Then the Scene Changed

Scripture: Then the scene changed, and I saw a white cloud and someone sitting on it who looked like Jesus, who was called “The Son of Man,” with a crown of solid gold upon his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. Revelation 14:14

Observation: As everything is going on, suddenly the "scene changed" and John sees Jesus arriving on the scene. This is the final harvest. Jesus will harvest the believers from the earth, and another angel will harvest those to be pressed in God's wrath.

Application: I imagine watching all this unfold like a movie, and there are cut scenes. We cut to the earth to see chaos, evil, and mighty beasts rampaging and blaspheming all about. Then 'cut scene' and here is Jesus, dressed in white, riding on a cloud, with gold accessories, in peace and harmony. The conflict is set ... a wild collection of beasts, all with great might, multiple heads, gnashing teeth, tremendous roars filled with wrath and hate and threats ... versus one serene man, in fine cloths, calmly sitting amidst a soft backdrop.

I know who wins this fight!!!

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for the certainty of life. It may seem like every day is uncertain, and that every new announcement on the news presents further chaos and an unpredictable future. Nothing could be further from the truth. The outcome, the results, the destiny, the future, are all certain, and they are all good, for they are all in your hands and in your control. Even as plagues are poured out on the world, be they the last seven, or just some that seem bad now, I know my life and my future lies with Jesus. Amen.

Yet Here I Go

Scripture: When I heard this, I tore my clothing and pulled hair from my head and beard and sat down utterly baffled. Ezra 9:3

Observation: As soon as the exiles return to Jerusalem, Ezra learns they have already re-engaged in the sin of intermarrying non-Jews. This is one of the acts for which the Lord held them accountable 70 years prior, especially because it leads to adopting the faith and practices of the pagan religions of the other people, which is the heart of the sins of Israel and Judah.

Upon hearing of this, Ezra is "baffled". The people know the punishment of failing to obey God. They just ended 70 years of forced exile. It is only just now that God himself has intervened and allowed this remnant of Jews to return to the land. If any people have motivation to seek obedience, it is these people who have even shown enough faith to return, and who have recognized the punishment they have been living under their entire lives. Yet here they go, immediately sinning again, just like the generations before them.

Application: My sins - my thoughts and actions that I absolutely know are opposed to God's ways - are made so much worse because ... I know they are wrong, I know the pain that comes when one is far from God, and I know there is active spiritual activity in this time of history. This is a time when obedience is critical, and I am the kind of person who absolutely knows it. Yet here I go, sinning every day.

In this today, I see how weak I am. I declare my strength, but that declaration must always and only be in the context of how strong God is, and the fact he is with me. If I rely on his strength, I will be strong. If I rely on my strength, my willpower, my intelligence, my logic ... I will absolutely fail.

Ezra was baffled by the Jews' actions. I am baffled by my actions. Actually, I am baffled by my thoughts, which fail to follow the mind and will of God. This is because my spirit pulls away from the Lord. I need so desperately to improve in this area, as my failures are painful to me, and will be all the more painful as the day of the Lord approaches.

Prayer: Lord, I ask you this day to forgive me for my sins. They run deep. I do desire the joy that comes with drawing near to you. May I keep that in my heard, and love you and only you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Please allow your Holy Spirit to be in me and near me this day and every day, providing me with your strength, for I am weak and lowly, wholly reliant on you. Amen.

Usurping God's Names

Scripture: And now, in my vision, I saw a strange Creature rising up out of the sea. It had seven heads and ten horns, and ten crowns upon its horns. And written on each head were blasphemous names, each one defying and insulting God. Revelation 13:1

Observation: In one of the most metaphorical sections of the entire bible, a creature appears. The "creature" receives authority from the "dragon". Another "animal" also enters the picture. The animal orders that people worship statues of the creature, and by doing so the people in turn worship the dragon. Throughout this time - 42 months - people receive 'the mark', and those who fear the Lord instead are persecuted, imprisoned, and killed. We generally recognize that the dragon is satan, the creature is the antichrist, and the animal is the false prophet.

In all this, it is the creature that carries blasphemies, which defy and insult God. He has seven heads, and thus seven such blasphemous names. These are certainly titles - personas given to the antichrist - and are blasphemous because ... each and every one of them is actually a true characteristic of the Lord. These would therefore be both practical titles of the world, such as "king above all kings", and heavenly titles associated with spiritual truth, like "savior of the world".

Application: I spend a lot of thought on my sin, which I strive to overcome. However, I know the Lord's forgiveness can overcome my sin. What the Lord truly detests is blasphemy ... ascribing to someone or something else and worship, love, and honor reserved exclusively for the creator of heaven and earth.

The true downfall of the world comes when so many people will actively choose to worship and honor and obey a being, and that being is not God. They will reject giving their honor to a being of love, hope, respect, and mercy, and instead give it to a creature of fear, dread, and hate. They will marvel at "miracles" performed by living beasts, while rejecting thousands of miracles performed by God. They will celebrate the survival of a wound, while ignoring the resurrected Messiah.

This is how I know the great love of God ... he can forgive any and every kind of misdeed, but will act when the world blatantly rejects his every aspect of love and kindness in favor of a usurping beast.

Prayer: Lord, you, and you alone, are my protector, provider, redeemer, and father. You are the holy one, the strong tower, the cornerstone of life, and the one who sees me. You are the Lord, God almighty, savior. You are I Am, Yahweh, Jehovah. There is none who can every hold any title or position above you, as you are the Lord of lords. I will worship you, and and only you, forever and ever, and may whatever destiny thus awaits me be in your perfect hands. Amen.

Death for the Prideful Beasts

Scripture:

There are three stately monarchs in the earth—no, four:

The lion, king of the animals. He won’t turn aside for anyone.

The peacock.

The male goat.

A king as he leads his army.

Proverbs 30:29-31

Observation: This writer offers four wise animals - ants, badgers, locust, lizards - who are all small and seemingly modest, but he describes their wise qualities. He counters that with these four animals who are "stately monarchs". What we know of them is this.

The male lion does very little, and most are killed young or turned loose to die unless they become leader of their pack. The male peacock is absolutely grand to look at, but is farmed and killed because has little strength and almost no practical value. The male goat is solitary, mean and nearly untamable, and herders butcher most because they only need one or two to maintain their herd. A king looks most like a mighty leader when charging into battle, but is likely about to die in combat.

All four of these stately monarchs - looking proud and great - are actually likely to be of little use and will be killed shortly.

Application: This is the wise lesson of pride. Pride remains a trait a struggle with, and the writer makes it clear how better it is to be small, silent, but wise, than stately and prideful of my identity and position. In such an attitude, one dies, and often without being of any use.

How can I best serve the Lord? Likely by continuing in small roles - even those that may require skill and strength and wisdom, yet are hidden from the view of most. I feel these could be fun roles for me. I do know my work life is SO much better in such a position! I often wish it were not so, but I know the Lord has blessed me with a lesser role that has greater freedom. In the new year, I will seek similar roles again in service to my community.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for sparing my life when I was removed from any 'stately' position. It has been a blessing! I do not want to lead from positions of visibility, and I do not want to continue in any prideful attitude. Help me to find the humble work you need done for your kingdom here on earth. Amen.

Yahweh Sighs

Scripture: When the Lamb had broken the seventh seal, there was silence throughout all heaven for what seemed like half an hour. Revelation 8:1

Observation: The seventh seal is broken, and immediately ... nothing. Heaven goes silent. It has been a place filled with action, commotion, continual praise, shouts of celebration, appeals from martyrs, but now it goes completely silent. What happens next is the seven trumpet blasts. Even before they start, disaster is hurled at the earth from the alter of God, and then each blast brings successive destruction and death. So this silent interlude must be significant.

Application: I wonder ... did God just sigh in exasperation? Was this pause a moment where he finally grew weary of human behavior, and just sighed, shook his head, and decided now was the time for the end?

In verses 3-4, an angel adds incense to the alter that is wafting with the smoke of prayers rising to God. Did the prayers grow so weak, so faint, that incense was needed to keep the aroma appealing and ascending?

This would be consistent. The first six seals are broken, and brought issues and challenges to the world. The world has responded with ... attacks on Christians, open rejection of faith in Jesus, and a resulting diminishing in the amount of prayer to the point that the alter is no longer producing an appealing aroma to the Lord.

Yahweh knows the time has come to move the historical narrative to the next phase, so he closes his eyes and takes one last, big breath. He ponders the aroma of the prayers of the faithful. It is too faint. He slowly exhales, gently shakes his head, and opens his eyes to see ... all of heaven in silent trepidation for what they know is to come next. He gently calls for incense, and for seven trumpets to be given to the seven appointed angels, and all of heaven prepares for that which earth cannot prepare for.

Prayer: Lord, I know mankind exasperates you. We must. You love us all so much, and on our best days we mess up. Your faithful believers disobey your laws, commit sins, and lash out at our own brothers and sisters in pride and jealousy and impatience. Those who don't believe slip further into active rebellion and even hatred of you and your ways and of Jesus. Of course there must come a time when you sigh in pain, frustration, anger. Yet we know that sigh also represents the pain of your broken heart, for you desire all to come to you. I feel you are about to inhale. I am sorry for our failure, but I also thank you for your patience and your love and your blessings, and mostly for your promised salvation. We await Jesus' return. Amen.

First-Hand Experience of Evil Thriving

Scripture: Listen; you have said, "It is foolish to worship God and obey him. What good does it do to obey his laws, and to sorrow and mourn for our sins? From now on, as far as we’re concerned, 'Blessed are the arrogant.' For those who do evil shall prosper, and those who dare God to punish them shall get off scot-free." Malachi 3:14-15

Observation: The Lord is reviewing the ongoing poor behavior of mankind, and making reference to a future Messianic redemption. When the people ask "what did we do wrong?", this is one of the answers ... the people have effectively decided that doing whatever prospers them on earth must be "right" because the outcomes are positive, and God clearly doesn't punish them.

The Lord even knows that, on earth, evil often prospers, and there are those who consciously dare God to punish them and he does not ... on earth, in earthly terms, in their lifetimes. That isn't the final outcome, however.

Application: I see all around me those who not only do what is evil, but even know their actions are contrary to "Christian" rules. They see the positive outcomes, and therefore actively declare that either: a) their actions are truly good and it is Christian ideals that are outdated, wrong, or even evil; and/or b) since there is no punishment from God, God must not exist, or is 'dead', or at best doesn't care.

I don't just see this. I have been told it. And those who don't say it, either think it or have progressed so far in their evil thoughts that they aren't even aware that there might be a God-based conversation to be had about their ideals, behaviors, and thoughts.

When I read about the most evil places and times in the bible, so often the parallels to modern-day Pacific Northwest United States are shocking. May we somehow awaken this region.

Prayer: Lord, as much as I struggle with this mission field, where you have placed my family and my church, I also see how much we are needed here. Please send more helpers. Please give us strength to do your will. Please give us, and especially me and my family, protection in our hearts, minds, souls, and bodies, as we struggle to be different from those around us. Amen.

Ready for the End

Scripture: And when he broke open the fifth seal, I saw an altar, and underneath it all the souls of those who had been martyred for preaching the Word of God and for being faithful in their witnessing. They called loudly to the Lord and said, "O Sovereign Lord, holy and true, how long will it be before you judge the people of the earth for what they’ve done to us? When will you avenge our blood against those living on the earth?" Revelation 6:9-10

Observation: As the seven seals are opened, the faithful martyrs speak out. They explicitly ask God when he will pass judgment upon the unfaithful of the earth.

For centuries, believers have loved others and worked to deliver the gospel of Jesus, even to the point of being killed, for they knew it was the will of God to reach all and save as many as would believe. Therefore, this very moment represents a major change in the direction of believers. Even the martyrs who have given their lives to reach others, are asking ... isn't it time to stop this and pass judgment? Hasn't this effort run its course, and we can now let these people receive your justice?

Even the most faithful of all are ready for the end, and for the final fulfillment of God's love for humanity. The answer will be 'not yet, but soon', but the reason for delay is ominous ... it is not that there are more souls to be saved, but that there are more martyrs still to die.

Application: I believe the martyrs yet to join the numbers with white robes in heaven are ... the church in the U.S. We know all we need to know about the end times, and the rebellion against God that marks that time in history. And we certainly see exactly how modern times align to those times. So if now - or soon - is the time the martyrs of all time will ask for the end, and God will respond, "when the others have joined you," then the others must in fact occur.

Certainly we know the U.S. church is entering the time of persecution. It has absolutely begun, as both a movement against individuals and now a systemic movement against faith in Jesus Christ. Death for such faith occurs elsewhere in the world, especially in the eastern countries. There is no reason at all to assume we will avoid this in 'the west'.

I am ready for the end. I wish it would come before there is a wave of western martyrs, but I feel that is exactly what this delay is informing us about. And ... I am ready for the persecution, too.

Prayer: Lord, thy will be done. Please forgive me this day for my many sins, and further give me a new heart that repents of all sin and even grows bold in pronouncing my faith and confidence in Jesus more and more and more. I only hope that I may grow in my faith so much that, when the persecution comes, I am persecuted. Amen.

Needing God's Word

Scripture: Then I wept with disappointment because no one anywhere was worthy; no one could tell us what it said. Revelation 5:4

Observation: The Lord is holding a scroll with seven seals, yet no one can open it. We know what happens next ... the Lamb of God - Jesus - is deemed to be the only one worthy to open it. He will do so, and this begins the reflection of the end-times upon the earth. Yet in that interim, when it first appears no one can open the scroll, John cries over the mere fact that we may never know what God says in the scroll.

The word of God is this precious, that failing to have access to it is an emotional burden, bringing us to immense sadness and disappointment. Regardless what God has to say, we should need to hear it so badly that it moves us emotionally when we cannot.

Application: I do want God's word so much that I am moved emotionally. This must also apply to needing God's written words in the bible. I can want to "hear from" God all I want. At the same time, I should so want to read the bible and thus take in God's word and instructions that failure to find the time to do so would pain me emotionally.

I need God's word. I know when I have gone a day or two without it, and become depressed, anxious, and quick to anger. May I learn from this so that I actively seek God's word, and proactively find time in the bible daily.

Prayer: Lord, your word is a guiding light in my life, and I do know how I suffer mentally when I have not partaken of your word daily. May I remind myself if this daily, and seek time with you every day. Thank you for your great wisdom and teaching. Amen.

Holy, Holy are You Lord

Time for a Christmas remix.

Blessed with Just Enough

Scripture: O God, I beg two favors from you before I die: First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs! Proverbs 30:7-8

Observation: In this passage, the writer (Agur) asks for two things from the Lord. The first is spiritual repentance from lying, and the second is simply a comfortable life that will also put him in a position to remain faithful to the Lord's laws.

Wisdom is, then, reliance upon the Lord. We rely upon him for both justice and mercy. Since we rely upon justice, a wise person understands the benefits of avoiding sin and desires strength from the Holy Spirit to accomplish this. Since we rely on mercy, a wise person asks only for their basic needs to be fulfilled, so that they never feel proud of their own success, nor envious of others due to wanting more. It is this "just enough" condition that is ideal ... the goldilocks of blessing, if you will, is that we are comfortable but not rich. In this way, we continue to need daily blessing, but also continue to recognize that we receive such blessing, and thus can worship and honor the Lord more and more.

Application: Yesterday, my wife and I looked at a "dream house". It was ... 8 bedrooms, 20,000 square feet, with pools and grottos and fireplaces and ... everything, with even its own 60 acres of vineyard. Of course, it was more than we could ever hope to afford. We just looked at it online, for fun, and both even independently said to God that we knew it wouldn't even be good for us if we could afford such a place (and we absolutely can't).

I live in a great home, in a great location, near great friends, with everything I could ever need on a daily basis. And I know it is all from the Lord. There is no doubt in my mind that I have little to do with my day-to-day success in providing for myself and my family. Yet every day, the Lord provides.

I am comfortable. I have no need to pursue more. I praise God that I do not have less. And following he example of Agur, I can absolutely say that I ask the Lord for just this ... neither poverty nor riches. I have enough, and my needs are met. May I use it all to honor the Lord, and bless others as his will desires.

Prayer: Lord, you have blessed me beyond my hopes and dreams. I hope I in turn am a blessing to others. This day, please provide enough, and only enough. If you give us more, may you also show us where we should send that surplus to. Amen.

Focus on the Mercies, not Woes

Scripture: I have delivered you from death in a waterless pit because of the covenant I made with you, sealed with blood. Come to the place of safety, all you prisoners, for there is yet hope! I promise right now, I will repay you two mercies for each of your woes! Zechariah 9:11-12

Observation: The word of God continues to pronounce the salvation of all people. Though using the restoration of Judah as the context, this is a messianic prophesy that includes all elements of salvation. The Lord pronounces that he will deliver us from death ... he promises to save all people who choose to come to the place of safety and thus seek hope, and this is a promise sealed with blood. This promise is a promise of great mercy and blessing, as all will receive two mercies for each woe.

It is important, though, to recognize this two-for-one promise. Those who are saved are not promised to be spared from woes and hardships. In fact, the existence of such issues is effectively guaranteed. It might even be said that it is by the hardships of life that mercy is measured.

In understanding God's promise of salvation, this math - two mercies per woe - proves out. If our woes are our sins that deserve death, then every time we sin God's mercy is that he both forgives us, and restores us. If our woes are earthly hardships, God's mercy manifests as restoration of better circumstance, and opportunity to grow deeper in faith and service. Under any model, it is true that the Lord gives to us two blessings for every hardship we endure. Yet it remains important to understand that he does not promise to help us avoid all hardship.

Application: The blessings of my life can only exist in the context of a bleaker alternative. In many cases, I have lived through those alternatives, and I therefore know the love and blessings that have been given me by God.

This has been a year of hardships, and yet I know throughout I have been blessed to a ridiculous degree. In fact, most of my "hardships" are barely issues in truth ... they are more aptly described as personal inconveniences, and many have produced even better outcomes. The true 'woes' - like the death of my dad - have been simply the normal aspects of life, and themselves even cause to celebrate the glory of God.

I should truly be more focused on the Lord's great blessings, than on the anger stirred up in me by poor public policies and depressing news. These are generated from a source of evil, and thus should not be forefront in my mind. Instead, I embrace the Lord's promise ... and I will celebrate the two mercies I receive for each woe, rather than lament about the woe.

Prayer: Lord, your promises are great, and your love is profound. Yes, I know there are hardships, but your blessings that flow in response to those challenges are amazing. Thank you for your love and mercy. May I forever and ever celebrate and worship you. Amen.

A Very Simple Model

Scripture: Try to help those who argue against you. Be merciful to those who doubt. Save some by snatching them as from the very flames of hell itself. And as for others, help them to find the Lord by being kind to them, but be careful that you yourselves aren’t pulled along into their sins. Hate every trace of their sin while being merciful to them as sinners. Jude 1:22-23

Observation: Jude summarizes his instruction on interacting with non-believers in two verses. He structures this lesson in this manner:

- Intro ... Simply "help" those who argue against Christianity

--- Summary ... Show mercy to doubters

----- Method 1 ... In a few cases, fight against hell itself for their redemption

----- Method 2 ... In most cases, let them discover God's love by your kindness

--- Caution ... In engaging with non-believers, don't fall into the ways of the world

- Conclusion ... Hate sin, but love sinners

Application: I wish this could be summarized in every modern church, for it is so clear, so accurate, so simple ... and so not what most Christians try to do. Instead, we fight the world, denounce worldly actions that oppose Christ's teaching, publicly argue about sinful trends, and pronounce among ourselves the future curse upon the world. We do this while lamenting the world and longing for - and often actively pursuing - worldly possessions and comforts.

Jude made this simple. How am I doing at this simple model? I feel I have grown in this over the past few years. I feel I tend to respond with mercy toward doubters and those who actively argue against Christianity, I try to show them kindness, and have learned to separate the idea of sinful behavior from the person whom God loves despite their sin. However, I do love elements of the world, and I often return to my private home with anger and despair for our world that itself translates to anger toward certain individuals and groups.

I must continue to show - and truly feel - help, mercy, and kindness toward those who doubt Jesus. I must fight find the Lord's wisdom to fight against sin, but never fight against people, for I myself am a sinner (and far worse than many who don't believe). I should continue to improve in following Jude's very simple model.

Prayer: Lord, you ask so little of us as your people. You ask me to simply be kind to others, and in so doing to tell them of Jesus. You ask me not to sin, to show a certain hate toward sin, but to never direct that hate at a person. You ask me to just love. Please help me to do just that one thing better, for I know your will and your kingdom follows from just that attitude of love. Amen.

Promise Not of Might nor Power

Scripture: Then he said, "This is God’s message to Zerubbabel: 'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty—you will succeed because of my Spirit, though you are few and weak.'" Zechariah 4:6

Observation: As Zechariah is revealed information about how Jerusalem will be rebuilt, he hears this promise given to Zerubbabel, one of the men who will lead the reconstruction ... that the Lord will help he in this work, not by might, but simply by his spirit. The people themselves are weak, yet God will NOT give them strength. Instead, he will give them ... himself, the Lord's spirit, and this itself will produce success.

Application: How often have I asked the Lord for ... strength, power, authority, or might, in order to overcome a hardship or issue? While God could provide these things, there is something better, which is his own spirit. Compared to the Lord's spirit, might is weak. With his spirit, weakness is mighty.

The reconstruction of Jerusalem and the temple would be massively hard work, involving the movement of huge stones. Strength seems like an obvious need for success. God instead provided his spirit alone, and it prevailed. I should see these as a reminder of my struggles in life. I may desire some explicit assistance that seems relevant to the issue at hand, but the truth is that God's spirit is all I need. With his spirit, I can be successful in any endeavor that is of his will ... and I can therefore avoid even trying to accomplish anything that is not of his will.

Prayer: Lord, this day and every day, may I have your spirit to prevail in my life. May the Holy Spirit guide me, teach me, instruct me, and aid me. In this manner, should I please know what I am to do, and then have your own ability to do it. For I am weak and incapable, but you are great and all powerful. Amen.

Proper Judgment for Pride

Scripture: And you, his successor, O Belshazzar—you knew all this, yet you have not been humble. For you have defied the Lord of Heaven and brought here these cups from his Temple; and you and your officers and wives and concubines have been drinking wine from them while praising gods of silver, gold, brass, iron, wood, and stone—gods that neither see nor hear nor know anything at all. But you have not praised the God who gives you the breath of life and controls your destiny! Daniel 5:22-23

Observation: The hand has appeared and written on the wall, and Daniel is about to interpret the writing for King Belshazzar. It is a judgment of doom, which will be fulfilled that very night. Before interpreting, Daniel tells the king the reason for this sentence from God. Yes, Belshazzar has violated the Temple items. However, his sin is pride, his offense has manifested as worship of other gods, and all of this has occurred within a context of knowledge.

Belshazzar knew of the Lord based on the actions of Nebuchadnezzar. Yet he took the items of the Lord, and used them to honor other gods, as he believed he could ignore the dangers of judgment that could come from such an action.

Application: My pride is terrible. There are times I sin with full knowledge of my actions, and don't care. In this, I am worthy of only judgment and death.

Pride is the path to worship of earthly idols, and thus I must squash this tendency in myself. This is of primary importance in my life. My pride must be surrendered fully, and in all ways. No matter what, I will sin for I am human, but there is a difference between errors and willful dishonor of the Lord. It is only by my pride that the latter produces in me a mind to actively neglect the instructions of Jesus and the will of God.

Prayer: Lord, please forgive me for my sins, and especially for my pride. I know I am beneath almost everything and everyone on earth, yet I behave as if I am master of my own fate. May I repent of my pride and all the actions it creates. I seek your ways only, and hope to find my joy in your love alone. Amen.

The Water of Life

Scripture: He told me: "This river flows east through the desert and the Jordan Valley to the Dead Sea, where it will heal the salty waters and make them fresh and pure. Everything touching the water of this river shall live. Fish will abound in the Dead Sea, for its waters will be healed. Wherever this water flows, everything will live." Ezekiel 47:8-9

Observation: Ezekiel is being shown the waters that flow from the temple; from the Lord. They flow out as an eastbound stream. As this stream goes, it gets deeper ... it's water is not used up but increases! When it reaches the deadest place of all, life becomes abundant and supports a thriving lifestyle. When Ezekiel looks back, more and more life emerges, with trees that produce abundant, never-ending fruit and medicinal leaves. Everyone who comes to this river - a river that grows and grows and nurtures life in abundance - is provided for and thrives.

Application: I love this river!! It is the river of the Lord's love, his promise, and the pouring forth of his blessing through the Messiah. As the Gospel - the news of salvation from God through faith in Messiah - goes out, the trickle of that news becomes a mighty provision of salvation, which brings the dead to life, restores hope, and feeds the souls of (now) billions and billions.

I live on the shores of this river. I am a fish in the Dead Sea ... where I once was, dead and unable to survive, I now thrive. I am a child splashing and playing in fresh water, enjoying a bite of fruit when I please, and lounging carefree in the shade of a tree that never withers.

I so wish I could truly be at that river right now. I wonder if my dad is there today. He liked camping by the water.

Prayer: Lord, may your river always flow through my home, giving life to my family and I. May we enjoy that river, but also add to it and cause it flow even greater to our neighbors, our community, and our city. I love your river, your love, and your salvation found in Jesus. Please say 'hi' to my dad as he now gets to enjoy this river in heaven. Amen.

Love One Another

Let's have some fun today!

Understanding Government Compliance

Scripture: For the Lord’s sake, obey every law of your government: those of the king as head of the state, and those of the king’s officers, for he has sent them to punish all who do wrong, and to honor those who do right. 1 Peter 2:13-14

Observation: Peter is writing primarily to believing Jews who have not been fully scattered and incorporated into the Roman empire. He advises them on the balance between faithful behavior and government compliance. He has told them they are to behave well as examples for others, and to continue their faith as the new generation of priests in - and the building blocks of - the Church of Jesus Christ.

Now, he addresses governmental compliance. Believers are to obey the laws of government. That said, there is a caveat here ... these laws are designed to punish those who do wrong, and honor those who do right. This is clearly discussing common behavioral law. He is writing at a time when Caesar demands worship of himself, and he is certainly not condoning that. Rather, there is a hierarchy. This is, obey the Lord as the faithful priests of Jesus, then obey the behavioral laws of government as members of this society.

Application: Last week, our governor issue an order that explicitly says "congregation singing is prohibited". I posted on social media my ideas about this, which is ... the Lord commands us to sing and praise him personally, publicly, and congregationally, and I will be obedient to the Lord first. This Sunday, our church sang at every service as an act of obedience to the Lord.

Did this violate Peter's instructions? Certainly not. Peter is discussing right laws that enforce societal peace and prosperity. Peter's instructions are in the context of all other writings, which place the teachings and precepts of Jesus first. There is no ambiguity about this.

For years, I have been thinking about the coming oppression of the church in the United States. The fact our government publicly issued a decree that violates every law we have about government intervention in religion, and in general society said "yes" without even blinking an eye, tells us where we are in this journey toward oppression. It has arrived, right on the coattails of several government laws opposed to God's laws and will. I have also been thinking about where we will draw the line ... where the Church will know which government rules it must not accept ... how we can differentiate between disliking laws that defy scriptural laws, versus laws that directly impact our alignment to the Lord.

Fortunately, when that moment has come, it was obvious ... we absolutely cannot quietly accept an order to not worship the Lord.

As Peter - along with Jeremiah and Jesus before him - instructed, there are government rules we will obey. However, in matters that directly contradict the Lord, I will be obedient to the Lord.

Prayer: Lord, I feel the die is cast. This first order was small, but it was the reaction of others that was the telltale sign. There was total acceptance by the masses. By this I see the path is before us. Please, Lord, give me, my family, my church, and all your faithful followers, the strength to walk your path. Amen.

Faith Results in Action

Scripture: Dear brothers, what’s the use of saying that you have faith and are Christians if you aren’t proving it by helping others? Will that kind of faith save anyone? James 2:14

Observation: James dives into the discussion of "works" with this question ... if faith doesn't result in the action of helping others, "will that kind of faith save anyone?" He is speaking quite literally, as he then gives an example of a person who speaks a word of blessing for someone who is cold and hungry, instead of providing them with food and clothes.

Faith results in action, and the most worthy action is to help - and to thus save - others. The saving of others can be in tangible, earthly ways that result in actual saving of them from unhealthy situations. It can also of course be in guiding them in faith and thus saving their eternal hope. In whatever case, James is very clear that faith results in action, and that without that responding action faith itself is ... unproven, dead, useless, unreal, incomplete, and potentially even unacknowledged by God himself.

Application: I do service in the church, but am I doing the work that "saves" others?

Every day, I should be finding ways where I can help others practically. This isn't just about being nice, but about doing activities that address real-life, tangible issues. Aiding the poor is an obvious start. Leaning into the personal challenges many are facing today, with the loss of income and isolation from others, is an immediate need requiring action. These are actions I should look for every day, and at all times.

Prayer: Lord, may I do your work today, beyond just service. I have faith in you, and desire that, more and more, that faith will manifest through work that saves others. Amen.

Recounting a Story of Faith

Scripture: Well, how much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon and Barak and Samson and Jephthah and David and Samuel and all the other prophets. Hebrews 11:32

Observation: As the writer of Hebrews recounts the faith of the Jews, he recounts both individuals by names and acts throughout scripture. He explicitly names 13 people, plus recounts at least 11 scenarios (some of which are actually done many times, like kings who ruled well and leaders who won battles). The situations are long and various ... he names those like Abraham and Moses and David, but also Rahab. He recounts the explicit protection upon Daniel in the lion's den, and the general faith of those who walked through the parted sea.

The story of the Lord and his actions is a story of faith. It is a story of God acting within human circumstance whenever someone trusts in him and turns their situation over to his will. Even those who experience pain do so with the faith of restoration, and time and again we see that God does this. When people believe in the Lord and place their faith in him, the Lord provides.

Application: I believe this truth with all my heart ... the Lord provides. I have seen this truth manifested so many times that I believe it as much as I believe I am sitting here right now. His provision has and is and always will be real. His provision is both earthly and spiritual; he gives me all I need, and abundantly more, in my daily life, while comforting my heart and mind whenever I reach out to him.

I am reminded today that I could see the Lord in my life even more if I were to express my faith even more. The more faith I exhibit - by surrendering thoughts and issues and decisions to him and seeking his will - the more of his goodness will be delivered. I am not talking about more earthly blessing, for I have abundantly more already than I deserve, but rather his goodness would be in his presence, his spirit, his comfort, his joy, his peace, and his love.

Prayer: Lord, this week I have felt a bit stressed and overwhelmed again, and begun to wonder again at my abilities. I do not need to wonder, for certainly I know my abilities are insufficient and meaningless. However, I know by faith that you are with me, and you will guide me, and you will provide. May I surrender my shortcomings to you, for I know you are able to do all things. Amen.

Prayer of Peace and Prosperity

Scripture: Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces. This I ask for the sake of all my brothers and my friends who live here; and may there be peace as a protection to the Temple of the Lord. Psalm 122:6-9

Observation: The psalmist expresses this prayer for Jerusalem ... peace within the city, and prosperity for those who live there. The purpose of this prayer is to benefit three entities ... brothers, friends in the city, and the Lord's house.

Application: In this very chaotic time, this same prayer is what I wish - and what many wish - for our cities and our nations. First, that there be peace within our cities, and prosperity for those who live in our communities, neighborhoods, and nation. We are praying this because we want those around us, and especially our friends, to live good and safe lives.

However, it is the last element of this passage that resonates, which is ... we also want to the Lord's house - his church - to have peace and protection. There continues the very likely threat that this will not be the case. I expect that, very soon, the attitudes of our society will continue to evolve until there is outright hostility toward Christianity, with that hostility manifesting as action against the church and those of faith.

We pray for peace throughout our land, and the primary purpose is so that the church may continue in safety, and in turn continue to safely reach others with love, aid, and the good news.

Prayer: Lord, I do pray this day for peace and prosperity in Bothell, in Washington, in the pacific northwest, and in the United States. May there be peace within our land, and within all our homes. I pray this for the sake of coworkers, friends, family, and brother and sisters in Christ. And I pray this for the safety of your church. Amen.

When We See Messiah

Scripture: The Lord God says: "I will take a tender sprout from the top of a tall cedar, and I will plant it on the top of Israel’s highest mountain. It shall become a noble cedar, bringing forth branches and bearing seed. Animals of every sort will gather under it; its branches will shelter every kind of bird. And everyone shall know that it is I, the Lord, who cuts down the high trees and exalts the low, that I make the green tree wither and the dead tree grow. I, the Lord, have said that I would do it, and I will." Ezekiel 17:22-23

Observation: At the beginning of this prophesy, God gave Ezekiel a 'riddle' about a sprout from the top of a tree, then explained it. The sprout was the first wave of exiles, removed from Judah, and given the chance to thrive and survive. However, their leaders then went against their sworn oath - an oath sworn by God's own name - and will now be destroyed.

After explaining all of that in detail, God pronounces that there will later be another, second sprout. This sprout will be different. It will be planted high for everyone to see. It will send out many huge branches. It will produce seed, and thus foster life. It will provide shelter and shade and comfort for "every" living creature. By this tree, everyone will learn of God. And God declares this is something he will do.

As the first three sprout is a metaphor, so is the second. The second is Messiah, planted upon the line of David, spreading throughout the world via the church, providing the life-giving message of salvation by faith, which is a promise meant for the entire world.

This is further instantiated by the very next topic - brought up out of the blue - which is the punishment of sin, whereby God directly says he will forgive and let live anyone who turns away from sin. He further clarifies that this is all about an individual choice, and not about punishing parents for children's actions for vice versa. This is EXACTLY the gospel ... total forgiveness of our past, and eternal life, by making the personal choice to turn to obedience in the Lord (now by faith in Jesus instead of the Law).

Application: I love seeing Jesus show up in the old testament! It is so amazing to reinforce the truth of scripture ... that God explicitly said he has a plan for salvation, and that plan occurred. God says "I will plant a metaphorical tree that will provide life for everyone everywhere", and Jesus now provides life for everyone everywhere.

The Lord said he would do it ... and he did!!

Prayer: Lord, you are so amazing in all respects. Your wisdom, love, justice, and mercy are apparent and abounding. You permeate our lives. May I never fail to worship you and glorify you in song and praise and thanks, for by your greatness you have saved me. Hallelujah to the Lord God almighty! Amen.

Hope in the Possibility of Many

Scripture: "Son of dust," he said, "you live among rebels who could know the truth if they wanted to, but they don’t want to; they could hear me if they would listen, but they won’t." Ezekiel 12:2

Observation: Ezekiel is being given prophesy to tell the exiles, which are actually warnings of what is about to happen to those still living in Jerusalem. The Lord repeatedly calls them "rebels" for they continue to sin and to disobey the Lord. This is not because their hearts are hardened, or because God isn't trying to correct and teach them. In this verse, the Lord explicitly says ... the ability to correct their lives is something they possess. The could know the truth, and they could hear from the Lord. However, they don't want to. They don't listen.

This is all part of the reclamation effort of the Lord. Back in Jerusalem, Ezekiel even saw the people there accuse the first-wave exiles of being evil ... they were the ones carried off, after all. Instead, the remaining people continue to sin greatly, and are about to be brutally destroyed. Meanwhile, the exiles have been told to repent, correct their actions, love the Lord, and settle into their new situation until some future time of redemption. But they aren't listening. Some have completely turned to worshiping Babylonian gods. Some simply lament their situation. Few have accepted correction and returned to the Lord.

Here, the Lord clearly says they could return to him. They could still have great lives - albeit in a different place - if they would return to the Lord. They aren't listening yet. They don't want to return to God yet. But they could.

Application: I have spent many days pondering the despair that - perhaps - our nation cannot be restored. It is possible that God will choose a downward path for our region. However, God also reminds me today that this is NOT about a nation, a government, a city ... it is about people, about souls, and any number of people can still return to the Lord. It is their choice. They can accept Jesus. They can listen to the message of salvation.

Okay, most in this area don't want to accept Jesus. Most won't listen. However, there is hope for some, and eventually some will become more, and more will become many. I may be living in the time "some", but I must maintain hope for many.

Prayer: Lord, today I pray again into our small community of Bothell and the light was are about to try to shine during the holidays. I believe we do affect lives through our Christmas lights, and this year will be very, very different. There is absolutely no doubt that I live among rebels who don't want to know the truth. However, we are trying to give them the opportunity to listen. May thy will be done, and your message heard, in this season. Amen.

Salvation is a Promise

Scripture: He has given us both his promise and his oath, two things we can completely count on, for it is impossible for God to tell a lie. Now all those who flee to him to save them can take new courage when they hear such assurances from God; now they can know without doubt that he will give them the salvation he has promised them. Hebrews 6:18

Observation: The Lord has in fact declared promises and taken oaths, swearing them by his own name. One such promise is this - he offers salvation to all who place their faith in Jesus Christ as Messiah. If we believe in the Lord, then it is not possible to disbelieve this truth, for it is a sworn promise.

Application: There are elements of life with which I struggle and find difficulty, even when I attempt to surrender them to God. These doubts can grow and become more general, and even yesterday I had an internal dialogue about how someone may "lose" their salvation. The writer of Hebrews reminds me this very day that ... the Lord himself, by his very name, and promised salvation to all who have faith.

And I have faith! I may wonder about daily events and long-term outcomes, but I know the Lord God almighty is the creator of heaven and earth, and that Jesus Christ is his son and my savior. I could do better - regarding my behavior, my thoughts, and my fears - but the promise is stronger and bigger than anything else.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your great promise. You are holy. May I too worship you seven times a day, for I love your laws, I love your mercy, I love your love, and I love your promise. Amen.

The Point Is We Must Try

Scripture: "Son of dust," he said, "I am sending you to the nation of Israel, to a nation rebelling against me. They and their fathers have kept on sinning against me until this very hour. For they are a hard-hearted, stiff-necked people. But I am sending you to give them my messages—the messages of the Lord God." Ezekiel 2:3-4

Observation: The Lord has arrived and chosen Ezekiel to be his prophet to the exiles. The reason for this call is stated here ... the exiled Jews have continued to sin against God even after the first defeat by the Babylonians and their removal from Jerusalem. These are a people familiar with prophesy that, if they did not correct their ways and honor Yahweh, they would suffer. They have received written instructions from Jeremiah to live well in this new land but to continue to honor and serve the Lord. They have witnessed the leadership of Daniel and others, who have remained faithful to the law and in return actually been honored with position in the king's court.

And yet, they continue to sin against the Lord. This phrase - to 'sin against' God - is most commonly used to directly apply to idol worship and the honoring of other gods. Therefore, it is clear that these people have seen their land destroyed, family members killed, themselves dishonored, their livelihoods and homes taken away, their very bodies removed by force to a new place ... and have actively decided to keep right on doing the very thing they have been told is the cause of all this. Now Ezekiel will warn them further, but even the Lord knows they still won't change.

Application: This is probably the one aspect of evangelism I worry about the most in this dark region of the world ... that no matter what we say, and how true it is, the people will absolutely not listen. However, to that point, Ezekiel is the evidence that ... we are still to evangelize.

In his very commission, Ezekiel was warned the Jews are stubborn and rebellious (verses 2:4, 2:5, 2:6, 3:7, 3:8, 3:9) and straight-up told they won't listen to him (verses 2:7, 3:6, 3:7, 3:11). I get this point ... this is a hopeless mission. However, I also get this point ... God is not only commanding Ezekiel to do it anyway, but then holding him accountable if he doesn't at least try.

And that is the point here, in the pacific northwest. At least we must try to tell others the gospel. We must try to love a community that actively celebrates sin. We must try to give hope to a people group that actively rejects and rebels against God. We must try to live our own lives as a light in this dark place. Even if we were directly told that it would never, ever change (and we have NOT been told that), we must at least try.

Prayer: Lord, please give your Church throughout this land the strength it needs today. May your will be done, and as that will is to spread the good news of Jesus to all people, help us to find a way to have that voice today and in the trying and difficult, and maybe even dangerous, weeks to come. Amen.

Entering the True Promise

Scripture: This new place of rest he is talking about does not mean the land of Israel that Joshua led them into. If that were what God meant, he would not have spoken long afterwards about “today” being the time to get in. So there is a full complete rest still waiting for the people of God. Hebrews 4:8-9

Observation: As the writer of Hebrews discusses entry into the promise of salvation by faith, he clarifies that this entry is not the same event as entering the promised land. However, simply by echoing back to that event, he is by reference comparing the two.

When the Jews first went to the promised land, they were denied entry for one reason ... lack of faith. They didn't believe God could give them the land, despite having recently witnessed him defeating Egypt. For this reason, they were not allowed in, forced to wander for a time. That generation never entered the land, but rather it was the next generation who did not directly witness the Lord's mighty hand that entered the promised land.

In turn, it remains this faith that Jesus defines as entry to the promise of life. Faith - belief in Jesus and in turn in God - is the cost of admission. Until we have that faith, we wander this earth ... and whoa to anyone who, when placed in a situation to embrace that faith, instead turns away.

In the end, it seems this is the warning of the author of Hebrews. There are Jews who have now heard about Messiah, may even be part of those who consider themselves part of the believers, however in their hearts they don't actually "believe". They understand the concepts, they know the scriptures and the prophets, but they fail to place their faith in Jesus.

Application: This is the heart of what we have been discussing at church. There are "Christians" who are not coming to church out of fear. This is troubling. Only God knows their heart, and certainly there are reasons to be careful in certain circumstances given every individual's health issues. However, there is clearly a test of faith taking place.

Again, only the Lord knows the hearts of others. It is clear, though, that this is a time when everyone must decide the nature of their belief. Is it just a logical understanding, or is it faith?

Prayer: Lord, I pray for my friends and those about me who have not yet re-engaged in church. May their faith emerge, even stronger than before. Help them past their fear, and please move their hearts to show their faithful resolve. Amen.

Signs of Spiritual Attacks

Scripture: You have seen the plots my foes have laid against me. You have heard the vile names they have called me, and all they say about me and their whispered plans. See how they laugh and sing with glee, preparing my doom. Lamentations 3:60-63

Observation: The author is noting for God the actions of his personal enemies. He discussed his prior imprisonment from which he was saved, but these are the more secret actions of those opposed to him. They secretly plot. They call him names. They talk about him in whispers with plans of how they will destroy him. They take outward pleasure in the very thought that they will cause his doom.

Application: It was two years ago that I was in my darkest place. At the time, I struggled mightily with doubt ... never doubt about the Lord, but about myself, my life. Yes, the Lord showed me correction during that time. However, the Lord also comforted with insights that what was occurring was not entirely worldly. The attack on me was incited spiritually. I had a right to be angry about it. And I was seen by God even when isolated.

There is a kind of attack where people have open conflict ... we have seen that very often lately. However, there is a kind of spiritual attack that involves groups in secret. They create plots. They light - and then stoke - the hate of their target. They start lies by whispering among themselves. They find glee in the idea of destroying a person's life. This is exactly what happened to me.

I am absolutely not the person I was two years ago. I have a different direction of my life, and my new direction is so much more aligned to the Lord's plans. I am happy for the course correction - both professionally and within my heart - I received from God. Today, I am thankful of the reminder that all of this was in fact a spiritual attack, and that my Lord absolutely delivered me. My Lord ... my father ... is a faithful, merciful, and loving God.

Prayer: Abba, I thank you for your love. It is a love so great that it corrects me when I need it, but sustains me at all times. Your love never fails. Please, this day and for all my days to come, take my hand and lead me. I have no desire to figure out my life for myself anymore, ever. May I only be your servant, where you would have me, doing what you desire. Amen.

Showing Christ to Others

Scripture: And I pray that as you share your faith with others it will grip their lives too, as they see the wealth of good things in you that come from Christ Jesus. I myself have gained much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because your kindness has so often refreshed the hearts of God’s people. Philemon 1:6-7

Observation: In his letter to Philemon, Paul gives a greeting, then gives the purpose and body of his letter (the issue of Onesimus). However, in the transition, Paul describes Philemon's faith. He is a person who both actively tells others of Jesus, and reflects of love of Jesus toward others. In this, everyone sees the "wealth of good things" that come into a believer's life. This wealth may in fact be material riches, but more likely - and more importantly - it is this tremendous love and kindness that pours out of Philemon. This is a love so great and that Paul himself has received, and feels that way over and over when he simply recalls and prays for Philemon.

Paul describes this loving kindness as joy and comfort. He calls it refreshing. He states that it touches the hearts of God's people. He calls it a source of good things, and not just a small source but a wealth ... a rich overflowing of goodness. He points out that it grips the lives of others as part of the gospel message.

This is what happens when someone really shows Christ to others. The gospel isn't about a story, it's about a feeling. It is love poured out, and when it is truly the love of Christ it impact people emotionally (joy and comfort), physically (refreshing and overflowing), and spiritually (gripping their very lives). Philemon had a tremendous spiritual gift that manifested in this very way.

Application: Can I - or my church - really impact others this way? I know some of us can, as I have seen people come to Christ with such emotion that it demonstrates this joy and refreshment and overflowing goodness.

Philemon did this with a love that pointed directly back to Jesus. This is the key I need ... to care for others with love, but not a love that is of me, but a love that is of Jesus.

Prayer: Lord, as I serve others, be it on Sunday, or today at work, or in any other activity, may I become a way for your love alone to shine through. May others not see me, but see you alone. Amen.

You Met Me in a Desperate Place

I was running from a past that wouldn't let go.

I was praying to a god that I didn't know.

Everything's painted in a shade of 'new' ever since I met you!

One Scary Reply for Help

Scripture: The Lord replied: "Look, and be amazed! You will be astounded at what I am about to do! For I am going to do something in your own lifetime that you will have to see to believe. I am raising a new force on the world scene, the Chaldeans, a cruel and violent nation who will march across the world and conquer it." Habakkuk 1:5-6

Observation: Habakkuk has a conversation with the Lord in two parts. In part 1, Habakkuk wonders when the Lord will take action and correct the sins of Judah, and the Lord replies ... he has raised up the Chaldeans, who are going to destroy everyone and everything. (In part 2, Habakkuk wonders why God would allow evil to win, and God clarifies that the Chaldeans themselves will then be destroyed. Habakkuk responds to all this with a chapter of praise.)

God introduces his judgment with hopeful words ... look, be amazed, be astounded, I am doing something new, it will happen soon, you have to see it to believe it!! Then he describes it ... terrible and evil people are going to cruelly attack, destroying everything, killing everyone, and there is no hope for escape.

This seems incongruous. However, it aligns to Habakkuk's line of questioning. Habakkuk calls attention to the behavior of Judah, a people who have devolved into total rebellion against the Lord. They commit every act of sin and oppression, with no path toward improvement. Habakkuk "calls for help" and wonders how long until the Lord listens (v2). Perhaps the help he wished for was more along the lines of a leader to correct the people. However, the people are well beyond that state.

Application: I know so many Christians who are praying for our people, our country, our land, our leaders. We point out systemic sin, evil, oppression, hatred, and conflict. We all seek God's redemption, reawakening, and revival of our nation and in fact of all people on all the earth. The ask of God is that he will bring his Spirit with great might, to stir the hearts of all and turn everyone back to him, his laws, and his love. God could do this ...

... or God could wipe our country away. He could do so with a wave of evil that will literally kill and destroy everything. He would certainly then wipe that evil out, but that is an action for later.

We seek the Lord's attention, asking him to see the circumstances around us, and call for his help. May we also have the faith to praise him when that help arrives to eliminate the evil, regardless what form it takes.

Prayer: Lord, you are in control, on your throne. You know the circumstances of the people in this land, and certainly you have plans for what will happen next. My your will be done. Amen.

When the Lord Promises

Scripture: On February 25 of the thirty-seventh year of the imprisonment in Babylon of Jehoiachin, king of Judah, Evil-merodach, who became king of Babylon that year, was kind to King Jehoiachin and brought him out of prison ... And he was given a regular allowance to cover his daily needs until the day of his death. Jeremiah 52:31,34

Observation: For years and years, Jeremiah has detailed the horrors and punishments that will befall Judah if they fail to repent, and prophesied about how Babylon will destroy their nation for their sins. He (or likely a disciple who added to the conclusion of the writings after his death) then briefly chronicles that all this came to pass, however ends the large book with a postscript about Jehoiachin. Jehoiachin - the king taken into captivity during the first wave of exile - is released from prison, restored to the status of a feudal king, and allowed to live out his days in comfort in Persia.

It isn't clear why this changed, but it is significant enough to add it to the teachings of Jeremiah ~26 years after the final and total destruction of Judah. The significance is likely not in the honor bestowed upon Jehoiachin representing hope for the restoration for Judah, for that did not change the fate the people who would remain in exile another 40+ years. And the significance is likely not a symbol of Jewish integration into the Persian lifestyle, for there is no real indication of such concept in the narrative.

It may be, however, that the significance is in the promise of the Lord. In the end, after all that has happened, the very last thing to happen is recognition that the line of David remains king of Israel, even acknowledged by foreign captors. The Lord has promised this, knowing that it will culminate with the Messiah's eternal reign, so even in the darkest time ... when Israel and Judah are defeated, the temple completely destroyed, Jerusalem burned, and the people killed and removed from the land ... there is proof that God's promises remain in tact.

Application: The Lord's word is completely assured. He has promised that our faith in Jesus provides us with eternal life in heaven, and that Jesus will one day return to restore this fallen world and bring peace to all the earth. Even in this dark time - a time of terrible anger, crippling fear, cultural violence, and lost hope - these promises are unchanging.

We may not understand how the Lord will fulfill the promises. We may not see how such promises can even be fulfilled. And certainly our own rebellion creates other scenarios that the Lord must address, which can cloud the path the future and make the future promises appear impossible. However, we have seen that even when the people of Israel were utterly and completely wiped from the face of the earth, they still had a king of the line of David ... a promise directly tied to worldwide salvation.

Prayer: Lord, your promises are assured. May I always have faith in your love, your hope, and your promise of salvation by faith. It would be great to be delivered from these dark times, but it is good to know that non of this alters the future we have with you. Amen.

Doing Things that are Wrong

Scripture: But God’s truth stands firm like a great rock, and nothing can shake it. It is a foundation stone with these words written on it: "The Lord knows those who are really his," and "A person who calls himself a Christian should not be doing things that are wrong." 2 Timothy 2:19

Observation: Paul's teaching to Timothy is very simple ... Timothy is to do God's work, and do it well, steering clear of things that distract from the work or are contrary to the gospel of Jesus. Paul ties the ideas of both teaching the proper message about Jesus, and working hard to perform that teaching while living well in the church community, directly to the judgment of God. Those who work well will be honored, and those who mislead and work poorly will be judged in the context that perhaps they never truly believed.

These instructions cannot be presented more simply that this statement ... Christians should not be doing things that are wrong.

Application: I do things wrong EVERY day. Sometimes, very clear and bad things that I know are wrong. I lie, I lust, I hate ... and in doing so, my true faith must be scrutinized by God. If I can be SO disobedient to Jesus, is he really my Lord?

Yes he is, but I have terrible self control of my mind (also a warning in Proverbs today). This is a fruit of the spirit I lack, and I desperately need it.

Prayer: Lord God, father, please fill me with the Holy Spirit more and more every day. I surrender to your will, and truly wish to surrender every aspect of my daily living to the guidance of the Spirit. I know in my pride I have resisted in the past, and this hurts me often now. However, I also know you have been patient with me, providing more and more of your Spirit and your word measure by measure. I wish to be filled. May my willpower not be mine, for I am weak. May I instead have only your Spirit-lead control governing my self, my thoughts, and my actions. Amen, and amen.

Balancing the Church Mission

Scripture: Some may deny these things, but they are the sound, wholesome teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ and are the foundation for a godly life. 1 Timothy 6:3

Observation: Paul indicates to Timothy that the lessons he is teaching are sound even though others may deny them. This comes in the midst of a conversation about money and how it is earned, especially by ministers and pastors. Overall, he makes the following points:

-- Pastors do work for the church and therefore should be paid by their congregation.

-- Everyone should work well and diligently in whatever work they have.

-- Some (like old widows) need care, but some shouldn't but instead have other means.

It seems that perhaps there have been arguments in Ephesus that boil down to cash flow in the church. Maybe ... I'm don't know this so I'm only interpreting here ... those of poorer status don't want to work because they believe the church community should care for them, having "rich" people share their wealth ... and meanwhile the well-off, resenting this, don't want to share with the church community to the point that they resist even funding the life of the pastor.

There is a balance to be found, summarized in verse 5 Paul says some people see the gospel as a means to having money. The mission of the church is to pronounce the good news of Jesus. Believers are to love others, many of whom are destitute and should be cared for. However, we cross a line when those who can provide for themselves instead fall back on the church for their care, as they are now turning the mission of the church into a welfare organization.

Application: I have a passion for evangelism, and thus I struggle when I see church resources spent on internal ministries. This of course is also because I struggle with loving others enough to appreciate their need.

This is a balancing issue that clearly has always existed in the church. It comes down to individual accountability, and the decision of individual believers to overcome situations in their lives and serve Jesus. Some need help to do this, and should receive that help. However, many should eventually move beyond that, and contribute to - rather than rely upon - church care.

We all need love from the community, and care from the church involving love is something I should lean into more. My over-pivot on this issue does not bring "balance" to the church, either.

Prayer: Lord, please fill me with your love this day. Amen.

Differentiating Rules and Solutions

Scripture: A widow who wants to become one of the special church workers should be at least sixty years old and have been married only once. ... So I think it is better for these younger widows to marry again and have children and take care of their own homes; then no one will be able to say anything against them. For I am afraid that some of them have already turned away from the church and been led astray by Satan. 1 Timothy 5:9,14-15

Observation: Paul provides Timothy with some guidance on the role and treatment of widows. He wants them to be cared for, but also in turn to serve the Lord by serving the church as well as respected and honored members. They are to have a special role. However, this has guidelines. They are to meet certain requirements (married once, good children, etc.).

Meanwhile, younger widows should remarry. Otherwise, Paul thinks that, due to their youth, they will have more energy and more friends, and thus become gossiping busy-bodies and thus garner negative reputations.

All of this is very clearly specific to the situations in Ephesus and Timothy's circumstances. It is not a commentary on all females in all history. The rules themselves have no bearing on God's laws (note the provision of being married only once, which really has no meaning in the context of God's laws). It would be impossible to interpret this passage as a definitive rule to be observed by the Church for all time.

Application: There are elements of Paul's letters that are designed to clarify the proper teachings of Jesus - and in turn the scriptures and laws and prophets - and other elements that are guidance for how to consider a circumstance or situation and apply Godly wisdom to it. In these cases, it is the prayerful application of spiritual guidance - and not the situational guidance itself - that is to be learned by us in the church.

God's precepts and laws provide instruction for my life. Paul's example of considering situational guidelines for personal circumstances should also be considered. These do not become universal rules ... they may only apply even to me.

I have a problem with pride. There are laws that apply to that. However, what other solutions could I apply to myself to help? I could ... pray before every business meeting to clear my mind and attitude ... or pause and ask clarifying questions before judging others' statement. These aren't laws or rules, but they could aid my circumstances.

Prayer: Lord, I desire your situational guidance to aid me, today and every day. Amen.

No Action is Required

Scripture: And Gedaliah assured them that it would be safe to surrender to the Babylonians. "Stay here and serve the king of Babylon," he said, "and all will go well for you." Jeremiah 40:9

Observation: Judah is destroyed. Not everyone was deported, but Gedaliah has been appointed regional governor and he tells the remnant it is okay to stay and serve Babylon. They won't. One of the leaders will kill Gedaliah.

The rest will go to Jeremiah and ask him what they should do and where they should go escape the likely justice of Babylon. Jeremiah prays, and God's answer is, if they flee to Egypt, they will die. Instead, they are to stay for he will protect them. They won't. They'll flee to Egypt and die.

There is a recurring narrative at this stage, which is God - through various messages - telling the people to stay, relax, and simply settle into their lives, and the people refusing. At every turn after the first defeat of Jerusalem and the first wave of exiles, God's message is that the remnant - and even the exiles themselves - will be fine, if they simply return to a simple life and again put their faith in God. No action is required. However, they try to act over and over, rebelling and then fleeing, and incurring further wrath and punishment from both Babylon and God.

Application: I say this today ... I am done figuring out my own action. That is ironic, given how little I have managed and directed my own life in the past. However, it is also true that it worked out well, and I absolutely know that God has always directed the path of my life perfectly. When I have tried to define my own goals and create my own way, I have instead failed.

God has authority over the path of my personal and professional life. He may tell me to stay. He may tell me to go. He may tell me to move on, or he may tell me to settle in. I pray I am strong and wise enough to listen with all my heart and all my mind and all my soul and all my strength, every time.

Prayer: Lord, you have before told me to stay, and I have tried to go. I now wonder what I should do next. Instead of taking any action, I will only pray and listen. Please give me clear instruction. If I am to stay, please tell me so. If I am to go, please give me your word to do so without an earthly motivation. Amen.

Defining False Christian Doctrine

Scripture: As I said when I left for Macedonia, please stay there in Ephesus and try to stop the men who are teaching such wrong doctrine. Put an end to their myths and fables, and their idea of being saved by finding favor with an endless chain of angels leading up to God—wild ideas that stir up questions and arguments instead of helping people accept God’s plan of faith. 1 Timothy 1:3-4

Observation: After addressing this letter - from Paul to Timothy, whom he declares he looks upon as a son - the first instruction from Paul to Timothy is this ... to address false doctrine. Interesting, he also clearly defines what the false doctrine is, which is the attempt to find favor with heavenly being that are lesser than God.

The false doctrine is NOT about things we often think are the false teachings of the day and hear about in other letters, like ... denying the lordship (or humanity) of Jesus, reliance on Hebrew law, rejection of apostles, intermixing of local religious practices with church gatherings, denial of spiritual gifts. Instead, the issues in Ephesus are ... procedural rules about access to God. Some leaders have created a process for being saved that involves appealing for favor to others who are not Yahweh, presumably one of whom is Jesus, before one can receive salvation from God. In other words, their a gatekeepers between us and God, perhaps either the greatest or last of whom is Jesus, and we need their permission to access the Lord.

This is manifestly untrue and contrary to all teaching. We have direct access to God, and receive salvation through faith that Jesus is his son who died for our sins. It's one belief, not a complex process.

Application: This false doctrine applies to SO much today. We have "Christian" organizations with defined procedures about progressive beliefs, multiple levels of salvation, and appeals to those who are not God. I'm not talking about praying to saints, but rather those organizations that introduce saints, angels, ancestors, or even spouses as some kind of tiered gatekeepers involves in seeking God.

However, we also have non-Christian belief systems similarly wrong. There are belief systems that provide processes, procedures, or rules for pursuing "peace" or "enlightenment" or "transcendence" or even some kind of access to an afterlife. They speak of pursuing a life that will somehow create the right scenario for some kind of future life.

Paul was clear ... this is all wrong. There is one salvation, and it is both easy to achieve and open to all. It doesn't involve tiers, or procedures, or sub-level representatives of heaven.

Prayer: Lord, you have so many mysteries in the universe, but your love for us is not one of them. You have provided us with your love, and with your desire to relate directly with us. I seek your face, and I seek your hand to hold as I walk on your path today. Thank you for salvation through faith. Amen.