Scripture: Now Ahaziah fell through the lattice of his upper room in Samaria, and was injured; so he sent messengers and said to them, "Go, inquire of Baal-Zebub, the god of Ekron, whether I shall recover from this injury." 2 Kings 1:2
Observation: Ahab's son becomes king but is seriously injured, so we wants to know his fate. This is his order, to send a messenger to Ekron - one of the key Philistine cities along with Ashdod, Ashkelon, and Gaza - to inquire of their "god of flies". Instead, at the instruction of the Lord, Elijah will stop the messengers and indicate that they are doing this because there is no faith in Samaria, and pronounce Ahaziah's impending death.
Ahab took Israel to new depths of Godlessness, not just allowing other gods, but turning the people to actively worship other gods and terrible practices, while also actively expelling remnants of Yahweh and persecuting those who believe. The only known act of his only son is to seek advice from their enemy's god. Israel may have surviving prophets and priests, and likely many who still have faith, but their 'cultural norm' is comprised of idol worship and pagan rituals and meaningless chants all designed to manifest the things they want in life.
This is Israel. They were a nation that could honor God and receive anything they wanted. Less than 100 years prior, with a culture to honor the Lord, they were rich throughout their land with total peace on all sides. That is all gone, because they actively sought to have lives without God anywhere near them, and certainly not part of their daily lives
Application: The United States is huge, and thus does not have one culture. However, I live in a region of the country exactly like Samaria. There are believers here, and we thrive and serve and worship and carry joy into our communities. However, our culture is so removed from God that he is not in any way part of a daily consciousness. Elected leaders scoff at the idea of prayer. The largest celebrations are about Godless practices and celebrating sin ... I don't mean people sin during them, they actually sing praises for the sin. When we hit a situation no one can solve - like, say, a neighborhood walling itself off and declaring rebellion - not one leader prays about it or discusses the idea of appealing to the Lord for guidance.
I hear other areas of the country are different ... but I know some are the same as well. Certainly, the crossroads are here, and we need revival. Continuing on this path - where everyone not only rejects God but actively worships Godless alternatives and earthly pursuits as a way of achieving fulfillment and pleasure and happiness - ends poorly every time.
Prayer: Lord, please intervene and save our nation and our land. Many of us are here in what feels more and more like a hostile land. May we serve you well, driving your word and your love into our communities. And as your wrath is to come, please remember your faithful servants. Amen.
Tuesday, June 30, 2020
Monday, June 29, 2020
Most Idols are Earthly Concerns
Scripture: And about that time there arose a great commotion about the Way. For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, who made silver shrines of Diana, brought no small profit to the craftsmen. Acts 19:24-23
Observation: As Christianity spreads in Ephesus, a conflict emerges because craftsmen who make their money by creating idols are worried about losing their income. They will incite riots, and long-term become a major issue for the church in Ephesus.
For some in the crowd, this emerging confrontation is about belief systems ... about their belief in the goddess Diana and their city's responsibility to protect the temple dedicated to her. However, for most, this is about income to be lost when visitors no longer pilgrimage to the temple, and no longer purchase replica idols. In fact, even for those worried about their belief system, they likewise express concern over a loss of reputation - not just revenue - if the rest of the Greek work stops believing in Diana, as their city's status would be diminished.
Application: When the Lord tells me to have no other gods before him, he is not just talking about false gods. While there are many people who pray to idols with their own names whom they believe will bring them certain things in life, what the Lord is most concerned about is ... our pursuit of those certain things in life becoming our true gods.
God is telling us to not pursue wealth, pleasure, family, comfort, home, long life, etc. ahead of pursuing a relationship with him. This is true whether our way of pursuing such things is by praying to false gods, taking normal yet earthly actions, or by prioritizing earthly practices, ahead of him.
In Ephesus, the people were prioritizing their pursuit of honor and money ahead of their faith ... faith in Jesus, OR God, OR Diana even ... they didn't really care about any belief system as much as they cared about how that system could improve their earthly lives. Is there a thing on earth where I am doing the same? Is there some aspect of life I have prioritized - either by deed or attention - ahead of God? I no longer prioritize any job or personal status ahead of the Lord. I sometimes worry about money, yet I also have faith in how God provides for me and my family (maybe not enough faith as I sometimes do worry, but still improving). I care about my wife and children but also pray about their faith.
God isn't always my first thought, and certainly my thought life could be more Christ-centric. This is an area of improvement I should consider. And no matter what, I must take care to never allow anything other than God and Jesus to be a primary consideration in my life.
Prayer: Lord, you are my salvation, and also my only Lord. I have no other gods, and I desire to ensure I do not create a god of any earthly thing like money. I trust in your provision, not in anything I can earn, and I will hold such provision with an open hand so you can direct its use. Amen.
Observation: As Christianity spreads in Ephesus, a conflict emerges because craftsmen who make their money by creating idols are worried about losing their income. They will incite riots, and long-term become a major issue for the church in Ephesus.
For some in the crowd, this emerging confrontation is about belief systems ... about their belief in the goddess Diana and their city's responsibility to protect the temple dedicated to her. However, for most, this is about income to be lost when visitors no longer pilgrimage to the temple, and no longer purchase replica idols. In fact, even for those worried about their belief system, they likewise express concern over a loss of reputation - not just revenue - if the rest of the Greek work stops believing in Diana, as their city's status would be diminished.
Application: When the Lord tells me to have no other gods before him, he is not just talking about false gods. While there are many people who pray to idols with their own names whom they believe will bring them certain things in life, what the Lord is most concerned about is ... our pursuit of those certain things in life becoming our true gods.
God is telling us to not pursue wealth, pleasure, family, comfort, home, long life, etc. ahead of pursuing a relationship with him. This is true whether our way of pursuing such things is by praying to false gods, taking normal yet earthly actions, or by prioritizing earthly practices, ahead of him.
In Ephesus, the people were prioritizing their pursuit of honor and money ahead of their faith ... faith in Jesus, OR God, OR Diana even ... they didn't really care about any belief system as much as they cared about how that system could improve their earthly lives. Is there a thing on earth where I am doing the same? Is there some aspect of life I have prioritized - either by deed or attention - ahead of God? I no longer prioritize any job or personal status ahead of the Lord. I sometimes worry about money, yet I also have faith in how God provides for me and my family (maybe not enough faith as I sometimes do worry, but still improving). I care about my wife and children but also pray about their faith.
God isn't always my first thought, and certainly my thought life could be more Christ-centric. This is an area of improvement I should consider. And no matter what, I must take care to never allow anything other than God and Jesus to be a primary consideration in my life.
Prayer: Lord, you are my salvation, and also my only Lord. I have no other gods, and I desire to ensure I do not create a god of any earthly thing like money. I trust in your provision, not in anything I can earn, and I will hold such provision with an open hand so you can direct its use. Amen.
Friday, June 26, 2020
More Evil than All Before
Scripture: Now Ahab the son of Omri did evil in the sight of the Lord, more than all who were before him. And it came to pass, as though it had been a trivial thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, that he took as wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal, king of the Sidonians; and he went and served Baal and worshiped him. 1 Kings 16:30-31
Observation: The stage is being set for the destiny of Israel. Yes, Jeroboam started Israel on a path of rebellion against God, but it was Omri who is first said to have done more evil than all the kings before him and who built Samaria, and now Ahab his son arrives. Ahab marries Jezebel, who will guide Ahab into full Baal worship. Together, they will kill all the prophets, causing Yahweh to raise up the greatest prophet since Moses - Elijah - to directly contest and correct Ahab.
Ahab is so evil that the "sins of Jeroboam" - worshipping secondary gods like Asherah - are now "a trivial thing" compared to the acts of Ahab. Ahab and Jezebel are on a path to reject the Lord himself by fully rejecting him and adopting a completely different god as their national religion. Yes, God will directly confront this action ... not just with invading armies and lost land, but with the powerful words, confrontational actions, and nation-altering miracles of Elijah.
Application: I can't help but wonder where our nation is on the road of rejecting the Lord. Certainly we have fallen from the nation that once declared its entire hope was in the providence of the Lord, and who would partake in nationwide prayer and fasting in time of need. Today, our national leaders are more likely to view 'faith' as a point that may or may not sway votes. Local leaders are much more likely to scoff and degrade God and his will for mankind as if they are educated beyond such myths.
Is the Lord confronting us? Perhaps. I don't see a new Elijah, but of course he already did that in the form of John the Baptist, and thus it is that the good news of Jesus, communicated by the Church, that is to be the confronting force of our time.
And how are WE doing at that? Are we standing before the powers and speaking truth? Are we even aware that we are in a time where the evil being done is "more than all who were before" us?
Maybe we are doing all we can, and maybe just like with Israel it ultimately won't dissuade the nation from its path. But we are to try.
Prayer: Lord, I ask today that you give your universal Church the power, authority, and courage of Elijah. May we declare your love, your truth, and your ways before all earthly authority, be they heads of family or national leaders. We desire to see revival in the United States, and we know that is the only way to correct the issues before us. May it not be too late. Amen.
Observation: The stage is being set for the destiny of Israel. Yes, Jeroboam started Israel on a path of rebellion against God, but it was Omri who is first said to have done more evil than all the kings before him and who built Samaria, and now Ahab his son arrives. Ahab marries Jezebel, who will guide Ahab into full Baal worship. Together, they will kill all the prophets, causing Yahweh to raise up the greatest prophet since Moses - Elijah - to directly contest and correct Ahab.
Ahab is so evil that the "sins of Jeroboam" - worshipping secondary gods like Asherah - are now "a trivial thing" compared to the acts of Ahab. Ahab and Jezebel are on a path to reject the Lord himself by fully rejecting him and adopting a completely different god as their national religion. Yes, God will directly confront this action ... not just with invading armies and lost land, but with the powerful words, confrontational actions, and nation-altering miracles of Elijah.
Application: I can't help but wonder where our nation is on the road of rejecting the Lord. Certainly we have fallen from the nation that once declared its entire hope was in the providence of the Lord, and who would partake in nationwide prayer and fasting in time of need. Today, our national leaders are more likely to view 'faith' as a point that may or may not sway votes. Local leaders are much more likely to scoff and degrade God and his will for mankind as if they are educated beyond such myths.
Is the Lord confronting us? Perhaps. I don't see a new Elijah, but of course he already did that in the form of John the Baptist, and thus it is that the good news of Jesus, communicated by the Church, that is to be the confronting force of our time.
And how are WE doing at that? Are we standing before the powers and speaking truth? Are we even aware that we are in a time where the evil being done is "more than all who were before" us?
Maybe we are doing all we can, and maybe just like with Israel it ultimately won't dissuade the nation from its path. But we are to try.
Prayer: Lord, I ask today that you give your universal Church the power, authority, and courage of Elijah. May we declare your love, your truth, and your ways before all earthly authority, be they heads of family or national leaders. We desire to see revival in the United States, and we know that is the only way to correct the issues before us. May it not be too late. Amen.
Thursday, June 25, 2020
Caring About Family Influence
Scripture: And he reigned forty-one years in Jerusalem. His grandmother’s name was Maachah the granddaughter of Abishalom. Also he removed Maachah his grandmother from being queen mother, because she had made an obscene image of Asherah. And Asa cut down her obscene image and burned it by the Brook Kidron. 1 Kings 15:10,13
Observation: After Rehoboam, son of Solomon, Abijam reigns. He does evil and is king only three years. After him, Asa becomes king, does right in the eyes of the Lord, and reigns 41 years ... one year longer than David.
Abijam's mother was Maachah. Asa's grandmother was Maachah, and his mother is not named. When it is declared that Asa did right, it clarifies that he banished those doing wrong, and removed the idols that previous kings had made (which would be Solomon, Rehoboam, and Abijam), with specific attention to Maachah and the Asherah idol she created.
There is a problematic lineage being called out, and it seems to trace to Maachah and maybe Abishalom. They enter the royal family not under David and Solomon, but when Rehoboam marries Maachah. Rehoboam did evil, but this influence either augmented or even motivated that issue. It then afflicts Abijam, and is only broken finally by Asa ... the fifth generation from Abishalom.
Application: It matters who influences us and our children. I am SO very blessed to have been connected by God with my wife, a person who fulfilled God's promise to me and then influences me to be better. This certainly wasn't guaranteed to be the case for my life.
I pray for the same for my children, that they be connected with friends and spouses that will influence them properly, and that they in turn may be that influence to others. Rehoboam failed at this, and it impacted both him and his son. May that not be the case in my family.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray this day for my children. They have major events and decisions ahead of them, and I know your hand will guide them and direct their paths. May they have good friends who advise them well. May they find great partners who will love you and them, in that order. I have entrusted them into your hands before, and I still do. Amen.
Observation: After Rehoboam, son of Solomon, Abijam reigns. He does evil and is king only three years. After him, Asa becomes king, does right in the eyes of the Lord, and reigns 41 years ... one year longer than David.
Abijam's mother was Maachah. Asa's grandmother was Maachah, and his mother is not named. When it is declared that Asa did right, it clarifies that he banished those doing wrong, and removed the idols that previous kings had made (which would be Solomon, Rehoboam, and Abijam), with specific attention to Maachah and the Asherah idol she created.
There is a problematic lineage being called out, and it seems to trace to Maachah and maybe Abishalom. They enter the royal family not under David and Solomon, but when Rehoboam marries Maachah. Rehoboam did evil, but this influence either augmented or even motivated that issue. It then afflicts Abijam, and is only broken finally by Asa ... the fifth generation from Abishalom.
Application: It matters who influences us and our children. I am SO very blessed to have been connected by God with my wife, a person who fulfilled God's promise to me and then influences me to be better. This certainly wasn't guaranteed to be the case for my life.
I pray for the same for my children, that they be connected with friends and spouses that will influence them properly, and that they in turn may be that influence to others. Rehoboam failed at this, and it impacted both him and his son. May that not be the case in my family.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray this day for my children. They have major events and decisions ahead of them, and I know your hand will guide them and direct their paths. May they have good friends who advise them well. May they find great partners who will love you and them, in that order. I have entrusted them into your hands before, and I still do. Amen.
Tuesday, June 23, 2020
Considering the Necessary Things
Scripture: For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Acts 15:28-29
Observation: The council of Jerusalem has acknowledged that gentile believers need not adopt the laws of Judaism. They have acknowledged that the ritualistic practices of the Jews, along with the understood laws about clean and unclean things, is a stumbling block, not a requirement. However, they do define four things as "necessary", which are one moral law (sexual immorality) and three rules about food. That is not to say these are the only laws, only that the original question was about ritualistic practices. Therefore, these necessary laws really involve three elements:
1) Our Lord commands us to have no other gods, therefore you must not be anywhere near food used as rituals to those other gods and idols.
2) Our savior Jesus absolved us from sacrifices, therefore you have no need to adopt any practice that involves ritual killings and consumption of animals.
3) Our way is about loving one another, therefore you must treat each other with honor and respect and proper relationships, and thus sexual morality is proper.
Application: Today, the church - at least some denominations - has volumes of documents trying to summarize every detail about living. Yet the first Church summarized it all in about 150 words ... believe in the Lord God the Creator of heaven and earth, have faith and trust in Jesus as your savior, and love (properly relate to) one another.
Yes, they called out one "sin" above the others, and certainly I could rant about that point given the issues in the PC(USA) I once had to address. However, I would rather focus on the positive message just as the first believers did. There are necessary truths, and they are straightforward ... Love God, love Jesus, love one another.
If everything I did every day simply aligned to those three things, I certainly could never go wrong.
Prayer: Lord, may I be better focused this day and every day on these three things. I love and believe in you, oh Lord my God, and I love and have faith in Jesus, my Lord and savior. I strive to love others properly, and I know I am less consistent with this. Please soften my heart. Amen.
Observation: The council of Jerusalem has acknowledged that gentile believers need not adopt the laws of Judaism. They have acknowledged that the ritualistic practices of the Jews, along with the understood laws about clean and unclean things, is a stumbling block, not a requirement. However, they do define four things as "necessary", which are one moral law (sexual immorality) and three rules about food. That is not to say these are the only laws, only that the original question was about ritualistic practices. Therefore, these necessary laws really involve three elements:
1) Our Lord commands us to have no other gods, therefore you must not be anywhere near food used as rituals to those other gods and idols.
2) Our savior Jesus absolved us from sacrifices, therefore you have no need to adopt any practice that involves ritual killings and consumption of animals.
3) Our way is about loving one another, therefore you must treat each other with honor and respect and proper relationships, and thus sexual morality is proper.
Application: Today, the church - at least some denominations - has volumes of documents trying to summarize every detail about living. Yet the first Church summarized it all in about 150 words ... believe in the Lord God the Creator of heaven and earth, have faith and trust in Jesus as your savior, and love (properly relate to) one another.
Yes, they called out one "sin" above the others, and certainly I could rant about that point given the issues in the PC(USA) I once had to address. However, I would rather focus on the positive message just as the first believers did. There are necessary truths, and they are straightforward ... Love God, love Jesus, love one another.
If everything I did every day simply aligned to those three things, I certainly could never go wrong.
Prayer: Lord, may I be better focused this day and every day on these three things. I love and believe in you, oh Lord my God, and I love and have faith in Jesus, my Lord and savior. I strive to love others properly, and I know I am less consistent with this. Please soften my heart. Amen.
Monday, June 22, 2020
Sheba Models the Seeker
Scripture: Then she said to the king: "It was a true report which I heard in my own land about your words and your wisdom. However I did not believe the words until I came and saw with my own eyes; and indeed the half was not told me. Your wisdom and prosperity exceed the fame of which I heard." 1 Kings 10:6-7
Observation: The queen of Sheba comes to Solomon to investigate his wisdom for herself, and finds that he is exceedingly more wise than she was even told. She did not believe the original reports, but in seeking the truth found the truth to be even better and greater. In the process, Solomon answers ALL her questions and nothing was too difficult (v3). She hears not only this wisdom, but also sees the joy of the king's household and even those who serve (v5,8), and is impressed to the point that she surrenders her own spirit to this truth (v5).
The queen heard that the Lord had blessed Solomon with this great wisdom ... she was curious (v2) but full of doubt (v7). What she discovered was even greater than she had heard, revealed to her by both wisdom about all things in creation, and the attitudes of the people enjoying that wisdom.
The queen of Sheba is a seeker. She has come with both serious doubts, but also a dose of curiosity, about ... creation, the world, the purpose of life, and a God who may have defined it all, with a person who might be granted the wisdom to reveal it. She does not believe, but is open to learn. And she discovers the truth about every aspect of her life, even beyond what she had been prepared to ask about. Further, she sees goodness and love flowing from that wisdom through the behavior of the believers. And she therefore believes in Yahweh, declares him good, honors him through gifts to his people, and will return home with knowledge to share about his goodness and love.
Application: This is the Old Testament model of what we would want to present to seekers who come to church. We would want them to see wisdom and love - to hear answers to the questions of their lives and purpose - while observing the joy, peace, happiness, and friendship of believers who are already there.
We are in a time where there are SO many questions about ... what in the world is going on in creation! There are questions about ... ethnic conflicts, historic prejudice, tragic disease, cultural collapse, personal anxieties ... everything. And there are people who strongly doubt that there are any logical answers or eternal wisdom to resolve any of this, and certainly don't believe a Christian who might tell them to "just believe in Jesus."
But yet ... oh, that they may be curious enough to just come and seek ... to put questions in their hearts, and then spend the time to listen for the answers. And not just one hour or one day; the queen of Sheba certainly invested months in her journey of discovery. Yet if it is only for one hour, the Lord's wisdom can still address their questions.
Prayer: Lord, as we reopen all our churches of in-person attendance, please send those who doubt, who have questions, who do not believe, and who even reject, but yet have questions. When seekers arrive at church, may the behavior of the believers already there exhibit the existence of wisdom. May our love and joy model a hope that transcends the current earthly issues, and opens up those who come to their curiosity. And I know your wisdom, your love, and your truth will reign. Amen.
Observation: The queen of Sheba comes to Solomon to investigate his wisdom for herself, and finds that he is exceedingly more wise than she was even told. She did not believe the original reports, but in seeking the truth found the truth to be even better and greater. In the process, Solomon answers ALL her questions and nothing was too difficult (v3). She hears not only this wisdom, but also sees the joy of the king's household and even those who serve (v5,8), and is impressed to the point that she surrenders her own spirit to this truth (v5).
The queen heard that the Lord had blessed Solomon with this great wisdom ... she was curious (v2) but full of doubt (v7). What she discovered was even greater than she had heard, revealed to her by both wisdom about all things in creation, and the attitudes of the people enjoying that wisdom.
The queen of Sheba is a seeker. She has come with both serious doubts, but also a dose of curiosity, about ... creation, the world, the purpose of life, and a God who may have defined it all, with a person who might be granted the wisdom to reveal it. She does not believe, but is open to learn. And she discovers the truth about every aspect of her life, even beyond what she had been prepared to ask about. Further, she sees goodness and love flowing from that wisdom through the behavior of the believers. And she therefore believes in Yahweh, declares him good, honors him through gifts to his people, and will return home with knowledge to share about his goodness and love.
Application: This is the Old Testament model of what we would want to present to seekers who come to church. We would want them to see wisdom and love - to hear answers to the questions of their lives and purpose - while observing the joy, peace, happiness, and friendship of believers who are already there.
We are in a time where there are SO many questions about ... what in the world is going on in creation! There are questions about ... ethnic conflicts, historic prejudice, tragic disease, cultural collapse, personal anxieties ... everything. And there are people who strongly doubt that there are any logical answers or eternal wisdom to resolve any of this, and certainly don't believe a Christian who might tell them to "just believe in Jesus."
But yet ... oh, that they may be curious enough to just come and seek ... to put questions in their hearts, and then spend the time to listen for the answers. And not just one hour or one day; the queen of Sheba certainly invested months in her journey of discovery. Yet if it is only for one hour, the Lord's wisdom can still address their questions.
Prayer: Lord, as we reopen all our churches of in-person attendance, please send those who doubt, who have questions, who do not believe, and who even reject, but yet have questions. When seekers arrive at church, may the behavior of the believers already there exhibit the existence of wisdom. May our love and joy model a hope that transcends the current earthly issues, and opens up those who come to their curiosity. And I know your wisdom, your love, and your truth will reign. Amen.
Friday, June 19, 2020
For God So Loved the World
Come to the well that never runs dry.
Drink of the water, come and thirst no more.
Drink of the water, come and thirst no more.
Thursday, June 18, 2020
The Voice of God's Enemies
Scripture:
Arise, O God, plead Your own cause;
Remember how the foolish man reproaches You daily.
Do not forget the voice of Your enemies;
The tumult of those who rise up against You increases continually.
Psalm 74:22-23
Observation: The psalmist is crying out for the Lord to take action against those who are enemies of God. This is more than just wishing the enemies defeated, but that the Lord himself would do it .. that he would personally arise and "plead" his own cause, putting down the vocal and even riotous enemies that blaspheme and speak out daily against God.
Application: We discussed last night how good is now considered bad and bad considered good. That the people have a spirit of lawlessness ... their actions that directly oppose God's teaching are respected and celebrated, while humble service is defined as evil and weakness.
I would love to see God himself correct this. I would love to see a supernatural event so specific and strong that it was undeniably the work of the Lord, which would upend all the wild and lawless people. Of course, that would be misinterpreted by others who likewise oppose - or at least ignore - the Lord.
This day, the tumult of those who rise up against the Lord increases continually. I wish it would end.
Prayer: Lord, I often wish for you to remember my faith. Today, the psalmist prays that your remember the voice of your enemies. You are both fully merciful and fully just, and I rely on you for my correction and direction. May your authority be shown today. Amen.
Arise, O God, plead Your own cause;
Remember how the foolish man reproaches You daily.
Do not forget the voice of Your enemies;
The tumult of those who rise up against You increases continually.
Psalm 74:22-23
Observation: The psalmist is crying out for the Lord to take action against those who are enemies of God. This is more than just wishing the enemies defeated, but that the Lord himself would do it .. that he would personally arise and "plead" his own cause, putting down the vocal and even riotous enemies that blaspheme and speak out daily against God.
Application: We discussed last night how good is now considered bad and bad considered good. That the people have a spirit of lawlessness ... their actions that directly oppose God's teaching are respected and celebrated, while humble service is defined as evil and weakness.
I would love to see God himself correct this. I would love to see a supernatural event so specific and strong that it was undeniably the work of the Lord, which would upend all the wild and lawless people. Of course, that would be misinterpreted by others who likewise oppose - or at least ignore - the Lord.
This day, the tumult of those who rise up against the Lord increases continually. I wish it would end.
Prayer: Lord, I often wish for you to remember my faith. Today, the psalmist prays that your remember the voice of your enemies. You are both fully merciful and fully just, and I rely on you for my correction and direction. May your authority be shown today. Amen.
Wednesday, June 17, 2020
When One Fights God's Will
Scripture: Then he said, "You know that the kingdom was mine, and all Israel had set their expectations on me, that I should reign. However, the kingdom has been turned over, and has become my brother’s; for it was his from the Lord." 1 Kings 2:15
Observation: Adonijah thought he would be king and rallied leaders and people to him, but David had declared Solomon to be his heir. With Solomon now king, Adonijah tries to re-manipulate the situation ... he asks Bathsheba to petition Solomon to give him Abishag as his wife, knowing that if the marries David's concubine it will reestablish his claim to the throne.
Yet in verse 15, we see that Adonijah already understands that Solomon is king not because of lineage or even because of David's declaration, but because the Lord decided it. He admits he is the right traditional heir, but the Lord gave the kingship to Solomon. By this confession, it is clear Adonijah isn't trying to overcome Solomon or under David's decree, but rather he is actively opposing God's will and instructions. And it is this act that directly leads to his death this very day. Adonijah wasn't killed for attempting to usurp the throne or lead others in a coup while David was even still alive, but rather he is killed because he set his heart on a plan to undue the Lord's decision.
Application: While doing wrong can - and is - forgiven, actively and knowingly fighting against the Lord is the ultimate wrongdoing. Given how we receive information and instructions from the Lord via the Holy Spirit, this seems the equivalent of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.
This isn't about sinning in a way you know is a sin. This isn't about living a sinful lifestyle. This isn't even about being ignorant of God's laws and precepts and instructions. It is about clearly and personally knowing God's will, and deciding you are going to actively attempt to overturn that will.
I know I sin, and I pray for forgiveness. I know I do not understand God's plan and directions, and I likely proceed in ways he does not approve. I know I likely fail to do what he wishes I would do. However, I have no intention of fighting against God's understood plans. I look for those plans, and sincerely hope to then align to them.
We live in days where God's plan can feel hidden. We struggle to understand how deadly plagues, hate-filled riots, financial ruin, and the resulting constant fears of society can be considered in the same thought as our loving God's purposes. But we are confident he does have a plan, and when that is revealed I must be ready to embrace it and find my assignment within it. I do not seek my path through this time, but the Lord's alone.
Prayer: Lord, thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. May I forever seek your will alone, and put aside my own thoughts and plans for life. Earlier today I prayed to you about what I would like, but please know those are just honest words in our conversation. I will receive gladly from your hand whatever you have for me, for your ways are far above mine, and I trust in your love forever. Amen.
Observation: Adonijah thought he would be king and rallied leaders and people to him, but David had declared Solomon to be his heir. With Solomon now king, Adonijah tries to re-manipulate the situation ... he asks Bathsheba to petition Solomon to give him Abishag as his wife, knowing that if the marries David's concubine it will reestablish his claim to the throne.
Yet in verse 15, we see that Adonijah already understands that Solomon is king not because of lineage or even because of David's declaration, but because the Lord decided it. He admits he is the right traditional heir, but the Lord gave the kingship to Solomon. By this confession, it is clear Adonijah isn't trying to overcome Solomon or under David's decree, but rather he is actively opposing God's will and instructions. And it is this act that directly leads to his death this very day. Adonijah wasn't killed for attempting to usurp the throne or lead others in a coup while David was even still alive, but rather he is killed because he set his heart on a plan to undue the Lord's decision.
Application: While doing wrong can - and is - forgiven, actively and knowingly fighting against the Lord is the ultimate wrongdoing. Given how we receive information and instructions from the Lord via the Holy Spirit, this seems the equivalent of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.
This isn't about sinning in a way you know is a sin. This isn't about living a sinful lifestyle. This isn't even about being ignorant of God's laws and precepts and instructions. It is about clearly and personally knowing God's will, and deciding you are going to actively attempt to overturn that will.
I know I sin, and I pray for forgiveness. I know I do not understand God's plan and directions, and I likely proceed in ways he does not approve. I know I likely fail to do what he wishes I would do. However, I have no intention of fighting against God's understood plans. I look for those plans, and sincerely hope to then align to them.
We live in days where God's plan can feel hidden. We struggle to understand how deadly plagues, hate-filled riots, financial ruin, and the resulting constant fears of society can be considered in the same thought as our loving God's purposes. But we are confident he does have a plan, and when that is revealed I must be ready to embrace it and find my assignment within it. I do not seek my path through this time, but the Lord's alone.
Prayer: Lord, thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. May I forever seek your will alone, and put aside my own thoughts and plans for life. Earlier today I prayed to you about what I would like, but please know those are just honest words in our conversation. I will receive gladly from your hand whatever you have for me, for your ways are far above mine, and I trust in your love forever. Amen.
Tuesday, June 16, 2020
Walk Like a Man
Scripture: I go the way of all the earth; be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. And keep the charge of the Lord your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgments, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn. 1 Kings 2:2-3
Observation: David's final instructions to Solomon begin with this. While later they include very specific instructions about how to treat a couple key individuals, David begins by telling Solomon to obey the Lord. He is to keep his statutes and commandments, obey his judgments and decisions, the to know the Lord's testimony and stories of greatness. Solomon is to know the information as written in the Torah.
In doing this there are actually two outcomes, on stated before the instructions and the other after the instructions. The second outcome is that Solomon will prosper at the hand of God. The first outcome is that Solomon prove himself to be a strong man.
Obedience to the Lord requires a true strength. The ways of the world often seem easier, especially given the pressure of others who encourage other behaviors, decisions, language, and thoughts. David had been tempted - and sometimes succumbed to - the ways of the world. He knows Solomon will stumble, but is encouraging him not to fall. By knowing and following God's laws, Solomon can then obey and in this manner prove himself.
Application: Of all the ways our society today describes a "manly man", obedience to the Lord is never on the list. Yet it is probably the only legitimate proof of manhood.
How will I prove my manhood today? This week? Over the next few decades? Will I do it with success at work, or bold speaking, or by leading others for glorious purpose? Or will I do it by praying publicly, or worshiping boldly, or telling others of Jesus? Will I defeat other strong people, or love the least of these around me?
I am going to start by caring about the fear in our land today, and not by mocking that fear or thinking less of the fearful, but by encouraging and aiding those in fear as they will allow. This is the charge of the Lord my God today. I will walk in his ways.
Prayer: Lord, the God of Israel, of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob, of David, and of all creation, you are the Lord my God. As a man, I will obey you and your statutes, commandments, and precepts. I will love you, and I will love others. Amen.
Observation: David's final instructions to Solomon begin with this. While later they include very specific instructions about how to treat a couple key individuals, David begins by telling Solomon to obey the Lord. He is to keep his statutes and commandments, obey his judgments and decisions, the to know the Lord's testimony and stories of greatness. Solomon is to know the information as written in the Torah.
In doing this there are actually two outcomes, on stated before the instructions and the other after the instructions. The second outcome is that Solomon will prosper at the hand of God. The first outcome is that Solomon prove himself to be a strong man.
Obedience to the Lord requires a true strength. The ways of the world often seem easier, especially given the pressure of others who encourage other behaviors, decisions, language, and thoughts. David had been tempted - and sometimes succumbed to - the ways of the world. He knows Solomon will stumble, but is encouraging him not to fall. By knowing and following God's laws, Solomon can then obey and in this manner prove himself.
Application: Of all the ways our society today describes a "manly man", obedience to the Lord is never on the list. Yet it is probably the only legitimate proof of manhood.
How will I prove my manhood today? This week? Over the next few decades? Will I do it with success at work, or bold speaking, or by leading others for glorious purpose? Or will I do it by praying publicly, or worshiping boldly, or telling others of Jesus? Will I defeat other strong people, or love the least of these around me?
I am going to start by caring about the fear in our land today, and not by mocking that fear or thinking less of the fearful, but by encouraging and aiding those in fear as they will allow. This is the charge of the Lord my God today. I will walk in his ways.
Prayer: Lord, the God of Israel, of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob, of David, and of all creation, you are the Lord my God. As a man, I will obey you and your statutes, commandments, and precepts. I will love you, and I will love others. Amen.
Monday, June 15, 2020
Finding Jesus when Seeking Help
Scripture: But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. Acts 9:37-38
Observation: Dorcas (Tabitha) dies, and the people of Joppa send for Peter. There was no precedence to assume Peter could raise Dorcas to life, therefore there is an unanswered question about why they sent of Peter to now come to Joppa. This is further complicated by the concept that Peter's work in Lydda, while it involved healing of at least one cripple, mostly involved the conversion of many people to Jesus, and this does not appear to be the motivation for calling him to Joppa.
Instead, the motivation might be found in the vacuum of Dorcas' departure. She was a woman who cared for the disadvantaged, and even when Peter arrives the primary action of others is to tell him and show him of Dorcas' care for others. It seems possible, then, that what the people of Joppa had heard about was the great community of care that Peter had established in Lydda, and perhaps he could come and help them fill the void in their community.
To put it more pointedly ... and yes there is a lot of supposition to this ... the people in Joppa had learned that, in Lydda, was there was teacher showing others how to properly care for and love others. They needed that now and sent for that teacher. When Peter arrived, he first dismissed that need by immediately addressing its cause, restoring Dorcas to them, and then he could deliver his true teach ... love through Jesus.
Application: We know we are in a time when people will turn to the Church with their questions and confusion, and wonder if faith has answers for them. They are seeking to address their basic human needs and challenges. The good news of Jesus can do that! However, it can also help them to understand that it isn't really their basic challenges they need addressed, but rather the question of their life-long purpose ... to love the Lord through faith in Jesus.
When I turned to God with unknown, undefined needs, he gave me an entirely new path in life, and through that a new and totally faith in Jesus. When others come to the Church seeking to address their undefined needs, I expect we will see those needs suddenly subside, and instead be addressed by a desire to pursue faith. May this be so.
Prayer: Lord, may thy will be done in these terrible times, so that as many seek to understand their circumstances, they instead find your love and hope. And as that process may use me, here I am. Amen.
Observation: Dorcas (Tabitha) dies, and the people of Joppa send for Peter. There was no precedence to assume Peter could raise Dorcas to life, therefore there is an unanswered question about why they sent of Peter to now come to Joppa. This is further complicated by the concept that Peter's work in Lydda, while it involved healing of at least one cripple, mostly involved the conversion of many people to Jesus, and this does not appear to be the motivation for calling him to Joppa.
Instead, the motivation might be found in the vacuum of Dorcas' departure. She was a woman who cared for the disadvantaged, and even when Peter arrives the primary action of others is to tell him and show him of Dorcas' care for others. It seems possible, then, that what the people of Joppa had heard about was the great community of care that Peter had established in Lydda, and perhaps he could come and help them fill the void in their community.
To put it more pointedly ... and yes there is a lot of supposition to this ... the people in Joppa had learned that, in Lydda, was there was teacher showing others how to properly care for and love others. They needed that now and sent for that teacher. When Peter arrived, he first dismissed that need by immediately addressing its cause, restoring Dorcas to them, and then he could deliver his true teach ... love through Jesus.
Application: We know we are in a time when people will turn to the Church with their questions and confusion, and wonder if faith has answers for them. They are seeking to address their basic human needs and challenges. The good news of Jesus can do that! However, it can also help them to understand that it isn't really their basic challenges they need addressed, but rather the question of their life-long purpose ... to love the Lord through faith in Jesus.
When I turned to God with unknown, undefined needs, he gave me an entirely new path in life, and through that a new and totally faith in Jesus. When others come to the Church seeking to address their undefined needs, I expect we will see those needs suddenly subside, and instead be addressed by a desire to pursue faith. May this be so.
Prayer: Lord, may thy will be done in these terrible times, so that as many seek to understand their circumstances, they instead find your love and hope. And as that process may use me, here I am. Amen.
Monday, June 8, 2020
Against the Lord and Christ
Scripture: Who by the mouth of Your servant David have said:
Observation: The disciples are praying in celebration that the chief priest has threatened them just as he threatened and killed Jesus, for it is in this that they see they are indeed being faithful to Jesus' teaching. By quoting David, they acknowledge that this opposition is in fact not against them, but it against the Lord and against Jesus ... and in turn it must be that their actions are aligned to the Lord.
The Lord commands, and Jesus fully re-enforces ... love the Lord your God, and love others. When we adhere to these commands, we are doing God's work. When we behave contrary to these commands, we are not truly attacking each other, but are instead against the Lord and against his Christ.
Application: There is SO much hate, anger, and hostility right now. The race riots are out of control. There are those angry over past actions. There are those angry over ... everything. And for the most part, everyone is angry at others.
I have thought long and hard about this, and the good and constructive messages about equity and respect are good. However, the angry messages in all directions ... I'm sure they are greatly disappointing God.
The one thing I think I understand from God is that anger has no place in this conversation for those seeking to respect and honor him. This then is how I will attempt to engage. Right now, no one is listening to any calm conversation. I will look for God's timing and opportunity to serve, then.
Prayer: Lord, I do not know what to do, but I can pray, and I can listen for you, and I can love others as you command. This, I will do, where and when you place me. Amen.
'Why did the nations rage,
And the people plot vain things?
The kings of the earth took their stand,
And the rulers were gathered together
Against the Lord and against His Christ.'
Acts 4:25-26And the people plot vain things?
The kings of the earth took their stand,
And the rulers were gathered together
Against the Lord and against His Christ.'
Observation: The disciples are praying in celebration that the chief priest has threatened them just as he threatened and killed Jesus, for it is in this that they see they are indeed being faithful to Jesus' teaching. By quoting David, they acknowledge that this opposition is in fact not against them, but it against the Lord and against Jesus ... and in turn it must be that their actions are aligned to the Lord.
The Lord commands, and Jesus fully re-enforces ... love the Lord your God, and love others. When we adhere to these commands, we are doing God's work. When we behave contrary to these commands, we are not truly attacking each other, but are instead against the Lord and against his Christ.
Application: There is SO much hate, anger, and hostility right now. The race riots are out of control. There are those angry over past actions. There are those angry over ... everything. And for the most part, everyone is angry at others.
I have thought long and hard about this, and the good and constructive messages about equity and respect are good. However, the angry messages in all directions ... I'm sure they are greatly disappointing God.
The one thing I think I understand from God is that anger has no place in this conversation for those seeking to respect and honor him. This then is how I will attempt to engage. Right now, no one is listening to any calm conversation. I will look for God's timing and opportunity to serve, then.
Prayer: Lord, I do not know what to do, but I can pray, and I can listen for you, and I can love others as you command. This, I will do, where and when you place me. Amen.
Wednesday, June 3, 2020
Understanding Submission to God's Will
Scripture: Therefore all the elders of Israel came to the king at Hebron, and King David made a covenant with them at Hebron before the Lord. And they anointed David king over Israel. 2 Samuel 5:3
Observation: Upon the death of Saul, Judah accepted David as the anointed king, but all the other tribes followed Ishbosheth, Saul's surviving son. Ishbosheth is murdered, and it is out of this that the tribes of Israel come to David to anoint him king.
When Israel first wanted a king, their priest Samuel anointed Saul, and after this a lot was drawn and Saul was accepted. Samuel then anointed David as his successor, and despite all of David's success in battle and loyalty to the king and kingdom the majority of Israel rejected him in favor of a "traditional kingly lineage." Ishbosheth wasn't even really the heir, Jonathan would have been had he survived.
The people of Israel ignore God's laws, requiring the divine appointment of judges. Then they want a king, rejecting God's plan for leadership. Then they reject his process of appointing a king, opting for a God-controlled lottery instead of a holy anointing. Then they reject any process, desiring to follow a royal lineage. (Interestingly, they will later reject David's royal lineage decreed by God, opting for a random process.) Over and over, Israel accepts God's will only when their choice has been ... proven disastrous, manipulated to produce God's outcome anyway, or completely eliminated. They ask God for help in their situation, then rebel against his solution until that solution is the only way left.
Application: There are millions of people praying that the Lord will address the racial tension in our nation right now. There are billions of people praying for protection, healing, and the restoration of life from the pandemic. I am doing both. I wonder, however, if I am prepared to accept God's solutions.
I know in the past I have prayed for God's help, and further prayed into a very specific solution ... then received help and blessing but in a different manner. And I struggled through God's solution. I was Israel, praying not just for his will to be a loving and blessed and holy outcome, but rather praying for my intended outcome disguised as a plea for his will be done.
I wanted my will to inform and influence his will ... not for my will to submit to his will.
God is fully in control of everything right now. He has authority over disease, violence, nature ... you name it. He will work this all for good. Is that good outcome the one I have in mind? Probably not. Is his outcome better than mine? YES! I hope we are all of a mind to both accept and celebrate that, rather than lament and reject and manipulate it.
Prayer: Lord, you are my Lord and my God, the authority of my life, and creator of heaven and earth. You command all things with love and justice. I do not just pray for your will to be done, but rather I submit to your will. Whatever is your will, I embrace it and desire it. May my will be whatever your will is, knowing your ways are higher than my ways, and your thoughts higher than my thoughts. I do not see our way forward, and I do not need to, for I trust in you, Lord. Amen.
Observation: Upon the death of Saul, Judah accepted David as the anointed king, but all the other tribes followed Ishbosheth, Saul's surviving son. Ishbosheth is murdered, and it is out of this that the tribes of Israel come to David to anoint him king.
When Israel first wanted a king, their priest Samuel anointed Saul, and after this a lot was drawn and Saul was accepted. Samuel then anointed David as his successor, and despite all of David's success in battle and loyalty to the king and kingdom the majority of Israel rejected him in favor of a "traditional kingly lineage." Ishbosheth wasn't even really the heir, Jonathan would have been had he survived.
The people of Israel ignore God's laws, requiring the divine appointment of judges. Then they want a king, rejecting God's plan for leadership. Then they reject his process of appointing a king, opting for a God-controlled lottery instead of a holy anointing. Then they reject any process, desiring to follow a royal lineage. (Interestingly, they will later reject David's royal lineage decreed by God, opting for a random process.) Over and over, Israel accepts God's will only when their choice has been ... proven disastrous, manipulated to produce God's outcome anyway, or completely eliminated. They ask God for help in their situation, then rebel against his solution until that solution is the only way left.
Application: There are millions of people praying that the Lord will address the racial tension in our nation right now. There are billions of people praying for protection, healing, and the restoration of life from the pandemic. I am doing both. I wonder, however, if I am prepared to accept God's solutions.
I know in the past I have prayed for God's help, and further prayed into a very specific solution ... then received help and blessing but in a different manner. And I struggled through God's solution. I was Israel, praying not just for his will to be a loving and blessed and holy outcome, but rather praying for my intended outcome disguised as a plea for his will be done.
I wanted my will to inform and influence his will ... not for my will to submit to his will.
God is fully in control of everything right now. He has authority over disease, violence, nature ... you name it. He will work this all for good. Is that good outcome the one I have in mind? Probably not. Is his outcome better than mine? YES! I hope we are all of a mind to both accept and celebrate that, rather than lament and reject and manipulate it.
Prayer: Lord, you are my Lord and my God, the authority of my life, and creator of heaven and earth. You command all things with love and justice. I do not just pray for your will to be done, but rather I submit to your will. Whatever is your will, I embrace it and desire it. May my will be whatever your will is, knowing your ways are higher than my ways, and your thoughts higher than my thoughts. I do not see our way forward, and I do not need to, for I trust in you, Lord. Amen.
Tuesday, June 2, 2020
Hate Without a Cause
Scripture:
Those who hate me without a cause
Are more than the hairs of my head;
They are mighty who would destroy me,
Being my enemies wrongfully;
Though I have stolen nothing,
I still must restore it.
Psalm 69:4
Observation: This is a theme in David's psalms ... that there are those who hate him without cause. This was due to Saul's insane jealousy. It is also a metaphor for Jesus, the Messiah whom the Jewish leaders ultimately had put to death. He had done nothing to them and one nothing wrong, and yet the price of sin was laid on him.
This sin - that there are those who hate "without a cause" and thus inflict pain on specific individuals for no reason - is strong in society still. We see it in the race issues of our time. We see young men treated differently, sometimes to the point of death, for no reason other than their skin color. We then see mobs assemble and attack those in authority, and private property on innocent people, for no reason other than to destroy out of their anger. Mankind invents enemies of each other, then exacts repayment for perceived losses from those who have stolen nothing.
Application: If Jesus' death was the result of a this sinful act of hating without cause, and if that is clearly a wrong that was experienced by both David and by all of us today, then this speaks to exactly why the Church is called out differently. We are simply ... not to hate, for any reason. Jesus commands us to love each other in the body of Christ, and this begins by not hating anyone, and especially those with whom there is no cause.
This is all I see right now ... people blowing up in anger toward total strangers whom they could not possibly have a quarrel. This tide flows both ways; in all directions. And this issue is not new, it is not unique to the United States, and it is not the will of God.
Prayer: Lord, we have this day our plagues, or natural disasters, our fearful hornets, our race wars. Please, come, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Those who hate me without a cause
Are more than the hairs of my head;
They are mighty who would destroy me,
Being my enemies wrongfully;
Though I have stolen nothing,
I still must restore it.
Psalm 69:4
Observation: This is a theme in David's psalms ... that there are those who hate him without cause. This was due to Saul's insane jealousy. It is also a metaphor for Jesus, the Messiah whom the Jewish leaders ultimately had put to death. He had done nothing to them and one nothing wrong, and yet the price of sin was laid on him.
This sin - that there are those who hate "without a cause" and thus inflict pain on specific individuals for no reason - is strong in society still. We see it in the race issues of our time. We see young men treated differently, sometimes to the point of death, for no reason other than their skin color. We then see mobs assemble and attack those in authority, and private property on innocent people, for no reason other than to destroy out of their anger. Mankind invents enemies of each other, then exacts repayment for perceived losses from those who have stolen nothing.
Application: If Jesus' death was the result of a this sinful act of hating without cause, and if that is clearly a wrong that was experienced by both David and by all of us today, then this speaks to exactly why the Church is called out differently. We are simply ... not to hate, for any reason. Jesus commands us to love each other in the body of Christ, and this begins by not hating anyone, and especially those with whom there is no cause.
This is all I see right now ... people blowing up in anger toward total strangers whom they could not possibly have a quarrel. This tide flows both ways; in all directions. And this issue is not new, it is not unique to the United States, and it is not the will of God.
Prayer: Lord, we have this day our plagues, or natural disasters, our fearful hornets, our race wars. Please, come, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Monday, June 1, 2020
Belief by Word and Presence
Scripture: And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name. John 20:30-31
Observation: The gospel was written for this reason - that we may know and believe in Jesus. Thomas, one of the 12, did not believe in Christ's resurrections without seeing Jesus and touching his wounds. For everyone else over almost 2,000 years, we have had to believe based on written words passed down by a handful of men.
They were convinced so thoroughly that their believe still reverberates. It is their words but also their deeds - about 100 of them who would be witnesses and agree to bitter lives and painful deaths rather than denouncing their belief - that pass along the belief. However, it is also our own experience with Jesus ... the seeing of Jesus ourselves ... that gives us faith.
Application: I continue to grow in my experience with Jesus, and God, and the Holy Spirit. I am an aging man, and I am in infant all at once. I believe things in faith, but then I experience the presence of the Lord and discover new life all over again.
The Lord has chosen to bless me recently, not with anything earthly of wealth or comfort, but with his words and guidance. I will lean into this with prayer and worship, in my heart and from my mouth. I actively desire the presence of Jesus, whom I know to be the Christ, the Son of God, for I have not only read the words but also experienced his presence and thus believe I have life in his name.
Prayer: Lord, my Lord and God and father and savior, may I have your guiding Spirit again this day and every day. Please fill me with joy, peace, patience, and self control. I fully seek and agree to a different life in all things. Amen.
Observation: The gospel was written for this reason - that we may know and believe in Jesus. Thomas, one of the 12, did not believe in Christ's resurrections without seeing Jesus and touching his wounds. For everyone else over almost 2,000 years, we have had to believe based on written words passed down by a handful of men.
They were convinced so thoroughly that their believe still reverberates. It is their words but also their deeds - about 100 of them who would be witnesses and agree to bitter lives and painful deaths rather than denouncing their belief - that pass along the belief. However, it is also our own experience with Jesus ... the seeing of Jesus ourselves ... that gives us faith.
Application: I continue to grow in my experience with Jesus, and God, and the Holy Spirit. I am an aging man, and I am in infant all at once. I believe things in faith, but then I experience the presence of the Lord and discover new life all over again.
The Lord has chosen to bless me recently, not with anything earthly of wealth or comfort, but with his words and guidance. I will lean into this with prayer and worship, in my heart and from my mouth. I actively desire the presence of Jesus, whom I know to be the Christ, the Son of God, for I have not only read the words but also experienced his presence and thus believe I have life in his name.
Prayer: Lord, my Lord and God and father and savior, may I have your guiding Spirit again this day and every day. Please fill me with joy, peace, patience, and self control. I fully seek and agree to a different life in all things. Amen.
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