Scripture: And now I stand here on trial because of my hope in the promise made by God to our fathers, to which our twelve tribes hope to attain, as they earnestly worship night and day. And for this hope I am accused by Jews, O king! Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead? I myself was convinced that I ought to do many things in opposing the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Acts 26:6-9
Observation: All accusations against Paul - the reason he is persecuted now, and the reason he himself even originally persecuted the church - boils down to two points:
1) Faith in God includes with it the hope that there is eternal life.
2) The way for receiving that hope from God is through faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, a.k.a. Messiah.
The Jews believed the first of these. However, they had surrendered their understanding of the second of these in favor of The Law and all the myriad of rules that had now formed around The Law. As a result, they persecuted Christians despite the fact that the primary message of Christians was that the prophets all stated that the hope of eternal life was found in the Messiah, and Messiah had now come.
Application: I am reminded that, today, there are really three kinds of people when it comes to faith in God and Jesus. Christians believe in God, and believe that faith in Jesus provides for eternal life. Agnostics reject the existence of God. However, in between is this ... a large spectrum of people who believe in SOMETHING related to possible eternal life related to some kind of more powerful and spiritual being, but have no idea how to get there.
Unfortunately, the real challenge for Christians isn't always to just tell people about Jesus, because the real "issue" is that people don't want an answer to their hope for eternal life ... at least not an answer that will force them to change their way of life. This is what some people mean when they say they don't want to change their lifestyle to become a Christian. At worst, that can mean they know some pretty hypocritical Christians and don't want to be like them. At best, though, it means that they have chosen to be completely embedded in the world and want nothing to do with any concept that may challenge the status quo of their lives.
What amazes me personally is when those same people say that their lives ... suck. I have seen that - people who talk about how terrible life is, but that they would never want to change it. That of course is the greatest lie of Satan - the lie where he disassociates cause and effect related to poor decision made related to God, and painful results of our lives, and ways of responding to and coping with those results.
Prayer: Lord, may I be part of your work to help others connect up points in their lives between their hope in eternity, and faith in Jesus. The connection is clear, solid, and unmistakable. I will seek to deliver the message of that connection daily. Amen.
Monday, October 26, 2015
Friday, October 16, 2015
A New Type of Judgment
Scripture: Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the Lord of hosts. Malachi 3:5
Observation: I noticed this in a passage a couple days ago, but see it clearly here again: Judgment is an activity to be embraced - not feared - by faithful believers.
This goes against conventional wisdom and the human instinct to seek acceptance and fear judgment. However, for believers, judgment means God has 'drawn near' to us ... that he has entered into our situation, and we are in his loving presence. When that happens, there is no mention here that God will sort through our innermost fears and secrets and call us out. Instead, he will be a witness against sorcerers, adulterers, liars, oppressors, and others who don't follow his commandments.
Application: Talk about being different! Everyone in society fears being judged, and oftentimes believers fear the judgment of God ... going so far as to claim that fearing God's judgment is actually a sign of faith, and if you don't fear that judgment maybe you don't actually believe in God or in his sovereign authority in your life.
However, this passage would claim that judgment is not to be feared. And if we truly believe in Jesus - and the fact that our faith in Jesus washes us clean and is the one quality we require for eternal salvation - then there is truly no judgment to fear.
This concept goes beyond judgment of God, and extends to the judgment of others. We must not fear the judgment of others because the criteria they use to judge us is meaningless. Does it hurt my feelings when someone judges me? Yes. However, if they judge me and find me in alignment with them, that may be worse ... it may mean I am aligning myself to the ways of the world and not to God. In some cases, such as my attitude toward marriage, I should also welcome judgment, because it likely means I am not conforming to the world, but being transformed by the words of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I wish to be different. I wish to be so different that people judge me and find that I am not like them in attitude or behavior. Some will hate me for that, but that is okay too. May I turn away from judging others, and open myself freely to judgment from others, so that someday I can revel in your judgment. Amen.
Observation: I noticed this in a passage a couple days ago, but see it clearly here again: Judgment is an activity to be embraced - not feared - by faithful believers.
This goes against conventional wisdom and the human instinct to seek acceptance and fear judgment. However, for believers, judgment means God has 'drawn near' to us ... that he has entered into our situation, and we are in his loving presence. When that happens, there is no mention here that God will sort through our innermost fears and secrets and call us out. Instead, he will be a witness against sorcerers, adulterers, liars, oppressors, and others who don't follow his commandments.
Application: Talk about being different! Everyone in society fears being judged, and oftentimes believers fear the judgment of God ... going so far as to claim that fearing God's judgment is actually a sign of faith, and if you don't fear that judgment maybe you don't actually believe in God or in his sovereign authority in your life.
However, this passage would claim that judgment is not to be feared. And if we truly believe in Jesus - and the fact that our faith in Jesus washes us clean and is the one quality we require for eternal salvation - then there is truly no judgment to fear.
This concept goes beyond judgment of God, and extends to the judgment of others. We must not fear the judgment of others because the criteria they use to judge us is meaningless. Does it hurt my feelings when someone judges me? Yes. However, if they judge me and find me in alignment with them, that may be worse ... it may mean I am aligning myself to the ways of the world and not to God. In some cases, such as my attitude toward marriage, I should also welcome judgment, because it likely means I am not conforming to the world, but being transformed by the words of Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, I wish to be different. I wish to be so different that people judge me and find that I am not like them in attitude or behavior. Some will hate me for that, but that is okay too. May I turn away from judging others, and open myself freely to judgment from others, so that someday I can revel in your judgment. Amen.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Everything I Say and Do
Prayer: Lord, it is by this that I know these actions are yours: Satan is actively opposed. I beg for your protection, your word, your comfort, and your strength. May I be focused on your word in Romans 12 and James 3 ... my entire life a living and visible sacrifice to you, with a tongue that will only praise and not curse or judge others. You have me in a place, at this time, for your purpose - may I not lose that mission due to the frustrations and actions spurred on by evil forces. It is not for my comfort, or my peace, or my honor that I ask these things, but for your glory only. Again I ask the fruits of your Holy Spirit to be upon and in me at all times so I can be different than those around me. In the name of Jesus, my savior and my lord, I pray. Amen, and amen.
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
The Number that Doesn't Matter
Scripture: When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. Acts 2:1
Observation: Acts 2 is a chapter that is full of numbers, and is focused on numbers. It says that Peter was standing with the 11 apostles; That about 3,000 were baptized that day; That more were added to their number daily. These are important details. However, verse 1 intentionally ignores a number some might think important ... how many were the "all" who first received the Holy Spirit?
There are several interpretations. This might mean the 12 apostles, or it might mean the ~72 believers whom many say were the core of the believers that waited in Jerusalem, or it might mean the ~500 who were witnesses to Jesus' ascension. Certainly this is a detail Luke - the author of Acts - knew, given that he took the time to research Peter's entire sermon, and the book of Acts is primarily about the growth of the church and therefore addresses numbers of believers often. It's likely Luke knew the names of every person in that room. Therefore, the conclusion is that he intentionally chose not to say the number. Why?
Because it wasn't important. In fact, going a step further ... it was important that the number (and names) not be known.
Application: Jesus well understood two principles about human nature and the future nature of the church that were critical. The first is that people need leaders. He himself raised 12 leaders above others, and 3 leaders above those 12. It is for this reason that those 12 are identified and Peter singled out on this critical day. However, Jesus also understood that believers who love him and worship God are all equal, which is why he corrected the disciples about their squabbles over who was greatest, and washed their feet at the last supper.
Too often, I create hierarchies in my mind. I see "degrees" of believers. I talk about the "core" versus the "congregation". Jesus - and Luke - would have none of that. Yes, there are leaders: Pastors, Elders, Missionaries. And there are those who head up ministries or committees for a season in order to get a task done. However, in the church no one is above another. For this reason, Luke chose to ignore who the "founders" might be to avoid them receiving undo honor.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your reminder to me to maintain my humility. I am in a season where I could easily allow pride to overtake my heart - I could easy transfer the blessings you have provided into an attitude of achievement and pride where I attempt to set myself above others in all areas of my life. Please help me avoid this dark, terrible trap. Please help me keep my heart humble, and my mind focused on you. Show me your purpose of placing me in a new position, around new people, so I may do your work and serve your people. Thy - not my - kingdom come!! Amen.
Observation: Acts 2 is a chapter that is full of numbers, and is focused on numbers. It says that Peter was standing with the 11 apostles; That about 3,000 were baptized that day; That more were added to their number daily. These are important details. However, verse 1 intentionally ignores a number some might think important ... how many were the "all" who first received the Holy Spirit?
There are several interpretations. This might mean the 12 apostles, or it might mean the ~72 believers whom many say were the core of the believers that waited in Jerusalem, or it might mean the ~500 who were witnesses to Jesus' ascension. Certainly this is a detail Luke - the author of Acts - knew, given that he took the time to research Peter's entire sermon, and the book of Acts is primarily about the growth of the church and therefore addresses numbers of believers often. It's likely Luke knew the names of every person in that room. Therefore, the conclusion is that he intentionally chose not to say the number. Why?
Because it wasn't important. In fact, going a step further ... it was important that the number (and names) not be known.
Application: Jesus well understood two principles about human nature and the future nature of the church that were critical. The first is that people need leaders. He himself raised 12 leaders above others, and 3 leaders above those 12. It is for this reason that those 12 are identified and Peter singled out on this critical day. However, Jesus also understood that believers who love him and worship God are all equal, which is why he corrected the disciples about their squabbles over who was greatest, and washed their feet at the last supper.
Too often, I create hierarchies in my mind. I see "degrees" of believers. I talk about the "core" versus the "congregation". Jesus - and Luke - would have none of that. Yes, there are leaders: Pastors, Elders, Missionaries. And there are those who head up ministries or committees for a season in order to get a task done. However, in the church no one is above another. For this reason, Luke chose to ignore who the "founders" might be to avoid them receiving undo honor.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your reminder to me to maintain my humility. I am in a season where I could easily allow pride to overtake my heart - I could easy transfer the blessings you have provided into an attitude of achievement and pride where I attempt to set myself above others in all areas of my life. Please help me avoid this dark, terrible trap. Please help me keep my heart humble, and my mind focused on you. Show me your purpose of placing me in a new position, around new people, so I may do your work and serve your people. Thy - not my - kingdom come!! Amen.
Monday, October 12, 2015
God's Sacred Word
Scripture: So Ezra the priest brought the Law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could understand what they heard, on the first day of the seventh month. And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand. And the ears of all the people were attentive to the Book of the Law. Nehemiah 8:2-3
Observation: The first recorded official act after the walls of Jerusalem have been rebuilt is the reading of The Law. We see this as a repeated activity - the reading of scripture done to mark milestones. Moses did it upon the Exodus (he had to get the Law first); Joshua did it claiming the promised land; even Jesus did it to declare his mission at the start of his ministry AND to teach the disciples their mission after his resurrection.
The word of God in the Bible is more than just good teaching ... it is itself sacred. That isn't to say we should worship a book, but we should understand that we are to worship God by taking his word as so important that it is worthy of being the focal point of every important activity in our lives.
Application: I am reminded again that my discipline with devotions is more than just "lessons" I need to learn. This is special, sacred time in my life every day. It is to be taken seriously. Reading the Bible does more than teach me something, it blesses my life, and the lives of my family, my friends, and my coworkers. When taken seriously, it can set a tone for my days and my attitude, and it can radiate into every element of my work and activities.
Reading the Word can anoint a temple, restore a nation, sanctify a city, aid an endeavor ... and it can certainly bless me if I properly engage in humility and faith.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for providing your Word - for creating this way to learn and grow and mature every day. My devotional time is a blessing, and I regret waiting so late in life to begin this wonderful journey with you. Help me every day to find the space and time and heart to focus on your Word, so I may become a better disciple of Jesus, and so your blessings in my life can in turn become greater blessings for others. Amen.
Observation: The first recorded official act after the walls of Jerusalem have been rebuilt is the reading of The Law. We see this as a repeated activity - the reading of scripture done to mark milestones. Moses did it upon the Exodus (he had to get the Law first); Joshua did it claiming the promised land; even Jesus did it to declare his mission at the start of his ministry AND to teach the disciples their mission after his resurrection.
The word of God in the Bible is more than just good teaching ... it is itself sacred. That isn't to say we should worship a book, but we should understand that we are to worship God by taking his word as so important that it is worthy of being the focal point of every important activity in our lives.
Application: I am reminded again that my discipline with devotions is more than just "lessons" I need to learn. This is special, sacred time in my life every day. It is to be taken seriously. Reading the Bible does more than teach me something, it blesses my life, and the lives of my family, my friends, and my coworkers. When taken seriously, it can set a tone for my days and my attitude, and it can radiate into every element of my work and activities.
Reading the Word can anoint a temple, restore a nation, sanctify a city, aid an endeavor ... and it can certainly bless me if I properly engage in humility and faith.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for providing your Word - for creating this way to learn and grow and mature every day. My devotional time is a blessing, and I regret waiting so late in life to begin this wonderful journey with you. Help me every day to find the space and time and heart to focus on your Word, so I may become a better disciple of Jesus, and so your blessings in my life can in turn become greater blessings for others. Amen.
Saturday, October 10, 2015
The First One Redeemed
Scripture: But they all cried out together, “Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas” - a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. Luke 23:18-19
Observation: Jesus took the death upon the cross we all deserve - his death takes the place of the death that we are due as a result of our sin and failure to obey God. However, at his trial, this occurred very literally ... Jesus was crucified as a direct one-for-one replacement of Barabbas, a person under a Roman death sentence. Jesus was found innocent, but someone had to die for Barabbas' crimes, and it ended up being Jesus and not Barabbas.
Application: Throughout the Bible, God's eternal plan is made manifest through a technique whereby something - a law, a proverb, a song, a prophetic word - is written as a reference to some specific situation, then we find hundreds of years later that this was a universal concept with broader application and direct relationship to Messiah.
Jesus' trial and crucifixion is of course the pivotal point in God's plan. Much of the old testament laws - from rules about trials, to Passover procedures, to imagery in the Psalms - actually apply to this event. However, the activities of this event in turn apply to the salvation of believers. Barabbas is part of that. We can be confident that Jesus' death is a sacrifice that takes our place in punishment because Jesus literally took Barabbas' place in punishment.
Furthermore, Barabbas himself becomes more than a literal person, but a representation of myself and all other believers. Barabbas' crimes were insurrection against Roman authority, and murder. In other words, he rebelled against authority and violated the ten commandments, just like I do ... daily.
Prayer: Lord, I am like Barabbas ... and may I in fact be Barabbas! I rebel against your law, fail to trust your leadership, and break your commandments regularly. But in this, I also know that Jesus made himself the sacrifice for my sin, and through my belief in him I can be released from the prison of judgment and receive salvation. May I never think of myself as better than Barabbas, yet may I also strive every day to avoid sin and rebellion. Amen.
Observation: Jesus took the death upon the cross we all deserve - his death takes the place of the death that we are due as a result of our sin and failure to obey God. However, at his trial, this occurred very literally ... Jesus was crucified as a direct one-for-one replacement of Barabbas, a person under a Roman death sentence. Jesus was found innocent, but someone had to die for Barabbas' crimes, and it ended up being Jesus and not Barabbas.
Application: Throughout the Bible, God's eternal plan is made manifest through a technique whereby something - a law, a proverb, a song, a prophetic word - is written as a reference to some specific situation, then we find hundreds of years later that this was a universal concept with broader application and direct relationship to Messiah.
Jesus' trial and crucifixion is of course the pivotal point in God's plan. Much of the old testament laws - from rules about trials, to Passover procedures, to imagery in the Psalms - actually apply to this event. However, the activities of this event in turn apply to the salvation of believers. Barabbas is part of that. We can be confident that Jesus' death is a sacrifice that takes our place in punishment because Jesus literally took Barabbas' place in punishment.
Furthermore, Barabbas himself becomes more than a literal person, but a representation of myself and all other believers. Barabbas' crimes were insurrection against Roman authority, and murder. In other words, he rebelled against authority and violated the ten commandments, just like I do ... daily.
Prayer: Lord, I am like Barabbas ... and may I in fact be Barabbas! I rebel against your law, fail to trust your leadership, and break your commandments regularly. But in this, I also know that Jesus made himself the sacrifice for my sin, and through my belief in him I can be released from the prison of judgment and receive salvation. May I never think of myself as better than Barabbas, yet may I also strive every day to avoid sin and rebellion. Amen.
Thursday, October 8, 2015
The Spirit of Repentance
Scripture: Now then make confession to the Lord, the God of your fathers and do his will. Separate yourselves from the peoples of the land and from the foreign wives. Ezra 10:11
Observation: It isn't enough for the people to confess their sins to God, they must also repent - to actively turn away from their sin, and undo that part of their lives. In this case, it is an extreme example: They must give up their wives and children because they married foreign people who worship other gods against God's law. However, all sin violates God's law, and all sin is equal ... thus in the case of every sin people must both ask forgiveness of the sin and repent of it.
Application: I struggle with this in the sins in my life. I'm ok confessing those sins - in telling God "here is a sin I committed, please forgive me." Of course, he already knows my sin, he didn't need me to tell him about it, and he has already provided Jesus as a means to aid in my forgiveness. What God REALLY wants me to do is to repent ... to turn away from the sin, turn my heart away from the thoughts and habits that produced the sin, remove myself from situations that trigger or tempt me, and thus never commit that sin again.
This is hard. So hard, in fact, that most of us can't do it. And that is the true wonder of the Holy Spirit. In many cases, it is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that a heart can be changed.
In the example in Ezra, there was a practical action that could aid in repentance ... divorcing the foreign wives. In my case, there are also changes I can make, and I am working on those. For example, I am changing some of my staffing situations in order to remove people who cause me emotions like anger and frustration, and thus trigger sins like poor thoughts or bad language.
However, I must also fix my heart, and for this I need the Holy Spirit. I need to change my attitudes in a holistic way in my life so that similar situations still can't trigger the same sins. this will start with a healthy love for others, and fruits of the spirit like love, patience, gentleness, and self control. These are called fruits "of the spirit" because the Holy Spirit can produce them within me, and I need them.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray for your spirit to be within me throughout my days to aid me in repenting of my sins. I am so quick to anger and quick to judgment, and I truly wish to turn away from those issues. Please help me repent. Please change my heart so that you may be better reflected through me in the world. Amen.
Observation: It isn't enough for the people to confess their sins to God, they must also repent - to actively turn away from their sin, and undo that part of their lives. In this case, it is an extreme example: They must give up their wives and children because they married foreign people who worship other gods against God's law. However, all sin violates God's law, and all sin is equal ... thus in the case of every sin people must both ask forgiveness of the sin and repent of it.
Application: I struggle with this in the sins in my life. I'm ok confessing those sins - in telling God "here is a sin I committed, please forgive me." Of course, he already knows my sin, he didn't need me to tell him about it, and he has already provided Jesus as a means to aid in my forgiveness. What God REALLY wants me to do is to repent ... to turn away from the sin, turn my heart away from the thoughts and habits that produced the sin, remove myself from situations that trigger or tempt me, and thus never commit that sin again.
This is hard. So hard, in fact, that most of us can't do it. And that is the true wonder of the Holy Spirit. In many cases, it is only through the power of the Holy Spirit that a heart can be changed.
In the example in Ezra, there was a practical action that could aid in repentance ... divorcing the foreign wives. In my case, there are also changes I can make, and I am working on those. For example, I am changing some of my staffing situations in order to remove people who cause me emotions like anger and frustration, and thus trigger sins like poor thoughts or bad language.
However, I must also fix my heart, and for this I need the Holy Spirit. I need to change my attitudes in a holistic way in my life so that similar situations still can't trigger the same sins. this will start with a healthy love for others, and fruits of the spirit like love, patience, gentleness, and self control. These are called fruits "of the spirit" because the Holy Spirit can produce them within me, and I need them.
Prayer: Lord, I do pray for your spirit to be within me throughout my days to aid me in repenting of my sins. I am so quick to anger and quick to judgment, and I truly wish to turn away from those issues. Please help me repent. Please change my heart so that you may be better reflected through me in the world. Amen.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Hosanna in the Highest
Scripture: Saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Luke 19:38
Hosanna!!!
Hosanna!!!
Monday, October 5, 2015
God's Protection
Scripture: And all the king's servants who were at the king's gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman, for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai did not bow down or pay homage. ... And when Haman saw that Mordecai did not bow down or pay homage to him, Haman was filled with fury. Esther 3:2,5
Observation: Despite the orders of the king, Mordecai continues to observe God's law and refuses to bow to anyone or anything but God. Other officials openly question him - publicly challenging his beliefs - and Haman will plot to kill him and all the Jews. However, Mordecai will not conform with public opinion, personal threat, or unmoral laws.
Of course, God has already provided the means to escape the vicious judgment that is planned against the Jews. Even before this, Esther has been elevated to queen, where she will use her position and influence to undermine Haman's plot and protect the Jews. Mordecai had already saved the king from a plot and thus won favor in court. Therefore, even though a terrible sentence is issued against the Jews (that they shall all be killed in every province of the land), that fate is reversed by events God has already set in motion.
Application: There continue to be questions in the Church in general about how "political correctness" that runs contrary to God's law will eventually impact us on a day-to-day basis. This lesson in Esther would instruct us in two areas. First is that we must remain observant of God's laws regardless of any public or civil pressures to violate those laws. Second is that God has already provided for this situation, even if we don't know it.
This latter fact is especially comforting. I have told others that some day I expect to have my life derailed in some way due to my faith in Jesus. However, the example of Mordecai shows that - for not just myself but others - God has already set in motion protections. That may not mean that I'll be able to keep my job. I may still suffer and be persecuted for my faith. However, there will be a way out that will further honor God's glory and bless me and my family.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your provision and protection! I don't say that as a "someday" prayer, or as a hopeful future ask. I thank you for already protecting me - you have already done it, and now it is just a matter of time to wait to see your plan and purposes unfold. I especially thank you for loving my wife and children as you do, so they may be protected even further by whatever events unfold in the future. Every day, I will serve you gladly, and seek to bring glory to you. Amen.
Observation: Despite the orders of the king, Mordecai continues to observe God's law and refuses to bow to anyone or anything but God. Other officials openly question him - publicly challenging his beliefs - and Haman will plot to kill him and all the Jews. However, Mordecai will not conform with public opinion, personal threat, or unmoral laws.
Of course, God has already provided the means to escape the vicious judgment that is planned against the Jews. Even before this, Esther has been elevated to queen, where she will use her position and influence to undermine Haman's plot and protect the Jews. Mordecai had already saved the king from a plot and thus won favor in court. Therefore, even though a terrible sentence is issued against the Jews (that they shall all be killed in every province of the land), that fate is reversed by events God has already set in motion.
Application: There continue to be questions in the Church in general about how "political correctness" that runs contrary to God's law will eventually impact us on a day-to-day basis. This lesson in Esther would instruct us in two areas. First is that we must remain observant of God's laws regardless of any public or civil pressures to violate those laws. Second is that God has already provided for this situation, even if we don't know it.
This latter fact is especially comforting. I have told others that some day I expect to have my life derailed in some way due to my faith in Jesus. However, the example of Mordecai shows that - for not just myself but others - God has already set in motion protections. That may not mean that I'll be able to keep my job. I may still suffer and be persecuted for my faith. However, there will be a way out that will further honor God's glory and bless me and my family.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your provision and protection! I don't say that as a "someday" prayer, or as a hopeful future ask. I thank you for already protecting me - you have already done it, and now it is just a matter of time to wait to see your plan and purposes unfold. I especially thank you for loving my wife and children as you do, so they may be protected even further by whatever events unfold in the future. Every day, I will serve you gladly, and seek to bring glory to you. Amen.
Friday, October 2, 2015
The Lord's Pleasure
Scripture:
Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
make melody to our God on the lyre!
He covers the heavens with clouds;
he prepares rain for the earth;
he makes grass grow on the hills.
He gives to the beasts their food,
and to the young ravens that cry.
His delight is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his pleasure in the legs of a man,
but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
Psalm 147:7-11
Observation: It pleases God when he cares for us! He takes pleasure when we trust in him - when we place our hope in him for his provision. He enjoys sending the rain even to simply provide food for beasts and birds, let alone when we trust that he will provide for us. On the flip side, he doesn't care at all about the things we do for ourselves. It doesn't delight or please him to watch us work and labor in order to produce our own provisions in life. As we toil to plow the earth for food, or earn money to buy bread, he really wishes we would simply hope for his love.
Application: Every day, I am proud about how well I do my job. I make plans, execute on those plans, and they work. Sometimes I thank God for his blessing, and I do know that God has blessed my work beyond what I have earned.
However, God takes DELIGHT when we simply trust in him. Even when I'm at my best with my faith in God, I am getting it backwards: I thank him for blessing my work, when instead I should be simply trusting him and looking for HIS work where I can join him.
God loves me - and all of us - so much, that it delights him when he can simply give us everything we need. He doesn't want us to go work for what we need. Of course we are to do his work, and sometimes that involves doing well at my job ... the place where he has placed me. But one way I could please God more is by simply allowing him to love me, and gladly receiving my daily bread from him without care or concern about what I might need to do to earn it.
Prayer: Abba, father, your love is beyond my imagination. As a father, I know how great it feels when I can care for my children, however you take it to the extreme of actually wishing we would just turn over all cares, worries, concerns, efforts to you and settle back into your loving arms. How amazing is your love!!! May I lean onto you more and more every day, trusting in your provision, enveloped in your great love. Amen.
Sing to the Lord with thanksgiving;
make melody to our God on the lyre!
He covers the heavens with clouds;
he prepares rain for the earth;
he makes grass grow on the hills.
He gives to the beasts their food,
and to the young ravens that cry.
His delight is not in the strength of the horse,
nor his pleasure in the legs of a man,
but the Lord takes pleasure in those who fear him,
in those who hope in his steadfast love.
Psalm 147:7-11
Observation: It pleases God when he cares for us! He takes pleasure when we trust in him - when we place our hope in him for his provision. He enjoys sending the rain even to simply provide food for beasts and birds, let alone when we trust that he will provide for us. On the flip side, he doesn't care at all about the things we do for ourselves. It doesn't delight or please him to watch us work and labor in order to produce our own provisions in life. As we toil to plow the earth for food, or earn money to buy bread, he really wishes we would simply hope for his love.
Application: Every day, I am proud about how well I do my job. I make plans, execute on those plans, and they work. Sometimes I thank God for his blessing, and I do know that God has blessed my work beyond what I have earned.
However, God takes DELIGHT when we simply trust in him. Even when I'm at my best with my faith in God, I am getting it backwards: I thank him for blessing my work, when instead I should be simply trusting him and looking for HIS work where I can join him.
God loves me - and all of us - so much, that it delights him when he can simply give us everything we need. He doesn't want us to go work for what we need. Of course we are to do his work, and sometimes that involves doing well at my job ... the place where he has placed me. But one way I could please God more is by simply allowing him to love me, and gladly receiving my daily bread from him without care or concern about what I might need to do to earn it.
Prayer: Abba, father, your love is beyond my imagination. As a father, I know how great it feels when I can care for my children, however you take it to the extreme of actually wishing we would just turn over all cares, worries, concerns, efforts to you and settle back into your loving arms. How amazing is your love!!! May I lean onto you more and more every day, trusting in your provision, enveloped in your great love. Amen.
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Location Location Location
Scripture: When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, open to us,’ then he will answer you, ‘I do not know where you come from.’ Then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.’ But he will say, ‘I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!’ Luke 13:25-27
Observation: Where you come from is meaningless.
In the parable of the narrow door, the Lord is saying that he does not know those who are outside - who did not enter his house when they had the opportunity. Their plea - their response to the fact that God does not know them - is that he MUST know them because he visited them. But he repeats that he doesn't know them; he doesn't know where they are from.
This is because this exchange is all about whom is making the effort in the relationship. God came to visit them, but they did not come to his house. Their knowledge of God is therefore that he made the effort to meet them, therefore he must accept them.
Where you are "coming from" means everything!
We enter heaven through the 'narrow door' when WE make the effort - when we go to see God. It isn't enough for us to acknowledge that God visited us, we must engage, make the effort to meet him, to enter his house. At the minimum, that effort requires active faith ... not just a "I believe God exists" faith, but a "I believe Jesus died for my sins and the Lord is sufficient to care for me and he loves me" faith. More appropriately, father involves responding to God's love through active engagement, worshipping him and trusting in him, praying to him and learning about him, and obeying his commands.
Application: I have never understood the narrow door ... I have sometimes feared that I'll "miss" the open door or that there is a timing issue and I might now be late. But now I understand ... the door doesn't close at a time in earthly history, it is open for every person because God has visited everyone and invited them, and they need to respond. I have responded to God - I have returned his love through my faith, love, trust, worship, and communication with him.
I am not perfect. If I am reclined at his table, my table manners need some serious work. But I have entered the house.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the invitation! Your love is so amazing, and the fact you came to visit me and invite me is still the greatest blessing of my life. May I always return your love to the best of my ability, which will never be good enough, but I hope will continue to improve to become the best I am capable of. Amen.
Observation: Where you come from is meaningless.
In the parable of the narrow door, the Lord is saying that he does not know those who are outside - who did not enter his house when they had the opportunity. Their plea - their response to the fact that God does not know them - is that he MUST know them because he visited them. But he repeats that he doesn't know them; he doesn't know where they are from.
This is because this exchange is all about whom is making the effort in the relationship. God came to visit them, but they did not come to his house. Their knowledge of God is therefore that he made the effort to meet them, therefore he must accept them.
Where you are "coming from" means everything!
We enter heaven through the 'narrow door' when WE make the effort - when we go to see God. It isn't enough for us to acknowledge that God visited us, we must engage, make the effort to meet him, to enter his house. At the minimum, that effort requires active faith ... not just a "I believe God exists" faith, but a "I believe Jesus died for my sins and the Lord is sufficient to care for me and he loves me" faith. More appropriately, father involves responding to God's love through active engagement, worshipping him and trusting in him, praying to him and learning about him, and obeying his commands.
Application: I have never understood the narrow door ... I have sometimes feared that I'll "miss" the open door or that there is a timing issue and I might now be late. But now I understand ... the door doesn't close at a time in earthly history, it is open for every person because God has visited everyone and invited them, and they need to respond. I have responded to God - I have returned his love through my faith, love, trust, worship, and communication with him.
I am not perfect. If I am reclined at his table, my table manners need some serious work. But I have entered the house.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for the invitation! Your love is so amazing, and the fact you came to visit me and invite me is still the greatest blessing of my life. May I always return your love to the best of my ability, which will never be good enough, but I hope will continue to improve to become the best I am capable of. Amen.
Monday, September 28, 2015
Our Judgment
Scripture: Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to accuse him. And the Lord said to Satan, “The Lord rebuke you, O Satan! The Lord who has chosen Jerusalem rebuke you! Is not this a brand plucked from the fire?” Now Joshua was standing before the angel, clothed with filthy garments. And the angel said to those who were standing before him, “Remove the filthy garments from him.” And to him he said, “Behold, I have taken your iniquity away from you, and I will clothe you with pure vestments.” Zechariah 3:1-4
Observation: Joshua is being redeemed through judgment, standing before the angel of the Lord with Satan as his accuser. However, the Lord forgives Joshua, takes away all his sin, and washes his clothes white.
While this is a VERY confusing passage, it appears there are actually FOUR participants in this.
-- Satan, who is accusing Joshua.
-- The Lord, who rebukes Satan and accepts Joshua.
-- Joshua, who does nothing.
-- The "angel of the Lord", who stands before Joshua - between Joshua and the Lord? - and is the one who washes Joshua clean and removes his iniquities/sins.
If this is true, this is certainly the model of how our judgment before God will appear some day ... with Jesus as our intercessor, between us an God, removing our iniquities and thus creating the situation where the Lord will ignore and rebuke Satan's accusations about us.
Application: If this is true, I am comforted by one element of this: the role and actions of Joshua. Joshua does not make his own defense ... likely because he has none, as we all fall short of upholding God's law and thus are deserving of punishment. However, with the "angel of the Lord" there, purifying Joshua, no other actions are needed.
I am comforted by this because there is no way I will ever be worthy to stand before God on my own. I cannot be good enough, and I would never be able to justify anything about myself before the perfect love of God. However, with the "angel of the Lord" - Jesus Christ - on my side, I will be forgiven, washed clean, forgiven, redeemed, and accepted.
Prayer: Lord, please do forgive me of my sins - all actions I do every day that cause me to fail to uphold your teaching, to harm others, and to disobey. To you is ALL glory, which is most manifested by this - you love us all so much that you provide Jesus as the perfect offering to intercede for us and allow us to receive your redemption. Jesus is the way!! I know this, I profess it, and I embrace it. Again, please forgive me when I lose sight of this moment by moment, and please give me the strength to cling to your promise in those moments more often. Amen, and amen.
Observation: Joshua is being redeemed through judgment, standing before the angel of the Lord with Satan as his accuser. However, the Lord forgives Joshua, takes away all his sin, and washes his clothes white.
While this is a VERY confusing passage, it appears there are actually FOUR participants in this.
-- Satan, who is accusing Joshua.
-- The Lord, who rebukes Satan and accepts Joshua.
-- Joshua, who does nothing.
-- The "angel of the Lord", who stands before Joshua - between Joshua and the Lord? - and is the one who washes Joshua clean and removes his iniquities/sins.
If this is true, this is certainly the model of how our judgment before God will appear some day ... with Jesus as our intercessor, between us an God, removing our iniquities and thus creating the situation where the Lord will ignore and rebuke Satan's accusations about us.
Application: If this is true, I am comforted by one element of this: the role and actions of Joshua. Joshua does not make his own defense ... likely because he has none, as we all fall short of upholding God's law and thus are deserving of punishment. However, with the "angel of the Lord" there, purifying Joshua, no other actions are needed.
I am comforted by this because there is no way I will ever be worthy to stand before God on my own. I cannot be good enough, and I would never be able to justify anything about myself before the perfect love of God. However, with the "angel of the Lord" - Jesus Christ - on my side, I will be forgiven, washed clean, forgiven, redeemed, and accepted.
Prayer: Lord, please do forgive me of my sins - all actions I do every day that cause me to fail to uphold your teaching, to harm others, and to disobey. To you is ALL glory, which is most manifested by this - you love us all so much that you provide Jesus as the perfect offering to intercede for us and allow us to receive your redemption. Jesus is the way!! I know this, I profess it, and I embrace it. Again, please forgive me when I lose sight of this moment by moment, and please give me the strength to cling to your promise in those moments more often. Amen, and amen.
Thursday, September 24, 2015
God Engages Everyone
Scripture: "Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah." Ezra 1:2
Observation: The exile is over after 70 years. This has been effectively one generation for the Jews. They will be a changed people, however it is amazing how much the OTHER nations of the region have actually been changed. What has happened during those 70 years?
-- Judah has been punished and exiled as prophesized due to the disobedience.
-- The surrounding enemies have been punished and destroyed as prophesized due to their gloating over the downfall of Judah.
-- Babylon has been defeated and taken over by the Persians as prophesized due to their pride in assuming it was their strength and not God's will that defeated Judah.
... but this is the amazing part ...
-- The Persian king has become a believe in Yahweh, acknowledging him as the supreme God of the world, and that it is Yahweh that has in fact granted he himself power, and thus he has heard God command him - as prophesized - to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.
In one generation, God didn't just correct the Jews ... he completely overhauled everything about every people group in the entire middle east.
Application: As a history book, the Bible is written by the Israelites and therefore focuses on them and their unique relationship with God. However, throughout that narrative, God is ALWAYS engaged with all the other nations/people too! He is always changing, correcting, guiding, and punishing the Egyptians, Ammonites, Hittites, Cushites, Persians, Philistines, etc. He may often bring his message "through" the Israelites, but we repeatedly see his hand - in blessing and punishment - in the glimpses of other people.
Today, Christians are the Israelites, which means God is actively at work in the lives of ... Atheists, Hindis, Muslims, Agnostics, Buddhists, etc. That work is an attempt to guide them into a right relationship with himself, through faith in Jesus Christ and alignment of their lives with his purposes. Their conversions can be just as unlikely - and just as possible - as King Cyrus.
So how am I doing as an "Israelite"? Am I being different - truly exhibiting a different life and behavior compared to others around me? Am I vocal in my profession of faith during my daily activities? Does my behavior reflect God's expectations even when those around me don't care? Do I pass God's blessings in my life on to others?
I am currently in exile, and I need to understand that my calling is no less than to convert kings ... for God's message and love to come "through" me to others.
Prayer: Lord, please do give me courage and strength to be different. After reading about the examples of Ezekiel and Daniel, we see the results of their simple faithful lives. Keep me living the life you want me to live, through all circumstances and situations among all people I encounter every day, so that I may bring your kingdom to this place and reflect your love into their lives. Amen.
Observation: The exile is over after 70 years. This has been effectively one generation for the Jews. They will be a changed people, however it is amazing how much the OTHER nations of the region have actually been changed. What has happened during those 70 years?
-- Judah has been punished and exiled as prophesized due to the disobedience.
-- The surrounding enemies have been punished and destroyed as prophesized due to their gloating over the downfall of Judah.
-- Babylon has been defeated and taken over by the Persians as prophesized due to their pride in assuming it was their strength and not God's will that defeated Judah.
... but this is the amazing part ...
-- The Persian king has become a believe in Yahweh, acknowledging him as the supreme God of the world, and that it is Yahweh that has in fact granted he himself power, and thus he has heard God command him - as prophesized - to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem.
In one generation, God didn't just correct the Jews ... he completely overhauled everything about every people group in the entire middle east.
Application: As a history book, the Bible is written by the Israelites and therefore focuses on them and their unique relationship with God. However, throughout that narrative, God is ALWAYS engaged with all the other nations/people too! He is always changing, correcting, guiding, and punishing the Egyptians, Ammonites, Hittites, Cushites, Persians, Philistines, etc. He may often bring his message "through" the Israelites, but we repeatedly see his hand - in blessing and punishment - in the glimpses of other people.
Today, Christians are the Israelites, which means God is actively at work in the lives of ... Atheists, Hindis, Muslims, Agnostics, Buddhists, etc. That work is an attempt to guide them into a right relationship with himself, through faith in Jesus Christ and alignment of their lives with his purposes. Their conversions can be just as unlikely - and just as possible - as King Cyrus.
So how am I doing as an "Israelite"? Am I being different - truly exhibiting a different life and behavior compared to others around me? Am I vocal in my profession of faith during my daily activities? Does my behavior reflect God's expectations even when those around me don't care? Do I pass God's blessings in my life on to others?
I am currently in exile, and I need to understand that my calling is no less than to convert kings ... for God's message and love to come "through" me to others.
Prayer: Lord, please do give me courage and strength to be different. After reading about the examples of Ezekiel and Daniel, we see the results of their simple faithful lives. Keep me living the life you want me to live, through all circumstances and situations among all people I encounter every day, so that I may bring your kingdom to this place and reflect your love into their lives. Amen.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Expect Nothing in Return
Scripture: But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil. Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. Luke 6:35-36
Observation: In all of this lesson about giving to others, doing good, turning the other cheek, etc., Jesus points to one example: God the Father. God himself is kind and loving to the ungrateful and evil. God has been merciful to us - showing mercy to us as we love Jesus - as the example of true mercy we should show to everyone.
God loves - even blesses - those who do evil, and he loves and is merciful toward us. Therefore, we must love, bless, and show mercy to others.
Application: I am keeping this short today, as this message is a DIRECT and IMMEDIATE response - once again! - to a conversation my wife and I had last night. I LOVE it when God does that as only he can!!!! So I need to take some time today to act ... not write, not consider, but take action.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your love to everyone. Yes, I thank you for loving me so much that you would honor me by inviting me into doing your work! But even more, I thank you for loving others ... the faithful, the lost, the broken, the serving, the hurting, the poor, and happy ... you love everyone and continually keep your plan and purposes in motion for the good of all. Thank you, Abba. Amen.
Observation: In all of this lesson about giving to others, doing good, turning the other cheek, etc., Jesus points to one example: God the Father. God himself is kind and loving to the ungrateful and evil. God has been merciful to us - showing mercy to us as we love Jesus - as the example of true mercy we should show to everyone.
God loves - even blesses - those who do evil, and he loves and is merciful toward us. Therefore, we must love, bless, and show mercy to others.
Application: I am keeping this short today, as this message is a DIRECT and IMMEDIATE response - once again! - to a conversation my wife and I had last night. I LOVE it when God does that as only he can!!!! So I need to take some time today to act ... not write, not consider, but take action.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for your love to everyone. Yes, I thank you for loving me so much that you would honor me by inviting me into doing your work! But even more, I thank you for loving others ... the faithful, the lost, the broken, the serving, the hurting, the poor, and happy ... you love everyone and continually keep your plan and purposes in motion for the good of all. Thank you, Abba. Amen.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
Rejection is Punished
Scripture: And you his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, though you knew all this, but you have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. Daniel 5:22-23a
Observation: Daniel is about to interpret the handwriting on the wall for Belshazzar, but before he does, he takes off on QUITE the lecture of the king. It includes a summary of the fact the Nebuchadnezzar had been driven mad by God until he accepted God as the true Lord of the earth, and that Belshazzar knew the lesson ... but was now ignoring and even mocking God.
Throughout the book of Daniel, the king of Babylon clearly has supreme authority to put anyone to death for any kind of disrespect. Yet here is Daniel lecturing the king openly, with no mention of anger from Belshazzar at all. Why is this the case? I'd say for two reasons:
1) Daniel is right that Belshazzar did, in fact, know of the Lord.
2) Belshazzar was therefore afraid.
And God immediately struck him dead that very night.
Application: There is a dynamic with God that is repeated in the Bible. Those who don't know God, or have never heard of Jesus, are offered opportunities to learn the truth. However, those who know of God, and have rejected God and Jesus despite having all the information they need, are actively punished by God. Plain and simple, there is a different standard: If you don't know God, he'll try to reach you; If you reject God, there will be punishment.
This is critical for society today. Almost everyone I know knows about God. Many were raised in the church, and certainly all have received some level of exposure to God and Jesus during their lives. Now the majority of them reject Jesus, reject anything about faith, and reject even the concept of a creator.
As a result, we may be living in the most 'cursed' time in human history. That makes our message to the "de-churched" among so desperately important.
Prayer: Lord, I know what is in the head of people who have known but then rejected you. I don't know what to say to them, but I am here among them ... send me. Amen.
Observation: Daniel is about to interpret the handwriting on the wall for Belshazzar, but before he does, he takes off on QUITE the lecture of the king. It includes a summary of the fact the Nebuchadnezzar had been driven mad by God until he accepted God as the true Lord of the earth, and that Belshazzar knew the lesson ... but was now ignoring and even mocking God.
Throughout the book of Daniel, the king of Babylon clearly has supreme authority to put anyone to death for any kind of disrespect. Yet here is Daniel lecturing the king openly, with no mention of anger from Belshazzar at all. Why is this the case? I'd say for two reasons:
1) Daniel is right that Belshazzar did, in fact, know of the Lord.
2) Belshazzar was therefore afraid.
And God immediately struck him dead that very night.
Application: There is a dynamic with God that is repeated in the Bible. Those who don't know God, or have never heard of Jesus, are offered opportunities to learn the truth. However, those who know of God, and have rejected God and Jesus despite having all the information they need, are actively punished by God. Plain and simple, there is a different standard: If you don't know God, he'll try to reach you; If you reject God, there will be punishment.
This is critical for society today. Almost everyone I know knows about God. Many were raised in the church, and certainly all have received some level of exposure to God and Jesus during their lives. Now the majority of them reject Jesus, reject anything about faith, and reject even the concept of a creator.
As a result, we may be living in the most 'cursed' time in human history. That makes our message to the "de-churched" among so desperately important.
Prayer: Lord, I know what is in the head of people who have known but then rejected you. I don't know what to say to them, but I am here among them ... send me. Amen.
Friday, September 18, 2015
A Faithful Role-Reversal
Scripture: And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying,
“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for he has visited and redeemed his people
and has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David.
for he has visited and redeemed his people
and has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David.
Luke 1:67-69
Observation: Zechariah doubted the message of God delivered by Gabriel, and became a mute for ~10 months. When John was born and Zechariah proved himself faithful in naming his son as commanded, his punishment was removed. However, beyond that, he was then blessed with the Holy Spirit and delivers the message of God ... he pronounces (albeit restated) the message he received from Gabriel, that the Messiah is about to come, and his son John will be the one who prepares the way for he Lord.
By showing faith, Zechariah immediately goes from doubter to deliverer of the word of God.
Application: There are times when I want to deliver the word of God, and for some reason I don't. I need to honestly evaluate my heart and ask myself this question: Do I fail because I doubt?
If I doubt God, then it becomes problematic for God to fill me with the Holy Spirit in order to do his work, whether it be actions toward others, service in the church, or speaking of his word. Doubt is rooted in a lack of faith, which becomes fear, and eventually grows into a lack of obedience and potential sin. Doubt is a lens I can use to evaluate my faith, then, and see where I stand.
Zechariah had prayed for a child, but when he was told he would have one he doubted. God responded by telling Zechariah the good news of the coming of the Messiah, but sealing his voice so he couldn't deliver the message. When Zechariah cast aside his doubt and fear, God allowed him to speak, and Zechariah boldly delivered God's message.
Do I have a word from God given to me right now, but I cannot deliver it because I doubt God in some way? I should evaluate this, and if so cast aside the fear and doubt so I can become his voice to those around me.
Prayer: Lord, please show me if and where I may be doubting you right now ... guide me toward any area where I may be hesitating out of fear, and help to me renew my faith. I wish to always say 'yes' to you - to be your servant and do your will - so please forgive me if there is an area in my life where my doubt is inhibiting your Spirit from using me. Cleans me of that so I may do all you ask of me. Amen.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Invitation Without Correction
Scripture: And he said to me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near. Let the evildoer still do evil, and the filthy still be filthy, and the righteous still do right, and the holy still be holy.” ... The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. Revelation 22:10-11,17
Observation: The Holy Spirit works with the bride of Christ - the Church - to deliver one message: "Come to Jesus." It is the invitation of the Gospel. The Church is charged with that invitation, and anyone who has heard and believed that invitation must also give the invitation ... and anyone who even hopes the invitation is true can also give the invitation ... all are invited to drink the free, living water of Jesus Christ.
However, there will be those who hear and believe, and those who do not. Those who believe are to be holy and righteous. However, those who do not will do evil and be filthy, and we are to allow them ... to let them do as they wish.
Application: The Church has one mission ... to spread the Gospel message - to invite others to salvation through faith in Jesus the Messiah. The Church is NOT here to "fix" the world. We are not here to protest against sin, prevent others' actions, or legislate against evil.
This is how the Church has lost ground with non-believers in the U.S., AND why it is gaining ground in a place like China. In China, the message is simple - people are being told about Jesus, and are believing and being saved. In the U.S., many churches are not talking about Jesus - they are protesting Planned Parenthood, wailing about (or condoning) gay marriage, and actively protesting other (often 'good') causes ranging from racism to poverty to drug use to violence.
I need to be a leader in my local church that drives us to a singular purpose - taking the Gospel of Jesus to a lost and hurting world. And while we must actively discuss behavior standards within our community of faith, I must work with others to ensure our church does not engage in some "cause-based" external mission.
It isn't about whether or not such action is wrong ... it's that it's non-Biblical. The Bible says we baptize THEN teach - we reach THEN preach - we comfort THEN correct. The Holy Spirit is with the Church when we deliver the good news.
Prayer: Dear Lord, may your will be done on earth, every day. Please help me have a calm and patient heart, and may my message be always and only about the love of Jesus. Amen.
Observation: The Holy Spirit works with the bride of Christ - the Church - to deliver one message: "Come to Jesus." It is the invitation of the Gospel. The Church is charged with that invitation, and anyone who has heard and believed that invitation must also give the invitation ... and anyone who even hopes the invitation is true can also give the invitation ... all are invited to drink the free, living water of Jesus Christ.
However, there will be those who hear and believe, and those who do not. Those who believe are to be holy and righteous. However, those who do not will do evil and be filthy, and we are to allow them ... to let them do as they wish.
Application: The Church has one mission ... to spread the Gospel message - to invite others to salvation through faith in Jesus the Messiah. The Church is NOT here to "fix" the world. We are not here to protest against sin, prevent others' actions, or legislate against evil.
This is how the Church has lost ground with non-believers in the U.S., AND why it is gaining ground in a place like China. In China, the message is simple - people are being told about Jesus, and are believing and being saved. In the U.S., many churches are not talking about Jesus - they are protesting Planned Parenthood, wailing about (or condoning) gay marriage, and actively protesting other (often 'good') causes ranging from racism to poverty to drug use to violence.
I need to be a leader in my local church that drives us to a singular purpose - taking the Gospel of Jesus to a lost and hurting world. And while we must actively discuss behavior standards within our community of faith, I must work with others to ensure our church does not engage in some "cause-based" external mission.
It isn't about whether or not such action is wrong ... it's that it's non-Biblical. The Bible says we baptize THEN teach - we reach THEN preach - we comfort THEN correct. The Holy Spirit is with the Church when we deliver the good news.
Prayer: Dear Lord, may your will be done on earth, every day. Please help me have a calm and patient heart, and may my message be always and only about the love of Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
I Found My Life
Today's readings - Ezekiel and Revelation - both prophesy about the future destruction of "Armageddon" ... which might be good because we know God wins, but otherwise is sort of a depressing read. Instead, I have had this AWESOME song stuck in my head for 3-4 days now, and I love it more every time I hear it. It reminds me of how I felt when I finally "figured it out." So let's dwell there - swept up in God's love, on the wings of forever, touching the sky, in the promise of Jesus' free gift - today ...
Monday, September 14, 2015
All to God's Glory
Scripture: Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations to which you came. And I will vindicate the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them. And the nations will know that I am the Lord, declares the Lord God, when through you I vindicate my holiness before their eyes. I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people, and I will be your God. And I will deliver you from all your uncleannesses. And I will summon the grain and make it abundant and lay no famine upon you. I will make the fruit of the tree and the increase of the field abundant, that you may never again suffer the disgrace of famine among the nations. Then you will remember your evil ways, and your deeds that were not good, and you will loathe yourselves for your iniquities and your abominations. It is not for your sake that I will act, declares the Lord God; let that be known to you. Be ashamed and confounded for your ways, O house of Israel. Ezekiel 36:22-32
Observation: God acts for our benefit out of his love for us, but it's ends is for God's glory. When he restored Israel - gathering them together, cleansing them with water, forgiving their sins providing a new heart, and providing his Spirit to dwell within them - it was for his own glory.
Application: I like to often think about how God loves me ... how many times in this blog have I thanked God for his love, forgiveness, and promises that provide me with a promise of eternal salvation?! However, Christians need to remember that there is a mission - a purpose - and that purpose is NOT to bless us. God's purpose is to be glorified, and he loves us in order that we may bring glory to him.
How do we bring glory to God? We do the work commanded of us! We exemplify a changed life. We love others. We pray for miracles that manifest in the lives of others. We use our spiritual gifts. We serve others in humility. We show mercy and kindness to all. We give credit to God for every good thing. We function in a manner that is unique in the world. We worship. We simply believe.
This again speaks to the "eternal gospel" of Revelation. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, but the eternal truth is that God is the loving creator who we get to honor and glorify forever. His forgiveness of us, and love of us, and gifts to us, and blessing upon us, is NOT for us ... it is all for his glory, and designed to make him known to the lost and hurting world.
Prayer: Lord, all Christian, including myself, can enjoy focusing on the fact that you love us and saved us. However, that creates a situation where I am focusing on myself and how loved I am. Help me to stay focused on you - to ensure I remember daily that your love of me is the means by which you are glorified. Your blessing exist not for me, but as evidence I can show others of your great love, mercy, and glory, so that they may believe in you as well and seek eternal life in the name of Jesus Christ. Glory and honor to you alone, oh God! Amen.
Observation: God acts for our benefit out of his love for us, but it's ends is for God's glory. When he restored Israel - gathering them together, cleansing them with water, forgiving their sins providing a new heart, and providing his Spirit to dwell within them - it was for his own glory.
Application: I like to often think about how God loves me ... how many times in this blog have I thanked God for his love, forgiveness, and promises that provide me with a promise of eternal salvation?! However, Christians need to remember that there is a mission - a purpose - and that purpose is NOT to bless us. God's purpose is to be glorified, and he loves us in order that we may bring glory to him.
How do we bring glory to God? We do the work commanded of us! We exemplify a changed life. We love others. We pray for miracles that manifest in the lives of others. We use our spiritual gifts. We serve others in humility. We show mercy and kindness to all. We give credit to God for every good thing. We function in a manner that is unique in the world. We worship. We simply believe.
This again speaks to the "eternal gospel" of Revelation. We are saved by grace through faith in Jesus, but the eternal truth is that God is the loving creator who we get to honor and glorify forever. His forgiveness of us, and love of us, and gifts to us, and blessing upon us, is NOT for us ... it is all for his glory, and designed to make him known to the lost and hurting world.
Prayer: Lord, all Christian, including myself, can enjoy focusing on the fact that you love us and saved us. However, that creates a situation where I am focusing on myself and how loved I am. Help me to stay focused on you - to ensure I remember daily that your love of me is the means by which you are glorified. Your blessing exist not for me, but as evidence I can show others of your great love, mercy, and glory, so that they may believe in you as well and seek eternal life in the name of Jesus Christ. Glory and honor to you alone, oh God! Amen.
Friday, September 11, 2015
Draw the Line
Scripture: But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank. Therefore he asked the chief of the eunuchs to allow him not to defile himself. And God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs. Daniel 1:8-9
Observation: Daniel, a member of the royal household, has been taken into exile in Babylon, (implicitly) turned into a eunuch, and forced to serve in the king's court. However, he refuses to eat the food of the king's court - rich meat and choice wine - because it has been used in ceremonial offering to other gods. In other words, Daniel knew where to draw the line when it came to honorable living in the sight of God:
-- Live in a foreign land, no problem
-- Be physically denied a future family, okay
-- Perform a distasteful job, will-do
-- Break God's commands ... no way!
Application: This is an issue I have been mentally preparing myself for for some time now. I work for a government that was one of the first to license gay marriage. The surrounding area is not just unchurched, it is anti-Christian. I am prepared for the time when I have to make a choice, and I had better know where the line is drawn.
-- I can live in a place that is anti-Christian ... in fact, Christians are called to be a light in dark places.
-- I can moderate certain behavior in order to not alienate others ... in fact, Christians are called to speak gently to others in order to keep dialogue open.
-- I can work in a job where others actively perform tasks that I do not approve of ... in fact, Christians are called to bring justice and mercy to lost and hurting people.
-- However, I cannot do tasks that violate the commandments, I will never disavow God or Jesus, I will never engage in celebrating sin.
So I cling to Verse 9 of today's passage, and not just Verse 8 ... God gave Daniel favor and compassion, which included a way out of the situation without punishment.
Prayer: Lord, I know there will come a time when I will be presented with this line, and I will pray to you for strength and guidance, and you will absolutely provide me that strength through your amazing love. I also know you will give me a path through the situation. It may not be the one obvious to me, or even the easiest path, but it will be the best path, paved with your love, and leading to the narrow gate where Jesus calls me. I thank you now for this future provision and assistance in my life. Amen.
Observation: Daniel, a member of the royal household, has been taken into exile in Babylon, (implicitly) turned into a eunuch, and forced to serve in the king's court. However, he refuses to eat the food of the king's court - rich meat and choice wine - because it has been used in ceremonial offering to other gods. In other words, Daniel knew where to draw the line when it came to honorable living in the sight of God:
-- Live in a foreign land, no problem
-- Be physically denied a future family, okay
-- Perform a distasteful job, will-do
-- Break God's commands ... no way!
Application: This is an issue I have been mentally preparing myself for for some time now. I work for a government that was one of the first to license gay marriage. The surrounding area is not just unchurched, it is anti-Christian. I am prepared for the time when I have to make a choice, and I had better know where the line is drawn.
-- I can live in a place that is anti-Christian ... in fact, Christians are called to be a light in dark places.
-- I can moderate certain behavior in order to not alienate others ... in fact, Christians are called to speak gently to others in order to keep dialogue open.
-- I can work in a job where others actively perform tasks that I do not approve of ... in fact, Christians are called to bring justice and mercy to lost and hurting people.
-- However, I cannot do tasks that violate the commandments, I will never disavow God or Jesus, I will never engage in celebrating sin.
So I cling to Verse 9 of today's passage, and not just Verse 8 ... God gave Daniel favor and compassion, which included a way out of the situation without punishment.
Prayer: Lord, I know there will come a time when I will be presented with this line, and I will pray to you for strength and guidance, and you will absolutely provide me that strength through your amazing love. I also know you will give me a path through the situation. It may not be the one obvious to me, or even the easiest path, but it will be the best path, paved with your love, and leading to the narrow gate where Jesus calls me. I thank you now for this future provision and assistance in my life. Amen.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
The Eternal Gospel
Scripture: Then I saw another angel flying directly overhead, with an eternal gospel to proclaim to those who dwell on earth, to every nation and tribe and language and people. And he said with a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come, and worship him who made heaven and earth, the sea and the springs of water.” Revelation 14:6-7
Observation: The gospel of Jesus is that God has provided a Messiah and redeemer to reconcile everyone to him, and that by faith in Jesus Christ all can receive the forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. However, this angel brings a different message, and it is the "eternal gospel" - a gospel that pre-existed the arrival of Jesus, and still exists in Revelation after the second coming of Jesus. That eternal gospel is that God is the creator of all things, and we are to glorify and honor and worship him.
Application: This, too, is good news, and I would personally summarize it as follows:
-- When it comes to questions of belief, there is an absolute truth ... God, the one God, father of Jesus, is the creator of heaven and earth.
-- We are to love God, giving him all glory and honor, for that is how we will be judged in the end.
For Christians, we have the added good news of an intercessor - by our faith in Jesus, he is able to provide us with salvation. However, our faith in Jesus never exists in a state that does not include belief in and worship of God. You cannot believe Jesus is the son of God, sent to earth out of God's love for us, and then not believe there is a loving God who created earth.
Therefore, this is the "eternal" gospel ... the good news that there is a loving God!! God's love for us pre-existed us, and it continues forever. We get to live forever in that love when we choose to return that love to him - when we choose to honor our father in heaven and worship him. And in heaven, that love-and-worship relationship will go on for eternity.
Meanwhile, on earth ... the hour of judgment approaches for those who do not worship God ...
Prayer: Lord, this is why I cry during worship ... I know it is a burden you have placed on me, to be so moved when I worship because worship is at the core of relationship with you. May my worship continue far beyond any singing I do. May it be evidenced in my work, and my words, and my service, and my daily walk. In everything I do, may I become a living sacrifice to you, holy and pleasing in your sight, as my true act of worship. Amen, and amen.
Observation: The gospel of Jesus is that God has provided a Messiah and redeemer to reconcile everyone to him, and that by faith in Jesus Christ all can receive the forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven. However, this angel brings a different message, and it is the "eternal gospel" - a gospel that pre-existed the arrival of Jesus, and still exists in Revelation after the second coming of Jesus. That eternal gospel is that God is the creator of all things, and we are to glorify and honor and worship him.
Application: This, too, is good news, and I would personally summarize it as follows:
-- When it comes to questions of belief, there is an absolute truth ... God, the one God, father of Jesus, is the creator of heaven and earth.
-- We are to love God, giving him all glory and honor, for that is how we will be judged in the end.
For Christians, we have the added good news of an intercessor - by our faith in Jesus, he is able to provide us with salvation. However, our faith in Jesus never exists in a state that does not include belief in and worship of God. You cannot believe Jesus is the son of God, sent to earth out of God's love for us, and then not believe there is a loving God who created earth.
Therefore, this is the "eternal" gospel ... the good news that there is a loving God!! God's love for us pre-existed us, and it continues forever. We get to live forever in that love when we choose to return that love to him - when we choose to honor our father in heaven and worship him. And in heaven, that love-and-worship relationship will go on for eternity.
Meanwhile, on earth ... the hour of judgment approaches for those who do not worship God ...
Prayer: Lord, this is why I cry during worship ... I know it is a burden you have placed on me, to be so moved when I worship because worship is at the core of relationship with you. May my worship continue far beyond any singing I do. May it be evidenced in my work, and my words, and my service, and my daily walk. In everything I do, may I become a living sacrifice to you, holy and pleasing in your sight, as my true act of worship. Amen, and amen.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Cause and Effect
Scripture: Then all the men who knew that their wives had made offerings to other gods, and all the women who stood by, a great assembly, all the people who lived in Pathros in the land of Egypt, answered Jeremiah: “As for the word that you have spoken to us in the name of the Lord, we will not listen to you. But we will do everything that we have vowed, make offerings to the queen of heaven and pour out drink offerings to her, as we did, both we and our fathers, our kings and our officials, in the cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem. For then we had plenty of food, and prospered, and saw no disaster. But since we left off making offerings to the queen of heaven and pouring out drink offerings to her, we have lacked everything and have been consumed by the sword and by famine.” Jeremiah 44:15-18
Observation: Judah is ravaged. Jerusalem is burned to the ground. The survivors asked Jeremiah for guidance, swearing to obey God, and Jeremiah delivers the word of God - Stay in the land, do not go to Egypt, and stop worshiping idols. So of course the people ...
... immediately go to Egypt and declare they are going to resume worshiping idols because, when they did that before, they had no issues. You know ... right up until God absolutely destroyed them.
In other words, the Jews totally misunderstood God, and misaligned the cause of their destruction. They didn't understand God's love and patience, and therefore attributed their original time of peace not as a time of God's mercy as he attempted to guide them back to righteousness, but rather as credited to idols. They didn't understand God's judgment of their idol worship, and therefore attributed their destruction to their leaders' abandonment of idols.
They got it backwards.
Application: When I talk to non-believers about issues of faith, this "backwards thinking" is ALWAYS at the center of the issue ... they don't understand God's love and corresponding judgment, and therefore cannot make sense of life. They get EVERYTHING backwards: Success is a result of their hard work; Blessing doesn't actually exist; Major life issues have nothing to do with their own bad choices and sin; If the believe in God, they believe he ignores or is the source of suffering.
Our discussion about God, therefore, must address first the concept of God's love - that he loves everyone, and provided Jesus as the means to eternal life. Our discussions must also rightly position the results of long-term rejection of Jesus - there is an eternal consequence for non-belief, and a loving God will in fact deliver judgment upon those who reject Jesus.
This is truth, and whether or not others listen or they reject it as the Jews did, our job is to simply speak truth as Jeremiah did.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to speak the truth about your love to those around me. I already know that most of them will reject it - they are "locked in" to a backwards understanding of your love, and firmly set on their path toward judgment. As both Jeremiah and Ezekiel have show, that is an issue between you and them ... we are not here to save people, we are here to tell them about the love of Jesus Christ. Help me become better, stronger, and bolder in doing that every day. Amen.
Observation: Judah is ravaged. Jerusalem is burned to the ground. The survivors asked Jeremiah for guidance, swearing to obey God, and Jeremiah delivers the word of God - Stay in the land, do not go to Egypt, and stop worshiping idols. So of course the people ...
... immediately go to Egypt and declare they are going to resume worshiping idols because, when they did that before, they had no issues. You know ... right up until God absolutely destroyed them.
In other words, the Jews totally misunderstood God, and misaligned the cause of their destruction. They didn't understand God's love and patience, and therefore attributed their original time of peace not as a time of God's mercy as he attempted to guide them back to righteousness, but rather as credited to idols. They didn't understand God's judgment of their idol worship, and therefore attributed their destruction to their leaders' abandonment of idols.
They got it backwards.
Application: When I talk to non-believers about issues of faith, this "backwards thinking" is ALWAYS at the center of the issue ... they don't understand God's love and corresponding judgment, and therefore cannot make sense of life. They get EVERYTHING backwards: Success is a result of their hard work; Blessing doesn't actually exist; Major life issues have nothing to do with their own bad choices and sin; If the believe in God, they believe he ignores or is the source of suffering.
Our discussion about God, therefore, must address first the concept of God's love - that he loves everyone, and provided Jesus as the means to eternal life. Our discussions must also rightly position the results of long-term rejection of Jesus - there is an eternal consequence for non-belief, and a loving God will in fact deliver judgment upon those who reject Jesus.
This is truth, and whether or not others listen or they reject it as the Jews did, our job is to simply speak truth as Jeremiah did.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to speak the truth about your love to those around me. I already know that most of them will reject it - they are "locked in" to a backwards understanding of your love, and firmly set on their path toward judgment. As both Jeremiah and Ezekiel have show, that is an issue between you and them ... we are not here to save people, we are here to tell them about the love of Jesus Christ. Help me become better, stronger, and bolder in doing that every day. Amen.
Friday, September 4, 2015
We Won't be Shaken
I have been sick for several days and unable to work out, which unfortunately also limits my ability to find quite time to reflect on God's word. However, I have been in the reading, and struggling through the desolation of God that is in Ezekiel and Revelation ... yes, the reading plan actually paired these two doomsday prophetic books together.
Of course, what I realized is, in the midst of curses, destruction, disaster, attacks, death, and famine ... as believers we are forgiven and protected by the love of Jesus Christ, and forgiveness of our sins by God. Even we live through these things, we have hope for an amazing eternity. I have nothing to fear about the future curses of God upon the earth, and the proof of his strong hand as evidenced in the past, because Jesus has died for me, and I place my faith in him.
As believers, we won't be shaken.
Of course, what I realized is, in the midst of curses, destruction, disaster, attacks, death, and famine ... as believers we are forgiven and protected by the love of Jesus Christ, and forgiveness of our sins by God. Even we live through these things, we have hope for an amazing eternity. I have nothing to fear about the future curses of God upon the earth, and the proof of his strong hand as evidenced in the past, because Jesus has died for me, and I place my faith in him.
As believers, we won't be shaken.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Bless the Believers
Scripture:
May all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
But I am poor and needy;
hasten to me, O God!
You are my help and my deliverer;
O Lord, do not delay!
Psalms 70:4-5
Observation: The psalmist (David) opens and closes this chapter with a plead for God to rush to his aid. He is in trouble, and wishes for God to intercede for him now. However, in verse 4 he takes time to introduce one more request - blessing upon other believers.
Application: So often I dwell on two types of issues when it comes to the people I know. One if for non-believers to discover Jesus, declare their faith, and thus be blessed. The other theme I dwell on is for believers to be corrected in their actions ... for the Church to receive better understanding of our mission, and believers not to quarrel or gossip.
However, I am missing a critical and joyful concept: Believers are blessed, and should be blessing them too! In the midst of his fear and danger, David calls out for blessing upon his fellow believers - that those who seek God and love his salvation will rejoice, be glad, and know God is great. This should be my attitude toward others in my church - in the Church of Jesus Christ - that I wish them to be blessed and happy and rewarded and joyful and loved!! This is the attitude I need to adopt about my fellow believers far more than I dwell on our shortcomings.
Prayer: Lord, give me the strength to serve my fellow believers, and to become part of the love and joy and blessing bestowed upon them. Those who have faith in Jesus are joyful of your promises, and may we all always receive your love. Amen.
May all who seek you
rejoice and be glad in you!
May those who love your salvation
say evermore, “God is great!”
But I am poor and needy;
hasten to me, O God!
You are my help and my deliverer;
O Lord, do not delay!
Psalms 70:4-5
Observation: The psalmist (David) opens and closes this chapter with a plead for God to rush to his aid. He is in trouble, and wishes for God to intercede for him now. However, in verse 4 he takes time to introduce one more request - blessing upon other believers.
Application: So often I dwell on two types of issues when it comes to the people I know. One if for non-believers to discover Jesus, declare their faith, and thus be blessed. The other theme I dwell on is for believers to be corrected in their actions ... for the Church to receive better understanding of our mission, and believers not to quarrel or gossip.
However, I am missing a critical and joyful concept: Believers are blessed, and should be blessing them too! In the midst of his fear and danger, David calls out for blessing upon his fellow believers - that those who seek God and love his salvation will rejoice, be glad, and know God is great. This should be my attitude toward others in my church - in the Church of Jesus Christ - that I wish them to be blessed and happy and rewarded and joyful and loved!! This is the attitude I need to adopt about my fellow believers far more than I dwell on our shortcomings.
Prayer: Lord, give me the strength to serve my fellow believers, and to become part of the love and joy and blessing bestowed upon them. Those who have faith in Jesus are joyful of your promises, and may we all always receive your love. Amen.
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