Scripture: His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. Revelation 19:12
Observation: Jesus is leading the final battle, and in this chapter and throughout Revelation he has many names ... Faithful and True, Son of Man, King of kings and Lord of lords, the Word of God, the Lamb, and of course Jesus, the Christ, and Messiah. However, there is one more name that no one knows, and only Jesus himself knows this mysterious name. John saw the name, but it remains unknown as clearly he could not read or understand it.
Application: There is always something more to Jesus. We all worship some version of him. At Christmas, it is the newborn miracle baby. At Easter, it is the resurrected Messiah. Daily, it may be the loving teacher or forgiving savior or wise judge. In Revelation, we see both the fierce warrior and the sacrificed lamb. However, there is something more.
Jesus has left open to me an option for him to be whatever I need, and then has proven over and over again that he is exactly that ... whatever I need. He may be my savior, father, mentor, protector, disciplinarian, instructor, and guide ... today! He is willing to be anything, because he is everything. He is even something unknowable.
Prayer: Jesus, I need you every hour. May I praise you forever and ever. You are all I need, and I now know that truly you are all I have. Please continue this change in my heart, making is softer and molding it to your will more and more every day. My path is forever changed, and I welcome your new way in my life. Amen.
Friday, December 28, 2018
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Celebrate the New Understanding
Scripture: Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law, and the Levites who were instructing the people said to them all, "This day is holy to the Lord your God. Do not mourn or weep." For all the people had been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. Nehemiah 8:9
Observation: As the Law is read, the people all begin to mourn and weep. The reasons is not stated but seems clear ... they have become educated about their wrongdoings and feel convicted of their sin. They have to be told to celebrate their new understanding and knowledge, instead of mourning their past ignorance and wrong deeds.
This is the right response to God's teaching. It is right to understand and feel convicted by past wrongdoings, but it is also right to celebrate new understanding, knowing that God loves, God forgives, and God allows everyone to move forward in the joy of his wisdom.
Application: As I learn more and more about God, I should celebrate my understanding. This can happen every day, as I meditate on God's word and read the scriptures. This can happen when I focus my thoughts on God's wisdom and seek knowledge. This can happen when I just stumble upon a new understanding of the Law and teaching of God and Jesus. It is good to think about what I have done wrong in the past, and it is even better to joyfully know that God forgives me by faith in Jesus, and that I can happily go forward now in a new understanding of how to live a better life.
Prayer: Lord, I seek this kind of future in the new year. I seek a year where I grow joyfully in you, learning more and more about the life you expect of me and have in store for me. I desire to grow in knowledge and understanding of your teaching. Amen.
Observation: As the Law is read, the people all begin to mourn and weep. The reasons is not stated but seems clear ... they have become educated about their wrongdoings and feel convicted of their sin. They have to be told to celebrate their new understanding and knowledge, instead of mourning their past ignorance and wrong deeds.
This is the right response to God's teaching. It is right to understand and feel convicted by past wrongdoings, but it is also right to celebrate new understanding, knowing that God loves, God forgives, and God allows everyone to move forward in the joy of his wisdom.
Application: As I learn more and more about God, I should celebrate my understanding. This can happen every day, as I meditate on God's word and read the scriptures. This can happen when I focus my thoughts on God's wisdom and seek knowledge. This can happen when I just stumble upon a new understanding of the Law and teaching of God and Jesus. It is good to think about what I have done wrong in the past, and it is even better to joyfully know that God forgives me by faith in Jesus, and that I can happily go forward now in a new understanding of how to live a better life.
Prayer: Lord, I seek this kind of future in the new year. I seek a year where I grow joyfully in you, learning more and more about the life you expect of me and have in store for me. I desire to grow in knowledge and understanding of your teaching. Amen.
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
My Amazing Wife
Scripture:
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
Proverbs 31:10-11
Observation: While a woman in Proverbs is often a symbol of wisdom, and in the Bible in general a symbol of the people of God, it can also be literal. In a literal interpretation, this entire passage calls out the fact that a wonderful, wise, honest, and dutiful wife is the greatest treasure of a husband, and truly is all a man ever really needs.
Application: I have the most amazing wife! Laurie is the blessing God gave me when I had nothing, and proved to be all I needed to completely turn my life around and receive the full blessing of the Lord. She is worth far more to me than anything else of this world - worth more to me than everything combined with the one exception of the Lord himself and salvation through faith in Jesus.
When I see her sad, it saddens me. I have learned my responsibility as a man is to poor love into her, and when I do so the return to me is amazing ... in joy, happiness, and general goodness throughout our home and our lives. I love my wife, and am blessed by her character and love.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you again today for Laurie. May I be a proper husband to her, caring for her heart and soul as much as her life. Help me to put her above all things in my life, including my very self, as I remember that in this manner your blessings flow throughout out home. Amen.
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
Proverbs 31:10-11
Observation: While a woman in Proverbs is often a symbol of wisdom, and in the Bible in general a symbol of the people of God, it can also be literal. In a literal interpretation, this entire passage calls out the fact that a wonderful, wise, honest, and dutiful wife is the greatest treasure of a husband, and truly is all a man ever really needs.
Application: I have the most amazing wife! Laurie is the blessing God gave me when I had nothing, and proved to be all I needed to completely turn my life around and receive the full blessing of the Lord. She is worth far more to me than anything else of this world - worth more to me than everything combined with the one exception of the Lord himself and salvation through faith in Jesus.
When I see her sad, it saddens me. I have learned my responsibility as a man is to poor love into her, and when I do so the return to me is amazing ... in joy, happiness, and general goodness throughout our home and our lives. I love my wife, and am blessed by her character and love.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you again today for Laurie. May I be a proper husband to her, caring for her heart and soul as much as her life. Help me to put her above all things in my life, including my very self, as I remember that in this manner your blessings flow throughout out home. Amen.
Saturday, December 22, 2018
Avoiding the Backslide
Scripture: What has happened to us is a result of our evil deeds and our great guilt, and yet, our God, you have punished us less than our sins deserved and have given us a remnant like this. Ezra 8:13
Observation: As the remnant of exiles return, Ezra learns that they continue to intermarry with non-Jews, and laments their ongoing sin. He knows that the exile was a result of failure to obey God's commands, and as God relents the people again fail to obey.
Application: If I have been corrected in these days, then I must not return to become that person I was. As Laurie and I discussed yesterday, I must set aside pride, ambition, and anger, and simply go forward in peace, kindness, and love. I must not be who I was, but be a new person who truly serves others. This is my new direction, and my new mission.
Prayer: Lord, I am in your hands. I strive to never again be the man I was, but to continue to transform. I thank you for Jesus, so that when I fail I can find forgiveness. However, I continue to seek a transformed heart so that I may be your light every day. Amen.
Observation: As the remnant of exiles return, Ezra learns that they continue to intermarry with non-Jews, and laments their ongoing sin. He knows that the exile was a result of failure to obey God's commands, and as God relents the people again fail to obey.
Application: If I have been corrected in these days, then I must not return to become that person I was. As Laurie and I discussed yesterday, I must set aside pride, ambition, and anger, and simply go forward in peace, kindness, and love. I must not be who I was, but be a new person who truly serves others. This is my new direction, and my new mission.
Prayer: Lord, I am in your hands. I strive to never again be the man I was, but to continue to transform. I thank you for Jesus, so that when I fail I can find forgiveness. However, I continue to seek a transformed heart so that I may be your light every day. Amen.
Friday, December 21, 2018
Hope in the Long Game
Scripture: Whoever has ears, let them hear.
Observation: John sees 'the beast' and what the beast is given authority to do. This includes both terrible blasphemy of God, and total domination over God's people. The beast explicitly has authority over every people group in the world, and conquers "God's holy people". However, with that mind, here is the encouragement ... there is a destined outcome for those who do not obey the Lord, and that is death, while those who remain faithful have their names written in the Lamb's book of life. Regardless how dark times get, the outcome remains certain, but requires patience.
Application: As a believer, we are redeemed and saved. However, the challenges of this world will defeat us here on earth. This isn't just a given, but a revealed certainty. It may even be a sign of salvation ... that the evils controlled by 'the beast' will oppress faithful believers.
I have full faith in the final outcome, however. While I strive for my life on earth to be better - for myself but absolutely for my family and children - I understand there are limits to the comfort I can have, because the world is opposed to God, and thus opposed to me as a believer. I know my reward, then, is not here. I'm not home yet.
Prayer: Abba, my father, I love you, and fully believe in Jesus Christ my savior. I know your hand is on me and my family. May we remain faithful through all life's trials, knowing that they are both certain and temporary, but your love is even more certain is in permanent. Please give us this day our daily bread. Thank you for your love, and for seeing me. Amen.
“If anyone is to go into captivity,
into captivity they will go.
If anyone is to be killed with the sword,
with the sword they will be killed.”
into captivity they will go.
If anyone is to be killed with the sword,
with the sword they will be killed.”
This calls for patient endurance and faithfulness on the part of God’s people
Revelation 13:9-10Observation: John sees 'the beast' and what the beast is given authority to do. This includes both terrible blasphemy of God, and total domination over God's people. The beast explicitly has authority over every people group in the world, and conquers "God's holy people". However, with that mind, here is the encouragement ... there is a destined outcome for those who do not obey the Lord, and that is death, while those who remain faithful have their names written in the Lamb's book of life. Regardless how dark times get, the outcome remains certain, but requires patience.
Application: As a believer, we are redeemed and saved. However, the challenges of this world will defeat us here on earth. This isn't just a given, but a revealed certainty. It may even be a sign of salvation ... that the evils controlled by 'the beast' will oppress faithful believers.
I have full faith in the final outcome, however. While I strive for my life on earth to be better - for myself but absolutely for my family and children - I understand there are limits to the comfort I can have, because the world is opposed to God, and thus opposed to me as a believer. I know my reward, then, is not here. I'm not home yet.
Prayer: Abba, my father, I love you, and fully believe in Jesus Christ my savior. I know your hand is on me and my family. May we remain faithful through all life's trials, knowing that they are both certain and temporary, but your love is even more certain is in permanent. Please give us this day our daily bread. Thank you for your love, and for seeing me. Amen.
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Christ Before Me, Christ Behind Me
Hope, be my anthem.
Lord, when the world has fallen quiet,
You stand beside me.
Give me a song in the night.
And Jesus, I need you!
Every moment I need you.
Hear now, this grace-bought heart sing out your praise forever!!
Beauty for ashes.
You find the weak and contrite heart,
Shoulder its burdens,
And carry it into the light.
Lord, when the world has fallen quiet,
You stand beside me.
Give me a song in the night.
And Jesus, I need you!
Every moment I need you.
Hear now, this grace-bought heart sing out your praise forever!!
Beauty for ashes.
You find the weak and contrite heart,
Shoulder its burdens,
And carry it into the light.
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
When Others Campaign Against You
Scripture: In these records you will find that this city is a rebellious city, troublesome to kings and provinces, a place with a long history of sedition. That is why this city was destroyed. We inform the king that if this city is built and its walls are restored, you will be left with nothing in Trans-Euphrates. Ezra 4:15b-16
Observation: Non-Jews who were themselves transplanted into Samaria wish to stop the reconstruction of Jerusalem, and engage in a letter writing campaign to the king of Persia. This is their charge - Jerusalem has a history of rebellion, and thus allowing it to be rebuilt will result in ... the total revolt of the entire western region of the middle-east.
In other words, they are identifying one small fact about Jerusalem - that in fact the people of Judah did rebel once against Babylon - and making it the cause and claim to oppose all activity by the Jews to honor God. They oppose God, and oppose his people and their ways, and so call out one fact about them, spin that into the absolute worst-case outcome, and send it as the forgone conclusion and charge against the Jews.
Application: This, then is how I can know I am on God's side ... when people take a single charge, extrapolate it into exaggerations and false hypothetical outcomes, and send it to those in authority. Wow ... that sounds familiar ... when has that happened to me?
The Jews were not blameless in this. They were in fact rebuilding the walls of the city to protect themselves instead of relying on the king of Persia. But they were rebuilding the temple in order to honor the Lord and worship him. I have not been blameless. I grew angry with staff and critical of their work. But I tried to improve them and advance our efforts in order to grow and advance their careers, capabilities, and successes.
As I pray I am near the end of this issue, I find encouragement in again seeing alignment in the way I have been treated, and the way God's faithful have been treated. Now I hope to start - START - the REAL next chapter of my life, by improving my service to God, improving my love toward others, and improving my way of representing God in this world. May the Lord protect me from future campaigns, for they will certainly come, and may I trust in him through confidence I have learned to better to his work.
Prayer: Lord, this is my prayer today, that I have better learned how to do your work, so that future attacks will fall away due to your great love. May I continue to grow. My growth is not complete. I am an old(er) man with so much to learn and do better with. Please, continue to show me your better way every day. Amen.
Observation: Non-Jews who were themselves transplanted into Samaria wish to stop the reconstruction of Jerusalem, and engage in a letter writing campaign to the king of Persia. This is their charge - Jerusalem has a history of rebellion, and thus allowing it to be rebuilt will result in ... the total revolt of the entire western region of the middle-east.
In other words, they are identifying one small fact about Jerusalem - that in fact the people of Judah did rebel once against Babylon - and making it the cause and claim to oppose all activity by the Jews to honor God. They oppose God, and oppose his people and their ways, and so call out one fact about them, spin that into the absolute worst-case outcome, and send it as the forgone conclusion and charge against the Jews.
Application: This, then is how I can know I am on God's side ... when people take a single charge, extrapolate it into exaggerations and false hypothetical outcomes, and send it to those in authority. Wow ... that sounds familiar ... when has that happened to me?
The Jews were not blameless in this. They were in fact rebuilding the walls of the city to protect themselves instead of relying on the king of Persia. But they were rebuilding the temple in order to honor the Lord and worship him. I have not been blameless. I grew angry with staff and critical of their work. But I tried to improve them and advance our efforts in order to grow and advance their careers, capabilities, and successes.
As I pray I am near the end of this issue, I find encouragement in again seeing alignment in the way I have been treated, and the way God's faithful have been treated. Now I hope to start - START - the REAL next chapter of my life, by improving my service to God, improving my love toward others, and improving my way of representing God in this world. May the Lord protect me from future campaigns, for they will certainly come, and may I trust in him through confidence I have learned to better to his work.
Prayer: Lord, this is my prayer today, that I have better learned how to do your work, so that future attacks will fall away due to your great love. May I continue to grow. My growth is not complete. I am an old(er) man with so much to learn and do better with. Please, continue to show me your better way every day. Amen.
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
When People Won't Repent
Scripture: The rest of mankind who were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk. Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts. Revelation 9:20-21
Observation: As the judgment trumpets sound, people on earth are killed by plagues, the latest being a vast army of mounted warriors who kill with the deadly fire of their horses. However, across the earth, mankind is not moved to repent and honor God as a result of these plagues. As John watches, he sees that nothing changes for the survivors ... they continue to honor evil and worthless things, and to sin in whatever way they please. They will not return to God.
Application: I do not - cannot - understand the visions of Revelation ... their real or metaphorical meaning, nor their timing. However, I can see plagues upon the earth that wipe out large segments of mankind and harm all of us significantly, and I can see that many on earth won't repent and turn from their evil ways in the wake of these horrors. Whether it's a world war, regional famine, or natural disaster, people are more likely to take these things as evidence that a loving God must not exist instead of a sign that they should repent.
This tells me we are on the path to the end. I don't know about lion-headed locust or sulfur-breathing horses or bitter mountains that kill tons of fish or seven thunders that speak unknowable words, but I see people who ignore the Lord of this world. I will not be among them. I acknowledge that the Lord is mighty and wishes for the salvation of all, and I worship him. I see trials and troubles, and acknowledge the Lord in the midst of them as a loving savior wishing to awaken faith. I see hardship, and respond with prayer and thanksgiving.
Prayer: Lord, I am prepared to be a messenger to try to help others understand. I know most of our efforts will be futile, but they will not be in vain. We will reach some, and you will change their hearts. I ask that you continue to change my heart, making it ever softer and compliant. Amen.
Observation: As the judgment trumpets sound, people on earth are killed by plagues, the latest being a vast army of mounted warriors who kill with the deadly fire of their horses. However, across the earth, mankind is not moved to repent and honor God as a result of these plagues. As John watches, he sees that nothing changes for the survivors ... they continue to honor evil and worthless things, and to sin in whatever way they please. They will not return to God.
Application: I do not - cannot - understand the visions of Revelation ... their real or metaphorical meaning, nor their timing. However, I can see plagues upon the earth that wipe out large segments of mankind and harm all of us significantly, and I can see that many on earth won't repent and turn from their evil ways in the wake of these horrors. Whether it's a world war, regional famine, or natural disaster, people are more likely to take these things as evidence that a loving God must not exist instead of a sign that they should repent.
This tells me we are on the path to the end. I don't know about lion-headed locust or sulfur-breathing horses or bitter mountains that kill tons of fish or seven thunders that speak unknowable words, but I see people who ignore the Lord of this world. I will not be among them. I acknowledge that the Lord is mighty and wishes for the salvation of all, and I worship him. I see trials and troubles, and acknowledge the Lord in the midst of them as a loving savior wishing to awaken faith. I see hardship, and respond with prayer and thanksgiving.
Prayer: Lord, I am prepared to be a messenger to try to help others understand. I know most of our efforts will be futile, but they will not be in vain. We will reach some, and you will change their hearts. I ask that you continue to change my heart, making it ever softer and compliant. Amen.
Monday, December 17, 2018
Hoping in the New Thing
Scripture:
I will sing a new song to you, my God;
on the ten-stringed lyre I will make music to you.
Psalm 144:9
Observation: The psalmist is prepared to sing a new song to the Lord. He looks for the new thing God is doing, and is prepared to celebrate and honor that new thing. He recognizes that God has done great things worthy of praise in the past, but is now about to do something different, and that new and different thing will itself be worthy of praise as well.
Application: As I feel I may be close to starting a new chapter in my life, the last two nights I have been distressed and worried over the new thing. I have not just wondered if I can do well, but also wished I could be in a place of comfort. However, God has reminded me of two truths in this.
First, God is doing a new thing in my life, and I am to celebrate and embrace that. I don't get to return to the old thing ... my old ways of thinking, my old career, etc. I am to stay on the new path. My new journey has only begun, not reaching an end, and I am to embrace that new path and grow going forward.
Second, God has defined a new way for me to grow and serve in the second half of my life, and I am to trust in his provision. I am being refined, and I should not desire reverting back to any other state. I have been taught more about my mission, and I must move into that mission and not look back. The new mission is not cause to worry, but in faith it is cause to celebrate.
Prayer: Lord, this week I do not celebrate the end of anything, but rather pray even more fervently for the start of something new. I wish to sing a new song to celebrate your blessings. You see me, and you continue to show me your way. I do ask again, Lord, for your delivery soon. May the new thing start, and may I see that new thing as your new start for my life in you. Amen.
I will sing a new song to you, my God;
on the ten-stringed lyre I will make music to you.
Psalm 144:9
Observation: The psalmist is prepared to sing a new song to the Lord. He looks for the new thing God is doing, and is prepared to celebrate and honor that new thing. He recognizes that God has done great things worthy of praise in the past, but is now about to do something different, and that new and different thing will itself be worthy of praise as well.
Application: As I feel I may be close to starting a new chapter in my life, the last two nights I have been distressed and worried over the new thing. I have not just wondered if I can do well, but also wished I could be in a place of comfort. However, God has reminded me of two truths in this.
First, God is doing a new thing in my life, and I am to celebrate and embrace that. I don't get to return to the old thing ... my old ways of thinking, my old career, etc. I am to stay on the new path. My new journey has only begun, not reaching an end, and I am to embrace that new path and grow going forward.
Second, God has defined a new way for me to grow and serve in the second half of my life, and I am to trust in his provision. I am being refined, and I should not desire reverting back to any other state. I have been taught more about my mission, and I must move into that mission and not look back. The new mission is not cause to worry, but in faith it is cause to celebrate.
Prayer: Lord, this week I do not celebrate the end of anything, but rather pray even more fervently for the start of something new. I wish to sing a new song to celebrate your blessings. You see me, and you continue to show me your way. I do ask again, Lord, for your delivery soon. May the new thing start, and may I see that new thing as your new start for my life in you. Amen.
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Please Listen to my Cry
Scripture:
Look and see, there is no one at my right hand;
no one is concerned for me.
I have no refuge;
no one cares for my life.
Observation: In his time of despair, the psalmist sees that no one is on his side. No one is with him, and no one even cares. Therefore, he can only turn to the Lord. In "desperate need" he asks for rescue from enemies that are too strong for him, and for release from a prison so that he can freely praise God.
Application: In all these days that have passed - about 100 days now - I have felt this way. I have felt alone, without anyone on my side. I have been oh, so desperate. I have felt my days to be a prison. I have sought a return to "normalcy" so I can again serve and praise God in new and better ways. I see my circumstances as hopeless and so much stronger than anything I can do to overcome them.
Yet I have also known God is my refuge and my only hope here on earth. It is only by God's grace that I can be saved and restored. Restoration may look different ... in fact, I am embracing and excited about the "difference" in the rest of my life. I am in desperate need, and I know I cannot recover on my own, yet I know God can do all things.
Prayer: Lord, I pray again today for deliverance from these circumstances. Please fill me with your spirit this day, and guide me in your ways and words. I ask that you direct my steps into the path of your will for my life, and I beg, Lord, that this happen now. My family loves you, and I know it is in your will to care for them and take them into certain places in this world. You are with me, Lord, and I pray for your delivery from this prison, so I may serve you in a better way. Please, my Lord and my father. Amen.
Look and see, there is no one at my right hand;
no one is concerned for me.
I have no refuge;
no one cares for my life.
I cry to you, Lord;
I say, “You are my refuge,
my portion in the land of the living.”
I say, “You are my refuge,
my portion in the land of the living.”
Listen to my cry,
for I am in desperate need;
rescue me from those who pursue me,
for they are too strong for me.
for I am in desperate need;
rescue me from those who pursue me,
for they are too strong for me.
Set me free from my prison,
that I may praise your name.
Then the righteous will gather about me
because of your goodness to me.
Psalm 142:4-7that I may praise your name.
Then the righteous will gather about me
because of your goodness to me.
Observation: In his time of despair, the psalmist sees that no one is on his side. No one is with him, and no one even cares. Therefore, he can only turn to the Lord. In "desperate need" he asks for rescue from enemies that are too strong for him, and for release from a prison so that he can freely praise God.
Application: In all these days that have passed - about 100 days now - I have felt this way. I have felt alone, without anyone on my side. I have been oh, so desperate. I have felt my days to be a prison. I have sought a return to "normalcy" so I can again serve and praise God in new and better ways. I see my circumstances as hopeless and so much stronger than anything I can do to overcome them.
Yet I have also known God is my refuge and my only hope here on earth. It is only by God's grace that I can be saved and restored. Restoration may look different ... in fact, I am embracing and excited about the "difference" in the rest of my life. I am in desperate need, and I know I cannot recover on my own, yet I know God can do all things.
Prayer: Lord, I pray again today for deliverance from these circumstances. Please fill me with your spirit this day, and guide me in your ways and words. I ask that you direct my steps into the path of your will for my life, and I beg, Lord, that this happen now. My family loves you, and I know it is in your will to care for them and take them into certain places in this world. You are with me, Lord, and I pray for your delivery from this prison, so I may serve you in a better way. Please, my Lord and my father. Amen.
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Evidence of God's Love
Scripture: Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest and repent. Revelation 3:19
Observation: As John provides the rebuke for the church at Laodicia - that they are neither hot nor cold, and proud of their riches - this is the reminder of the value of the rebuke ... God corrects those whom he loves. If God tells Laodicia that they are wrong and need to correct their ways, he does this because he loves them and seeks their well-being.
Application: I know I have been corrected - that I have not loved others well enough and thus am being show that my priorities were wrong - and this is because God loves me. I was arrogant, proud, and self-righteous. I valued position and possessions. These have all been taken from me. I have no pride, no reputation, no position, and no items. I have my daily bread and enough to care for my family. Barely. In this, God has shown me a better way, which I am ready and very willing to follow in the second half of my life.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for loving me so much that you are willing to correct me. I seek your immediate redemption and path forward. I hope and pray that this season is at a close and there is now a way forward. But I thank you for the correction, which is evidence of your love. I know I am loved by you. May I be a better servant now and forever as a result of your rebuke and discipline. I open the door to you. Please open a door for me. Amen.
Observation: As John provides the rebuke for the church at Laodicia - that they are neither hot nor cold, and proud of their riches - this is the reminder of the value of the rebuke ... God corrects those whom he loves. If God tells Laodicia that they are wrong and need to correct their ways, he does this because he loves them and seeks their well-being.
Application: I know I have been corrected - that I have not loved others well enough and thus am being show that my priorities were wrong - and this is because God loves me. I was arrogant, proud, and self-righteous. I valued position and possessions. These have all been taken from me. I have no pride, no reputation, no position, and no items. I have my daily bread and enough to care for my family. Barely. In this, God has shown me a better way, which I am ready and very willing to follow in the second half of my life.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for loving me so much that you are willing to correct me. I seek your immediate redemption and path forward. I hope and pray that this season is at a close and there is now a way forward. But I thank you for the correction, which is evidence of your love. I know I am loved by you. May I be a better servant now and forever as a result of your rebuke and discipline. I open the door to you. Please open a door for me. Amen.
Friday, December 7, 2018
Two Versions of the Truth
Scripture: Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers and sisters, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God. 3 John 1:5-6
Observation: This letter by John is really about one subject - the proper way to welcome other believers. Gaius is faithful, as he welcomes strangers who are believers and treats them well at his church. Diotrephes is behaving poorly, as he refuses to aid other itinerate preachers, even John himself, in order to secure his own authority. John's message is basic and clear ... all believers are one family and should welcome and aid one another in our service to God.
Application: I was troubled the other night about a man's assumptive question to me about the inclusivity of our church. I explained to him that we love all people and welcome all seekers, and his immediate reaction was to challenge this. Of course, John agrees we are to welcome all believers, and I am confident he agrees we are to preach Jesus to all non-believers. He would also agree that we can tell one from another by whether or not they do good or evil.
I believe we should love all people, and treat especially well and with special respect brothers and sisters in the faith. I wish all believers understood the fact that these are two different and separate conversations.
Prayer: Lord, as we prepare tonight to serve you for the third straight night, may we all be filled with your love and your wisdom. Odds are we will see over a thousand non-believers tonight alone. May we welcome their visit and demonstrate your love, while also holding to your truth. Amen.
Observation: This letter by John is really about one subject - the proper way to welcome other believers. Gaius is faithful, as he welcomes strangers who are believers and treats them well at his church. Diotrephes is behaving poorly, as he refuses to aid other itinerate preachers, even John himself, in order to secure his own authority. John's message is basic and clear ... all believers are one family and should welcome and aid one another in our service to God.
Application: I was troubled the other night about a man's assumptive question to me about the inclusivity of our church. I explained to him that we love all people and welcome all seekers, and his immediate reaction was to challenge this. Of course, John agrees we are to welcome all believers, and I am confident he agrees we are to preach Jesus to all non-believers. He would also agree that we can tell one from another by whether or not they do good or evil.
I believe we should love all people, and treat especially well and with special respect brothers and sisters in the faith. I wish all believers understood the fact that these are two different and separate conversations.
Prayer: Lord, as we prepare tonight to serve you for the third straight night, may we all be filled with your love and your wisdom. Odds are we will see over a thousand non-believers tonight alone. May we welcome their visit and demonstrate your love, while also holding to your truth. Amen.
Thursday, December 6, 2018
Clearly Fulfilled Prophesy
Scripture: I will shake all nations, and what is desired by all nations will come, and I will fill this house with glory,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘The silver is mine and the gold is mine,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house,’ says the Lord Almighty. ‘And in this place I will grant peace,’ declares the Lord Almighty. Haggai 2:7-9
Observation: Haggai is delivering the Lord's message to rebuild the temple, and makes three promises. He states that in the context of the restored temple ... "all nations" will be shaken and receive what they desire, the new temple will in fact be more glorious than the first, and in the temple he will grant peace.
The new temple was started around 516 BC, and lasted until 70 AD. During that time, there was almost no peace in Jerusalem, the nations remained antagonistic toward Israel, the temple itself was a threat - not a desire - of all other nations, even defiled and attacked several times, and eventually the Romans destroyed it. However, we also know the second temple was vastly more grand than the first. So did this prophesy get only 33% fulfilled?
It is, in fact, in knowing that true prophesy wasn't fulfilled that we realize we are misunderstanding the prophesy, and in looking deeper we find hope. The rebuilding of the temple was a symbol of the future new covenant. God was about to create this new "house". That promise would be greater and more glorious than the old covenant. The manifestation of the promise would shake all nations for all time, and would be the true desire of every heart. And this new promise is one of eternal peace.
This "house" is, of course, the Messiah.
Application: It is clear that Messiah is the hope of all people, all time. He is the source of peace between God and man, providing reconciliation. It is that reconciliation that is the desire of all people in all nations, and that turns the course of human history upside down forever.
And this is the Messiah we celebrate at Christmas. It is this prophetic promise that we bring people from all nations to see lights, experience love, receive hope, and perhaps seek to go deeper.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for divine appointments in the nights to come. Send those in need of your love, and give our teams the strength, wisdom, mercy, humility, and hospitality to provide your love, joy, kindness, and tenderness. Amen.
Observation: Haggai is delivering the Lord's message to rebuild the temple, and makes three promises. He states that in the context of the restored temple ... "all nations" will be shaken and receive what they desire, the new temple will in fact be more glorious than the first, and in the temple he will grant peace.
The new temple was started around 516 BC, and lasted until 70 AD. During that time, there was almost no peace in Jerusalem, the nations remained antagonistic toward Israel, the temple itself was a threat - not a desire - of all other nations, even defiled and attacked several times, and eventually the Romans destroyed it. However, we also know the second temple was vastly more grand than the first. So did this prophesy get only 33% fulfilled?
It is, in fact, in knowing that true prophesy wasn't fulfilled that we realize we are misunderstanding the prophesy, and in looking deeper we find hope. The rebuilding of the temple was a symbol of the future new covenant. God was about to create this new "house". That promise would be greater and more glorious than the old covenant. The manifestation of the promise would shake all nations for all time, and would be the true desire of every heart. And this new promise is one of eternal peace.
This "house" is, of course, the Messiah.
Application: It is clear that Messiah is the hope of all people, all time. He is the source of peace between God and man, providing reconciliation. It is that reconciliation that is the desire of all people in all nations, and that turns the course of human history upside down forever.
And this is the Messiah we celebrate at Christmas. It is this prophetic promise that we bring people from all nations to see lights, experience love, receive hope, and perhaps seek to go deeper.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for divine appointments in the nights to come. Send those in need of your love, and give our teams the strength, wisdom, mercy, humility, and hospitality to provide your love, joy, kindness, and tenderness. Amen.
Wednesday, December 5, 2018
Answering the Unasked Question
As I sit here alone crying today - because I'm listing to worship music on YouTube - I thought I would post the answer to the question no one ever asks me ... Why do I cry during worship at church? This is, I believe, a story I've never told anyone.
In 2006, I was a shallow Christian - I knew how to "do church" and lead ministries, I knew the words to old hymns and new worship songs, I knew my bible - but I was arrogant. I thought some ministries were better than others, and that some activities in the church were for kingdom work and some were just ... there. Worship was in the latter camp. It was nice some people liked singing and had the chance to do it every week, but I didn't see why I should take the time to do it every week.
That year, I was placed in charge of small group ministries at our church, and went to a conference at Willow Creek in Chicago. I showed up that morning, found a seat in the upper level, looked through materials, and got ready to learn from some great speakers. But low and behold ... a worship band came out on stage. I sighed and stood with everyone, knowing this was about to be a waste of time preventing me from learning what I came to learn.
Twenty minutes later, I was laying on the floor, crying uncontrollably. I could barely breathe, yet still tried to sing through heaving sobs. I was vaguely aware that I was surrounded by strangers patting my back and speaking encouragement. When the band finished, the crying stopped, I got composed and the rest of the session was normal. We had lectures, break-out sessions, lunch ... then the afternoon session started with worship, and I was a wreck again. I just couldn't stop crying, convicted by the words and the word of God now clearly telling me ...
I was a wildly arrogant sinner! I was SO arrogant, I thought worship was for MY own benefit! I didn't need it?!? That wasn't the point - God deserved it!!! I thought I was important, and "my" ministries were "higher" than others ... and God had a lesson for me there and then. He placed this unique burden on me that day ... from that moment on, I cry every time I worship.
I cry at church on Sundays. I cry at home alone. I cry when singing along with the radio in the car. Sometimes it's just a tear to two, sometimes it's broken-down heaving, and usually it's something manageable in between. At first I was ashamed by it ... I was worried what people would think of me, or what they would assume was going on in my life that simple worship songs make me emotional. Eventually I went along with it ... I make sure I have tissues before service, and role with it.
Now 12 years later ... I embrace it! It is true this is a burden God has placed on me, but that only reveals two truths. First, it is evidence that God is all powerful, and his Spirit is alive in me. He can reach into my life if I let him, and actively stir me to love him, honor him, care for others, repent of sin, plead for help ... totally rely upon him. Second, this affliction reveals how much God loves me! God loves me SO MUCH that he has chosen to correct me, mature me, teach me, guide me, and then remind me over and over and over and over. God loves me so much that he will arrive and touch my heart regularly, often multiple times a day.
God is most real in my life when I worship, because he shows up every single time. He didn't curse me with an affliction, he blessed me with a manifestation. I pray I never lose this thorn from my life.
In 2006, I was a shallow Christian - I knew how to "do church" and lead ministries, I knew the words to old hymns and new worship songs, I knew my bible - but I was arrogant. I thought some ministries were better than others, and that some activities in the church were for kingdom work and some were just ... there. Worship was in the latter camp. It was nice some people liked singing and had the chance to do it every week, but I didn't see why I should take the time to do it every week.
That year, I was placed in charge of small group ministries at our church, and went to a conference at Willow Creek in Chicago. I showed up that morning, found a seat in the upper level, looked through materials, and got ready to learn from some great speakers. But low and behold ... a worship band came out on stage. I sighed and stood with everyone, knowing this was about to be a waste of time preventing me from learning what I came to learn.
Twenty minutes later, I was laying on the floor, crying uncontrollably. I could barely breathe, yet still tried to sing through heaving sobs. I was vaguely aware that I was surrounded by strangers patting my back and speaking encouragement. When the band finished, the crying stopped, I got composed and the rest of the session was normal. We had lectures, break-out sessions, lunch ... then the afternoon session started with worship, and I was a wreck again. I just couldn't stop crying, convicted by the words and the word of God now clearly telling me ...
I was a wildly arrogant sinner! I was SO arrogant, I thought worship was for MY own benefit! I didn't need it?!? That wasn't the point - God deserved it!!! I thought I was important, and "my" ministries were "higher" than others ... and God had a lesson for me there and then. He placed this unique burden on me that day ... from that moment on, I cry every time I worship.
I cry at church on Sundays. I cry at home alone. I cry when singing along with the radio in the car. Sometimes it's just a tear to two, sometimes it's broken-down heaving, and usually it's something manageable in between. At first I was ashamed by it ... I was worried what people would think of me, or what they would assume was going on in my life that simple worship songs make me emotional. Eventually I went along with it ... I make sure I have tissues before service, and role with it.
Now 12 years later ... I embrace it! It is true this is a burden God has placed on me, but that only reveals two truths. First, it is evidence that God is all powerful, and his Spirit is alive in me. He can reach into my life if I let him, and actively stir me to love him, honor him, care for others, repent of sin, plead for help ... totally rely upon him. Second, this affliction reveals how much God loves me! God loves me SO MUCH that he has chosen to correct me, mature me, teach me, guide me, and then remind me over and over and over and over. God loves me so much that he will arrive and touch my heart regularly, often multiple times a day.
God is most real in my life when I worship, because he shows up every single time. He didn't curse me with an affliction, he blessed me with a manifestation. I pray I never lose this thorn from my life.
Confidently Praying in His Will
Scripture: This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him. 1 John 5:14-15
Observation: John explicitly says he writes this to believers, and immediately provides this encouragement ... we have confidence in approaching God, for if we ask of him things that are in alignment to his will, he will hear us, and if he hears us, he will provide.
Application: I approach the Lord today. I know that the wellbeing of our family is within his will, and that he guided our family into decisions that stretched us this year. I know his will is not to harm us, and I know that my family is being harmed by our circumstances. For this reason, and based on the assurance of the Apostle John himself - the disciple whom Jesus loved - I make my prayer and appeal.
Prayer: Lord, in the name of Jesus I ask for deliverance from our circumstances now. Please provide the employment we need to live and serve in peace, without earthly hardship. Remove the stresses upon my wife and children by now providing us with new security so that we may continue on your path. You do protect those who love you, who are called according to your purposes, and we are your servants called to do your work. I have full confidence in this - you see our circumstance, and wish to deliver us from hardship and burden. I seek this now. We have reached both the point of hardship, and the point of understanding. I am prepared to move boldly into a new chapter of life, a chapter without pride, ambition, or personal motivations. I renounce earthly goals like position, title, and general respect. Instead, I seek mercy, justice, humble service, and the opportunity to love others inside and outside your body of believers. In this, I seek a secure daily walk for my family, and again I believe that is also your will. I say again, please provide the employment we need to live and serve, without earthly hardship, now. Thy will be done, or Lord. Please provide. Amen, and amen.
Observation: John explicitly says he writes this to believers, and immediately provides this encouragement ... we have confidence in approaching God, for if we ask of him things that are in alignment to his will, he will hear us, and if he hears us, he will provide.
Application: I approach the Lord today. I know that the wellbeing of our family is within his will, and that he guided our family into decisions that stretched us this year. I know his will is not to harm us, and I know that my family is being harmed by our circumstances. For this reason, and based on the assurance of the Apostle John himself - the disciple whom Jesus loved - I make my prayer and appeal.
Prayer: Lord, in the name of Jesus I ask for deliverance from our circumstances now. Please provide the employment we need to live and serve in peace, without earthly hardship. Remove the stresses upon my wife and children by now providing us with new security so that we may continue on your path. You do protect those who love you, who are called according to your purposes, and we are your servants called to do your work. I have full confidence in this - you see our circumstance, and wish to deliver us from hardship and burden. I seek this now. We have reached both the point of hardship, and the point of understanding. I am prepared to move boldly into a new chapter of life, a chapter without pride, ambition, or personal motivations. I renounce earthly goals like position, title, and general respect. Instead, I seek mercy, justice, humble service, and the opportunity to love others inside and outside your body of believers. In this, I seek a secure daily walk for my family, and again I believe that is also your will. I say again, please provide the employment we need to live and serve, without earthly hardship, now. Thy will be done, or Lord. Please provide. Amen, and amen.
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
Changing Creation Itself
Scripture: He will speak against the Most High and oppress his holy people and try to change the set times and the laws. The holy people will be delivered into his hands for a time, times and half a time. Daniel 7:25
Observation: I went back a couple days to read this section. This passage is the most succinct I have seen about the objectives of satan ... he will oppress the holy people, and try to "change the set times and the laws." Satan isn't just trying to hurt people and God, but is actively attempting to rewrite the order of creation as established by God. He would change the very order of the natural world (set times), and the proper behavior of all created things including moral commands (the laws).
In other words, satan is trying to undo ... everything.
Application: The fact that evil is opposed to good is pretty basic. The fact that evil is attempting to rewrite the definition of good has only recently come to light in society. And in this, it is true that holy people are being oppressed. The idea of doing good is becoming criticized, and the idea of accepting evil is becoming praiseworthy.
Daniel saw all this 2,800 years ago.
Prayer: Lord, as your holy people who believe in your laws, may we be encouraged to do your will every day. It is not always easy, but it is always right. We pray thy will be done, as instructed by Jesus, because thy will is in fact the right and best way for all of us, and for all creation. Praise be to you, Lord. Amen.
Observation: I went back a couple days to read this section. This passage is the most succinct I have seen about the objectives of satan ... he will oppress the holy people, and try to "change the set times and the laws." Satan isn't just trying to hurt people and God, but is actively attempting to rewrite the order of creation as established by God. He would change the very order of the natural world (set times), and the proper behavior of all created things including moral commands (the laws).
In other words, satan is trying to undo ... everything.
Application: The fact that evil is opposed to good is pretty basic. The fact that evil is attempting to rewrite the definition of good has only recently come to light in society. And in this, it is true that holy people are being oppressed. The idea of doing good is becoming criticized, and the idea of accepting evil is becoming praiseworthy.
Daniel saw all this 2,800 years ago.
Prayer: Lord, as your holy people who believe in your laws, may we be encouraged to do your will every day. It is not always easy, but it is always right. We pray thy will be done, as instructed by Jesus, because thy will is in fact the right and best way for all of us, and for all creation. Praise be to you, Lord. Amen.
Monday, December 3, 2018
Recognizing the Different Spirits
Scripture: This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. They are from the world and therefore speak from the viewpoint of the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood. 1 John 4:2-6
Observation: John acknowledges that satan is at work in the world and has his own "spirit" that influences people. He outlines three differences between the Holy Spirit and these false influences:
1) The Holy Spirit acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah and manifest son of God; false spirits reject Jesus.
2) The Holy Spirit represents knowledge and understanding consistent with God's love and teaching; false spirits present ideas that are completely of the world.
3) The Holy Spirit within someone listens to those who speak truth by the Holy Spirit; false spirits cause people to reject God's truth and listen to worldly falsehoods.
It is these elements in combination that represent the challenge of the Church. The false spirits cause people to both a) reject the truth when spoken to them, AND b) actively accept worldly falsehoods. However, this is also then how we can understand others ... if a person actively rejects God's truth and embraces the world's lies, they are greatly influenced by satan's spirit indeed.
Application: As I approach depression again today, I am encouraged by God with this understanding ... those who have wronged me are clearly under satan's influence. These people were not "borderline" - they weren't neutral about the worldly movements of this day that stand strongly opposed to God's precepts and commands - but rather they were active and vocal champions of worldly concepts, and likewise visibly and outwardly opposed to Jesus. Truth is not in them, yet it is ordained that the world will listen to and believe them anyway. In addition, I cannot and will not be listened to by the world and anyone who is of the world.
In this way, I am reassured of the original truth of my circumstance ... this has been a spiritual attack, completely in line with the persecutions expected for believers. I seek God's restoration, but am a little comforted today to see that I am on God's side, and vice versa.
Prayer: Lord, while I thank you for your comfort today, please also guide me in my response to this message. I seek to love your people who are in the truth, and of the Holy Spirit, and who embrace Jesus as a result. While we cannot insulate and isolate ourselves from the world, these are people I wish to embrace as brothers and sisters. I have done a poor job with that in the past, but you have now shown me the beauty of your flawed, frustrating, yet loving body of believers. I will be one of those flawed people loving my brothers and sisters, and knowing that the world, and all those under the influence of the world, stand against us. I pray for protection and restoration. I also pray for patience, love, joy, peace, and kindness within and among your faithful. Amen.
Observation: John acknowledges that satan is at work in the world and has his own "spirit" that influences people. He outlines three differences between the Holy Spirit and these false influences:
1) The Holy Spirit acknowledges Jesus as the Messiah and manifest son of God; false spirits reject Jesus.
2) The Holy Spirit represents knowledge and understanding consistent with God's love and teaching; false spirits present ideas that are completely of the world.
3) The Holy Spirit within someone listens to those who speak truth by the Holy Spirit; false spirits cause people to reject God's truth and listen to worldly falsehoods.
It is these elements in combination that represent the challenge of the Church. The false spirits cause people to both a) reject the truth when spoken to them, AND b) actively accept worldly falsehoods. However, this is also then how we can understand others ... if a person actively rejects God's truth and embraces the world's lies, they are greatly influenced by satan's spirit indeed.
Application: As I approach depression again today, I am encouraged by God with this understanding ... those who have wronged me are clearly under satan's influence. These people were not "borderline" - they weren't neutral about the worldly movements of this day that stand strongly opposed to God's precepts and commands - but rather they were active and vocal champions of worldly concepts, and likewise visibly and outwardly opposed to Jesus. Truth is not in them, yet it is ordained that the world will listen to and believe them anyway. In addition, I cannot and will not be listened to by the world and anyone who is of the world.
In this way, I am reassured of the original truth of my circumstance ... this has been a spiritual attack, completely in line with the persecutions expected for believers. I seek God's restoration, but am a little comforted today to see that I am on God's side, and vice versa.
Prayer: Lord, while I thank you for your comfort today, please also guide me in my response to this message. I seek to love your people who are in the truth, and of the Holy Spirit, and who embrace Jesus as a result. While we cannot insulate and isolate ourselves from the world, these are people I wish to embrace as brothers and sisters. I have done a poor job with that in the past, but you have now shown me the beauty of your flawed, frustrating, yet loving body of believers. I will be one of those flawed people loving my brothers and sisters, and knowing that the world, and all those under the influence of the world, stand against us. I pray for protection and restoration. I also pray for patience, love, joy, peace, and kindness within and among your faithful. Amen.
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