Scripture: For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an aroma that brings death; to the other, an aroma that brings life. And who is equal to such a task? 2 Corinthians 2:15-16
Observation: As Paul is discussing his recent actions and travels, he makes this statement. Recounting the descriptions of burnt offerings from the scriptures, he describes the work of apostles and the message of salvation by faith as 'the pleasing aroma' of Christ (as Christ is the great sacrifice, the Gospel then is the smoke and smell arising from that alter). However, that aroma - that experience - is received by both believers and non-believers.
The message of salvation is heard by both those who receive the message, repent, believe, and thus are being saved ... and by those who reject the message, turn away from truth, and thus are perishing. To the latter, then, the message of salvation is an aroma of death, or to carry the metaphor through, it smells like a dead body being burned on a funeral pyre. However, to those who believe, the message of salvation is an aroma of life, like well-seasoned food cooking on a grill to be eaten and thus to sustain our daily strength.
Application: Everyone receives the message of Jesus Christ. Those who sit in total rejection of all faith and all belief of everything, even in God himself ... receive the message of salvation by faith. It is just that they turn up their nose at it, and not only reject it but do so with disdain and scorn and ridicule and disgust. In fact, they hate it and find it offensive to their senses.
And yet, I must find ways to continue to deliver that message. I must continue to ... grill the meat that is the message of salvation through the sacrifice of Jesus, and invite everyone to the backyard cookout.
Prayer: Lord, may we at Evergreen continue to find the means to draw others to our table and eat with us. Some will be angered and offended, and even hostile. Some will be curious. And some will come. That is all for you to manage. May we continue to grill. Amen.
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
God Alone, Not God And
Scripture: As soon as the order went out, the Israelites generously gave the firstfruits of their grain, new wine, olive oil and honey and all that the fields produced. They brought a great amount, a tithe of everything. The people of Israel and Judah who lived in the towns of Judah also brought a tithe of their herds and flocks and a tithe of the holy things dedicated to the Lord their God, and they piled them in heaps. 2 Chronicles 31:5-6
Observation: King Hezekiah orders the reinstatement of all practices that honor the Lord, including the giving of the tithe to the temple, and immediately the people reply. These are all the people of Judah, plus even the remnant of Israel who escaped to Judah. The give the full tithe of everything, in such quantities that it is more than can be processed.
From a faith perspective, Judah had seemed to be on the brink, and Israel was past recovery. Yet that must not be accurate, for as soon as the call is given, the people responded. They worshipped when the temple was put in order, they celebrated the Passover, and now they give their tithe generously. Clearly the people love the Lord. Their issue was never that they stopped loving God, but that they stopped acknowledging him as their only god.
Application: Over and over again, I declare my love for God. I worship and praise and pray. I declare him to be my Lord and salvation. I lean into his glory and mercy. However, do I have other gods? Do I have "God and ..." or "God alone"?
My first thought is that my "and" is ... me. I still care too much about myself, my life, my deeds, my knowledge, my ambition, my goals. I think on these often and take action to advance myself through them. This doesn't seem completely wrong, as certain God uses me for both his kingdom work and as a way for proving blessing to me and my family. Yet I am too central in my narrative.
I meditate on false fantasies and thoughts too much. These, again, present me in an elevated status that never existed, and place me in the center of my thoughts. These must stop.
Surely I have other issues, yet I feel that, for the most part, I properly order the rest of my life, with the Lord primary and central and the single priority. Except for those things that involve me. I am the "and" that needs to be tamed in my life.
Prayer: Lord, again I say it, may I no longer be the important figure in my life. I desire to make you the only person that matters in my daily walk, with that centrality realized by how I love and treat the others you have created around me. May I place everyone before me. Amen.
Observation: King Hezekiah orders the reinstatement of all practices that honor the Lord, including the giving of the tithe to the temple, and immediately the people reply. These are all the people of Judah, plus even the remnant of Israel who escaped to Judah. The give the full tithe of everything, in such quantities that it is more than can be processed.
From a faith perspective, Judah had seemed to be on the brink, and Israel was past recovery. Yet that must not be accurate, for as soon as the call is given, the people responded. They worshipped when the temple was put in order, they celebrated the Passover, and now they give their tithe generously. Clearly the people love the Lord. Their issue was never that they stopped loving God, but that they stopped acknowledging him as their only god.
Application: Over and over again, I declare my love for God. I worship and praise and pray. I declare him to be my Lord and salvation. I lean into his glory and mercy. However, do I have other gods? Do I have "God and ..." or "God alone"?
My first thought is that my "and" is ... me. I still care too much about myself, my life, my deeds, my knowledge, my ambition, my goals. I think on these often and take action to advance myself through them. This doesn't seem completely wrong, as certain God uses me for both his kingdom work and as a way for proving blessing to me and my family. Yet I am too central in my narrative.
I meditate on false fantasies and thoughts too much. These, again, present me in an elevated status that never existed, and place me in the center of my thoughts. These must stop.
Surely I have other issues, yet I feel that, for the most part, I properly order the rest of my life, with the Lord primary and central and the single priority. Except for those things that involve me. I am the "and" that needs to be tamed in my life.
Prayer: Lord, again I say it, may I no longer be the important figure in my life. I desire to make you the only person that matters in my daily walk, with that centrality realized by how I love and treat the others you have created around me. May I place everyone before me. Amen.
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Finding the Yes in Jesus
Scripture: But as surely as God is faithful, our message to you is not “Yes” and “No.” For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us - by me and Silas and Timothy - was not “Yes” and “No,” but in him it has always been “Yes.” For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ. And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 1:18-20
Application: In speaking to the church at Corinth, Paul is addressing a misunderstanding from his prior letter. He says in verse 13 and 14 that he wrote previously in a way they could understand, but they may have only partially understood so by the Spirit maybe they can understand more. Then he discusses this concept of 'yes' vs. 'no'.
In explicitly the context of Jesus Christ - that in Christ the message is always 'yes' - it would seem this relates to salvation. Through faith in Jesus, salvation is always 'yes' ... someone with faith in Jesus does in fact receive salvation. In that case, the misunderstanding may have to do with Paul's condemnation of certain actions, and the interpretation that perhaps those who have engaged in those actions were outside of salvation, and thus receiving an answer of 'no' to salvation despite their faith.
Paul wants the church at Corinth to mature in faith, and thus become a stronger community of faith through their right behaviors. He has criticized their sexual misconduct, their misunderstanding of moral law, and their misapplication of ritual practices. However, he wants to start this letter with clarity ... none of that costs anyone their salvation. Salvation is by faith in Christ, and in that faith the answer to the question "am I saved?" is always 'yes'.
Observation: The culture in the city of Corinth may be the best analogy we have to modern culture in the U.S. Corinth was morally bankrupt, with most of its issues involving sexual immorality and ruthless pursuit of wealth. Members of the church there still had to live in that culture. Paul has corrected them, but he now also needs to correct their understanding of the correction.
We have a hard time in our society, where individuals believe the Church sits in judgment of them personally for their behavior. We try to live within that social context, struggling to find the 'in-the-world vs. of-the-world' balance. In general, most of us probably fail. I fail on a regular basis.
Thank goodness my salvation is settled by Jesus! In Jesus, I find 'yes' every day. If it was up to my thoughts and actions I would find 'no' every day ... every hour probably.
The blessing of Jesus is certainly this: That salvation indeed comes from faith alone, and not by my actions, for I could never, ever, ever boast of myself for even one moment.
Prayer: Lord, today I seek your forgiveness for my sins. I am not worthy of your love, by either my thoughts or actions. Please wipe my failures from your ledger, by my total belief in your son Jesus who sacrificed himself for my sins. I thank you for that amazing love. I will try to do better today, but I will fail to do perfect, and I will need your forgiveness again. I am sorry for my weakness, but may I renew my strength by faith in Jesus. Amen.
Application: In speaking to the church at Corinth, Paul is addressing a misunderstanding from his prior letter. He says in verse 13 and 14 that he wrote previously in a way they could understand, but they may have only partially understood so by the Spirit maybe they can understand more. Then he discusses this concept of 'yes' vs. 'no'.
In explicitly the context of Jesus Christ - that in Christ the message is always 'yes' - it would seem this relates to salvation. Through faith in Jesus, salvation is always 'yes' ... someone with faith in Jesus does in fact receive salvation. In that case, the misunderstanding may have to do with Paul's condemnation of certain actions, and the interpretation that perhaps those who have engaged in those actions were outside of salvation, and thus receiving an answer of 'no' to salvation despite their faith.
Paul wants the church at Corinth to mature in faith, and thus become a stronger community of faith through their right behaviors. He has criticized their sexual misconduct, their misunderstanding of moral law, and their misapplication of ritual practices. However, he wants to start this letter with clarity ... none of that costs anyone their salvation. Salvation is by faith in Christ, and in that faith the answer to the question "am I saved?" is always 'yes'.
Observation: The culture in the city of Corinth may be the best analogy we have to modern culture in the U.S. Corinth was morally bankrupt, with most of its issues involving sexual immorality and ruthless pursuit of wealth. Members of the church there still had to live in that culture. Paul has corrected them, but he now also needs to correct their understanding of the correction.
We have a hard time in our society, where individuals believe the Church sits in judgment of them personally for their behavior. We try to live within that social context, struggling to find the 'in-the-world vs. of-the-world' balance. In general, most of us probably fail. I fail on a regular basis.
Thank goodness my salvation is settled by Jesus! In Jesus, I find 'yes' every day. If it was up to my thoughts and actions I would find 'no' every day ... every hour probably.
The blessing of Jesus is certainly this: That salvation indeed comes from faith alone, and not by my actions, for I could never, ever, ever boast of myself for even one moment.
Prayer: Lord, today I seek your forgiveness for my sins. I am not worthy of your love, by either my thoughts or actions. Please wipe my failures from your ledger, by my total belief in your son Jesus who sacrificed himself for my sins. I thank you for that amazing love. I will try to do better today, but I will fail to do perfect, and I will need your forgiveness again. I am sorry for my weakness, but may I renew my strength by faith in Jesus. Amen.
Monday, August 26, 2019
We Cannot Overworship the Lord
Scripture:
Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits -
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
Psalm 103:2-5
Observation: We praise the Lord because he is great, but also because he has already provided so very much for us. Before I could ever utter a single praise to God, he has ... forgiven me for my sins, redeeming me from hell, healed my body and cared for my physical well-being, shown compassion and love toward me and my family, given me earthly blessings, and bestowed joy upon me. In all cases, this was done first, before I could worship and honor him. The Lord gave to me out of his abundant love, and only then did I discover that I should worship him.
Application: I spend time in my head with bad thoughts, and I should spend much more of that time in simple worship to the Lord. I cannot overworship. It is not possible to worship God too much, as his love is so much greater than anything I could ever do in return. I cannot return to the Lord as much honor has he has bestowed upon me. And yet, I should try.
I will find more time and ways to worship and praise the Lord. He honored me first ... the Lord cared for me when I had rejected him, and Jesus died for me when I was still deep in my sins. If I worship the Lord with the first breath of my day, he has already honored me by providing that breath.
I will sing of your greatness, Lord. I will praise your holy name with all that is within me.
Prayer: My Lord and my God, you are loving, just, merciful, and mighty. You are my salvation and my rock and my redeemer and my councilor and my comforter and my judge. And you are my father. I praise you and your great name, forever and ever. Amen.
Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits -
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
Psalm 103:2-5
Observation: We praise the Lord because he is great, but also because he has already provided so very much for us. Before I could ever utter a single praise to God, he has ... forgiven me for my sins, redeeming me from hell, healed my body and cared for my physical well-being, shown compassion and love toward me and my family, given me earthly blessings, and bestowed joy upon me. In all cases, this was done first, before I could worship and honor him. The Lord gave to me out of his abundant love, and only then did I discover that I should worship him.
Application: I spend time in my head with bad thoughts, and I should spend much more of that time in simple worship to the Lord. I cannot overworship. It is not possible to worship God too much, as his love is so much greater than anything I could ever do in return. I cannot return to the Lord as much honor has he has bestowed upon me. And yet, I should try.
I will find more time and ways to worship and praise the Lord. He honored me first ... the Lord cared for me when I had rejected him, and Jesus died for me when I was still deep in my sins. If I worship the Lord with the first breath of my day, he has already honored me by providing that breath.
I will sing of your greatness, Lord. I will praise your holy name with all that is within me.
Prayer: My Lord and my God, you are loving, just, merciful, and mighty. You are my salvation and my rock and my redeemer and my councilor and my comforter and my judge. And you are my father. I praise you and your great name, forever and ever. Amen.
Thursday, August 22, 2019
No One Stands Alone
Scripture: But Jehoshaphat asked, “Is there no longer a prophet of the Lord here whom we can inquire of?” The king of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, “There is still one prophet through whom we can inquire of the Lord, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.” 2 Chronicles 18:27
Observation: Micaiah is mentioned - to my knowledge - just in two passages that are effectively identical, 2 Chronicles 18 and 2 Kings 22. His account is in the midst of the Elijah narrative. After this event, Elijah will turn his mission over to Elisha. Before this event, Elijah has fled to the wilderness. It is in that account that Elijah declared he was alone as a prophet of the Lord ... the only one left, whom Ahab wanted to kill.
Yet here is Micaiah, clearly a prophet of the Lord, whom Ahab knows and hates. He is going to accurately prophesy Ahab's death in battle, as a prophet who has not only received a heavenly word, but a very detailed revelation about why the other 'prophets' are false in their predictions. Ahab knows and hates him, due to his accurate Godly prophesy. He was not invited to speak to Ahab until Jehoshaphat inquires about finding a true prophet of the Lord ... he was persona non grata, and will now be thrown in prison.
In other words, Elijah was never alone. Micaiah was on the front lines with him all along, standing opposed to Ahab and prophesying accurately his demise due to his evil ways. Ahab hated Elijah, but he hated Micaiah too. They probably both felt alone, standing in contrast to hundreds of false prophets at different times, yet they were never alone. Elijah is more famous to us as the one who stood against Ahab and Jezebel, but it was probably Micaiah whom Ahab recalled as he died.
Application: I feel isolated, especially when I have been away from God's word for a few days. This helps me to know that I am never alone. First, the Lord is always with me, and all I have to do is lean into his love through prayer and meditation on his word. Second, there are other believers out there, even when I don't see them or interact with them ... maybe for days at a time.
I need to thoughts to keep depression at bay these days, and today this helps. I seek strength, and the Lord provides it in the understanding that there are people out there who a just like me. I do not stand alone in any struggle.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for standing with me, both directly as my Lord and God, and by providing brothers and sisters who can always assist. And of course I thank you for Laurie; may her days be lightened and her outlook brightened so she and I can stand together in all matters. Amen.
Observation: Micaiah is mentioned - to my knowledge - just in two passages that are effectively identical, 2 Chronicles 18 and 2 Kings 22. His account is in the midst of the Elijah narrative. After this event, Elijah will turn his mission over to Elisha. Before this event, Elijah has fled to the wilderness. It is in that account that Elijah declared he was alone as a prophet of the Lord ... the only one left, whom Ahab wanted to kill.
Yet here is Micaiah, clearly a prophet of the Lord, whom Ahab knows and hates. He is going to accurately prophesy Ahab's death in battle, as a prophet who has not only received a heavenly word, but a very detailed revelation about why the other 'prophets' are false in their predictions. Ahab knows and hates him, due to his accurate Godly prophesy. He was not invited to speak to Ahab until Jehoshaphat inquires about finding a true prophet of the Lord ... he was persona non grata, and will now be thrown in prison.
In other words, Elijah was never alone. Micaiah was on the front lines with him all along, standing opposed to Ahab and prophesying accurately his demise due to his evil ways. Ahab hated Elijah, but he hated Micaiah too. They probably both felt alone, standing in contrast to hundreds of false prophets at different times, yet they were never alone. Elijah is more famous to us as the one who stood against Ahab and Jezebel, but it was probably Micaiah whom Ahab recalled as he died.
Application: I feel isolated, especially when I have been away from God's word for a few days. This helps me to know that I am never alone. First, the Lord is always with me, and all I have to do is lean into his love through prayer and meditation on his word. Second, there are other believers out there, even when I don't see them or interact with them ... maybe for days at a time.
I need to thoughts to keep depression at bay these days, and today this helps. I seek strength, and the Lord provides it in the understanding that there are people out there who a just like me. I do not stand alone in any struggle.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for standing with me, both directly as my Lord and God, and by providing brothers and sisters who can always assist. And of course I thank you for Laurie; may her days be lightened and her outlook brightened so she and I can stand together in all matters. Amen.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
The Great Gift of Prophesy
Scripture: Follow the way of love and eagerly desire gifts of the Spirit, especially prophecy. 1 Corinthians 14:1
Observation: These are the first words after the great passage about love ... that out of love, desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy. While Paul will compare tongues and prophecy side-by-side and discusses the value of both, he especially promotes prophecy as that gift promotes the church and its members. It is by prophecy he says that the church is edified, lessons are given, and people are strengthened, encouraged, and comforted.
Application: I have asked for words of insight many times, and received them ... once, maybe twice. It is a strong event, and great for both the one who receives the gift, and the one who gets to hear the words.
I believe my spiritual gifts are weak. I don't know what to do about it. Perhaps this is a place to start, to actively seek this one gift, through prayer and appeal to the Lord. I would love to have a gift that uplifts others, and thus can give love and comfort to others. This would be a great way to move closer into service in the church, not just by service that involves work, but by service that involves interaction, friendship, and care.
Prayer: Lord, I do seek your Holy Spirit, and your gifts of the Spirit. Paul promotes prophecy. James promotes wisdom. I would like to serve others through a gift that doesn't just help serve, but also touches their lives on earth. Please grant me the favor of your Spirit in a stronger way, as I seek you daily. Amen.
Observation: These are the first words after the great passage about love ... that out of love, desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy. While Paul will compare tongues and prophecy side-by-side and discusses the value of both, he especially promotes prophecy as that gift promotes the church and its members. It is by prophecy he says that the church is edified, lessons are given, and people are strengthened, encouraged, and comforted.
Application: I have asked for words of insight many times, and received them ... once, maybe twice. It is a strong event, and great for both the one who receives the gift, and the one who gets to hear the words.
I believe my spiritual gifts are weak. I don't know what to do about it. Perhaps this is a place to start, to actively seek this one gift, through prayer and appeal to the Lord. I would love to have a gift that uplifts others, and thus can give love and comfort to others. This would be a great way to move closer into service in the church, not just by service that involves work, but by service that involves interaction, friendship, and care.
Prayer: Lord, I do seek your Holy Spirit, and your gifts of the Spirit. Paul promotes prophecy. James promotes wisdom. I would like to serve others through a gift that doesn't just help serve, but also touches their lives on earth. Please grant me the favor of your Spirit in a stronger way, as I seek you daily. Amen.
Friday, August 16, 2019
That's One Tough Tent
Scripture: When all the elders of Israel had arrived, the Levites took up the ark, and they brought up the ark and the tent of meeting and all the sacred furnishings in it. The Levitical priests carried them up. 2 Chronicles 5:4-5
Observation: It is somewhere around 500 years from the time in the wilderness to the reign of Solomon. During all this time, the tent of meeting still exists. This is a tent made from yarns and silks and fabric and animal skins, with embroidery and art. It has been splashed with blood, and set up in the elements of the desert for years at a time, and other times it has been put up and taken down repeatedly. There is no possible way that the tent of meeting should still exist. Yet here it is.
Application: There are so many reasons to believe in God through evidence, and the tent of meeting is one of them. Its very existence is a miracle. That is it so casually mentioned here is evidence of great faith ... the idea that "of course the tent still exists, it is the tabernacle of Yahweh!"
I cannot comprehend how others do not believe. Yet, as a believer, I cannot comprehend how and why I fail to obey so often. I sin, and know I sin, and I do it despite full belief in God, his laws and precepts, and the price paid for my salvation. So which is worse, to reject evidence and faith, or to embrace faith then disobey?
I am convicted of my failures. I do know I am forgiven, and it is only by that fact that I can find hope. This is the great promise of Jesus, then ... hope. Without this, my life would be empty even with the love of God, because I would simply know my impending judgment.
Prayer: Lord, it is only by your love, and not my actions, that I can have any hope in my life. Your love is so amazing, so powerful, so substantial, and so undeserved by me. Please forgive my sins this day, and every day, so I can continued to live in your love and hope and peace. Thank you, father. Amen.
Observation: It is somewhere around 500 years from the time in the wilderness to the reign of Solomon. During all this time, the tent of meeting still exists. This is a tent made from yarns and silks and fabric and animal skins, with embroidery and art. It has been splashed with blood, and set up in the elements of the desert for years at a time, and other times it has been put up and taken down repeatedly. There is no possible way that the tent of meeting should still exist. Yet here it is.
Application: There are so many reasons to believe in God through evidence, and the tent of meeting is one of them. Its very existence is a miracle. That is it so casually mentioned here is evidence of great faith ... the idea that "of course the tent still exists, it is the tabernacle of Yahweh!"
I cannot comprehend how others do not believe. Yet, as a believer, I cannot comprehend how and why I fail to obey so often. I sin, and know I sin, and I do it despite full belief in God, his laws and precepts, and the price paid for my salvation. So which is worse, to reject evidence and faith, or to embrace faith then disobey?
I am convicted of my failures. I do know I am forgiven, and it is only by that fact that I can find hope. This is the great promise of Jesus, then ... hope. Without this, my life would be empty even with the love of God, because I would simply know my impending judgment.
Prayer: Lord, it is only by your love, and not my actions, that I can have any hope in my life. Your love is so amazing, so powerful, so substantial, and so undeserved by me. Please forgive my sins this day, and every day, so I can continued to live in your love and hope and peace. Thank you, father. Amen.
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Investing in Relationships
Scripture: Hiram king of Tyre replied by letter to Solomon: “Because the Lord loves his people, he has made you their king.” 2 Chronicles 2:11
Observation: Solomon has just ordered - ordered! - the king of Tyre to provide him with an unlimited amount of wood, and an artisan to lead the design of all decoration, for the temple. The response could have been "no", or "on these conditions", or "well ... okay, I guess". Instead, the response was "you are great and wise!" He goes on to name the artisan, who is even someone half Jewish, and reiterate both the unlimited supply he will provide and how he will deliver.
This is likely for two reasons. The first is that Solomon did name the price he was paying for all of this, and it's likely that price was very substantial. In other words, Solomon was over-paying out of his abundance for the services of Tyre, which is evidence of how well things are going in Israel. Second is that David and Solomon have both taken care in their relationship with Hiram, so that they can send orders without any problem. In modern-day business, this is called a partnership, and when one entity needs help they don't just ask ... they tell the partner what to do, the partner does it, and they trust the financial side of the exchange will be advantageous.
This, then, is about relationships. David was known as a king of blood, but he also had friends and relationships. Hiram even clearly know about Yahweh as the creator and likely worships the God of Israel, meaning David potentially solidified their relationship through the sharing of faith. It is in this that, when the time comes to build God's temple, the means are well established.
Application: This is a model for the kinds of relationships I need to build in my life. I am so alone in this regard. I have an amazing wife, one great friend, two or three good friends whom I don't talk to often, and ... acquaintances. I need to invest in relationships with people who share faith in Jesus, and allow them to know me - and to get to know them - so we truly care for each others lives, success, and well-being.
I have been terrible at this. Again, this is a major change I need to make in my life.
Prayer: Lord, I believe you have set Godly men before me. Please open my heart and mind to invest into their lives, and to share my life, with these brothers. Amen.
Observation: Solomon has just ordered - ordered! - the king of Tyre to provide him with an unlimited amount of wood, and an artisan to lead the design of all decoration, for the temple. The response could have been "no", or "on these conditions", or "well ... okay, I guess". Instead, the response was "you are great and wise!" He goes on to name the artisan, who is even someone half Jewish, and reiterate both the unlimited supply he will provide and how he will deliver.
This is likely for two reasons. The first is that Solomon did name the price he was paying for all of this, and it's likely that price was very substantial. In other words, Solomon was over-paying out of his abundance for the services of Tyre, which is evidence of how well things are going in Israel. Second is that David and Solomon have both taken care in their relationship with Hiram, so that they can send orders without any problem. In modern-day business, this is called a partnership, and when one entity needs help they don't just ask ... they tell the partner what to do, the partner does it, and they trust the financial side of the exchange will be advantageous.
This, then, is about relationships. David was known as a king of blood, but he also had friends and relationships. Hiram even clearly know about Yahweh as the creator and likely worships the God of Israel, meaning David potentially solidified their relationship through the sharing of faith. It is in this that, when the time comes to build God's temple, the means are well established.
Application: This is a model for the kinds of relationships I need to build in my life. I am so alone in this regard. I have an amazing wife, one great friend, two or three good friends whom I don't talk to often, and ... acquaintances. I need to invest in relationships with people who share faith in Jesus, and allow them to know me - and to get to know them - so we truly care for each others lives, success, and well-being.
I have been terrible at this. Again, this is a major change I need to make in my life.
Prayer: Lord, I believe you have set Godly men before me. Please open my heart and mind to invest into their lives, and to share my life, with these brothers. Amen.
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
Upon Not Knowing Myself
Scripture: Don’t we have the right to food and drink? Don’t we have the right to take a believing wife along with us, as do the other apostles and the Lord’s brothers and Cephas? 1 Corinthians 9:4-5
Observation: Paul is addressing some complaint from the church at Corinth, apparently about how they may have needed to fund him while he was there or are refusing to send offerings (I don't know the context). In addressing this, Paul outlines complaints against he and Barnabas related to a right to wages, food and drink shared with them, or even extending those things to wives who may travel with them. In this, Paul invokes a unique argument, comparing himself to what other apostles receive, including ... James, Jude, and Peter.
As a believer, Paul defines his peer group. He is an apostle, and he is of a rank equivalent to well known leaders. He then relates his behavior and circumstance to that context, and points out that his expectations and behaviors are at the very least consistent with his peers. That he placed himself in same group with the very leaders of the worldwide church is interesting, but in retrospect accurate. This reveals Paul's understanding of himself and of others.
Application: I probably lack a good understanding of myself in almost any context. I don't know who my peers are, and I wouldn't know how that really relates to behavior, performance, or any other action. I certainly know I'm not at or near the top of any group of leaders.
I have spent the last few days thinking about my "passion" ... and failing to come up with anything. I don't know anything about myself. I don't know what I like to do, what I am good at, or whom I may be equivalent to in order to even identify a reference model. I am unknown to others because I am unknown to even myself. How can I be an authentic friend to others when I have no idea what my authenticity would even look like?
Prayer: Lord, I find today that I ask for your guidance because I have no idea where I am going. I probably don't even know who I am or where I currently stand in life. So again, please guide me this day and every day. May I somehow grow and serve within your will for my life, even if I don't understand my life. Amen.
Observation: Paul is addressing some complaint from the church at Corinth, apparently about how they may have needed to fund him while he was there or are refusing to send offerings (I don't know the context). In addressing this, Paul outlines complaints against he and Barnabas related to a right to wages, food and drink shared with them, or even extending those things to wives who may travel with them. In this, Paul invokes a unique argument, comparing himself to what other apostles receive, including ... James, Jude, and Peter.
As a believer, Paul defines his peer group. He is an apostle, and he is of a rank equivalent to well known leaders. He then relates his behavior and circumstance to that context, and points out that his expectations and behaviors are at the very least consistent with his peers. That he placed himself in same group with the very leaders of the worldwide church is interesting, but in retrospect accurate. This reveals Paul's understanding of himself and of others.
Application: I probably lack a good understanding of myself in almost any context. I don't know who my peers are, and I wouldn't know how that really relates to behavior, performance, or any other action. I certainly know I'm not at or near the top of any group of leaders.
I have spent the last few days thinking about my "passion" ... and failing to come up with anything. I don't know anything about myself. I don't know what I like to do, what I am good at, or whom I may be equivalent to in order to even identify a reference model. I am unknown to others because I am unknown to even myself. How can I be an authentic friend to others when I have no idea what my authenticity would even look like?
Prayer: Lord, I find today that I ask for your guidance because I have no idea where I am going. I probably don't even know who I am or where I currently stand in life. So again, please guide me this day and every day. May I somehow grow and serve within your will for my life, even if I don't understand my life. Amen.
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
Joy and the Simple Life
Scripture: So I commend the enjoyment of life, because there is nothing better for a person under the sun than to eat and drink and be glad. Then joy will accompany them in their toil all the days of the life God has given them under the sun. Ecclesiastes 8:15
Observation: The teacher tells us to eat and drink and be glad. If we do this - enjoy the basic pleasures of life - then we will have joy even in our toil and struggles.
This is from a person who has examined all things related to wisdom in an effort to logically find and achieve wisdom. He has determined wisdom cannot be fully achieved, and thus has even simply examined the patterns and logic of the world to attempt to find insight about wisdom. As a result, his is simply recommending that everyone should enjoy the simple things in life. We should enjoy ... a good meal, a nice glass of wine, the company of our wife. If we can simply be happy with the day-to-day things God has given us, including our 'toil' or work, we will find true joy in life.
Application: As I have been going through training at work, I have been asked to create a principle I will live by. The key words of that principle are "humility", "peace", and "joy". These are things I absolutely desire, and that I absolutely struggle with. Even in restful times, I cannot find peace. Even in great experiences, I cannot find joy. Even in lowly states, I struggle with humility.
Joy is a choice, and it seems the teacher would equate it with contentment. I should take joy in what I have ... which of course is plenty, as I have been blessed far beyond what I deserve. When I relax, I should find joy in the chance to relax. When I have dinner with my wife, I should find joy in the meal and conversation.
This is not just a standard kind of functional comfort in the situation, but heavenly joy ... the understanding that God has given to me the blessing of the simple pleasures, sustenance, and company around me, and I should truly and consciously lean into that as God's blessing. I will find joy - true joy - when I understand that every little element of my life is a gift from God.
Prayer: Abba, you have blessed me and cared for me in all circumstances. I see your hand in every element of my life, and especially in the wonderful little things around me. I have so much from you. I will lean into the joy you have provided into my life this day. Thank you so much for your love, my Lord and my God. Amen.
Observation: The teacher tells us to eat and drink and be glad. If we do this - enjoy the basic pleasures of life - then we will have joy even in our toil and struggles.
This is from a person who has examined all things related to wisdom in an effort to logically find and achieve wisdom. He has determined wisdom cannot be fully achieved, and thus has even simply examined the patterns and logic of the world to attempt to find insight about wisdom. As a result, his is simply recommending that everyone should enjoy the simple things in life. We should enjoy ... a good meal, a nice glass of wine, the company of our wife. If we can simply be happy with the day-to-day things God has given us, including our 'toil' or work, we will find true joy in life.
Application: As I have been going through training at work, I have been asked to create a principle I will live by. The key words of that principle are "humility", "peace", and "joy". These are things I absolutely desire, and that I absolutely struggle with. Even in restful times, I cannot find peace. Even in great experiences, I cannot find joy. Even in lowly states, I struggle with humility.
Joy is a choice, and it seems the teacher would equate it with contentment. I should take joy in what I have ... which of course is plenty, as I have been blessed far beyond what I deserve. When I relax, I should find joy in the chance to relax. When I have dinner with my wife, I should find joy in the meal and conversation.
This is not just a standard kind of functional comfort in the situation, but heavenly joy ... the understanding that God has given to me the blessing of the simple pleasures, sustenance, and company around me, and I should truly and consciously lean into that as God's blessing. I will find joy - true joy - when I understand that every little element of my life is a gift from God.
Prayer: Abba, you have blessed me and cared for me in all circumstances. I see your hand in every element of my life, and especially in the wonderful little things around me. I have so much from you. I will lean into the joy you have provided into my life this day. Thank you so much for your love, my Lord and my God. Amen.
Monday, August 12, 2019
Desperate for Enjoyment
Scripture: This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them - for this is their lot. Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil - this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Ecclesiastes 5:18-20
Observation: The teacher has many observations about pursuing advancement and riches. He describes many of these activities as evil, meaningless, or both. However, this is what he considers good ... when a person is content in the meaningless activities they have in life. It is a gift from God for a person not when they receive riches, food and drink, or work, but rather when they can enjoy these things in their lives.
The teacher has seen people who aggressively pursue all the good things in life - and successfully get them - and then fail to enjoy them. He calls this a meaningless existence. He has also seen that, no matter how much people acquire, they will die exactly as they were born, with nothing to go with them. He calls the pursuit of material wealth a grievous evil. He even sees advancement as nearly random, and thus the pursuit of advancement is a meaningless chasing after the wind.
But again, what is good? It is the enjoyment of life. And the ability to enjoy the things of life, including one's toilsome labor, is the gift of God.
Application: I realized last week that I am not enjoying life. I struggle to even enjoy vacation, let along work. I have very little peace in anything I do, even when I am doing things that are explicitly peaceful. I can't relax when doing literally nothing.
And I don't know why this is. Certainly this is evil attempting to undermine God in my life - blocking God's gift of peace in my life - and I am struggling to even acknowledge that, let alone addressing it. Even now I don't know what to do about it. I don't know how to clear my mind from ... anger, anxiety, frustration, fear, sadness.
I am so tired of chasing after the meaningless wind.
Prayer: Lord, I spend all my time reflecting on the days of my life. Please, dear Lord, correct my mind and keep me occupied with gladness of heart. Change my heart and mind to focus on your peace and joy, and not on the meaningless things of this world. I wish to be happy even in my toil, and I know that can only be found through you. Please, Lord, please help me in this. Amen, and amen.
Observation: The teacher has many observations about pursuing advancement and riches. He describes many of these activities as evil, meaningless, or both. However, this is what he considers good ... when a person is content in the meaningless activities they have in life. It is a gift from God for a person not when they receive riches, food and drink, or work, but rather when they can enjoy these things in their lives.
The teacher has seen people who aggressively pursue all the good things in life - and successfully get them - and then fail to enjoy them. He calls this a meaningless existence. He has also seen that, no matter how much people acquire, they will die exactly as they were born, with nothing to go with them. He calls the pursuit of material wealth a grievous evil. He even sees advancement as nearly random, and thus the pursuit of advancement is a meaningless chasing after the wind.
But again, what is good? It is the enjoyment of life. And the ability to enjoy the things of life, including one's toilsome labor, is the gift of God.
Application: I realized last week that I am not enjoying life. I struggle to even enjoy vacation, let along work. I have very little peace in anything I do, even when I am doing things that are explicitly peaceful. I can't relax when doing literally nothing.
And I don't know why this is. Certainly this is evil attempting to undermine God in my life - blocking God's gift of peace in my life - and I am struggling to even acknowledge that, let alone addressing it. Even now I don't know what to do about it. I don't know how to clear my mind from ... anger, anxiety, frustration, fear, sadness.
I am so tired of chasing after the meaningless wind.
Prayer: Lord, I spend all my time reflecting on the days of my life. Please, dear Lord, correct my mind and keep me occupied with gladness of heart. Change my heart and mind to focus on your peace and joy, and not on the meaningless things of this world. I wish to be happy even in my toil, and I know that can only be found through you. Please, Lord, please help me in this. Amen, and amen.
Friday, August 2, 2019
Understanding Both What and How
Scripture: But now that there is no more place for me to work in these regions, and since I have been longing for many years to visit you, I plan to do so when I go to Spain. I hope to see you while passing through and to have you assist me on my journey there, after I have enjoyed your company for a while. Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the Lord’s people there. Romans 15:23-25
Observation: At this writing, this is Paul's plan: Go to Jerusalem, delivery the offering from Macedonia, then go to Spain, visiting Rome along the way. Paul will never make it to Spain. He will spend his time in Jerusalem pursued and persecuted, and he will arrive in Rome not as a visiting traveler but as a prisoner in chains to be tried by Caesar.
In all of this, Paul has clearly expressed what his life's mission is about. He is a teacher to the Gentiles, telling those who do not know God through Judaism the good news about salvation through faith in Jesus. He also knows he is to go to Rome, the center of the western world. He just doesn't know how all this will happen. He has a plan, and God has a plan. God's always wins out.
Application: Today, I know better than to make a plan for my life. Well ... sometimes I know better. I still think about what I could or should do next in life, but I now know that the plan is just an outline. I need to pray asking for God to reveal his overall objective for my life - soon, or in a next phase, or long term - and then see how I can live into that objective. The path I determine may be right, but it also may not. And it doesn't really matter.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for my future, whatever it may hold. I know that it will include your love, provision, and company, and that is enough for me. I do ask for understanding of the objective, but I will walk on your path no matter what. Please be with me along the way, guiding me gently. Amen.
Observation: At this writing, this is Paul's plan: Go to Jerusalem, delivery the offering from Macedonia, then go to Spain, visiting Rome along the way. Paul will never make it to Spain. He will spend his time in Jerusalem pursued and persecuted, and he will arrive in Rome not as a visiting traveler but as a prisoner in chains to be tried by Caesar.
In all of this, Paul has clearly expressed what his life's mission is about. He is a teacher to the Gentiles, telling those who do not know God through Judaism the good news about salvation through faith in Jesus. He also knows he is to go to Rome, the center of the western world. He just doesn't know how all this will happen. He has a plan, and God has a plan. God's always wins out.
Application: Today, I know better than to make a plan for my life. Well ... sometimes I know better. I still think about what I could or should do next in life, but I now know that the plan is just an outline. I need to pray asking for God to reveal his overall objective for my life - soon, or in a next phase, or long term - and then see how I can live into that objective. The path I determine may be right, but it also may not. And it doesn't really matter.
Prayer: Lord, I thank you for my future, whatever it may hold. I know that it will include your love, provision, and company, and that is enough for me. I do ask for understanding of the objective, but I will walk on your path no matter what. Please be with me along the way, guiding me gently. Amen.
Thursday, August 1, 2019
David's Line is Alive and Well
Scripture:
Lord, where is your former great love,
which in your faithfulness you swore to David?
Remember, Lord, how your servant has been mocked,
how I bear in my heart the taunts of all the nations,
the taunts with which your enemies, Lord, have mocked,
with which they have mocked every step of your anointed one.
Psalm 89:49-51
Observation: The psalmist of Psalm 89 has been lamenting the downfall of Israel, and explicitly focused on the Lord's covenant with David, which is that the line of David will exist as a royal line forever. However, Israel and Judah are now nearing destruction, so the hope is that this will not occur due to the promise of David.
God's servant - the children of Israel - have been mocked, humiliated, and defeated as divine punishment. However, the Lord's promises are to be trusted. Therefore, even as the enemy mocks the people and even the anointed leader, there is hope. Israel must still believe that, somehow, the Lord will provide the way for his steadfast promise to be fulfilled.
Application: Today, we discussed the current state of affairs in Ashdod, Israel, where the Jews are actively fighting against the church of Jesus. We also read in Romans how Paul understands the promise of Messiah being for the Gentiles, for while some Jews have believed the good news many have not. And I wonder ... how can this be? How can the Jews fervently pray for and believe in the promise of the Messianic king, and then actively and aggressively reject the Messianic king? And repeat both of those behaviors for thousands of years?
Such is the way of faith, that those who actively seek it can simultaneously aggressively reject it. Those who wish with all they have for hope in their lives, then angrily fight against the source of hope. Those who desire a loving and peaceful society rail against the source of love and peace.
I pray for our society, and for our city, and for our region. I know the bible proves that many will reject any truth about Jesus. However, some will believe, and our hope and work needs to be offering more and more people that opportunity to believe.
Rumors of the failure of Davidic covenant are greatly exaggerated. The line of David is alive and well, sitting on his throne, at the right had of Yahweh, Lord of all creation.
Prayer: Lord, may we all find the strength to pronounce your good news. The news was always that salvation is available through Messiah, no more and no less. May that news be both whispered in streets and shouted from the rooftops in Ashdod, and Seattle, and the ends of the earth. Amen.
Lord, where is your former great love,
which in your faithfulness you swore to David?
Remember, Lord, how your servant has been mocked,
how I bear in my heart the taunts of all the nations,
the taunts with which your enemies, Lord, have mocked,
with which they have mocked every step of your anointed one.
Psalm 89:49-51
Observation: The psalmist of Psalm 89 has been lamenting the downfall of Israel, and explicitly focused on the Lord's covenant with David, which is that the line of David will exist as a royal line forever. However, Israel and Judah are now nearing destruction, so the hope is that this will not occur due to the promise of David.
God's servant - the children of Israel - have been mocked, humiliated, and defeated as divine punishment. However, the Lord's promises are to be trusted. Therefore, even as the enemy mocks the people and even the anointed leader, there is hope. Israel must still believe that, somehow, the Lord will provide the way for his steadfast promise to be fulfilled.
Application: Today, we discussed the current state of affairs in Ashdod, Israel, where the Jews are actively fighting against the church of Jesus. We also read in Romans how Paul understands the promise of Messiah being for the Gentiles, for while some Jews have believed the good news many have not. And I wonder ... how can this be? How can the Jews fervently pray for and believe in the promise of the Messianic king, and then actively and aggressively reject the Messianic king? And repeat both of those behaviors for thousands of years?
Such is the way of faith, that those who actively seek it can simultaneously aggressively reject it. Those who wish with all they have for hope in their lives, then angrily fight against the source of hope. Those who desire a loving and peaceful society rail against the source of love and peace.
I pray for our society, and for our city, and for our region. I know the bible proves that many will reject any truth about Jesus. However, some will believe, and our hope and work needs to be offering more and more people that opportunity to believe.
Rumors of the failure of Davidic covenant are greatly exaggerated. The line of David is alive and well, sitting on his throne, at the right had of Yahweh, Lord of all creation.
Prayer: Lord, may we all find the strength to pronounce your good news. The news was always that salvation is available through Messiah, no more and no less. May that news be both whispered in streets and shouted from the rooftops in Ashdod, and Seattle, and the ends of the earth. Amen.