God Doesn't Owe Me

Scripture: Now to him who works, wages are not given as a gift, but as a debt. But to him who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness. Romans 4:4-5

Observation: In the "faith vs. works" conversation comes this logical statement from Paul - if salvation came as a result of deeds, then it is not a gift but rather a payment. Earning faith is the equivalent of God owing us a salary for our work. That cannot be a gift, and it does not make sense. Paul uses the example of Abraham, to whom blessing was credited to as faith, as one example. Abraham could not earn any blessing because there was no law, no Jews, no ritual sacrifice. Abraham had faith, and it was credited to him as righteousness.

That is not to say righteousness and blessing is earned in any way. But to the extent that we enter into a relationship with God, it is clearly by faith. And to the extent that we enter into the gift of eternal salvation it is clearly by faith in Jesus Christ.

Application: Faith makes ALL the difference in life. It was interesting last night when the video presenter stated that believing in God is an act of faith ... and believing their is no God is an act of faith.

I have faith in Jesus Christ as Messiah - my lord and savior. However, my faith in God has been wavering lately.

I am sad to see what is happening to Garrett at school, how the institution can systematically deny his goals in a manner manifestly unfair, and I keep waiting for God to act and move him forward. It now seems it won't happen, and I am ... confused.

I am sad to see what I think I am seeing when it comes to Kayla's dance career. I hear her data points about corrections she isn't receiving, that she doesn't execute on an elite level, and I fear what is next because I know what is next. I walked that path. I walked the path of being a peer with those who would be offered scholarships and contracts in the future, while I fell to the wayside and backwaters of the sport because I just wasn't quite 'there'. And I fear that I don't know how God will carry Kayla through those future times ... if he will uplift her professionally to success in dance, or uplift her personally to joy in her post-dance life. And I am ... nervous.

I am ... scared about my abilities at work. I am ... worried about Laurie's stress and health. And in the end I am ... weak in my faith right now. This isn't a faith issue about turning away from God and Jesus, it's a faith issue of wondering why God isn't acting, active, present, engaged, correcting, and rewarding us and our situations. I am doubting his plan. I don't have to understand it ... but I would really, really like to.

Prayer: Lord, you know my heart. Please forgive me weaknesses. I believe in you. At the core, I am sad for my children and the idea that their dreams may pass. Most of me knows you have it all in your hands, and that your ways will be so much better for them and for all of us. Maybe I just wish I understood. I am sorry for my weakness. Amen.

Faith IS the Law

Scripture: Also concerning the foreigner who is not of Your people Israel and comes from a far country for Your name’s sake (for they will hear of Your great name and of Your strong hand and of Your outstretched arm), when he comes and prays toward this house, may You hear in heaven, Your dwelling place, and do all that the foreigner asks of You, so all people of the earth will know Your name. 1 Kings 8:41-43a

This righteousness of God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all and upon all who believe, for there is no distinction. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God ... Is He the God of the Jews only? Is He not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also, seeing it is one God, who shall justify the circumcised by faith, and the uncircumcised through faith. Do we then make the law void through faith? God forbid! Instead, we establish the law. Romans 3:22-23,29-31

Observation: In consecrating the temple in Jerusalem, Solomon claims the mercy of God for the foreigners if they will submit to the power, judgment, and merciful love of Yahweh and pray in his name. Over a thousand years later, Paul explains exactly this same thing to the church in Rome ... that the sacrifice of Jesus is for all people, Jews and Gentiles, if they will only have faith in Jesus Christ.

It is this very last verse of Romans 3 that makes the full connection. In praying over the temple and all Israel, Solomon declared that all the laws, promises, and judgments of God were perfect and fulfilled. Paul connects that law to faith in Jesus, stating that faith doesn't void the law, but establishes it. In other words, it is by faith in Jesus that the promise of the law - the promise of full reconciliation to God and reception of his great love - is fulfilled, and it is fulfilled not only for the Jews (whose chief difference from the Gentiles is that the law was entrusted to them (Romans 3:2)), but for all mankind.

Application: In the end, faith in Jesus is the law of the Old Testament. The Old Testament law was not about rules that proved obedience, but about sanctification and justification in order to align one's self to God. However, all those practices were always about one thing ... no person is "good enough" and thus we require a different medium for engaging with God. Jesus became that medium, but not just for the Jews.

And that was ALWAYS God's intention. In Solomon's time there were non-Israelite believers - in fact, we see them all through the Old Testament - and in his wisdom Solomon understood they had a right and a claim upon God's love, mercy, attention, and aid.

And today, all people have the same right. This includes "non-Christians" ... anyone who at any moment turns to God in faith. This was always the purpose of the "law", that anyone who is humble before God can receive his judgment and mercy.

Prayer: Lord, I ask that you continue to work within my heart. Keep your Holy Spirit upon me as I go forward today. May my compliance with your law, and my faith in Jesus Christ, be interdependent and inseparable, in my deeds and thoughts. Amen.

Living in Lawless Times

Scripture: For the mystery of lawlessness is already working. Only He who is now restraining him will do so until He is taken out of the way. Then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth, and destroy with the brightness of His presence, even him, whose coming is in accordance with the working of Satan with all power and signs and false wonders, and with all deception of unrighteousness among those who perish, because they did not receive the love for the truth that they might be saved. Therefore God will send them a strong delusion, that they should believe the lie: that they all might be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:7-12

Observation: Even Peter said that Paul's letters were difficult to understand ...

Paul introduces here the concept of what has become known as the "antichrist", but is really associated with a time where people completely fall away from God and all lawful teaching to follow ways that are completely divergent. As one of the "mysteries" in Paul's letters, he calls this the mystery of lawlessness, which he appears to summarize as follows:

-- Evil people will formulate a message of completely false teaching.
-- These false teachings will carry power but will be fully opposed to God's righteousness.
-- Many will accept this teaching because they have abandoned God's love and truth.
-- God will allow this and even reinforce their decision as a means of removing any gray area with regards to salvation and thus clearly delineating them as unrighteous.

Application: It is in looking at these explanations of the New Testament where we get the idea that we live in the end times. We live in a time of massive and clear-cut delusions over issues that are in total conflict with God's righteous love. These delusions over ... marriage, sexual relationships, welfare practices, discrimination, genocide ... these things and more are effecting every area of the world. Some in some places, others in others, but they have progressed to the point of strong and clear divisions. In each case, there are groups who absolutely believe that a opinion that is adamantly opposed to God's love is clearly correct, and that opinion is now held by millions or even billions of people.

This is a mystery to me. It was declared a mystery by Paul. But Paul also tells us what to do about it: "Because God has from the beginning called you to salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief of the truth" we are to "stand firm and hold the traditions which you have been taught, whether by word or by our letter."

Prayer: Lord, may thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Amen.

Focusing One's Memory

Scripture:
Today if you hear His voice,
    do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,
    and as in the day of Massah in the wilderness,
when your fathers tested Me and tried Me,
    though they had seen My deeds.
Psalm 95:7b-9

Observation: Through the psalmist, God explicitly calls for people to listen to his words and soften their hearts, recalling the failings of the wilderness generation as an example. God points out that generation had a hard heart, but even more to the point they challenged and doubted the capabilities and love of the Lord despite the fact they had personally witnessed all his miracles and wonders during the exodus.

Application: I find it hard sometimes today to soften my heart when I have not seen all the elements of God. I believe this is not an issue of faith, but an issue of mindfulness. I have faith in God, but I do not think through the proper context and thus do not apply God's love and might to every situation. Perhaps I am doubting God's ... willingness to be with me.

For in my life, my experience is focused on my failures. Every day, I fail some, and over my life I have failed innumerable times. It is easier for me to recall those times than to apply God's love and actions to my memory, though I absolutely know how he has acted in my life ... some every day, and over my life innumerable times.

This is the failure of my heart and my mind. I focus on the wrong things. To paraphrase Paul, I focus on that which I hate and fail to focus on that which I love.

Prayer: Abba, please take my hand. I repent of the actions in my life that prevent my daily walk with you. Help me to break cycles of anger and distrust. I do not wish for those elements in my life, but want a soft heart of joy, peace, and self control. Please, father, may I focus on your love and help this day and every day. Amen.

Paul's Soundbites

Scripture: Now we exhort you, brothers, warn those who are unruly, comfort the faint-hearted, support the weak, and be patient toward everyone. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone. But always seek to do good to one another and to all. Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Examine all things. Firmly hold onto what is good. Abstain from all appearances of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22

Observation: In his closing to the Thessalonian church, Paul gives this series of one-line instruction. He follows the "we exhort you" statement with 14 instructions, some as short as two or three words. They cover ... avoiding evil, looking to goodness, examining teachings, accepting certain gifts, acknowledging the work of the Holy Spirit, thanking God, prayer, worship, pursuing good actions, helping others avoid pitfalls, showing patience, assisting the weak, comforting those in pain, and warning others in the church against wrong actions.

In other letters from Paul, these topics aren't phases, they are chapters. These are critical and important lessons regarding the behavior of the church, covered often, and certainly all are important ... so important that Paul just couldn't write a letter on a different topic without at least throwing these into the mix as reminders. However, in the middle of this entire list are two instructions that seem to trump all others for their urgency and volume, but also for their stark brevity.

Rejoice always - Worship and rejoice over everything. Praise God for the good, celebrate with God for the everyday, and sing to God through hardship.

Pray continually - Never stop talking to God. God is your father, counselor, savior, and guide who loves you. Talk to him about everything, at all times, in all circumstances.

In the construction of these soundbites, these two little tiny phrases - each so important that they are their own two verses - mark a transition from "here is how to behave with each other" to "here is how to behave toward God." These are the bedrock of a relationship with God - worship and prayer.

Application: I seek daily to walk closer with God. These, then, are the keys - my prayer life, and my worship and rejoicing in daily life. These are not to be things I do daily. They are to be things I do continually - always - at all times, without ceasing, all day. I am not to pray in the morning and in the evening, I am to pray in every thought, step, action, situation, consideration. I am not to rejoice only when I have a good day and then hear a good song, I am to rejoice in all circumstances and regarding all situations in my life.

This is a true daily walk with God.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your lessons, your love, your counsel, your correction, your judgment, and your mercy. I do seek you daily. May I truly foster our relationship through this continual connection with you in prayer and worship. I turn my thoughts, my life, my ways, and my heart over to you. Amen.

Men at Work

Scripture: Azmaveth the son of Adiel was over the king’s treasures, and Jonathan the son of Uzziah was over the storehouses in the fields, in the cities, and in the villages, and in the towers. Ezri the son of Kelub was over those who did the work of the field to till the ground. Shimei the Ramathite was over the vineyards, and Zabdi the Shiphmite was over what was in the vineyards for the stores of wine. Baal-Hanan the Gederite was over the olive trees and the sycamore trees that were in the Shephelah, and Joash was over the stores of oil. Shitrai the Sharonite was over the herds that fed in Sharon, and Shaphat the son of Adlai was over the herds that were in the valleys. Obil the Ishmaelite was over the camels, and Jehdeiah the Meronothite was over the donkeys. Jaziz the Hagrite was over the flocks. All these were the overseers of King David’s property. 1 Chronicles 27:25-31

Observation: Outside of the temple, the city defenses and the army, and tribal leaders, these are the kings officials. They oversee the treasures, the storehouses, the farms and farmers, the vineyards and wine production, the olives and oil production, and all kinds of livestock. In other words, these people are responsible for the economy.

Application: I find these parts of the bible ... boring, confusing, fascinating, challenging ... all at the same time. Why would I care who is in charge of the camels around Jerusalem in ~975 BC? Then again, God cared enough to have it put in the bible, so what does it mean? In this section, we have covered massive lists of musicians, and gatekeepers around the wall, and temple treasurers. I can think of two possible lessons.

First, God cares about all work done well. These individuals were not running temple worship, they were overseeing the details required in a stable society, and God cares about it.

Second, God cares about service to others. All of these items, even if they represent employment, ultimately created the infrastructure needed for all of Israel to live well. God acknowledges this kind of service.

In both cases, I see a "holy vocation" message and lesson. This is a situation where being an olive picker, or a donkey rancher, or a money counter ... matters. Doing a job of service well serves God's people, God's ways, and God's desires for all mankind, ourselves included.

Prayer: Lord, may I execute well in my holy vocation this week. Help me to serve others through the work of my mind, hands, thoughts, and words. And in so doing, may all glory and honor come to you and you alone. In the wonderful name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

Among Stronger Enemies

Scripture:
He rescued me from my strong enemy,
    from those who hate me;
    for they were stronger than I.
They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
    but the Lord was my support.
He brought me to the open expanse;
    He rescued me, for He delighted in me.
2 Samuel 22:18-20

Observation: David ... the mightiest warrior of Israel, defeater of Goliath, king of blood, defender of God, who led and won battle after battle against the Amorites, Hittites, Philistines, and three civil rebellions ... knows his enemies were stronger than him.

David does not believe he is a mighty warrior. What he DOES know about himself is that ... he is a little shepherd boy and youngest of seven sons ... he is a poet and artist willing for his epitaph to be "favorite psalmist of Israel" (2 Samuel 23:1) ... and he believes in God and obeys his commands. It is by these things - not personal might - that David became the leader of a nation in turmoil, and defeated every enemy in a war-torn region.

Application: In my time of honest reflection, I know that I cannot do my job. I am not knowledgeable or educated well enough to manage a hundred people, spending many millions of dollars, while establishing future vision. I'm just not. If I continue to sit here and try, leveraging my intelligence and research to make decisions, I will fail.

I absolutely need David's understanding of self. I am a child of a middling family, averagely schooled, with a writer's heart, who has been thrust into leadership in an industry for which I was never prepared. My only hope is to trust in God's rescue and delight, by honoring, worshiping, and relying upon him.

Prayer: My Lord, please forgive my pride. Pride is my root issue in life, in all mistakes I make. I only seek to humbly know that I am your child, without knowledge or authority, who would like to hold your hand and walk gently with you daily. Again, please forgive me of my faults, and soften my heart. I seek your path. Amen.

When did it Become Breaking the Rules

While I spend the next two days attempting to get approval to promote the biggest leadership conference in the world ... to a bunch of government leaders ... because it's run by a church ...

Those on Their Own

Scripture: When Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that He was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, saying, “I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? You must see to that.” So he threw down the pieces of silver in the temple and departed. And he went and hanged himself. Matthew 27:3-5

Observation: When Judas attempts to undo his betrayal by returning the money, the priests give an interesting response. Effectively, in Judas' request for forgiveness, they respond that his forgiveness is none of their business, but that Judas must reconcile the issue of his sin on his own. Judas' response to this, of course, is suicide, rather than observing any Jewish law or process for sanctification.

In his mind, Judas had no other way to get forgiveness. It is just as interesting, however, to note that the priests also had no idea about how to intervene for his forgiveness. This was their job! Jewish priests worked in the temple, whose primary "business" function if you will was the industry of forgiveness through sacrifice. By law there were animal, grain, food, and drink offerings spelled out clearly for forgiveness of sin, reconciliation of lives, friendship with God, and cleansing of self. In this first century time, monetary offerings for equivalent value were acceptable. By their own law, the priests had a half dozen ways to intervene for and/or with Judas ... yet they declared nothing was possible ... Judas had to work things out between God and himself all on his own.

Application: Even before he was crucified, Jesus completely changed the dynamic between mankind and God. At one time, mankind could not really resolve their sins against God, but could become ceremonial ... okay. However, once Jesus entered the picture, that ended. Now mankind can be made pure, but it is only through Jesus. Otherwise, we must work out our relationship with God on our own ... and there is no way to do that.

I once saw a pastor state this exact thing. He stated belief Jesus was the way to a relationship with God, and anyone who didn't have that belief would "have to work out their relationship with God on their own." This issue was first exemplified with Judas. Judas is left with one clear choice - reconcile with Jesus, or find some other way back to God. Having betrayed Jesus, he couldn't figure out how to reconcile, but he knew there was no other way.

Since everyone around me has heard of Jesus, for them I know there too is no other way. The choice is, in fact, black or white. The choice is a) believe in Jesus, or b) find another way for yourself. SO many seek that other "way" and find it empty and devoid, unfulfilling in the present and hopeless in the future. As Judas quickly saw, that other way - working out your relationship with God on your own without Jesus - is called 'death'.

Prayer: Lord, the people I truly interact with fall into three categories. There are believers, there are seekers, and there are those completely on their own and seeking their own way. I do pray for seekers like Don, who are trying to figure out Jesus. They are realizing that seeing to their issues for themselves doesn't work. But Lord, I know and care about way too many rejecters. They are far down the dark and lonely paths of working out life on their own, searching for joy they will never find. And I have learned I cannot go down that path and bring them back. Please Lord. Please. Go get them. Amen, and amen.

Merciful Protection

Scripture:
I acknowledged my sin to You,
    and my iniquity I did not conceal.
I said, “I will confess
    my transgressions to the Lord,”
and You forgave
    the iniquity of my sin. Selah
For this cause everyone who is godly will pray to You
    in a time when You may be found;
surely in the floods of great waters
    they will not reach him.
You are my hiding place;
    You will preserve me from trouble;
    You will surround me with shouts of deliverance. Selah
Psalm 32:5-7

Observation: The psalmist (David) explicitly ponders the idea of God's forgiveness, and comes to a wonderful image of that mercy. Upon request, God forgives sins. However, even greater than that, God then becomes a refuge - a hiding place - where one may seek protection and delivery from the bad things of the world as a result of that same mercy. God is not a judge to hid from in shame. Instead, when we have confessed our sins, God becomes a merciful protectors and deliverer.

Selah.

Application: In my mind and heart, I am sinning way too much, and I feel ashamed even by the thoughts in my head. I am so angry at others, so judgmental of others. In my head is a fantasy world where my "what if's" are contrary to God's ways. And I am ashamed of all this.

However, David would tell me that, by turning to God and confessing my sins, my situation is not to be feared. Rather, God will embrace me and protect me. I would prefer that I turn away and repent of the sin, focusing my mental energy on meditating on the word of God. However, true mercy and forgiveness is critical as well.

Prayer: Father, please do forgive me. Please forgive my anger, my harsh tone and words, my evil thoughts. I seek to repent of all that. In the meantime, please wrap me in your protection, and allow your spirit to protect me from the inside out. Amen.

Making a Bad Assumption

Scripture: But the Ammonite officials said to Hanun, their lord, “Has David honored your father in your eyes by sending comforters to you? Was it not in an effort to search out the city, to scout it in order to overthrow it, that he sent his servants to you?” So Hanun seized the servants of David, shaved half of the beard of each, cut their robes in half so that they were exposed, and sent them away. 2 Samuel 10:3-4

Observation: David has sent attendants to Hanun to honor him as a courtesy to Nahash, and Ammonite king who aided him when Saul was after him. Hanun's advisors give him ... some pretty bad advice, and the outcome of all of this is David will defeat the Ammonites and the Arameans who come to their aid.

Israel and the Ammonites were thiiiis close to peaceful existence, but Hanun decided he couldn't trust a simple gesture of friendship.

Hanun's and his officials did not understand why a foreign king would send people to their palace who were not spies. This is likely because of two flaws in their understanding. First, they themselves would not have considered mercy and comfort as an act of foreign relations, but would have taken the opportunity to spy on Israel. Therefore, they believed that was Israel's intent. Second they did not understand the character of David, and thus they dismissed the idea that he cared for Nahash.

The bad assumption that the Israelites were spies was born out of their own lack of faith and understanding of Yahweh. Without understanding the love and mercy of God, they could not believe David was expressing sincere love and mercy.

Application: Similar to yesterday, I see a connection between someone who makes a bad decision, and a lack of understanding about the nature of God, faith, the law, and love. I am in a season of inviting people into activities at church, primarily GLS. I need to remember they might make bad assumptions about my words, my invitation, and my engagement. These bad assumptions may lead them to merely ignore the invitation, or it may lead them to rash and unintended actions that are even opposed to the objective. I must be careful in my message.

Prayer: Lord, I pray this every week at Alpha, may my words not be of myself, but purely of you and of the Spirit. My invitations to others may bear my name, or be from my email account, but they need to be from you. Please be with me as I seek to engage others into what I pray will be an eternal conversation. Amen.

Lacking the Proper Context

Scripture: Jesus answered them, “I also will ask you one question. If you tell Me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things. Where did the baptism of John come from? From heaven or from men?” They reasoned among themselves, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ He will say to us, ‘Then why did you not believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men,’ we are afraid of the people, for all hold John as a prophet.” So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” Matthew 21:24-27

Observation: Jesus asks the priests and elders a question, and interestingly enough they give what might be considered an honest answer. They do not know where the baptism authority of John came from. They may have given this answer out of fear of the crowd, but the bottom line is that they had to discuss this question because they weren't sure of the answer.

This is then the lesson Jesus is teaching. They have asked about Jesus' own authority. He points out to them they do not understand the basics about the source of authority, therefore he cannot give them an answer they will understand. They lack the proper context for receiving the correct answer.

Application: Discussing all matters of faith - the will of God, reality of miracles, basic faith, mission of Jesus, power of the Holy Spirit, compliance with the law, forgiveness versus judgment - requires a basic context about ... God's love. It is by that love that God seeks to guide behavior, forgive sin, sacrifice his only son, intervene in crisis, mold character, allow free will, and judge responses.

I am moving out of a time where I have been trying to find God's context for what is happening around me. I have sought direction and guidance, while taking action, and praying for outcomes. I believe the last 15 hours have now shown results. God cares SO much MORE about character, lives, and the long-term soul of people than he cares about their earthly status, rewards, and station. He seeks growth of our hearts, and he is willing to take people through the dark valley of their lives to achieve that growth ... while staying with them every step of the way.

And my task is to aid some people through that valley. That seems like a hard call, but it also seems to be more clear.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for Randy and Dave. I have never said that before, because I have not appreciated them from a "professional" perspective. However, I do appreciate them now, from your perspective, seeing them through your eyes. You love them. May I simply join you in how you manifest that love. Amen.

Give Thanks to the Lord

Scripture:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
    for His mercy endures forever.
1 Chronicles 16:34

Oh, give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good,
    for His mercy endures forever.
Psalm 106:1b

Observation: The first of these verses is attributed to David as a song he presented at the relocation of the ark to Jerusalem. The psalm is certainly not from David, as it later makes specific references to the atrocities and calamities associated with the fall of Israel at the hands of the Assyrians several hundred years later.

Other than that, the two songs are different in theme. David's song is about remembering the love and wonders of God. The psalm is about remembering the mercy and judgment of God while the Israelites repeatedly grumbled and sinned going all the way back to Egypt right up to their destruction. David summarizes his message about the glory, wonder, and greatness of God by giving thanks, pronouncing God as good and with eternal mercy. The psalmist introduces the righteous judgment of God the same way.

Application: There is a specific truth revealed here. In all ways, at all times, in all situations, through all results ... the Lord is eternally merciful, completely good, and we are to give thanks to him. Whether recalling good times or bad - acknowledging our failings or anticipating blessings - we thank God for his love, goodness, and mercy.

We are in the midst of blessing in many ways, but we are also in the midst of very difficult times. Life goes both ways, often at the same time, especially when our family looks at life through many lenses ... work stress, marriage connection, children's success, church progress, overall relaxation. Today I am reminded that, in every situation and condition, regardless of which lens I choose to look through at any given moment, there is one appropriate and excellent sentiment.

Prayer: Thank you, Lord! You are exceedingly good. Your love and mercy endures forever and forever. Again I say, thank you, Lord!! Amen, and amen.

It's Always About Others

Scripture: At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Matthew 18:1

Observation: Jesus responds to this question by calling a child to him and stating everyone must become humble like the child in order to enter the kingdom of heaven. However, he then follows this up with four stories in succession:

-- A lesson about temptation - how we are tempted, and that we must not tempt others

-- The parable celebrating finding the one lost sheep, not the 99 who were never lost

-- Instructions on confronting others and having two or three believers in agreement

-- A parable about forgiving others for their debts/wrongs as we have been forgiven

In this way, Jesus explains the greatest in heaven ... one who radically cares about others. In so doing, that person is humble, ensures they do not tempt others into wrongdoing, seeks out those who are lost and hurting to help them, offers well-founded correction when necessary, and forgives all wrongs done by others. In the kingdom of heaven, greatness is about how we treat, love, and serve others.

Application: This is clearly a theme God is teaching me lately ... to continue to focus on my love of others as a way to mature as a Christian. I see this often now. My question today, then, is how do I do all these things?

I can avoid tempting others to sin by not behaving in a manner that causes anger.

I can actively seek out a hurting person and care for them instead of focusing on the entire crowd.

I can address specific issues with brothers and sisters in constructive ways instead of holding the concern within and perhaps gossiping about them.

I can absolutely let go of any wrong I feel I have received from others, knowing that God has forgiven me of so much more!

Prayer: Lord, I have no thought be being "the greatest" in the kingdom. I simply want to be a humble member of the kingdom. Please continue to aid me in softening my heart and improving my attitude toward others, so I may be humble in all ways. Amen.

Learning from Abner's Advancement

Scripture: Now Saul had a concubine whose name was Rizpah, the daughter of Aiah, and Ish-Bosheth said to Abner, “Why have you gone in to my father’s concubine?” Abner became very angry over the words of Ish-Bosheth. He said, “Am I a dog’s head that belongs to Judah? Each day I show loyalty to the house of Saul your father, to his brothers, and to his friends by not allowing you to fall into the hand of David. Yet today you are charging me with guilt concerning this woman. May God do so to Abner, and more also, for as the Lord has sworn to David, this I will do for him, to transfer the kingdom from the house of Saul and to establish the throne of David over Israel and Judah, from Dan to Beersheba.” And he could not offer a response to Abner, for fear of him. 2 Samuel 3:7-11

Observation: Abner has all the military power of those supporting Ish-Bosheth, Saul's son, as king. Yet as Abner grows stronger, Ish-Bosheth questions him about taking Saul's concubine Rizpah as his wife, and Abner's reaction is to defect to David. Abner chose to support Ish-Bosheth for reasons very unclear - he was at David's inauguration and knew he was always the anointed success to Saul - and the reason he then flips is equally weak.

This, again, was the state of "faith" in this time of Israel. Abner - one of the great leaders if Israel - flips back and forth in a political power struggle over issues as trivial as a question about his wife, despite the fact he was a person witness of prophets declaring the word of God in pronouncing David as the next king. Abner doesn't care what God says ... he cares about what will advance him. When backing Ish-Bosheth gives him power, authority, and a wife, he does it. When Ish-Bosheth questions those rewards, he immediately seeks power and advancement with David (and gets it temporarily, until he is killed by Joab).

Application: It is interesting to see the nature of all mankind when it comes to God summarized by this concept ... even when they directly know the will of God, they pursue actions to advance themselves completely independent from - and often in conflict with - that will of God.

Do I do that? I am sure I do. I am sure there are times I know what God wants, and I know what I want, and I pursue my desires without even considering God's will. At best, my goals and God's goals are neutral, but I'm sure they are sometimes in conflict, and I select my goals ahead of God's.

I am struggling with that now, as I try to understand what God would have me do for some people at work in my care. There are actions necessitated by the standards of performance and policy, and there are potential actions founded in love and mercy. I am trying to do both. I am hoping I am finding a way to place the mercy component of my actions first. However, I am struggling with this and seeking God's guidance. At least I am comforted by the idea that this is front and center in my mind, and I am not proceeding without consideration for God's will.

Prayer: Lord, I ask for your daily guidance here at work. Do not let me be angry in any situation. Instead, help me to show compassion on those who are struggling, mixed with guidance and accountability in a manner that aids them in progressing in life. Amen.

The Anti-Climax

Scripture: So Saul died because of his unfaithful deeds against the Lord, because of his failure to keep the word of the Lord, and because he sought to consult a spirit of divination but did not seek the Lord. So He killed him and turned the kingdom over to David the son of Jesse. 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

Observation: Here is the book of Chronicles so far. Eight chapters of lineages concluding with the lineage of the tribe of Benjamin; Chapter 9 is the lineage of Saul the Benjaminite; and Chapter 10 is ... Saul's death.

That's a lot of boring reading to build up to Israel's first king, just to have him immediate expunged. Clearly the real goal was therefore pointing to David as the great king. However, in this ending we learn the context of Saul's failure, and it is exactly the same failing as the rest of Israel during this time of transition from the judges to the kings. Saul was:

-- Unfaithful in action, failing to follow the word of God
-- Unfaithful in relationship, consulting mediums instead of seeking God

These are the two great charges of all people. Repeatedly this is clear - God wants a loving relationship with us, out of which comes obedient action founded in love.

Application: Again I say it today, I wish to walk humbly with the Lord, and from that show justice and mercy to all. I desire to hold God's hand and exhibit the fruits of the spirit.

Prayer: Dear Lord, please anoint me with you spirit today and every day. May I walk with you this very day, consulting you, speaking with you, and in turn obeying you. Amen.

When Relationship Matters

Scripture: Now therefore you also, please obey the voice of your maidservant and let me set before you a piece of bread, and eat so that you may have strength when you go on your way.” But he refused and said, “I will not eat.” But his servants, and also the woman, urged him and he listened to them. So he arose from the ground and sat on the bed. Now the woman had a fattened calf in the house, and she hurried and killed it, and took flour, and kneaded it, and baked unleavened bread from it. She brought it before Saul and his servants, and they ate. Then they arose and went away that night. 1 Samuel 28:22-25

Observation: After summoning a vision of Samuel, who informs Saul that he is about to be defeated by the Philistines, Saul collapses is both despair and hunger. He has not eaten for 24 hours and says he won't eat, but then upon just a little persuasion - and the butchering of a fatted calf - Saul eats.

In other words, Saul has no idea how to engage God anymore. He no longer sees visions himself. There are no prophets sending words. So he brings in a medium who summons Samuel, and is told "you have already been told the answers and the reasons". At this point, Saul could continue his fasting and praying. Instead, he just eats. Of course, he wasn't really "fasting" ... there is no evidence that Saul was fasting in order to focus on God and strengthen his prayers before God. Instead, it appears Saul simply had been too worried to eat. His lack of nutrition was because he was scared and upset and couldn't eat, resulting in his physical weakness. He was not fasting as a means to spiritual strength.

Saul has it ALL wrong. He does the wrong things. He does potentially right things for wrong reasons. And this is all because he has no intention of consulting God. For Saul, God may not even be real anymore ... he is real in that he controls the world, but Saul does not try to access him except through others. Saul has no relationship with God, and as a result God is scary and to be feared.

Application: I remember when I believed in God without a relationship with God. And I thought God was all kinds of 'bad'. At best, I thought he didn't care. At worst, I thought he manipulated the world for his childish entertainment. Somewhere down the middle was my belief he simply wielded all-controlling power in ways we couldn't understand and thus of which we could only be random victims.

David can go live with the enemy for years in peace because he has a relationship with God. Saul can't eat a meal in peace because he has no relationship with God. And now Saul shows that he cannot even seek such a relationship ... he doesn't have the will or the understanding. For me, I seek that relationship. I have it, and I want it deeper. The closer we are to God, and the better we understand our relationship with him, the simpler all things in life truly are.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for this reminder today, that belief in your existence can be fearful if not for an understanding of your love, your nature, and your son. May I speak with you, my father, continually this day and every day. Amen.

Be Still and Trust My Plan

David knew how to trust God ... he ran for his life, but wrote songs about his deliverance, prayed for strength, and refused to seek his own redemption when presented the chance. He had this HUGE perception of the Lord, and ALSO knew the Lord was even MORE than that! Now THAT is the man after God's own heart.

Questions on Earthly Judgment

Scripture: Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged. And with the measure you use, it will be measured again for you. And why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank that is in your own eye? Or how will you say to your brother, ‘Let me pull the speck out of your eye,’ when a log is in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye. Matthew 7:1-5

Observation: The words of this very famous passage are obvious.

Application: I need God's guidance in this area.

I am a director - a person charged with the business, operational, and functional performance of significant resources. I have people in my charge who are unable to perform their work. For some, it is a matter of insufficient knowledge and skill. For some, it is a matter of personal problems or physical ailments preventing their effective work. For some, it is a matter of attitude and disagreement over direction.

For all of this, my job is to correct. Regarding knowledge and skill, I can absolutely assist and equip others. However, with regards to the other matters, I am struggling with the idea of what to do in the context of Jesus' words about judgment.

-- I empathize with those who have personal and health issues. Some of these are severe. However, should I not hold them accountable for how these issues affect their performance? Should I just excuse and ignore exceptionally poor work because of a distracted mind? Should I allow others to carry a burden because of obvious inability of another to function?

-- I care about those whose lives are so bad that they are perpetually angry all day long. They have chosen rebellion as a standard response to even kind instruction. However, should I accept this rebellion and the resulting inaction at the cost of the work, time, and happiness of others? Should I allow distraction and inertia in some, while motivating others to service and action?

Should I not judge and correct these behaviors that are almost primarily "earthly" in their realm of impact, not heavenly or spiritually? In other words, am I supposed to treat these differently that spiritual judgment? Am I allowed to judge a person's work and correct it, while not judging their heart but simply caring for them as a person? And if I am to care for the person and correct the work, what do I do when the work correction will absolutely impact the life and livelihood of the person?

Prayer: Lord, I just wrote down nine questions ... and I don't have an answer to a single one of them. I turn to you for instruction. I need your word, your leadership, your direction, and your love. Amen.

Celebrating in all Circumstances

Scripture:
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears,
    and delivers them out of all their troubles.
The Lord is near to the broken-hearted,
    and saves the contrite of spirit.

Many are the afflictions of the righteous,
    but the Lord delivers him out of them all.
A righteous one keeps all his bones;
    not one of them is broken.

Psalm 34:17-20

Observation: David writes this psalm while first on the run from Saul. His fear that Saul wishes to kill him have been confirmed, and he leaves everything. But then he even reaches a foreign city where the king knows of David and begins to plot concerning him, leaving David to feign madness in order to convince the king he is not worth any effort. In the midst of all this ... David write praises to God as his protector, his Lord, and his deliverer.

In the midst of the danger, David is already celebrating God's protection. While sad about the turn of events, David is joyful for God's love.

Application: God is exactly the same on my good days and my bad days, so my interaction and relationship with him should be the same. The Lord gives me good blessings and wisdom almost every day, so on the days I feel discouraged ... I might still be discouraged with life, but I should still be encouraged by God's love. And this should also be my focus, as that love is so much greater than any hardship or petty issue that arises during the day.

My soul will sing to the Lord on good days and bad. I will sing on Sundays and Tuesdays. I will worship the Lord in my heart and soul in the sun and in the storm.

Prayer: Lord, you are my joy and my strength, my wisdom and my loving father. May I keep you in my heart as David did. May I think on your love and mercy and protection while I am in the very center of any hardship, problem, or trial. In other words, please guide me in keeping you central in my life, and in my walk, every day. Amen.

Application of the Law

Scripture: Then Jesus said to him, "Get away from here, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve'." Matthew 4:10

Observation: Three times Satan tempts Jesus, and three times Jesus quotes scripture in response. It is interesting to note, however, that Jesus does not quote broadly from the entire scriptures, even when answering Satan's own use of the scriptures (from Psalm 91). Jesus limits his response to one book of the scriptures: Deuteronomy.

Deuteronomy is the summary of the law. Yes, laws were given throughout the Pentateuch, but Deuteronomy is where Moses summarized and clarified the law before Israel entered the promised land. Some believe it is the true and full law, and that other laws only applied to the wilderness period of Israel, while others believe it is simply Moses' summary of all the laws. Either way, this is the text Jesus uses three times to strengthen himself, answer the challenge, and respond to false statements.

Application: Paul says that the law is sufficient for teaching, encouraging, and understanding. Jesus says he was the fulfillment of the law. Yet many times I would like to ignore the law - to engage in thoughts about what may or may not really apply anymore - to pick and chose what I obey.

I know this is wrong. I also know it is fruitless. And I know it is at my own peril I do this. The law is good as God's instructions that are intended to guide and protect us ... the law is designed to give us a good life within God's perfect will. Jesus, in one of his first acts as Messiah, applies the law to his encounter with temptation. I tend to ignore the law at the very moment of temptation.

The law teaches, advises, encourages, guides, and educates. The topic to which all these apply is that of a right, healthy, and fulfilling life with God. If I am to walk humbly with the Lord, that begins with the law.

Prayer: Lord, may I cease cherry-picking your law. I will strive to understand, remember, and obey your teachings. No, I don't have an ox to worry about whether or not I am treating it properly during the harvest, but I do have thoughts, actions, words, and deeds. May I align all that I do, think, and say to your law more and more. Amen.

Behaving Not for Approval

Scripture: Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that you should do that which is honorable, whether or not we may seem disqualified. 2 Corinthians 13:7

Observation: As part of his final exhortations, Paul informs the church at Corinth that he will be coming to them soon, and encourages the church to right behavior. He says this not so that they will simply prove they listened to him, or make him happy and avoid his displeasure. Paul says this because he simply wants what is best for the church, and not doing evil is honorable in the sight of God.

Application: Doing good is not something I am to do to appease others. It is done to honor God. My actions - if I identify as a Christian - reflect upon God in a unique way and shine a light into the rest of the world.

Beyond obvious sin, what are the honorable actions I need to ensure I adopt and reflect daily? Certainly taming any anger and pride is foremost. Kind words and honesty are needed. In fact, as I reflect deeper, all actions that reflect the fruit of the spirit fall into this preferred behavior.

Prayer: Lord, I do seek your spirit this day. I would like to outwardly reflect love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Please, I ask you to fill me with your spirit so that I may have these qualities internally. Amen.

Good King Saul

Scripture: The people said to Samuel, "Who said, ‘Shall Saul reign over us?’ Bring the men, that we may put them to death." Saul said, "There will not be a man put to death this day. For today the Lord has worked deliverance in Israel." ... "Now therefore, look at the king whom you have chosen and for whom you have asked! And see that the Lord has set a king over you. If you will fear the Lord, and serve Him, and obey His voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the Lord, then both you and the king that reigns over you will continue following the Lord your God. But if you will not obey the voice of the Lord, but rebel against the commandment of the Lord, then will the hand of the Lord be against you, as it was against your fathers." 1 Samuel 11:12-13; 1 Samuel 12:13-15

Observation: Saul defeats the enemies and saves Israel, and proves himself not only a good commander but a wise and forgiving king by rejecting the idea that those who opposed him should die. Samuel then speaks about the issue of this king ... that God was the king of Israel whom they have now rejected and asked for an earthly king, and God has granted that request. However, the goodness of that king - and therefore their own success - remains based on their love and honor of the Lord.

We know that, as a people, they will fail. We know that Saul, as a king, will fail. But for today, Saul is a good king ... wise in his treatment of others, honoring of God for his victory, filled with the Spirit of God in his words and actions. There was in him the potential to be a good king. He could have remained spirit-lead while he honored God above himself, and thus by example lead the people to renew their honor of God as their true sovereign authority in their nation. He could have done this.

Application: I could do this, too. I could honor God, give him all glory and credit, forgiving my enemies while enacting God's will. I could in that way help others turn their faces to God and find faith and love. And sometimes I do these things ... at least in my heart. However, just as Saul will eventually turn to pride as his core principle which then triggers fear and jealousy and anger, I allow my pride to govern too much of my behavior.

Pride is the enemy, which is why humility is the truest sign of strength. I will know I am strong in the Lord when I fully allow myself to be humble in word and deed and action without fear for a negative result I cannot control.

Prayer: Lord, I seek humility today. I would ask for your strength and wisdom in this, as my heart can be too hard. I would prefer to interact through love and not anger, through mercy and not directives. May I hold your hand and walk with you, this and every day. Amen.

Worldly Performance Criteria

Scripture: For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds, casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is complete. 2 Corinthians 10:3-6

Observation: Paul is discussing his interactions with the Corinthians and specifically how he is perceived. In this statement, he is clarifying an important point about earthly perceptions. Specifically, that those traits often perceived as importantly to earthly perceptions - like strong voice and confident manner - are earthly perceptions that are not important with judging strength of faith and character.

Application: I begin this week with personnel issues at work. I need to determine how to apply this conversation about assessing earthly qualities. Am I right to judge someone's capabilities based on earthly criteria? And even if I am right to do so, should I? And if so, to what degree should I apply that judgment?

I need to begin with personal humility, and apply grace on top of that. Only then should I apply earthly judgment in a manner that seek to improve others.

Prayer: Lord, I ask for your wisdom in all matters this week. As I seek to improve various situations, it requires addressing the worldly work of some. I hope I can do this in a manner that honors you and helps others. Amen.

Naming Conventions of God

Scripture: So she made a vow and said, "O Lord of Hosts, if You will indeed look on the affliction of Your maidservant, and remember me and not forget Your maidservant, but will give to Your maidservant a baby boy, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and no razor shall touch his head." 1 Samuel 1:11

Observation: In praying to God, Hannah calls God "Yahweh Sabaoth", a title that connotes military authority. She actually reinforces this personal perception of God in her celebratory prayer in chapter 2, starting off stating her "horn is exalted" and her "mouth is bold against my enemies", and that by God "the bows of the mighty are broken" and "by strength no man will prevail." For Hannah, God is her military protector and deliverer. And the question is ... why would a simple woman whose biggest issue in life appears to be childlessness identify with God as a military authority instead of a loving counselor?

Application: God is everything. As a result, everyone can and does perceive God - and interact with God - in a manner suiting their situation. For Hannah, she was at war with Peninnah, Elkanah's other wife who provoked Hannah due to her baroness. Hannah reached the point where she wanted to God to more than comfort her. She wanted God to crush Peninnah and triumphantly proclaim her victory through prayerful faithfulness.

For me, God is my provider. He is Yahweh Yireh - Jehovah Jireh - Lord the Provider. Sometimes he is Abba ... my daddy who loves me. Occasionally he is Adonai or El Shaddai, the majestic authority. He is always Lord ... the one with final authority over my very life. In general, he is often just God ... the one and only divine creator and ruler of heaven and earth. And of course, he is Jesus, the manifest messiah and redeemer of us all, and the Holy Spirit whose power is here to guide and assist.

The amazing thing is that God can be everything so that we all have a Lord who aids us in our current situation. God did not declare himself to be one thing. He did not declare himself to be the ruler of the day, or the god of thunder, or even sovereign over the earth and humans. God declared he simply existed in an all-encompassing manner. He can aid us in every situation, at any time, in every place.

Prayer: My Lord, God, Adonai, Yahweh Yireh ... Abba ... thank you for your love, patience, and assistance in all situations every day. May I serve you today to the best of my ability. Actually, may I serve you better than that, by your strength, wisdom, and guidance. Amen.

A Last Act of Kindness

Scripture: He [Boaz] said, "Who are you?" And she answered, "I am Ruth, your maidservant. Spread your cloak over me, for you are a redeeming kinsman." He said, "May you be blessed of the Lord, my daughter. You have shown your last act of kindness to be greater than the first, because you have not pursued young men, whether poor or rich." Ruth 3:9-10

Observation: Ruth has gone to present herself to Boaz (some might state 'seduce') but makes a specific claim in the process - that Boaz is the redeeming kinsman of her family. This would follow the Jewish instructions that, if a man dies childless, there is a hierarchy of who marries the widow. This was done to ensure lineages, but also to continue family ownership of land. Therefore, by making this claim, Ruth is actually making two implicit declarations.

First, Ruth is stating that the land of Elimelek is "in play" so to speak. Elimelek has no surviving male heir, Naomi is too old, and thus as the widow of Mahlon it is by claiming Ruth and eventually producing a male heir that one may legally and permanently acquire this land.

Second, and more importantly, Ruth is stating that she is totally and completely compliant with Jewish custom ... that she is effectively a Jew. As a foreigner, she does not need to comply with this process. She was young enough to remarry, and thus could have chosen any man in Bethlehem to pursue. If she had, her new husband would certainly also provide care for Naomi. Instead, she has chosen the completely Jewish path: Ruth chose to reduce herself to being the contractual vehicle for a land purchase. Boaz acknowledges this ... her first act of kindness toward Naomi was to return to Bethlehem with her as her daughter, but her last act of kindness is to fully adopt Naomi's family structure and ethnic practices in a subservient manner.

Application: Ruth exemplifies love for another. Again, Ruth could have pursued any manner of life, and there is plenty of evidence that she was likely beautiful enough to remarry (she seduces Boaz, he previously has to warn other men to not harm her). Instead, she leaves her home, life, country, and family, simply to care for her mother in-law. She chooses to live in relative poverty in a foreign country, where she becomes a manual laborer working for only the food she can carry to sustain both of them. And now she gives over her very self in order to not only care for Naomi, but to do so in the manner that best honors Naomi not herself.

When I say I want to learn how to love people, how often do I think about showing them kindness, but ignore the idea of showing them kindness on THEIR terms? Ruth could have loved Naomi by staying in Moab and weeping for her old widowed mother in-law. Instead, Ruth loved on Naomi's terms. Her love was hands-on practical, and it was also heart-felt compassionate. She cared for Naomi's life, and then cared for her soul by honoring her customs when she could have found a different way more pleasing to herself.

Likewise, I can't love others on my terms.

Prayer: Father, I pray for all those around me today. I have become increasingly frustrated, even disturbed, by their level of brokenness. However, I have also become aware that I am not providing a place of restoration. May I love others more than I love myself, and may I care for them where they are mentally and spiritually, not where I am. Amen.

The Veils of This Age

Scripture: And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4

Observation: In discussing the Gospel with the Corinthians, Paul states that the good news is spoken clearly by himself and others. However, he also acknowledges that some don't get it, that there are many people who don't understand or reject the message of salvation. Here, he gives an explanation that rings true through the millennia ... Satan has shrouded the minds of many so that they cannot see goodness - the light - and thus are blind to Jesus.

This is consistent with teachings of Jesus. Jesus taught that many who hear the good news would not respond to it, and he outlined the earthly concepts that Satan uses to shroud their minds. These include riches, hardships, busyness, family, past hurts, lust, and comfort. Some of these sound good, some of these sound bad, but all of them are "gods of this age" - and every age - that distract where people are looking for hope.

Application: Right now, people around me every day are looking for hope in ... cancer cures, alcohol, mental treatment, resolution of family issues, marriage crisis, illicit relationships, career advancement, new houses. Again, some of these sound good, and some of them are desperately bad. All of them create a veil that prevents attention to Jesus as a source of hope and love.

My only hope for helping others is to guide their vision despite these circumstances. I can meet them in their circumstances and display compassion, but I cannot really "fix" anything. I cannot cure cancer. I cannot personally repair a violent home life. I cannot cure a child's drug addiction. I cannot reprioritize a person's life. However, Jesus can do all of that. My responsibility is to present that good news and attempt to lift the veils I see all around. I am to "set forth the truth plainly" and nothing more, yet nothing less.

Prayer: Lord, today I ask for your boldness in presenting you and your good news to those around me this day and every day. I wish to be your light. Please give me your words in a manner that speaks truth to others, in the context they will hear and see, and in manner that raises veils to display your glory. Amen.

One Way to Lose Everything

Scripture: When they had gone some distance from Micah’s house, the men who lived near Micah were called together and overtook the Danites. As they shouted after them, the Danites turned and said to Micah, "What’s the matter with you that you called out your men to fight?" He replied, "You took the gods I made, and my priest, and went away. What else do I have? How can you ask, 'What’s the matter with you?'" Judges 18:22-24

Observation: Following the story ... Micah stole silver from his mom, then when he returned it she had some made into an idol, which Micah used to set up a shrine to many gods, and then hired a priest to work in the shrine, but then the Danites came on their way to attack some people and they stole the idol and all the other gods of the shrine and hired the priest. When Micah confronts them, his complaint is ... you took the gods I made, what else do I have?

All of Micah's faith comes down to a few figurines in a room of his house, and a money-grubbing priest to justify the misplaced belief. When those things are taken away, Micah has nothing.

Application: As we see Israel turn away from the Lord, we see a story like this ... an average man who simply has no belief in God to the point that he worships however and whatever he pleases, to the point of expending significant funds to build idols and then hire a priest to give his practices validity. This tale of Micah is strange and sad. It shows a lost man who enlists deceptive help to justify his broken ways, and eventually gives his entire identity over to that lie.

The parallels to modern society - where people can choose whatever and whoever they wish to worship, and seek validation for their belief systems through social media - are obvious. However, so is the very sad outcome, which is that all these things can be stolen away leaving one with nothing.

My God cannot be stolen away from me. He cannot be taken, he cannot be lost. He does not require money, but he does require love. My God comforts me, leads me, and assists me, rather than leaving me in fear that all I have may be taken away.

Prayer: Lord, you are with me today and every day. May I walk humbly with you this very day. I do not seek fame, riches, or honor, I only seek your face and your will. Help me to avoid sin, and please forgive me for the sins I have committed. You are so great and so wonderful, and your love is all that matters. Amen.