Scripture: On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem. 1 Corinthians 16:2-3
Observation: Paul gives the church instructions on the tithe. It is a sum of money set aside on the first day of the week. Some thoughts about that:
-- The money is set aside regularly - every week.
-- The sum is set aside in advance - the first day of the week, before it is truly earned.
-- The money is physically set aside - it isn't just planned in ones mind or budgeted, but actually put away, reserved for later.
Application: It is interesting to understand which laws of the old testament are laws that applied to Israel under the old covenant, and which are laws that are purely "of God" ... effectively part of any right relationship with God. The tithe of the first fruits is clearly the latter. It is this way that I can actively demonstrate so many elements of a right relationship with God:
-- Trust - I know God will care for me and I don't really need the money.
-- Stewardship - I understand he has blessed me and this belongs to him anyway.
-- Obedience - I comply with God's clear instructions.
-- Love - In this transaction we both demonstrate we would never withhold from each other.
-- Presence - We interact regularly and voluntarily.
I have learned this lesson gladly. The more I give to God, the more I have. It is one of the most amazing miracles I can experience regularly, and I get to experience it as a direct result of my actions.
Prayer: Lord, thank you again for the blessing and provision in my life. You have given us far too much - we have abundance beyond our hopes and dreams. I did not earn this ... you chose to provide it to me out of your love. Please forgive me for the times I fail to earn your love, the times I fail to trust in you, the times I sin and ignore you. But mostly thank you for showing me that you love me even though I could never be good enough to be lovable by you. Your provision is great! I gladly return what is your to you.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Monday, March 30, 2015
Partial Engagement
Scripture:
Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
Psalm 42:11
Observation: There is an interesting construction to this verse. These three sentences are ordered as a conversation between two people - the author, and his own soul. In this case, he is stating that he will intellectually praise and hope in the Lord, and therefore his soul should do the same in order to overcome it downcast life.
Application: There are times when we are depressed. I have heard others say that worshipping God at such times is wrong, as we would only be going through the motions. However, this verse might argue against that ... in times when we are down and depressed in our innermost selves, we should still engage with God with our minds and perform acts of praise and worship and prayer.
I lose sight of God every day. When I do, I need to continue to 'do his work' and serve others. We must love God with our mind and soul and strength, but when one of those wanders off the other two should still engage.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to fully engage with you today. When I fail, please forgive me and accept my partial engagement. I do love you, and you are my lord in all ways and at all times. Please give me strength to engage with you in every way.
Why, my soul, are you downcast?
Why so disturbed within me?
Put your hope in God,
for I will yet praise him,
my Savior and my God.
Psalm 42:11
Observation: There is an interesting construction to this verse. These three sentences are ordered as a conversation between two people - the author, and his own soul. In this case, he is stating that he will intellectually praise and hope in the Lord, and therefore his soul should do the same in order to overcome it downcast life.
Application: There are times when we are depressed. I have heard others say that worshipping God at such times is wrong, as we would only be going through the motions. However, this verse might argue against that ... in times when we are down and depressed in our innermost selves, we should still engage with God with our minds and perform acts of praise and worship and prayer.
I lose sight of God every day. When I do, I need to continue to 'do his work' and serve others. We must love God with our mind and soul and strength, but when one of those wanders off the other two should still engage.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to fully engage with you today. When I fail, please forgive me and accept my partial engagement. I do love you, and you are my lord in all ways and at all times. Please give me strength to engage with you in every way.
Friday, March 27, 2015
More on Gifts, Service, Work
Scripture: There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. 1 Corinthians 12:4-6
Observation: I have blogged about this before, but it bears more analysis.
God is three in one - The Holy Spirit, our Lord Jesus Christ, and our Father God Yahweh.
We receive gifts of the Spirit, to support the service Jesus commanded of us, through work that glorifies God.
In the church - the body of Christ - the work we do is most effective when we apply our gifts through an area of service (e.g., a ministry).
Application: Am I being effective for my church?
I have gifts of administration, leadership, and discernment. My primary ministry right now is to my family, where I certainly leverage all three of these in daily work. At church I have limited my involvement to things like special events and grounds keeping.
I know I'm about to be called into a leadership position again, and I fear it. Not in a "do not be afraid" kind of way, but in a "am I properly refined to remain humble" concern. I'm not sure. So in that context, I need to determine what work I might do if I end up applying my gifts to a new service.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to glorify you. In whatever a do for you, may I remember to be about you, not me ... may I reflect your love first and foremost, and not my drive to "succeed". Help to keep my eye on the prize, and thus properly define success through kingdom goals.
Observation: I have blogged about this before, but it bears more analysis.
God is three in one - The Holy Spirit, our Lord Jesus Christ, and our Father God Yahweh.
We receive gifts of the Spirit, to support the service Jesus commanded of us, through work that glorifies God.
In the church - the body of Christ - the work we do is most effective when we apply our gifts through an area of service (e.g., a ministry).
Application: Am I being effective for my church?
I have gifts of administration, leadership, and discernment. My primary ministry right now is to my family, where I certainly leverage all three of these in daily work. At church I have limited my involvement to things like special events and grounds keeping.
I know I'm about to be called into a leadership position again, and I fear it. Not in a "do not be afraid" kind of way, but in a "am I properly refined to remain humble" concern. I'm not sure. So in that context, I need to determine what work I might do if I end up applying my gifts to a new service.
Prayer: Lord, I seek to glorify you. In whatever a do for you, may I remember to be about you, not me ... may I reflect your love first and foremost, and not my drive to "succeed". Help to keep my eye on the prize, and thus properly define success through kingdom goals.
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Just Love Him; Worship Just Him
Scripture: Do not associate with these nations that remain among you; do not invoke the names of their gods or swear by them. You must not serve them or bow down to them. But you are to hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have until now. The Lord has driven out before you great and powerful nations; to this day no one has been able to withstand you. One of you routs a thousand, because the Lord your God fights for you, just as he promised. So be very careful to love the Lord your God. Joshua 23:7-11
Observation: In these last two chapters Joshua, Joshua is giving his final advice to Israel before he dies. He tells them God will either be with them, or he will turn against them. Over and over again, this either/or proposition is dependent on only two actions of the people of Israel:
-- Do not worship other gods.
-- Love the Lord.
There are reminders of other elements of the law, but the bottom-line issue of whether or not God will be for or against Israel is all about these two factors only.
Application: I am reminded again of this simple truth ... all God really wants from us is for us to love him. He loves me greatly - so greatly that he sent his son to die for me - and all I have to do is love him in return. I won't even get into the "how to show love" conversation today. This is too simple of a truth: God just wants us to love him, and when we do we will then get to bask in his love forever.
But what about worshipping the gods of the "nations that remain among you"? Today, this is about conforming to society - about allowing out thoughts and deeds to align with and even honor things that are against god, even to the point that we make them idols in our lives. Where am I doing this?
One danger is with my job status/title/recognition ... something I have actively resisted recently. Another is likely my home and the value I place in material comfort, which manifests is attempting to protect my future financial security. These are areas I dwell upon, and which I must take care to do become idols that I hold in importance due to the perception of secular society.
I am set apart to be different. I am blessed to be a blessing. It is time I live into my adopted son-ship within the covenant with God through Jesus.
Prayer: These last few days, you have shown me how to mature in my daily life. I am beginning on the path, Lord. Please continue to make the paths straight, and be a lamp unto my feet as I seek to walk with you daily. Thank you for answered prayers. Amen.
Observation: In these last two chapters Joshua, Joshua is giving his final advice to Israel before he dies. He tells them God will either be with them, or he will turn against them. Over and over again, this either/or proposition is dependent on only two actions of the people of Israel:
-- Do not worship other gods.
-- Love the Lord.
There are reminders of other elements of the law, but the bottom-line issue of whether or not God will be for or against Israel is all about these two factors only.
Application: I am reminded again of this simple truth ... all God really wants from us is for us to love him. He loves me greatly - so greatly that he sent his son to die for me - and all I have to do is love him in return. I won't even get into the "how to show love" conversation today. This is too simple of a truth: God just wants us to love him, and when we do we will then get to bask in his love forever.
But what about worshipping the gods of the "nations that remain among you"? Today, this is about conforming to society - about allowing out thoughts and deeds to align with and even honor things that are against god, even to the point that we make them idols in our lives. Where am I doing this?
One danger is with my job status/title/recognition ... something I have actively resisted recently. Another is likely my home and the value I place in material comfort, which manifests is attempting to protect my future financial security. These are areas I dwell upon, and which I must take care to do become idols that I hold in importance due to the perception of secular society.
I am set apart to be different. I am blessed to be a blessing. It is time I live into my adopted son-ship within the covenant with God through Jesus.
Prayer: These last few days, you have shown me how to mature in my daily life. I am beginning on the path, Lord. Please continue to make the paths straight, and be a lamp unto my feet as I seek to walk with you daily. Thank you for answered prayers. Amen.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Possess This Place
Scripture: The whole assembly of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there. The country was brought under their control, but there were still seven Israelite tribes who had not yet received their inheritance. So Joshua said to the Israelites: "How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given you?" Joshua 18:1-3
Observation: Israel has taken the promised land, but it has not "possessed" it. There were two steps to the process. The first was to enter the land and evict all the other nations. However, the second step was to then populate the land ... to themselves become the residents of the promised land.
Application: I am AMAZED again at how quickly God answers prayer!!
Last night I laid in bed praying. It was again the prayer where I am saying, "Lord, I do not know what you want me to do, and I do not know why I am where I am in my daytime hours. I trust you, I will follow your direction, and I will 'dwell in the land,' but I don't know why I am here."
And today, here comes Joshua, saying, "You are here, you have control of the land, but you have not taken possession!!"
I am here. I am a leader - a director with teams and authority in the place - but I keep saying "okay, God, you put me in control here, show me what's next." And God is saying, "okay, I put you in control there, now take possession of the place!"
I am to possess this place. Not control in a professional context, but possess in a spiritual context ... I am to make this a place overseen by Yahweh. I am to establish a claim that says this place will be a place governed by the law of Christ, with that law exhibited through me. I am to lay claim on this place for Jesus. I am to possess this place in a way that glorifies God, and makes others seek Jesus. It is to become a place of patience, peace, love, and joy, and that must start with me as God's appointed resident and steward in this 'land'.
I better get started ... I'm 12 years behind schedule!!!
Prayer: Thank you AGAIN, Lord, for answering my prayers. I am going to continue with this line of prayer, but in the future I hope to use the word 'how' more than 'why'. You are so awesome! Amen.
Observation: Israel has taken the promised land, but it has not "possessed" it. There were two steps to the process. The first was to enter the land and evict all the other nations. However, the second step was to then populate the land ... to themselves become the residents of the promised land.
Application: I am AMAZED again at how quickly God answers prayer!!
Last night I laid in bed praying. It was again the prayer where I am saying, "Lord, I do not know what you want me to do, and I do not know why I am where I am in my daytime hours. I trust you, I will follow your direction, and I will 'dwell in the land,' but I don't know why I am here."
And today, here comes Joshua, saying, "You are here, you have control of the land, but you have not taken possession!!"
I am here. I am a leader - a director with teams and authority in the place - but I keep saying "okay, God, you put me in control here, show me what's next." And God is saying, "okay, I put you in control there, now take possession of the place!"
I am to possess this place. Not control in a professional context, but possess in a spiritual context ... I am to make this a place overseen by Yahweh. I am to establish a claim that says this place will be a place governed by the law of Christ, with that law exhibited through me. I am to lay claim on this place for Jesus. I am to possess this place in a way that glorifies God, and makes others seek Jesus. It is to become a place of patience, peace, love, and joy, and that must start with me as God's appointed resident and steward in this 'land'.
I better get started ... I'm 12 years behind schedule!!!
Prayer: Thank you AGAIN, Lord, for answering my prayers. I am going to continue with this line of prayer, but in the future I hope to use the word 'how' more than 'why'. You are so awesome! Amen.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Complex Logic
Scripture: Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak. For if someone with a weak conscience sees you, with all your knowledge, eating in an idol’s temple, won’t that person be emboldened to eat what is sacrificed to idols? So this weak brother or sister, for whom Christ died, is destroyed by your knowledge. 1 Corinthians 8:9-11
Observation: This is an "advanced" lesson coming from Paul. He is discussing the concept that, in some cases, sin involves a relationship between and action and our understanding of/relationship to that action.
In this example, it is a sin to eat food that has been sacrificed to other gods. However, if Christians know there are no other gods, then food sacrificed to idols hasn't been sacrificed to gods and thus could be eaten. However ... if a new Christian does not understand that concept, and sees us eating that food and thus eats it themselves believing they are eating food that has been sacrificed to another god, they are sinning.
This is a complex and advanced notion about maintaining our right relationship with God, and it has SO many applications today.
Application: The heart of this lesson is actually about how Christians interrelate when they are at different levels of maturity in their faith. And that is the driving lesson I sometimes forget ... not only are there different levels of maturity, but that is normal, and if I consider myself more mature then I am to adjust my behavior to appease other believers, instead of judging them and driving them to a higher standard.
Where is this happening in my church? Those who aren't serving ... I must not judge them. Instead, I should just serve them and let them learn of opportunities to grow. Those who allow worldly concepts to permeate their lives ... I should remove the plank from my own eye then let them see a joy-filled life. Those straining in their marriage ... I can lend an ear yet model being an attentive husband.
Prayer: Lord, one of the truths about all relationships is that they are personal, and thus your relationship with each believer is different. I should not hold others to conform to my understanding of you. At the same time, I should be prepared to adjust my behavior in order to not make others consider complex concepts before they are ready. Please allow me patience in these matters.
Observation: This is an "advanced" lesson coming from Paul. He is discussing the concept that, in some cases, sin involves a relationship between and action and our understanding of/relationship to that action.
In this example, it is a sin to eat food that has been sacrificed to other gods. However, if Christians know there are no other gods, then food sacrificed to idols hasn't been sacrificed to gods and thus could be eaten. However ... if a new Christian does not understand that concept, and sees us eating that food and thus eats it themselves believing they are eating food that has been sacrificed to another god, they are sinning.
This is a complex and advanced notion about maintaining our right relationship with God, and it has SO many applications today.
Application: The heart of this lesson is actually about how Christians interrelate when they are at different levels of maturity in their faith. And that is the driving lesson I sometimes forget ... not only are there different levels of maturity, but that is normal, and if I consider myself more mature then I am to adjust my behavior to appease other believers, instead of judging them and driving them to a higher standard.
Where is this happening in my church? Those who aren't serving ... I must not judge them. Instead, I should just serve them and let them learn of opportunities to grow. Those who allow worldly concepts to permeate their lives ... I should remove the plank from my own eye then let them see a joy-filled life. Those straining in their marriage ... I can lend an ear yet model being an attentive husband.
Prayer: Lord, one of the truths about all relationships is that they are personal, and thus your relationship with each believer is different. I should not hold others to conform to my understanding of you. At the same time, I should be prepared to adjust my behavior in order to not make others consider complex concepts before they are ready. Please allow me patience in these matters.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Post Modern Wisdom
Scripture: Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. As it is written: “He catches the wise in their craftiness”; and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” 1 Corinthians 3:18-20
Observation: God anticipated the "scientific arguments" against Christianity, and has a very simple response in two parts:
1) Their 'craftiness' will actually entrap them. All the scientific arguments eventually lead to dead ends with unexplainable logical assumptions.
2) The attempts themselves are 'futile'. God has explained all he needs to explain, and attempts to pursue other explanations will never bear fruitful results.
Application: Yesterday, I saw a link to "Bill Nye the Science Guy" who was again explaining away creationism. I have seen his schtick before. He basically lays out all the science and then says "because these are all facts, the universe cannot be created by God."
Of course, many of his facts are things that science itself has disproven: The rapid expansion of the universe and the concept of 'chemical creation' of life are two of them. Others are dead ends that science still believes but has yet to justify, such as the cause of the big bang and the actual formation of stars. These are the futile traps - in disproving the existence of God, all scientific discovery gets to a point where the next 'step' is something along the lines of "it happened" without explanation.
The problem is that scientists are so pleased with their intellectual pursuit that they become their own closed-minded society blind the holes and gaps in their logic, assuming that those holes are simply truths yet to be discovered.
I used to be someone who engaged in these debates. Now, I refuse. There is no value in such debates. As Paul next says to the Corinthians, "So then, no more!" I want to discuss only one foundational truth with others: Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died for our salvation. Upon this I hope to build my work every day.
Prayer: Lord, please guide my words and deeds every day, so that I may establish this foundation in my life, likewise establish this foundation with those around me, and build upon it with words and deeds.
Observation: God anticipated the "scientific arguments" against Christianity, and has a very simple response in two parts:
1) Their 'craftiness' will actually entrap them. All the scientific arguments eventually lead to dead ends with unexplainable logical assumptions.
2) The attempts themselves are 'futile'. God has explained all he needs to explain, and attempts to pursue other explanations will never bear fruitful results.
Application: Yesterday, I saw a link to "Bill Nye the Science Guy" who was again explaining away creationism. I have seen his schtick before. He basically lays out all the science and then says "because these are all facts, the universe cannot be created by God."
Of course, many of his facts are things that science itself has disproven: The rapid expansion of the universe and the concept of 'chemical creation' of life are two of them. Others are dead ends that science still believes but has yet to justify, such as the cause of the big bang and the actual formation of stars. These are the futile traps - in disproving the existence of God, all scientific discovery gets to a point where the next 'step' is something along the lines of "it happened" without explanation.
The problem is that scientists are so pleased with their intellectual pursuit that they become their own closed-minded society blind the holes and gaps in their logic, assuming that those holes are simply truths yet to be discovered.
I used to be someone who engaged in these debates. Now, I refuse. There is no value in such debates. As Paul next says to the Corinthians, "So then, no more!" I want to discuss only one foundational truth with others: Jesus Christ is the Son of God who died for our salvation. Upon this I hope to build my work every day.
Prayer: Lord, please guide my words and deeds every day, so that I may establish this foundation in my life, likewise establish this foundation with those around me, and build upon it with words and deeds.
Tuesday, March 17, 2015
Moses was Never Shaken
Scripture: And Moses the servant of the Lord died there in Moab, as the Lord had said. He buried him in Moab, in the valley opposite Beth Peor, but to this day no one knows where his grave is. Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died, yet his eyes were not weak nor his strength gone. Deuteronomy 34:5-7
The death of Moses ... the man who talked to God face to face, approached raging fires, gave orders to Pharaoh, challenged tens of thousands of sinners, stood alone in the face of rebellion, trusted in the parted waters, called down plagues ... a prophet unlike any other. I would like to think this would have been his go-to theme song:
The death of Moses ... the man who talked to God face to face, approached raging fires, gave orders to Pharaoh, challenged tens of thousands of sinners, stood alone in the face of rebellion, trusted in the parted waters, called down plagues ... a prophet unlike any other. I would like to think this would have been his go-to theme song:
Monday, March 16, 2015
Worthy of Trust
Scripture:
Blessed is the one
who trusts in the Lord,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
Psalm 40:4
Observation: The psalmist (identified as David) makes an interesting connection between faithful believers and those who worship false gods/idols, and that is the additional introduction of a liaison. Not only shouldn't we ourselves look to false gods, but we must not place our faith and trust in others who are proud, and whom themselves turn to false gods.
Application: This teaching from David presents a new level of accountability for us. This means that we need to be very, very careful in whom we place our trust - in whom we decide to promote to positions of honor in our lives. It isn't enough that we guard against making other people and things idols, we must also consider what those people we trust are doing if we ourselves wish to be blessed.
Of course, there is only one true way to do this: To place only Jesus in in that honored position whom we look to for guidance in our lives! I am fascinated how the entire bible reading today relates to this. In Deuteronomy 31, we see God commissioning Joshua to lead Israel into the promised land, but immediately saying the people will turn away. In 1 Corinthians, Paul is instructing the church to not become divided by saying that some follow his teachings, others Apollos, other Cephas.
How am I to be blessed? By placing my trust only in Jesus. I must not elevate others to positions of high honor, for even if they don't fail me they will likely fail God in some manner. Instead, I must honor the one who said, "Here I am, I have come - it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart." (Psalm 40:7-8)
Prayer: Lord, I look to you for guidance in my life. May I stop seeking advice about how to work through challenges in all areas of my life - especially here at work - and instead simply put my trust in you, Jesus. May I elevate you to the position of honor in my life, as the only person worthy of providing guidance, and the only one worthy of my trust.
Blessed is the one
who trusts in the Lord,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
Psalm 40:4
Observation: The psalmist (identified as David) makes an interesting connection between faithful believers and those who worship false gods/idols, and that is the additional introduction of a liaison. Not only shouldn't we ourselves look to false gods, but we must not place our faith and trust in others who are proud, and whom themselves turn to false gods.
Application: This teaching from David presents a new level of accountability for us. This means that we need to be very, very careful in whom we place our trust - in whom we decide to promote to positions of honor in our lives. It isn't enough that we guard against making other people and things idols, we must also consider what those people we trust are doing if we ourselves wish to be blessed.
Of course, there is only one true way to do this: To place only Jesus in in that honored position whom we look to for guidance in our lives! I am fascinated how the entire bible reading today relates to this. In Deuteronomy 31, we see God commissioning Joshua to lead Israel into the promised land, but immediately saying the people will turn away. In 1 Corinthians, Paul is instructing the church to not become divided by saying that some follow his teachings, others Apollos, other Cephas.
How am I to be blessed? By placing my trust only in Jesus. I must not elevate others to positions of high honor, for even if they don't fail me they will likely fail God in some manner. Instead, I must honor the one who said, "Here I am, I have come - it is written about me in the scroll. I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart." (Psalm 40:7-8)
Prayer: Lord, I look to you for guidance in my life. May I stop seeking advice about how to work through challenges in all areas of my life - especially here at work - and instead simply put my trust in you, Jesus. May I elevate you to the position of honor in my life, as the only person worthy of providing guidance, and the only one worthy of my trust.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Under God's Curse
Scripture: If someone guilty of a capital offense is put to death and their body is exposed on a pole, you must not leave the body hanging on the pole overnight. Be sure to bury it that same day, because anyone who is hung on a pole is under God’s curse. You must not desecrate the land the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance. Deuteronomy 21:22-23
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. Galatians 3:13-14
Observation: Jesus was "under God's curse".
That is a very, very difficult concept to get your head around - that God's son, who was perfect, blameless, and with whom God was pleased - was under God's curse. However, if you relate the logic back to the law (which is both the reading in Deuteronomy and the lesson Paul is teaching in his letter), the logic follows:
-- The law itself does not bring salvation.
-- Anyone who lives under the law is cursed as they cannot fulfill the law.
-- The penalty for being cursed under the law is death.
-- God brought that curse upon his own son in order to fulfill the law and redeem mankind.
-- Any who have faith in Jesus receive that redemption and are no longer cursed under the law.
-- Any who do not have faith in Jesus are still subject to the law and thus its curse.
Application: Paul is very clear that all conversations about redemption through "works" are also about "the law". Thus, all conversations about right living need to be in the context of the law as well - a premise most people in our day and age have chosen to ignore.
I know I cannot live under the law. I also know that I am still to do the work of Jesus as an outpouring of my faith in him.
I am about to head into a time of work for Jesus. The yard care season will start up, and I will do anonymous work behind the scenes. Laurie has moved to full time status, and I will do more work at home that no one knows about to make that possible. Eventually I will coordinate resources for the July 4th Parade. I hope I can keep my eye on the prize throughout - Jesus took upon himself the curse of death that I deserve, so in faith and gratitude all effort I can give him is for his glory.
Prayer: Lord, please keep my heart right as we enter this season of service. I long to serve you in great ways, but moreover please keep my heart glad as I do serve you in small, hidden ways.
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, for it is written: “Cursed is everyone who is hung on a pole.” He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit. Galatians 3:13-14
Observation: Jesus was "under God's curse".
That is a very, very difficult concept to get your head around - that God's son, who was perfect, blameless, and with whom God was pleased - was under God's curse. However, if you relate the logic back to the law (which is both the reading in Deuteronomy and the lesson Paul is teaching in his letter), the logic follows:
-- The law itself does not bring salvation.
-- Anyone who lives under the law is cursed as they cannot fulfill the law.
-- The penalty for being cursed under the law is death.
-- God brought that curse upon his own son in order to fulfill the law and redeem mankind.
-- Any who have faith in Jesus receive that redemption and are no longer cursed under the law.
-- Any who do not have faith in Jesus are still subject to the law and thus its curse.
Application: Paul is very clear that all conversations about redemption through "works" are also about "the law". Thus, all conversations about right living need to be in the context of the law as well - a premise most people in our day and age have chosen to ignore.
I know I cannot live under the law. I also know that I am still to do the work of Jesus as an outpouring of my faith in him.
I am about to head into a time of work for Jesus. The yard care season will start up, and I will do anonymous work behind the scenes. Laurie has moved to full time status, and I will do more work at home that no one knows about to make that possible. Eventually I will coordinate resources for the July 4th Parade. I hope I can keep my eye on the prize throughout - Jesus took upon himself the curse of death that I deserve, so in faith and gratitude all effort I can give him is for his glory.
Prayer: Lord, please keep my heart right as we enter this season of service. I long to serve you in great ways, but moreover please keep my heart glad as I do serve you in small, hidden ways.
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Praying for Saul
Scripture: Then I [Paul] went to Syria and Cilicia. I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ. They only heard the report: “The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy.” And they praised God because of me. Galatians 1:21-24
Observation:
Application:
Prayer: I lend my voice to what many pastors, including ours, have said. Lord ... I pray that there is a modern day Saul in the middle east right now, about to rise up out of the persecution of your church to instead preach the good new of Jesus Christ.
The enemy has emerged from the shadows, lord. He wears a black hood and openly broadcasts the terrible beheadings of your believers, for no reason than to insight fear and try to crush your word. We know that will not work! The enemy already tried that - when your church began, opponents decided to kill the faithful publicly in order to strike fear into the faithful and end their good work. Instead, you used that to bring forth a mighty waive of The Way throughout the world, spreading the good news of Jesus everywhere.
And at that time, one man reigned supreme in the persecution of the church. Saul presided over killings, aided in torture, personally hunted and arrested some for execution, and then ... discovered you, Jesus, and became Paul who spread the gospel throughout Asia Minor. He was stoned, beaten, arrested, tortured, and once resuscitated from the dead. He emerged from the side of he persecution to the side of the persecuted. The terror did not end, but he became the mighty warrior of your word.
So I pray for today's Saul. I pray for the man who is currently part of ISIS - who is presiding over beheadings, holding the cameras, hunting down Christians for arrest, beating and torturing believers - the man who is about to meet Jesus, convert, and become a mighty warrior for the gospel.
I pray for him NOW ... not a conditional pray that will apply after he converts, but I pray for him now, where he is, and how he is. I pray that he has a good day, a restful evening, and success in his life, for I know that all provision comes from you, and it is through provision you can reveal yourself. I pray he receive love - the love of his family, of friends, and of his community - for I know that all love is actually from you, and it is through that love you can reveal yourself. Mostly, I pray that very shortly he meets Jesus, be it through a miracle or an encounter with a believer, as certainly you can choose any means you wish to reveal yourself.
Please be with "Saul" today, grant him peace in his heart, and prepare him in strength to do the mighty work, which you have prepared in advance. I look forward to praising you, God, because of this man.
In the name if Jesus Christ, my lord and savior who provides all good things, I pray. Amen, and Amen.
Observation:
Application:
Prayer: I lend my voice to what many pastors, including ours, have said. Lord ... I pray that there is a modern day Saul in the middle east right now, about to rise up out of the persecution of your church to instead preach the good new of Jesus Christ.
The enemy has emerged from the shadows, lord. He wears a black hood and openly broadcasts the terrible beheadings of your believers, for no reason than to insight fear and try to crush your word. We know that will not work! The enemy already tried that - when your church began, opponents decided to kill the faithful publicly in order to strike fear into the faithful and end their good work. Instead, you used that to bring forth a mighty waive of The Way throughout the world, spreading the good news of Jesus everywhere.
And at that time, one man reigned supreme in the persecution of the church. Saul presided over killings, aided in torture, personally hunted and arrested some for execution, and then ... discovered you, Jesus, and became Paul who spread the gospel throughout Asia Minor. He was stoned, beaten, arrested, tortured, and once resuscitated from the dead. He emerged from the side of he persecution to the side of the persecuted. The terror did not end, but he became the mighty warrior of your word.
So I pray for today's Saul. I pray for the man who is currently part of ISIS - who is presiding over beheadings, holding the cameras, hunting down Christians for arrest, beating and torturing believers - the man who is about to meet Jesus, convert, and become a mighty warrior for the gospel.
I pray for him NOW ... not a conditional pray that will apply after he converts, but I pray for him now, where he is, and how he is. I pray that he has a good day, a restful evening, and success in his life, for I know that all provision comes from you, and it is through provision you can reveal yourself. I pray he receive love - the love of his family, of friends, and of his community - for I know that all love is actually from you, and it is through that love you can reveal yourself. Mostly, I pray that very shortly he meets Jesus, be it through a miracle or an encounter with a believer, as certainly you can choose any means you wish to reveal yourself.
Please be with "Saul" today, grant him peace in his heart, and prepare him in strength to do the mighty work, which you have prepared in advance. I look forward to praising you, God, because of this man.
In the name if Jesus Christ, my lord and savior who provides all good things, I pray. Amen, and Amen.
Monday, March 9, 2015
Walk This Way
Scripture: And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good? Deuteronomy 10:12-13
Observation: Throughout the bible, all the prophets summarize God's "laws" using an interesting word: To "walk" with him. This walk typically involves love level or respect, honor, humility, and obedience. However, it also implies a relationship. You do not walk with someone you do not know, and without common direction.
Application: Many Christians - myself included - seek to "walk with God". However, I think many - myself included - miss out on this last key element ... we have to be heading in a common direction with God.
Sometimes, God will join our direction. However, that is likely to occur only if we are already on the right path, or at least on a path God is willing to take. For the most part, we should be seeking God's path and joining him there. This can be both metaphorical (our direction in life) but also literal (going to the right places and doing the right work daily).
I keep praying for God to show me where he is working so I may join him. And he has shown me lately. Now, I need to walk down that path with him.
Prayer: Thank you for recent signs, God. I wish to stay on your path, going your way, and humbly walk with you as my father in heaven. Amen.
Observation: Throughout the bible, all the prophets summarize God's "laws" using an interesting word: To "walk" with him. This walk typically involves love level or respect, honor, humility, and obedience. However, it also implies a relationship. You do not walk with someone you do not know, and without common direction.
Application: Many Christians - myself included - seek to "walk with God". However, I think many - myself included - miss out on this last key element ... we have to be heading in a common direction with God.
Sometimes, God will join our direction. However, that is likely to occur only if we are already on the right path, or at least on a path God is willing to take. For the most part, we should be seeking God's path and joining him there. This can be both metaphorical (our direction in life) but also literal (going to the right places and doing the right work daily).
I keep praying for God to show me where he is working so I may join him. And he has shown me lately. Now, I need to walk down that path with him.
Prayer: Thank you for recent signs, God. I wish to stay on your path, going your way, and humbly walk with you as my father in heaven. Amen.
Friday, March 6, 2015
Your Love, Oh Lord
Scripture:
Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
Psalm 36:5-7
Nothing else jumped out at me today, but since this was part of the reading it gave me a chance to consider the songs of one of my favorite bands today. Enjoy!
Your love, Lord, reaches to the heavens,
your faithfulness to the skies.
Your righteousness is like the highest mountains,
your justice like the great deep.
You, Lord, preserve both people and animals.
How priceless is your unfailing love, O God!
People take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
Psalm 36:5-7
Nothing else jumped out at me today, but since this was part of the reading it gave me a chance to consider the songs of one of my favorite bands today. Enjoy!
Thursday, March 5, 2015
Owning Your Actions
Scripture: Because of you the Lord became angry with me also and said, "You shall not enter it, either." Deuteronomy 1:37
Observation: Technically ... that's a true statement. Because of the people's failure to follow God into the promised land, they had to still wander in the desert, which meant they were still wandering when Moses dishonored God by taking credit for drawing water from a rock. If not for the people's lack of obedience, they wouldn't have been there in the first place.
But ... it was Moses who struck the rock and took credit (with Aaron) for bringing forth water, instead of speaking to the rock as ordered and giving credit to God. Just like so many others in the Bible - starting with Adam - men deflect blame for their own errors and sins.
Application: I know EXACTLY where I do this - in my lack of patience and quick anger. Of course the reason I get frustrated so quickly must be because ... other people are so frustrating!! Their inability to follow instructions, or make good decisions, or avoid mistakes, is their fault, and so my response is due to their actions first. Right?
Wrong.
My response is mine, and I need to own it. And most importantly, I need to own it before God, and align it to the Holy Spirit's fruit that should be showing through me. I should be a patient, joyful, kind peacemaker. I should be slow to judge, slow to anger, demonstrating self control. When I need to correct in truth, my words should be gentle, mixed with love.
I must own my actions, because I will be held accountable for them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that you forgive me for my sins. Please forgive me today for hasty words I have spoken in anger, and hurt I have brought on others. May I learn from your example. Help me, please, to exhibit the fruits of the spirit in my actions and reactions to others, at all times. Thank you for your grace, even though I fail to pass that grace to others. I strive to do better in your name. Amen.
Observation: Technically ... that's a true statement. Because of the people's failure to follow God into the promised land, they had to still wander in the desert, which meant they were still wandering when Moses dishonored God by taking credit for drawing water from a rock. If not for the people's lack of obedience, they wouldn't have been there in the first place.
But ... it was Moses who struck the rock and took credit (with Aaron) for bringing forth water, instead of speaking to the rock as ordered and giving credit to God. Just like so many others in the Bible - starting with Adam - men deflect blame for their own errors and sins.
Application: I know EXACTLY where I do this - in my lack of patience and quick anger. Of course the reason I get frustrated so quickly must be because ... other people are so frustrating!! Their inability to follow instructions, or make good decisions, or avoid mistakes, is their fault, and so my response is due to their actions first. Right?
Wrong.
My response is mine, and I need to own it. And most importantly, I need to own it before God, and align it to the Holy Spirit's fruit that should be showing through me. I should be a patient, joyful, kind peacemaker. I should be slow to judge, slow to anger, demonstrating self control. When I need to correct in truth, my words should be gentle, mixed with love.
I must own my actions, because I will be held accountable for them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray that you forgive me for my sins. Please forgive me today for hasty words I have spoken in anger, and hurt I have brought on others. May I learn from your example. Help me, please, to exhibit the fruits of the spirit in my actions and reactions to others, at all times. Thank you for your grace, even though I fail to pass that grace to others. I strive to do better in your name. Amen.
Wednesday, March 4, 2015
Not the Tree of Life
Scripture: Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard him say it. ... In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. Peter remembered and said to Jesus, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!” “Have faith in God,” Jesus answered. “Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.” Mark 11:13-14,20-23
Observation: What happened here?? In just a plain reading of the text, there are several possible explanations about what Jesus did to this fig tree. Here are three:
a) By his authority, Jesus cursed the tree to die, and it did. This is the explanation that seems to be the most popular, but is confusing to those trying to understand the nature of Jesus.
b) By his faith, Jesus cursed the tree to never bear fruit again, and God responded by killing the tree. This is the explanation that best aligns to the text and is the easiest to understand.
c) By his knowledge, Jesus saw the tree had a root disease and took advantage of the situation to impress the disciples. This is the explanation non-believers would point to as the case for Jesus being a con artist.
Application: This is one of those situations in the Bible I love, because there is one very simple story, but with so many layers of truth beneath it. As I said above, there are several ways to interpret what Jesus did, however in applying the lessons of Jesus to my life I must first determine why he did this.
Jesus did NOT curse the tree because it didn't have fruit at a time when it shouldn't have had fruit!! Instead, I would say Jesus cursed the tree because ... it didn't obey his will. Jesus wanted a fig, and the tree did not yield one, so he cut it off. This is consistent with other lessons of Jesus (such as cutting off and burning vines that do not yield grapes).
When Jesus wants me to do something, the answer needs to be "yes". If I say "no" or "later", that results in disease entering my soul - my innermost core - which will kill me 'from the roots up' so to speak.
Prayer: Jesus, I hope I am not saying 'no' to you right now. I would love to answer 'yes' to your work and your will. I look for your call and your calling.
Observation: What happened here?? In just a plain reading of the text, there are several possible explanations about what Jesus did to this fig tree. Here are three:
a) By his authority, Jesus cursed the tree to die, and it did. This is the explanation that seems to be the most popular, but is confusing to those trying to understand the nature of Jesus.
b) By his faith, Jesus cursed the tree to never bear fruit again, and God responded by killing the tree. This is the explanation that best aligns to the text and is the easiest to understand.
c) By his knowledge, Jesus saw the tree had a root disease and took advantage of the situation to impress the disciples. This is the explanation non-believers would point to as the case for Jesus being a con artist.
Application: This is one of those situations in the Bible I love, because there is one very simple story, but with so many layers of truth beneath it. As I said above, there are several ways to interpret what Jesus did, however in applying the lessons of Jesus to my life I must first determine why he did this.
Jesus did NOT curse the tree because it didn't have fruit at a time when it shouldn't have had fruit!! Instead, I would say Jesus cursed the tree because ... it didn't obey his will. Jesus wanted a fig, and the tree did not yield one, so he cut it off. This is consistent with other lessons of Jesus (such as cutting off and burning vines that do not yield grapes).
When Jesus wants me to do something, the answer needs to be "yes". If I say "no" or "later", that results in disease entering my soul - my innermost core - which will kill me 'from the roots up' so to speak.
Prayer: Jesus, I hope I am not saying 'no' to you right now. I would love to answer 'yes' to your work and your will. I look for your call and your calling.
Monday, March 2, 2015
What I Don't Understand
Scripture: They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it. Mark 9:30-32
Observation: Mark quotes Jesus effectively saying, "I am going to be arrested, put to death, and then rise from the dead," and ... they did not understand what he meant. I mean, Jesus probably couldn't have been any clearer about this prediction. So why don't the disciples understand?
There are probably three elements at work here. One is the fact that they believe Jesus is the Messiah, so the idea that Jesus can be arrested and killed is beyond their understanding ... God cannot be killed! Second is an emphasis on the uneducated nature of the disciples. For the most part, these were humble men not educated in the scriptures, and thus they still lacked some insights into prophesy. Third, there is probably a spiritual influence here ... God is keeping the disciples in the dark to some degree to ensure that his plan and work proceeds without any undue interference.
Application: It is so easy for me to say "well, duh, that was pretty simple to understand." However, how often does God tell me something and I don't understand? Daily??
Do I truly understand the impact of sin on my life? Do I fully know intellectually those issues I will need to answer for (such as my judgmental attitude toward others), and am I fearful enough of that to stop behaving that way? Do I really perceive others as the workmanship of God worthy of my love? Have I embraced by vocation as a means to become a witness of Jesus in the dark places of the world?
Would the disciples rightfully look at my life and think "well duh, this guy is pretty dense to not be understanding this stuff, we spelled it out in writing for him pretty clearly"?
Prayer: Lord, there are basic things I don't understand. I may understand them intellectually, but when I fail to incorporate them into my life that is because I do not understand how they should be rightly incorporated into my life. I do want to incorporate love and compassion of others into my daily minute-by-minute life ... I do know that would be the best way I could better serve your purposes. I will remain in your word and meditate on it regularly to try to understand this basic truth better. Amen.
Observation: Mark quotes Jesus effectively saying, "I am going to be arrested, put to death, and then rise from the dead," and ... they did not understand what he meant. I mean, Jesus probably couldn't have been any clearer about this prediction. So why don't the disciples understand?
There are probably three elements at work here. One is the fact that they believe Jesus is the Messiah, so the idea that Jesus can be arrested and killed is beyond their understanding ... God cannot be killed! Second is an emphasis on the uneducated nature of the disciples. For the most part, these were humble men not educated in the scriptures, and thus they still lacked some insights into prophesy. Third, there is probably a spiritual influence here ... God is keeping the disciples in the dark to some degree to ensure that his plan and work proceeds without any undue interference.
Application: It is so easy for me to say "well, duh, that was pretty simple to understand." However, how often does God tell me something and I don't understand? Daily??
Do I truly understand the impact of sin on my life? Do I fully know intellectually those issues I will need to answer for (such as my judgmental attitude toward others), and am I fearful enough of that to stop behaving that way? Do I really perceive others as the workmanship of God worthy of my love? Have I embraced by vocation as a means to become a witness of Jesus in the dark places of the world?
Would the disciples rightfully look at my life and think "well duh, this guy is pretty dense to not be understanding this stuff, we spelled it out in writing for him pretty clearly"?
Prayer: Lord, there are basic things I don't understand. I may understand them intellectually, but when I fail to incorporate them into my life that is because I do not understand how they should be rightly incorporated into my life. I do want to incorporate love and compassion of others into my daily minute-by-minute life ... I do know that would be the best way I could better serve your purposes. I will remain in your word and meditate on it regularly to try to understand this basic truth better. Amen.
Friday, February 27, 2015
What One Withholds
Scripture: By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. “This is a remote place,” they said, “and it’s already very late. Send the people away so that they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat.” But he answered, “You give them something to eat.” They said to him, “That would take more than half a year’s wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?” “How many loaves do you have?” he asked. “Go and see.” When they found out, they said, “Five—and two fish.” Mark 6:35-38
Observation: Here is something I never noticed before about the story of the feeding of the 5,000: The disciples aren't worried about where THEY will get food, late in this remote place. In other words ... they had their OWN food, and what they were really worried about was potentially being asked to share it or at best rudely and guiltily eating it in front of others.
And Jesus was therefore telling them to share, with the ensuing conversation really being about the disciples wishing to take care of their own money/supplies.
In fact, in John's telling of this, the five loaves and two fish belong to a young boy. And even that doesn't sound like a good dinner for 13 grown men. It is possible, then, that even this inventory of what the disciples have available excludes "their" reserves.
Application: Even when I know that God has given me everything, there is a temptation to say "and since you gave this to me, you must not mean you want this when you ask me to give what I have to you."
What is my "this"? What is the item I would be inclined to withhold from God if he ever asks "give me your all"? Is it my family? My house? My retirement accounts? My life?
In reflecting just now, I find the things I am thinking of are those things that would affect not me, but my wife and children. My retirement and house exist not so much for me, but for their future support and stability. In fact, I would more readily give my life than my pension, I believe.
Prayer: Lord, I do not know what today's lesson means for me. Is this for me to dwell upon, or is there an action required? Is the lesson that I need to trust in you for the provision of my children's futures? Please lead me by your spirit to understanding this today. Amen.
Observation: Here is something I never noticed before about the story of the feeding of the 5,000: The disciples aren't worried about where THEY will get food, late in this remote place. In other words ... they had their OWN food, and what they were really worried about was potentially being asked to share it or at best rudely and guiltily eating it in front of others.
And Jesus was therefore telling them to share, with the ensuing conversation really being about the disciples wishing to take care of their own money/supplies.
In fact, in John's telling of this, the five loaves and two fish belong to a young boy. And even that doesn't sound like a good dinner for 13 grown men. It is possible, then, that even this inventory of what the disciples have available excludes "their" reserves.
Application: Even when I know that God has given me everything, there is a temptation to say "and since you gave this to me, you must not mean you want this when you ask me to give what I have to you."
What is my "this"? What is the item I would be inclined to withhold from God if he ever asks "give me your all"? Is it my family? My house? My retirement accounts? My life?
In reflecting just now, I find the things I am thinking of are those things that would affect not me, but my wife and children. My retirement and house exist not so much for me, but for their future support and stability. In fact, I would more readily give my life than my pension, I believe.
Prayer: Lord, I do not know what today's lesson means for me. Is this for me to dwell upon, or is there an action required? Is the lesson that I need to trust in you for the provision of my children's futures? Please lead me by your spirit to understanding this today. Amen.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
The Sin is Self Worship
Scripture: The Lord said to Moses, “Take the staff, and you and your brother Aaron gather the assembly together. Speak to that rock before their eyes and it will pour out its water. You will bring water out of the rock for the community so they and their livestock can drink.” So Moses took the staff from the Lord’s presence, just as he commanded him. He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said to them, “Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?” Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank. But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not trust in me enough to honor me as holy in the sight of the Israelites, you will not bring this community into the land I give them.” Numbers 20:7-12
Observation: Moses and Aaron screwed up. They didn't speak to the rock - the spoke to the people, then struck the rock. What was worse, they effectively said "look what WE can do!"
God brought the water out of the rock not because Moses struck it, but because it was his will. He didn't need Moses and Aaron in order to do that - they needed God. They forgot this simple fact, and as a result were held accountable for their error.
Application: Self-worship is the most basic error of believers interacting with God. We ALL do it ... we all take credit for success, or attribute good things to our talents, or call attention to ourselves, or even just want to take actions that make ourselves happy and comfortable.
I am my first idol. Every day, I need to remind myself:
-- God provides everything for me.
-- My abilities and talents are from God, and for God.
-- All I own is his if he wishes to take it back.
-- My life must be a living sacrifice to God.
Prayer: Lord, may my life and all that is part of my life serve you. I am not my own - I am yours. Please show me love and correction when I fall into the trap of self-worship, and guide me back into a right understanding of my life and my purpose. Thank you for loving me!!
Observation: Moses and Aaron screwed up. They didn't speak to the rock - the spoke to the people, then struck the rock. What was worse, they effectively said "look what WE can do!"
God brought the water out of the rock not because Moses struck it, but because it was his will. He didn't need Moses and Aaron in order to do that - they needed God. They forgot this simple fact, and as a result were held accountable for their error.
Application: Self-worship is the most basic error of believers interacting with God. We ALL do it ... we all take credit for success, or attribute good things to our talents, or call attention to ourselves, or even just want to take actions that make ourselves happy and comfortable.
I am my first idol. Every day, I need to remind myself:
-- God provides everything for me.
-- My abilities and talents are from God, and for God.
-- All I own is his if he wishes to take it back.
-- My life must be a living sacrifice to God.
Prayer: Lord, may my life and all that is part of my life serve you. I am not my own - I am yours. Please show me love and correction when I fall into the trap of self-worship, and guide me back into a right understanding of my life and my purpose. Thank you for loving me!!
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Who Brought the Thunder?
Scripture: These are the twelve he appointed: Simon (to whom he gave the name Peter), James son of Zebedee and his brother John (to them he gave the name Boanerges, which means “sons of thunder”) ... Mark 3:16-17
Observation: There are two ways to interpret the renaming of James and John. It could be that as strong and confident men (as we know they were) they were collectively like thunder. Or it could be that ... Zebedee was like thunder and Jesus was referring to him.
IF the accurate interpretation is the latter, this would represent the only reference that I know of that indicates there was any sort of relationship between Jesus and Zebedee. This is peculiar given the fact that Jesus effectively upended everything about Zebedee's life. Over time, Jesus took away Zebedee's business partner (Peter) and his primary labor (his two sons), likely ruining his business, and eventually causing his wife to also leave their home (she is eventually among the followers in Jerusalem). However, we have almost no information about Zebedee's interactions with or attitude toward Jesus.
Application: In thinking about this ... I wonder ... did Zebedee not become a believer, becoming abandoned by his wife and children due to his lack of faith? Did he become bitter toward Jesus because of this, thus expressing anger and earning the nickname "thunder" as a result?
Or did Zebedee join his family and become a behind-the-scenes pillar of faith? As a fisherman, did he provide food and labor for the core group of followers, allowing his thunderous sons the time to learn at Jesus' feet and in that way serve God by serving his own children?
Or maybe he became the secret checkbook behind the ministry? Zebedee was a successful and prominent businessman (we are told he had several employees, and his sons were known by prominent leaders, implying he himself was prominent). Was Zebedee working back home in order to fund the ministry and give his sons and Jesus the financial freedom they needed to do God's work?
If so ... should Zebedee be my role model? As I have been shown, I am to be humbly supporting my wife and children so they may become strong church leaders. So I serve with my provision in their lives, and with manual work behind the scenes at church. Maybe ... I should be honored if someday someone compares me to Zebedee.
Prayer: Lord, my thoughts today a pure speculation since I know almost nothing of Zebedee but for his name. That said, may I continue to serve you in humility, by serving my family who are all three strong models of faith for your church. Thank you for your guidance today.
Observation: There are two ways to interpret the renaming of James and John. It could be that as strong and confident men (as we know they were) they were collectively like thunder. Or it could be that ... Zebedee was like thunder and Jesus was referring to him.
IF the accurate interpretation is the latter, this would represent the only reference that I know of that indicates there was any sort of relationship between Jesus and Zebedee. This is peculiar given the fact that Jesus effectively upended everything about Zebedee's life. Over time, Jesus took away Zebedee's business partner (Peter) and his primary labor (his two sons), likely ruining his business, and eventually causing his wife to also leave their home (she is eventually among the followers in Jerusalem). However, we have almost no information about Zebedee's interactions with or attitude toward Jesus.
Application: In thinking about this ... I wonder ... did Zebedee not become a believer, becoming abandoned by his wife and children due to his lack of faith? Did he become bitter toward Jesus because of this, thus expressing anger and earning the nickname "thunder" as a result?
Or did Zebedee join his family and become a behind-the-scenes pillar of faith? As a fisherman, did he provide food and labor for the core group of followers, allowing his thunderous sons the time to learn at Jesus' feet and in that way serve God by serving his own children?
Or maybe he became the secret checkbook behind the ministry? Zebedee was a successful and prominent businessman (we are told he had several employees, and his sons were known by prominent leaders, implying he himself was prominent). Was Zebedee working back home in order to fund the ministry and give his sons and Jesus the financial freedom they needed to do God's work?
If so ... should Zebedee be my role model? As I have been shown, I am to be humbly supporting my wife and children so they may become strong church leaders. So I serve with my provision in their lives, and with manual work behind the scenes at church. Maybe ... I should be honored if someday someone compares me to Zebedee.
Prayer: Lord, my thoughts today a pure speculation since I know almost nothing of Zebedee but for his name. That said, may I continue to serve you in humility, by serving my family who are all three strong models of faith for your church. Thank you for your guidance today.
Monday, February 23, 2015
The Way Pre-Exists
Scripture: So Moses cried out to the Lord, “Please, God, heal her!” The Lord replied to Moses, “If her father had spit in her face, would she not have been in disgrace for seven days? Confine her outside the camp for seven days; after that she can be brought back.” So Miriam was confined outside the camp for seven days, and the people did not move on till she was brought back. Numbers 12:13-15
Observation: Out of pride, Miriam and Aaron sinned, and God provided both the punishment and a reminder of the way to redemption.
God had already provided the redemption part - the process one must go through when they have a skin disease. Thus, when Miriam has sinned and receives judgment, the solution is there. In addition, Moses' plea to God does not change that solution ... God doesn't provide a healing outside of his law, but rather answers the prayer by reminding Moses, Miriam and Aaron about the law.
Application: I have sometimes wondered why it is that God doesn't take certain actions toward friends and loved ones when I have prayed for them. I find an answer in this verse. God DOES answer my prayer by pointing to his law ... he says "there is Jesus, and all who believe in him will be restored, forgiven of all sin, and enjoy everlasting life."
God isn't going to forgive sin outside of that covenant, but he is always going to forgive sin within that covenant. In this way, when it comes to my non-believing friends, there is only one prayer that matters. That prayer is not "please help them" or "ease their pain" or "heal their addictions" or "mend their broken lives" ... but "help me show them Jesus Christ and put them on a path toward belief."
Prayer: Lord, please help me show others Jesus Christ today, and put them on a path toward belief. As you have reminded me over the last couple of weeks, that is why I am here. May I serve others in your name and for your purposes in their lives. Amen.
Observation: Out of pride, Miriam and Aaron sinned, and God provided both the punishment and a reminder of the way to redemption.
God had already provided the redemption part - the process one must go through when they have a skin disease. Thus, when Miriam has sinned and receives judgment, the solution is there. In addition, Moses' plea to God does not change that solution ... God doesn't provide a healing outside of his law, but rather answers the prayer by reminding Moses, Miriam and Aaron about the law.
Application: I have sometimes wondered why it is that God doesn't take certain actions toward friends and loved ones when I have prayed for them. I find an answer in this verse. God DOES answer my prayer by pointing to his law ... he says "there is Jesus, and all who believe in him will be restored, forgiven of all sin, and enjoy everlasting life."
God isn't going to forgive sin outside of that covenant, but he is always going to forgive sin within that covenant. In this way, when it comes to my non-believing friends, there is only one prayer that matters. That prayer is not "please help them" or "ease their pain" or "heal their addictions" or "mend their broken lives" ... but "help me show them Jesus Christ and put them on a path toward belief."
Prayer: Lord, please help me show others Jesus Christ today, and put them on a path toward belief. As you have reminded me over the last couple of weeks, that is why I am here. May I serve others in your name and for your purposes in their lives. Amen.
Friday, February 20, 2015
I Shall Not Want
The last couple days, I have been blessed to have a lot of "desk time" to work on department financial and resource forecasts. (I know that's an odd definition of "blessed" - stay with me.) So I have been able to put on headphones and listen to my Christian Pandora station continually. (See!!). Then today, Psalm 23 was part of our reading ... something every Sunday School Alum from the 70's had to memorize. It is still so beautiful! I just want to meditate on it today ...
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
The Most Basic Defense
Scripture: And now it is because of my hope in what God has promised our ancestors that I am on trial today. Acts 26:6
Observation: Paul begins his defense with the most basic of all things - the gospel. God promised mankind salvation through a Messiah who would redeem all people ... and he has delivered on that promise.
This is all Paul really says. He goes on to tell his personal story about how he discovered this truth, and then addresses the fact the he does preach this news to everyone as he has been commanded to do. However, there isn't any profound philosophy, surprise revelation, deep theology, or complex belief system. Paul simply says:
-- You all believe in God.
-- You all believe in the promises of the law and the prophets.
-- Well, it happened! Jesus came and fulfilled all prophesy as the Messiah.
-- I am telling people that.
Application: I have two thoughts about this. First ... those four bullets above represent a sound "test" for Christianity or any specific Christian church or denomination. Any church that teaches those four things, is teaching a right message (with of course education about the implications in your life if you do in fact believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior). Any denomination that is adding onto this ... like you can't drink coffee, or only 144,000 people get into heaven, or you can't take medicine ... these things are off. And if they at ALL back away from the fact that Jesus is Messiah, they aren't Christian at all.
Second, this is a evangelical message, but in our current "age" it runs into a problem: The number of non-believers who don't actually believe in God. Some don't believe in any God, some don't believe in a loving God the Creator, and some don't believe in the accuracy of the law and prophets. As a result, the message that "the Messiah came as promised" loses its foothold. This is a serious challenge for the 21st century church, and represents a place where leadership is needed in order to bring awareness of the existence and authority and love of God.
Prayer: Abba, father, I pray for people who refuse to even acknowledge you. I pray for those who will not even acknowledge you exist, or won't accept your nature as a loving and just father who wishes to reconcile us to yourself. Without that, it become so difficult to talk about Jesus. May those far from you, Lord, find you in their hearts anyway, so that there is at least a place where discovery of Jesus can begin. Amen.
Observation: Paul begins his defense with the most basic of all things - the gospel. God promised mankind salvation through a Messiah who would redeem all people ... and he has delivered on that promise.
This is all Paul really says. He goes on to tell his personal story about how he discovered this truth, and then addresses the fact the he does preach this news to everyone as he has been commanded to do. However, there isn't any profound philosophy, surprise revelation, deep theology, or complex belief system. Paul simply says:
-- You all believe in God.
-- You all believe in the promises of the law and the prophets.
-- Well, it happened! Jesus came and fulfilled all prophesy as the Messiah.
-- I am telling people that.
Application: I have two thoughts about this. First ... those four bullets above represent a sound "test" for Christianity or any specific Christian church or denomination. Any church that teaches those four things, is teaching a right message (with of course education about the implications in your life if you do in fact believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior). Any denomination that is adding onto this ... like you can't drink coffee, or only 144,000 people get into heaven, or you can't take medicine ... these things are off. And if they at ALL back away from the fact that Jesus is Messiah, they aren't Christian at all.
Second, this is a evangelical message, but in our current "age" it runs into a problem: The number of non-believers who don't actually believe in God. Some don't believe in any God, some don't believe in a loving God the Creator, and some don't believe in the accuracy of the law and prophets. As a result, the message that "the Messiah came as promised" loses its foothold. This is a serious challenge for the 21st century church, and represents a place where leadership is needed in order to bring awareness of the existence and authority and love of God.
Prayer: Abba, father, I pray for people who refuse to even acknowledge you. I pray for those who will not even acknowledge you exist, or won't accept your nature as a loving and just father who wishes to reconcile us to yourself. Without that, it become so difficult to talk about Jesus. May those far from you, Lord, find you in their hearts anyway, so that there is at least a place where discovery of Jesus can begin. Amen.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
All About "a Dead Man"
Scripture: When his accusers got up to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected. Instead, they had some points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive. Acts 25:18-19
Observation: This is how we judge Paul's heart as an evangelist - the only charges anyone could bring against him in court was that he believed the Messiah had come to earth and been raised from the dead, fulfilling the prophets and the law. Beyond that, he has done nothing to violate any moral, civic, public law, nor has he wronged any person or organization, nor has he spoken against the government and its leaders.
Application: If Christians - including me - could hold ourselves to such a standard, the enemy would have no foothold to battle against us.
Christianity gets a black eye when we fight against the government, or wrong people through righteous judgment, or even break laws and do immoral things in order to advance our "cause".
We don't have a "cause" that needs advancing ... we have a savior with a message of good news for all people. We don't need to condemn people or attack people over their actions or beliefs or values ... we simply need to tell them about Jesus.
We will STILL get attacked over this - Paul is about to be sent to Rome for a public trial and execution. However, I would LOVE to be attacked over my belief in Jesus and proclamation of his word, rather than for my behavior toward others. Only one of these will Jesus stand with me for on my day of judgment. This is my lesson today: My stance "against" anything and everything needs to only be "faith in Jesus is all you need to for eternal life."
Prayer: May I be unafraid, Jesus, to boldly speak of you only in all circumstances. Amen.
Observation: This is how we judge Paul's heart as an evangelist - the only charges anyone could bring against him in court was that he believed the Messiah had come to earth and been raised from the dead, fulfilling the prophets and the law. Beyond that, he has done nothing to violate any moral, civic, public law, nor has he wronged any person or organization, nor has he spoken against the government and its leaders.
Application: If Christians - including me - could hold ourselves to such a standard, the enemy would have no foothold to battle against us.
Christianity gets a black eye when we fight against the government, or wrong people through righteous judgment, or even break laws and do immoral things in order to advance our "cause".
We don't have a "cause" that needs advancing ... we have a savior with a message of good news for all people. We don't need to condemn people or attack people over their actions or beliefs or values ... we simply need to tell them about Jesus.
We will STILL get attacked over this - Paul is about to be sent to Rome for a public trial and execution. However, I would LOVE to be attacked over my belief in Jesus and proclamation of his word, rather than for my behavior toward others. Only one of these will Jesus stand with me for on my day of judgment. This is my lesson today: My stance "against" anything and everything needs to only be "faith in Jesus is all you need to for eternal life."
Prayer: May I be unafraid, Jesus, to boldly speak of you only in all circumstances. Amen.
Friday, February 13, 2015
Follow the Right Leader
Scripture: Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them. Acts 20:30
Observation: Paul is warning the church leaders from Ephesus not that non-believers will challenge the church, but that THEY - the leaders - will corrupt the church. Not all will do this, and it can be overcome, but some of the leaders will draw disciples after them.
This isn't a warning that they will teach the wrong doctrine. Instead, it is that they will pursue a path in which the leaders want followers to follow THEM ... not Jesus.
Application: This is a huge stumbling block for pastors, and one Satan uses ALL them time ... to work the pride of the pastor so they end up with a church that follows them. They then use that power for their own ends. Sometimes they might believe their pursuits are God's pursuits, however it is a slippery slope.
I was reminded of this today when an employee told me about an issue in their past church life ... the story of a pastor who grew so powerful that he ultimately wielded that power in very harmful ways, leading many astray and away from Jesus, even hurting some to the point of turning away entirely from Jesus.
It is SO critical that church leaders establish accountability networks, keep their egos in check, and ensure their work always leads others to Jesus, not to them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for all the pastors at Evergreen - Phil, Odyn, Laurie, Caleb, Jaziel, Betty. It is easy for any person in a position of authority to fall victim to the temptation of self-worship. For most, the harm is non-spiritual and limited, however for pastors the harm can be wide-spread and eternal. Please protect these men and women from temptation, and keep them all focused on you as the center and head of the church.
Observation: Paul is warning the church leaders from Ephesus not that non-believers will challenge the church, but that THEY - the leaders - will corrupt the church. Not all will do this, and it can be overcome, but some of the leaders will draw disciples after them.
This isn't a warning that they will teach the wrong doctrine. Instead, it is that they will pursue a path in which the leaders want followers to follow THEM ... not Jesus.
Application: This is a huge stumbling block for pastors, and one Satan uses ALL them time ... to work the pride of the pastor so they end up with a church that follows them. They then use that power for their own ends. Sometimes they might believe their pursuits are God's pursuits, however it is a slippery slope.
I was reminded of this today when an employee told me about an issue in their past church life ... the story of a pastor who grew so powerful that he ultimately wielded that power in very harmful ways, leading many astray and away from Jesus, even hurting some to the point of turning away entirely from Jesus.
It is SO critical that church leaders establish accountability networks, keep their egos in check, and ensure their work always leads others to Jesus, not to them.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for all the pastors at Evergreen - Phil, Odyn, Laurie, Caleb, Jaziel, Betty. It is easy for any person in a position of authority to fall victim to the temptation of self-worship. For most, the harm is non-spiritual and limited, however for pastors the harm can be wide-spread and eternal. Please protect these men and women from temptation, and keep them all focused on you as the center and head of the church.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Do Not Do as They Do
Scripture: You must not do as they do in Egypt, where you used to live, and you must not do as they do in the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. Do not follow their practices. You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the Lord your God. Leviticus 18:3-4
Observation: From the beginning, God has been clear about his expectations for believers: You are to be different. As Paul put it in Romans, "Do not conform to the ways of this world, but be transformed."
Believers are always to remember this from the very beginning of the Jews with Moses. Believers do not do what society does. Instead, they do what God tells them to do. And why? Because ... the Lord is our God.
Application: Where am I conforming to the ways of the world right now? In what parts of my life am I "normalizing" myself in society in a manner that is not in alignment with the instructions of Jesus Christ?
I continue to dwell on Romans 12 as a teaching for my life. I am to be a living sacrifice. That means giving up those elements of my life that are not of God, and doing only what he wants of me.
My anger and stress is a significant area where I am failing at this. I am expected to bring a certain level of intensity to my job, and to care about certain things that are effectively specific to societal norms. I am expected to worry about those things, and to dwell on them in order to solve problems. This isn't just about doing a good job to fulfill my 'holy vocation', but about a society expectation.
What I DON'T do is surrender these cares to God, to pray about them, and entrust God to support me on my way through them. Jesus tells us to surrender our cares to him, and I do not do that. This is a first and easy way I can not be like the "Canaanites" around me, but instead can demonstrate a different model of life ... and become a light of Jesus to those around me.
Prayer: Lord, I know I am blessed to be a blessing. So today, I trust that blessing and surrender to you my concerns and stress of work. I trust you to give me words to coach staff and assist them. I will remember that deadlines are man-made constraints on my life, and things will be completed in your time, by your will, for your purposes ... which even includes IT projects. I will follow your commands, because you are my Lord, and I believe in and trust your love. Amen.
Observation: From the beginning, God has been clear about his expectations for believers: You are to be different. As Paul put it in Romans, "Do not conform to the ways of this world, but be transformed."
Believers are always to remember this from the very beginning of the Jews with Moses. Believers do not do what society does. Instead, they do what God tells them to do. And why? Because ... the Lord is our God.
Application: Where am I conforming to the ways of the world right now? In what parts of my life am I "normalizing" myself in society in a manner that is not in alignment with the instructions of Jesus Christ?
I continue to dwell on Romans 12 as a teaching for my life. I am to be a living sacrifice. That means giving up those elements of my life that are not of God, and doing only what he wants of me.
My anger and stress is a significant area where I am failing at this. I am expected to bring a certain level of intensity to my job, and to care about certain things that are effectively specific to societal norms. I am expected to worry about those things, and to dwell on them in order to solve problems. This isn't just about doing a good job to fulfill my 'holy vocation', but about a society expectation.
What I DON'T do is surrender these cares to God, to pray about them, and entrust God to support me on my way through them. Jesus tells us to surrender our cares to him, and I do not do that. This is a first and easy way I can not be like the "Canaanites" around me, but instead can demonstrate a different model of life ... and become a light of Jesus to those around me.
Prayer: Lord, I know I am blessed to be a blessing. So today, I trust that blessing and surrender to you my concerns and stress of work. I trust you to give me words to coach staff and assist them. I will remember that deadlines are man-made constraints on my life, and things will be completed in your time, by your will, for your purposes ... which even includes IT projects. I will follow your commands, because you are my Lord, and I believe in and trust your love. Amen.
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