respond and obey? Could I pass a test of faith and trust? Do I take the time to pray and discern when faced with challenges? I would like to answer 'yes' to those first two questions, but the problem is that the answer to the third question is 'no'. I don't pray enough, thus I cannot hear God's leading in most situations.
Prayer: Lord, I ask only that you guide me today. May I have just enough wisdom to know that I don't have enough wisdom, and that I need to turn to you. Amen.
Monday, June 11, 2018
Glory to God Above All Else
Scripture:
May the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does wonders, be praised.
May His glorious name be praised forever;
the whole earth is filled with His glory.
Amen and amen.
Psalm 72:18-19
Observation: This psalm - while it might be written either by David or Solomon - is a prophesy about the Messiah. It declares that the son of the king will be a great ruler beyond any human understanding. He will rule beyond the possibility of human endurance, for as long as the sun and moon can possibly exist, with his name enduring forever. He will rule all people ... to the ends of the earth, and across every type and nationality of people. He will care for the downtrodden, the poor, the afflicted, the helpless, and the oppressed. Finally, his reign will be prosperous, with plenty for everyone, and all nations that call him 'blessed' will be blessed by him.
However, in the end, all of this is for the glory of Yahweh. Even the greatness of Messiah endures to glorify God, honor his great name, and define praise and worship for our Lord God.
Application: Jesus is my redeemer and savior, and Yahweh is my God and my Lord. His ways are above mine, and I only exist to honor, praise, and serve him. This is the greatest blessing, to know my eternal purpose, and live in his love. May the Lord be praised by my lips, and may that praise from me and others fill the whole earth.
Prayer: Lord, great is your love, mercy, and faithfulness. You are the great creator of all things, who alone made heaven and earth. My faith in Jesus allows me to learn about your and to know you, and provides the bridge between us so I may receive your love. Please bless my family, and allow us to be a blessing to others through word and deed daily. Amen.
May the Lord God, the God of Israel,
who alone does wonders, be praised.
May His glorious name be praised forever;
the whole earth is filled with His glory.
Amen and amen.
Psalm 72:18-19
Observation: This psalm - while it might be written either by David or Solomon - is a prophesy about the Messiah. It declares that the son of the king will be a great ruler beyond any human understanding. He will rule beyond the possibility of human endurance, for as long as the sun and moon can possibly exist, with his name enduring forever. He will rule all people ... to the ends of the earth, and across every type and nationality of people. He will care for the downtrodden, the poor, the afflicted, the helpless, and the oppressed. Finally, his reign will be prosperous, with plenty for everyone, and all nations that call him 'blessed' will be blessed by him.
However, in the end, all of this is for the glory of Yahweh. Even the greatness of Messiah endures to glorify God, honor his great name, and define praise and worship for our Lord God.
Application: Jesus is my redeemer and savior, and Yahweh is my God and my Lord. His ways are above mine, and I only exist to honor, praise, and serve him. This is the greatest blessing, to know my eternal purpose, and live in his love. May the Lord be praised by my lips, and may that praise from me and others fill the whole earth.
Prayer: Lord, great is your love, mercy, and faithfulness. You are the great creator of all things, who alone made heaven and earth. My faith in Jesus allows me to learn about your and to know you, and provides the bridge between us so I may receive your love. Please bless my family, and allow us to be a blessing to others through word and deed daily. Amen.
Friday, June 8, 2018
My Success is Impossible
Scripture: And you - you would be like one of the immoral men in Israel! Please, speak to the king, for he won’t keep me from you. 2 Samuel 13:13b
Observation: In this intense scene where Amnon is attacking Tamar, this is the most revealing line about the ongoing issues of Israel. The narrative of Samuel - following the royal household - has left behind the narrative of the book of Judges, which had shown how the entire nation had devolved in their observation of God's laws.
In Judges, we saw terrible acts performed, and now we see them again, however along with them Tamar points out they are still going on. There has never been a time when the people of Israel had set aside their terrible acts and re-embraced God's laws ... it's just that we stopped hearing about it for a book or two. The re-emergence of that theme was introduced with David's lust and murder, and we are now about to see the continued sins of Israel in a violent and prolonged way.
Application: When we surround ourselves with God-fearing people, it is easy to believe that there is great hope that mankind is actually good and virtuous, and that we are ever-so-close to rediscovering God's truths. This remind us this hope isn't true. David ... the great king, the man after God's own heart, the shepherd who loves God so much he writes amazing songs about God ... is showing us that the best people still rebel against God in the worst ways. Beginning with David himself, and now pervading the story of his entire family, we see that even believers fail.
We all fail. In this way, it is hopeless to successfully obey God. I can try, but I will fail. I'm no David, and even he couldn't do it or teach his sons to obey moral laws.
However, that doesn't mean I must not repent and try. It doesn't mean that I should ignore the laws. It means I must do my best, repent of evil, as forgiveness when I stumble, and in all times believe in Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice that redeems me in my failure.
My success in this matter is impossible. I can only be reclaimed from depravity by accepting the sacrifice of Jesus as the atonement of my sins. This I do daily.
Prayer: Lord, again I say it, thank you for your amazing love, and for your gift of Jesus. I am unworthy of your love, let alone your mercy. I fail daily, even hourly. I could always do more, and behave better. Yet you created a way to remove the stains from my life. Thank you, my Lord, my father, my God, and my savior. Amen.
Observation: In this intense scene where Amnon is attacking Tamar, this is the most revealing line about the ongoing issues of Israel. The narrative of Samuel - following the royal household - has left behind the narrative of the book of Judges, which had shown how the entire nation had devolved in their observation of God's laws.
In Judges, we saw terrible acts performed, and now we see them again, however along with them Tamar points out they are still going on. There has never been a time when the people of Israel had set aside their terrible acts and re-embraced God's laws ... it's just that we stopped hearing about it for a book or two. The re-emergence of that theme was introduced with David's lust and murder, and we are now about to see the continued sins of Israel in a violent and prolonged way.
Application: When we surround ourselves with God-fearing people, it is easy to believe that there is great hope that mankind is actually good and virtuous, and that we are ever-so-close to rediscovering God's truths. This remind us this hope isn't true. David ... the great king, the man after God's own heart, the shepherd who loves God so much he writes amazing songs about God ... is showing us that the best people still rebel against God in the worst ways. Beginning with David himself, and now pervading the story of his entire family, we see that even believers fail.
We all fail. In this way, it is hopeless to successfully obey God. I can try, but I will fail. I'm no David, and even he couldn't do it or teach his sons to obey moral laws.
However, that doesn't mean I must not repent and try. It doesn't mean that I should ignore the laws. It means I must do my best, repent of evil, as forgiveness when I stumble, and in all times believe in Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice that redeems me in my failure.
My success in this matter is impossible. I can only be reclaimed from depravity by accepting the sacrifice of Jesus as the atonement of my sins. This I do daily.
Prayer: Lord, again I say it, thank you for your amazing love, and for your gift of Jesus. I am unworthy of your love, let alone your mercy. I fail daily, even hourly. I could always do more, and behave better. Yet you created a way to remove the stains from my life. Thank you, my Lord, my father, my God, and my savior. Amen.
Thursday, June 7, 2018
Deciding God's Way is Right
Scripture: But Peter and John answered them, "Whether it’s right in the sight of God for us to listen to you rather than to God, you decide." Acts 4:19
Observation: When Peter and John are commanded to never again speak or act in the name of Jesus, they say they are unable to stop speaking about what they have seen or heard. However, this sentence is their first response. It accomplishes two things. First, it simply juxtaposes the order of the Sanhedrin against the will of God, clearly defining the fact that their order is opposed to God's orders. Second, this sentences places the burden of deciding if they should obey back upon the Sanhedrin, effectively asking if they believe their authority is greater than God's.
In the face of personal danger, Peter and John simply tell their tormenters that ... they will obey God, and question whether or not the tormenters would agree with that decision.
Application: I am not often in a situation where I am persecuted in matters of faith. However, understanding and obeying the will of God is always the priority. There is never a right reason to not follow God's will, regardless of the pressures from others, or situations.
The challenge is understanding that direction in all matters. When interacting with others over earthly or secular subjects, I can't always tell what God's instructions are or how they apply. This is a good reason to pause and pray in the midst of such situations, waiting on the spirit to provide guidance.
Prayer: Lord, may I take time to pause for you in all matters. I know it is right to listen to you. May I make room in my mind and heart, and time in my day, to pause in order to listen. Amen.
Observation: When Peter and John are commanded to never again speak or act in the name of Jesus, they say they are unable to stop speaking about what they have seen or heard. However, this sentence is their first response. It accomplishes two things. First, it simply juxtaposes the order of the Sanhedrin against the will of God, clearly defining the fact that their order is opposed to God's orders. Second, this sentences places the burden of deciding if they should obey back upon the Sanhedrin, effectively asking if they believe their authority is greater than God's.
In the face of personal danger, Peter and John simply tell their tormenters that ... they will obey God, and question whether or not the tormenters would agree with that decision.
Application: I am not often in a situation where I am persecuted in matters of faith. However, understanding and obeying the will of God is always the priority. There is never a right reason to not follow God's will, regardless of the pressures from others, or situations.
The challenge is understanding that direction in all matters. When interacting with others over earthly or secular subjects, I can't always tell what God's instructions are or how they apply. This is a good reason to pause and pray in the midst of such situations, waiting on the spirit to provide guidance.
Prayer: Lord, may I take time to pause for you in all matters. I know it is right to listen to you. May I make room in my mind and heart, and time in my day, to pause in order to listen. Amen.
Tuesday, June 5, 2018
Starting Off with the Facts
Scripture: Men of Israel, listen to these words: This Jesus the Nazarene was a man pointed out to you by God with miracles, wonders, and signs that God did among you through Him, just as you yourselves know. Though He was delivered up according to God’s determined plan and foreknowledge, you used lawless people to nail Him to a cross and kill Him. Acts 2:22-23
Observation: Peter's first sermon begins in this way ... telling the Jews exactly what they witnessed ~40 days ago. The context he creates is simple. Jesus did great miracles and signs, and they all saw them and know about them. However, they then allowed (at least passively but some even actively supporting) the Romans - people without 'the law' - to kill Jesus.
As they say, these are the facts, and they are not in dispute. Every single listener would completely agree with these statements. Almost all of them witnessed Jesus' work first-hand, either in Jerusalem in the near past, or during the past three years. They saw healings, great teaching, and supernatural wonders, all of which were signs of the Messiah according to the scriptures. Peter is just now walking them along the last steps of that journey ... Messiah's death and resurrection are also called out in the scriptures, and that is now what Jesus has also fulfilled.
Peter starts by telling people what they already know, that Jesus' acts indicate he is the Messiah. He will then point out that Jesus' death and resurrection is the final proof that his Messiah. However, he also gives everyone an "out". He states that they- along with the lawless people - killed Jesus, however, they can pursue forgiveness, repentance and redemption. In other words, now that the final truth is revealed, they may believe and be forgiven.
Application: In opening his sermon this way, Peter is giving a message that everyone needs ... "you all know there was something important about Jesus, but you ignored/hated/killed him anyway, yet you can now learn the final truth, change your heart, and be forgiven." This is the same as the modern-day message. Everyone knows there is 'something special' about Jesus, and if they can just understand the last piece of that puzzle, they could receive salvation.
This is why Jesus needs to be on our lips. It isn't about telling people they're wrong or stupid for not believing, it's about getting a conversation started about why everyone still knows that a middle-eastern carpenter from 2,000 years ago had the most "it factor" of anyone in world history. From that start of a conversation, discussion of truth and faith seems inevitable.
Prayer: Dear Lord, may your name, Jesus, be on my lips today. May I find an opportunity to speak of you, maybe as shrewdly as a serpent and innocently as a dove. I seek your appointments this day. Amen.
Observation: Peter's first sermon begins in this way ... telling the Jews exactly what they witnessed ~40 days ago. The context he creates is simple. Jesus did great miracles and signs, and they all saw them and know about them. However, they then allowed (at least passively but some even actively supporting) the Romans - people without 'the law' - to kill Jesus.
As they say, these are the facts, and they are not in dispute. Every single listener would completely agree with these statements. Almost all of them witnessed Jesus' work first-hand, either in Jerusalem in the near past, or during the past three years. They saw healings, great teaching, and supernatural wonders, all of which were signs of the Messiah according to the scriptures. Peter is just now walking them along the last steps of that journey ... Messiah's death and resurrection are also called out in the scriptures, and that is now what Jesus has also fulfilled.
Peter starts by telling people what they already know, that Jesus' acts indicate he is the Messiah. He will then point out that Jesus' death and resurrection is the final proof that his Messiah. However, he also gives everyone an "out". He states that they- along with the lawless people - killed Jesus, however, they can pursue forgiveness, repentance and redemption. In other words, now that the final truth is revealed, they may believe and be forgiven.
Application: In opening his sermon this way, Peter is giving a message that everyone needs ... "you all know there was something important about Jesus, but you ignored/hated/killed him anyway, yet you can now learn the final truth, change your heart, and be forgiven." This is the same as the modern-day message. Everyone knows there is 'something special' about Jesus, and if they can just understand the last piece of that puzzle, they could receive salvation.
This is why Jesus needs to be on our lips. It isn't about telling people they're wrong or stupid for not believing, it's about getting a conversation started about why everyone still knows that a middle-eastern carpenter from 2,000 years ago had the most "it factor" of anyone in world history. From that start of a conversation, discussion of truth and faith seems inevitable.
Prayer: Dear Lord, may your name, Jesus, be on my lips today. May I find an opportunity to speak of you, maybe as shrewdly as a serpent and innocently as a dove. I seek your appointments this day. Amen.
Monday, June 4, 2018
Accepting Your Honors
Scripture: When David returned home to bless his household, Saul’s daughter Michal came out to meet him. “How the king of Israel honored himself today!” she said. “He exposed himself today in the sight of the slave girls of his subjects like a vulgar person would expose himself.” David replied to Michal, “I was dancing before the Lord who chose me over your father and his whole family to appoint me ruler over the Lord’s people Israel. I will celebrate before the Lord, and I will humble myself even more and humiliate myself. I will be honored by the slave girls you spoke about.” And Saul’s daughter Michal had no child to the day of her death. 2 Samuel 6:20-23
Observation: Michal was David's first wife, given to him by Saul for his defeat of Goliath. Later when David fell out of favor, she was given in marriage to another man, but when David ascended to the throne he reclaimed her as his wife. She was in this manner granted the place of greatest honor ... the daughter of the first king, first wife of the heir, who thus united the royal succession, and by that circumstance likely to then give birth to the favored heir of David.
Instead, Michal despises David for all manner of things, including the fact he is willing to publicly worship God. She is shown in resistance to David, wrongly chastising him for effectively being un-kingly ... like a spoiled princess would. For this, she is effectively shut out of the royal household, virtually ignored by David, and cursed to barrenness.
Michal had been handed a blessing by God. In truth, she was the daughter of a slightly backwards, often confused, quality soldier, who was handed the kingship. She was then pledged to the handsome, strong, confident heir. By having so much handed to her, she become privileged, arrogant, and snooty. Michal is never humble in any circumstance, even those that effectively have nothing to do with her (like David dancing in public). As a result, she becomes an abandoned character in history.
Application: Blessings in my life are not of my own doing, and I need to remain conscious of this fact. I often acknowledge God in my blessings and in the provisions of my life, but I need to also humble myself. It is not enough that God is elevated - something that he is worthy of without my existence - but I too must remain in my place.
God has blessed me, through no deed of my own. Like Michal, I have done absolutely nothing to 'earn' my current life, and I do not deserve any position, rank, or reward for anything I could do. I must not boast, or become proud, or act arrogant. Instead, I look to God for hope and wisdom so that I may do his will alone, and humbly walk with him every day.
Prayer: Lord, you know my usual prayer. May I walk humbly with you this day, seeking justice and mercy in all things. My life is not mine, for I have not earned it. My life is yours, as it has always been nothing more than a gift you have granted me. Thank you for your love. Amen.
Observation: Michal was David's first wife, given to him by Saul for his defeat of Goliath. Later when David fell out of favor, she was given in marriage to another man, but when David ascended to the throne he reclaimed her as his wife. She was in this manner granted the place of greatest honor ... the daughter of the first king, first wife of the heir, who thus united the royal succession, and by that circumstance likely to then give birth to the favored heir of David.
Instead, Michal despises David for all manner of things, including the fact he is willing to publicly worship God. She is shown in resistance to David, wrongly chastising him for effectively being un-kingly ... like a spoiled princess would. For this, she is effectively shut out of the royal household, virtually ignored by David, and cursed to barrenness.
Michal had been handed a blessing by God. In truth, she was the daughter of a slightly backwards, often confused, quality soldier, who was handed the kingship. She was then pledged to the handsome, strong, confident heir. By having so much handed to her, she become privileged, arrogant, and snooty. Michal is never humble in any circumstance, even those that effectively have nothing to do with her (like David dancing in public). As a result, she becomes an abandoned character in history.
Application: Blessings in my life are not of my own doing, and I need to remain conscious of this fact. I often acknowledge God in my blessings and in the provisions of my life, but I need to also humble myself. It is not enough that God is elevated - something that he is worthy of without my existence - but I too must remain in my place.
God has blessed me, through no deed of my own. Like Michal, I have done absolutely nothing to 'earn' my current life, and I do not deserve any position, rank, or reward for anything I could do. I must not boast, or become proud, or act arrogant. Instead, I look to God for hope and wisdom so that I may do his will alone, and humbly walk with him every day.
Prayer: Lord, you know my usual prayer. May I walk humbly with you this day, seeking justice and mercy in all things. My life is not mine, for I have not earned it. My life is yours, as it has always been nothing more than a gift you have granted me. Thank you for your love. Amen.
Friday, June 1, 2018
Not Obeying Others
Scripture: Then he begged me, ‘Stand over me and kill me, for I’m mortally wounded, but my life still lingers.’ So I stood over him and killed him because I knew that after he had fallen he couldn’t survive. I took the crown that was on his head and the armband that was on his arm, and I’ve brought them here to my lord.” 2 Samuel 1:9-10
Observation: This survivor of the war brings David news of the Saul's death, and the emblems of kingship. He tells of how he obeyed Saul's orders and took mercy on his suffering, but killing him quickly when he was mortally wounded. He then recovered the crown of Israel's kingship and brought it to the anointed heir, and paid homage to him.
For this, David kills him.
This doesn't make much sense. David pronounces judgment based on the idea that this man killed "the Lord's anointed", despite the fact this individual has been motivated by honor and service to the kingship of Israel, and thus to both Saul and David. His logic is that there was no just reason to kill Saul, the man God selected as king of Israel. He himself has exhibited this behavior, and he now punishes this man without regard for his worthy motivations.
Application: David's message seems to be ... obedience to God's laws and plans is more important than obedience to the people through which God's plans are executed. In other words, it did not matter that the anointed king asked for mercy, it was wrong to kill him.
This applies to our modern lives often. People - even good people and fellow believers - are wrong in some of their thinking and actions. Our job is to live and serve together, but never losing sight that it is God who orders our steps and defines our service. When believers tell us what to do, we must still weigh God's laws and teachings against those instructions, and obey God, not people.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your instructions this day. May our entire family lean into your will, above the instructions, requests, and even orders of others around us. Amen.
Observation: This survivor of the war brings David news of the Saul's death, and the emblems of kingship. He tells of how he obeyed Saul's orders and took mercy on his suffering, but killing him quickly when he was mortally wounded. He then recovered the crown of Israel's kingship and brought it to the anointed heir, and paid homage to him.
For this, David kills him.
This doesn't make much sense. David pronounces judgment based on the idea that this man killed "the Lord's anointed", despite the fact this individual has been motivated by honor and service to the kingship of Israel, and thus to both Saul and David. His logic is that there was no just reason to kill Saul, the man God selected as king of Israel. He himself has exhibited this behavior, and he now punishes this man without regard for his worthy motivations.
Application: David's message seems to be ... obedience to God's laws and plans is more important than obedience to the people through which God's plans are executed. In other words, it did not matter that the anointed king asked for mercy, it was wrong to kill him.
This applies to our modern lives often. People - even good people and fellow believers - are wrong in some of their thinking and actions. Our job is to live and serve together, but never losing sight that it is God who orders our steps and defines our service. When believers tell us what to do, we must still weigh God's laws and teachings against those instructions, and obey God, not people.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your instructions this day. May our entire family lean into your will, above the instructions, requests, and even orders of others around us. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)