5.31.2011
Proverbs 16:2 2 All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord. NIV
What would happen if we woke up every day and said “God knows the thoughts and intents of my heart”? What if we began to treat those around us at home, church, work, school, or leisure acknowledging that God knows our motives? I suppose there are two ways to deal with the Lord’s omniscience: love it or hate it; embrace it, or try to run from it.
The miracle of God is that He sees into our hearts – that deep place in us where our thoughts, intents, and reasoning’s start. It’s not in our organ called the heart – it’s in a very deep place within us where all of this stuff comes from. Jesus said “The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:45 NIV) And God knows and hears and sees it all.
In my quest for control – not self-control – I find myself coming up with schemes and dreams of how I think my life would be better if only I could… And I’ve come up with some doozies. But God knows me better that I ever can or will and knows what is best for me to succeed (in His definition of the word) in life dying to my desire for control, and living with the spiritual fruit of self-control. If God knows my motives even when I claim innocence then He has the last word. It’s all part of the breaking process where I fully submit to God and die to me. I can’t win… but God does.
Father in Heaven,
You know all of my thoughts, motives, and intents. You see into my soul in a way that reassures me of Your omniscience and You infinite love. May I trust You that as You know, You will guide; and that I will arrive at Heaven’s door blessed to have trusted in Your knowledge of me, and in Your will for my life – amen.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Monday, May 30, 2011
What God Never Does
5.30.2011
Romans 11:28-29 28 As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, 29 for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. NIV
A friend of mine pointed out that not once in his speech last week to congress did Binyamin Netanyahu make any mention of God; why would he – he thinks Israel’s problems are solved politically or if necessary, militarily. It doesn’t surprise me; the answer to Israel’s problems is faith in God and belief in the promises He gave to the ancients who believed Him; and it was credited to them as righteousness; it always has been – God’s gifts and call are irrevocable. As men we are to acknowledge the supreme place of God in all of our living together on this planet. But men don’t, and men suffer the consequences of such a posture.
With all of their own issues and mistakes God has always loved the patriarchs who were ordinary men of extraordinary faith – they not only believed in God, they believed God. And their descendants have always been loved by God who through their ancestors, called them to believe as well. When God said to Abraham, “Look up at the heavens and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” … “So shall your offspring be.” (Genesis 5.15 NIV) He wasn’t kidding – He meant every word He said. When God said, they will be My people, and I will be their God (Genesis 17:8; Jeremiah 24:7, 31:33, 32:38; Ezekiel 11:20, 14:11, 37:23, 37:27; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Hebrews 8:10) He meant it and never looked back. God never says one thing and does another.
I may have failed God, but He has never failed me. I may have started out one direction and wound up on another but that never happens to God who is able to work His will in my ways before I ever start out on them! God’s call and gifts are irrevocable. It that’s the case then I must never take it for granted but must live each day in holy response to what He’s asked me to do and use what He’s chosen to give me to do it.
Today, the only day I have, is a day to live in holy response to the One who loves me and calls me; and gives Himself to me that I may in Him, through Him, and by Him accomplish His will for my life.
Father in Heaven,
You are the One who calls and because of Your love for people, You are the One who enables Your servants to do as You call. Help me this day to live in holy response to Your will and to remember what You’ve called me to do and the gifts You’ve given that I may do it – in Jesus, amen.
Romans 11:28-29 28 As far as the gospel is concerned, they are enemies on your account; but as far as election is concerned, they are loved on account of the patriarchs, 29 for God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable. NIV
A friend of mine pointed out that not once in his speech last week to congress did Binyamin Netanyahu make any mention of God; why would he – he thinks Israel’s problems are solved politically or if necessary, militarily. It doesn’t surprise me; the answer to Israel’s problems is faith in God and belief in the promises He gave to the ancients who believed Him; and it was credited to them as righteousness; it always has been – God’s gifts and call are irrevocable. As men we are to acknowledge the supreme place of God in all of our living together on this planet. But men don’t, and men suffer the consequences of such a posture.
With all of their own issues and mistakes God has always loved the patriarchs who were ordinary men of extraordinary faith – they not only believed in God, they believed God. And their descendants have always been loved by God who through their ancestors, called them to believe as well. When God said to Abraham, “Look up at the heavens and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” … “So shall your offspring be.” (Genesis 5.15 NIV) He wasn’t kidding – He meant every word He said. When God said, they will be My people, and I will be their God (Genesis 17:8; Jeremiah 24:7, 31:33, 32:38; Ezekiel 11:20, 14:11, 37:23, 37:27; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Hebrews 8:10) He meant it and never looked back. God never says one thing and does another.
I may have failed God, but He has never failed me. I may have started out one direction and wound up on another but that never happens to God who is able to work His will in my ways before I ever start out on them! God’s call and gifts are irrevocable. It that’s the case then I must never take it for granted but must live each day in holy response to what He’s asked me to do and use what He’s chosen to give me to do it.
Today, the only day I have, is a day to live in holy response to the One who loves me and calls me; and gives Himself to me that I may in Him, through Him, and by Him accomplish His will for my life.
Father in Heaven,
You are the One who calls and because of Your love for people, You are the One who enables Your servants to do as You call. Help me this day to live in holy response to Your will and to remember what You’ve called me to do and the gifts You’ve given that I may do it – in Jesus, amen.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
What God Thinks About
5.29.2011
Proverbs 10:23 23 A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom. NIV
It doesn’t take long in reading the Proverbs to get a pretty clear picture of, not only others, “Oh yeah, he’s just like that!” but also of oneself: “Yuck! That’s me!” So, as I read today, I listened in my mind to true wisdom and very pointed sayings along the lines of the difference between good and evil, wickedness and righteousness; fools and the wise. It really doesn’t take long to see what’s going on… change is supposed to take place.
Lately, I seem to be catching myself having some kind of untoward only to have that thought quickly followed by this thought: Eew! Did I really just think that!? I’m not trying to boast; I’m just saying that I’m noticing my thoughts and my reaction to my own thoughts and sometimes I’m encouraged and sometimes I’m disgusted. Sometimes I’m just encouraged that I’ve experienced disgust by some of my thoughts. So, when I read this verse today, I had to stop and think about what I really delight in – and wisdom, or the right way of thinking, seems to be hanging around more and more… but not because I put it there…
The Apostle Paul wrote, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12.2 NIV) It may take some time, it may take some effort, and it may take some ugly trials and errors, but the renewing process is real and makes a difference in the way we think and how we think about what we think.
The last thing I want to think is that I’ve made it – nothing is more arrogant. I might want to admit to the light flickering on, but I certainly won’t deny cloudy days or periods of downright darkness. The Lord seems to be interested in my staying out in the ‘sun’ where I can see clearly, behave properly, and think differently – not conforming to the pattern of this world where everything revolves around me, emanates from me, and bows to the tyranny of me. It truly is a delight to be able to think a little differently from the norm, and life thinking about what God thinks about; even if it’s only momentary or fleeting.
Father in Heaven,
You made us to be far more than we can hope or imagine but just because we have our limits doesn’t mean You do. Help me to keep applying the cleansing word over my life and to keep rising to the level of delighting in wisdom – amen.
Proverbs 10:23 23 A fool finds pleasure in evil conduct, but a man of understanding delights in wisdom. NIV
It doesn’t take long in reading the Proverbs to get a pretty clear picture of, not only others, “Oh yeah, he’s just like that!” but also of oneself: “Yuck! That’s me!” So, as I read today, I listened in my mind to true wisdom and very pointed sayings along the lines of the difference between good and evil, wickedness and righteousness; fools and the wise. It really doesn’t take long to see what’s going on… change is supposed to take place.
Lately, I seem to be catching myself having some kind of untoward only to have that thought quickly followed by this thought: Eew! Did I really just think that!? I’m not trying to boast; I’m just saying that I’m noticing my thoughts and my reaction to my own thoughts and sometimes I’m encouraged and sometimes I’m disgusted. Sometimes I’m just encouraged that I’ve experienced disgust by some of my thoughts. So, when I read this verse today, I had to stop and think about what I really delight in – and wisdom, or the right way of thinking, seems to be hanging around more and more… but not because I put it there…
The Apostle Paul wrote, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12.2 NIV) It may take some time, it may take some effort, and it may take some ugly trials and errors, but the renewing process is real and makes a difference in the way we think and how we think about what we think.
The last thing I want to think is that I’ve made it – nothing is more arrogant. I might want to admit to the light flickering on, but I certainly won’t deny cloudy days or periods of downright darkness. The Lord seems to be interested in my staying out in the ‘sun’ where I can see clearly, behave properly, and think differently – not conforming to the pattern of this world where everything revolves around me, emanates from me, and bows to the tyranny of me. It truly is a delight to be able to think a little differently from the norm, and life thinking about what God thinks about; even if it’s only momentary or fleeting.
Father in Heaven,
You made us to be far more than we can hope or imagine but just because we have our limits doesn’t mean You do. Help me to keep applying the cleansing word over my life and to keep rising to the level of delighting in wisdom – amen.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Finding Life
5.28.2011
Proverbs 8:35 35 For whoever finds me [Wisdom] finds life and receives favor from the Lord. NIV
Tacked up on the wall of my garage is a piece of paper with the following words printed on it: Many are the plans in a man’s heart; but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. (Proverbs 19.21) If the plans of a man’s heart don’t include looking for and finding wisdom, then no matter what he plans, it’s going to fail; or certainly have less than desirable results.
My life has to this point has been a series of one foolish endeavor after another punctuated by brief moments of sanity. As a young man, I planned to be married – check. I planned to have a career in the military – unchecked, medical issues. I planned not to have children – unchecked, we have four. I planned to live a structured, neat, well-organized life – unchecked, life got in the way. I planned to live pain-free – unchecked, life got in the way. You can see where I’ going, I had plans.
My problem is, I never checked in with the Lord. I planned to be a good man; I just never planned to be a righteous man. Good was good enough for me – that was my plan. I planned to do all of this in my own strength and knowledge not realizing there was a key component I was overlooking: wisdom. I planned to live life, I just never planned to find life. I also never planned to find favor from the Lord – I figured I’d pretty much leave Him alone if He left me alone. How unwise can you get?
Wisdom requires that we think about life with all of it’s ups and downs and consistent inconsistencies. Wisdom requires that we study a matter to see whether or not we ought to proceed. Wisdom requires that we seek the Lord in all matters pertaining to life and godliness and wait for Him to reveal His purpose and show us the way to go. With the Lord and His wisdom, we find life and favor.
Today, I am faced with yet another plan that has back-fired on me. I chose a path without seeking the Lord and now have to decide how to proceed. So, I’ll pray, and think, and seek Him to see what to do and where to go – and how to go. Today is one more opportunity to let the Lord’s purposes take precedence over mine and in doing so to find life and favor from Him…
Father God, You know where I am and know what I’ve done and I submit to Your purpose that always prevails and will look for Your life, favor and wisdom to see this thing through – amen.
Proverbs 8:35 35 For whoever finds me [Wisdom] finds life and receives favor from the Lord. NIV
Tacked up on the wall of my garage is a piece of paper with the following words printed on it: Many are the plans in a man’s heart; but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. (Proverbs 19.21) If the plans of a man’s heart don’t include looking for and finding wisdom, then no matter what he plans, it’s going to fail; or certainly have less than desirable results.
My life has to this point has been a series of one foolish endeavor after another punctuated by brief moments of sanity. As a young man, I planned to be married – check. I planned to have a career in the military – unchecked, medical issues. I planned not to have children – unchecked, we have four. I planned to live a structured, neat, well-organized life – unchecked, life got in the way. I planned to live pain-free – unchecked, life got in the way. You can see where I’ going, I had plans.
My problem is, I never checked in with the Lord. I planned to be a good man; I just never planned to be a righteous man. Good was good enough for me – that was my plan. I planned to do all of this in my own strength and knowledge not realizing there was a key component I was overlooking: wisdom. I planned to live life, I just never planned to find life. I also never planned to find favor from the Lord – I figured I’d pretty much leave Him alone if He left me alone. How unwise can you get?
Wisdom requires that we think about life with all of it’s ups and downs and consistent inconsistencies. Wisdom requires that we study a matter to see whether or not we ought to proceed. Wisdom requires that we seek the Lord in all matters pertaining to life and godliness and wait for Him to reveal His purpose and show us the way to go. With the Lord and His wisdom, we find life and favor.
Today, I am faced with yet another plan that has back-fired on me. I chose a path without seeking the Lord and now have to decide how to proceed. So, I’ll pray, and think, and seek Him to see what to do and where to go – and how to go. Today is one more opportunity to let the Lord’s purposes take precedence over mine and in doing so to find life and favor from Him…
Father God, You know where I am and know what I’ve done and I submit to Your purpose that always prevails and will look for Your life, favor and wisdom to see this thing through – amen.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Heed and Embrace
5.26.2011
Proverbs 3:5-6 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. NIV
Recently our eldest son, fresh in from Pre-Pysch class, announced that he’d learned in class that studies have shown that we (humans) don’t begin to really understand cause and effect until around the age of twenty-four; our brains don’t mature until about then. To which I thought, well that explains a lot!
I had never heard that before so I’ve spent a lot of time lately thinking about that statement. I know lots of people who in their middle years, don’t seem to understand cause and effect – they keep trying to do the same thing but expect different results. To which I began to understand that though we acknowledge cause and effect, unless we heed it – it does us little good. There ain’t no shortcuts.
Here’s cause and effect for you: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3.5-6 NIV) Trusting God is like admitting that I don’t understand or embrace cause and effect, but I want to learn. Trusting God with all of my heart means being completely open and honest before Him in every part of my being; and attending to the shadows, as the Jesuits teach.
We could say it this way: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise cause and effect. (Proverbs 1:7 NIV) The great apostle Paul summed it up this way: the cause – sin – effects our relationship with God without which we are doomed to death. But we must embrace cause and effect and realize that the sum of our lives today depends on whether we do or not…
Lord Jesus,
Teach me to trust You with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength and allow all of that to have it’s effect – I pray in Your Name, amen.
Proverbs 3:5-6 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. NIV
Recently our eldest son, fresh in from Pre-Pysch class, announced that he’d learned in class that studies have shown that we (humans) don’t begin to really understand cause and effect until around the age of twenty-four; our brains don’t mature until about then. To which I thought, well that explains a lot!
I had never heard that before so I’ve spent a lot of time lately thinking about that statement. I know lots of people who in their middle years, don’t seem to understand cause and effect – they keep trying to do the same thing but expect different results. To which I began to understand that though we acknowledge cause and effect, unless we heed it – it does us little good. There ain’t no shortcuts.
Here’s cause and effect for you: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. (Proverbs 3.5-6 NIV) Trusting God is like admitting that I don’t understand or embrace cause and effect, but I want to learn. Trusting God with all of my heart means being completely open and honest before Him in every part of my being; and attending to the shadows, as the Jesuits teach.
We could say it this way: The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise cause and effect. (Proverbs 1:7 NIV) The great apostle Paul summed it up this way: the cause – sin – effects our relationship with God without which we are doomed to death. But we must embrace cause and effect and realize that the sum of our lives today depends on whether we do or not…
Lord Jesus,
Teach me to trust You with all of my heart, soul, mind, and strength and allow all of that to have it’s effect – I pray in Your Name, amen.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Conditional
5.25.2011
1 Kings 11:4 4 As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been. NIV
God repeatedly warned Solomon not to give in to the culture and blessings around him (Cf. 1 Kings 3.14, 6.12, 9.6; 1 Chronicles 28.9; 2 Chronicles 7.17, 19). Nowadays, many like to think that relationship with God hinges on the condition of unconditional. Nothing could be farther from the truth – relationship with God is conditional. His love is unconditional, but relationship with Him is always conditional – that’s one of the conditions of freewill.
Imagine for a moment you commit adultery (have extramarital sex, while married, with another person – or have sex with a married person). The damage is devastating and deadly. There are conditions in marriage that say, (I/we) will be [sexually] faithful to each other as long as we both shall live. That’s conditional. In marriage, there are consequences for not keeping the condition(s). Our relationship with God is no different.
So God intentionally reminded Solomon (His choice for king) over and over, “If you walk before Me in… (integrity, faithfulness, devotion) I will… (bless, provide, etc.). I find at least six references to that in the Bible’s accounts of Solomon’s history.
Let me ask, when is the beginning of the end? Some might say, at birth. Others might point to making poor choices early in life and giving in to peer pressure. Still others may say when he/she married that woman/man. When is the beginning of the end? Others might emphatically say that the beginning of the end is when so and so decided to turn his/her life over to Christ. And then the beginning of the end became the beginning of the beginning…
The beginning of the end is always potentially when we turn from one thing to another. Solomon’s wives (I can’t imagine 700 wives and 300 concubines – sorry girls, it’s a guy thing…) turned his heart from following God. Solomon is to blame because he didn’t keep the “If you” condition. He suffered from the “If you” consequence. Solomon gambled with freewill and lost; and so did his kingdom.
Father in Heaven,
Lord, You know all the thoughts and things floating around in my mind; You know my imaginations. Help me to often remember the gamble Solomon took and to walk in the wisdom You give and the purity You provide in Jesus Christ – in His Name, amen.
1 Kings 11:4 4 As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been. NIV
God repeatedly warned Solomon not to give in to the culture and blessings around him (Cf. 1 Kings 3.14, 6.12, 9.6; 1 Chronicles 28.9; 2 Chronicles 7.17, 19). Nowadays, many like to think that relationship with God hinges on the condition of unconditional. Nothing could be farther from the truth – relationship with God is conditional. His love is unconditional, but relationship with Him is always conditional – that’s one of the conditions of freewill.
Imagine for a moment you commit adultery (have extramarital sex, while married, with another person – or have sex with a married person). The damage is devastating and deadly. There are conditions in marriage that say, (I/we) will be [sexually] faithful to each other as long as we both shall live. That’s conditional. In marriage, there are consequences for not keeping the condition(s). Our relationship with God is no different.
So God intentionally reminded Solomon (His choice for king) over and over, “If you walk before Me in… (integrity, faithfulness, devotion) I will… (bless, provide, etc.). I find at least six references to that in the Bible’s accounts of Solomon’s history.
Let me ask, when is the beginning of the end? Some might say, at birth. Others might point to making poor choices early in life and giving in to peer pressure. Still others may say when he/she married that woman/man. When is the beginning of the end? Others might emphatically say that the beginning of the end is when so and so decided to turn his/her life over to Christ. And then the beginning of the end became the beginning of the beginning…
The beginning of the end is always potentially when we turn from one thing to another. Solomon’s wives (I can’t imagine 700 wives and 300 concubines – sorry girls, it’s a guy thing…) turned his heart from following God. Solomon is to blame because he didn’t keep the “If you” condition. He suffered from the “If you” consequence. Solomon gambled with freewill and lost; and so did his kingdom.
Father in Heaven,
Lord, You know all the thoughts and things floating around in my mind; You know my imaginations. Help me to often remember the gamble Solomon took and to walk in the wisdom You give and the purity You provide in Jesus Christ – in His Name, amen.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
What Is More Important
5.24.2011
Romans 5:3-5 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. NIV
It’s hard to say what is more important in these brief sentences. Suffering seems to be the catalyst and the catalyst is usually a very important part of permanent life-change or personal transformation. But then patience can be a big, big deal as well because patience helps us see the good, endure calmly, and disregard the discomfort of suffering, the catalyst. And then there is character – the golden formation of tangible goodness and godliness in our lives. And who can forget hope which says this all has a perfect and complete ending which culminates in supreme happiness in the presence of my Savior; His promises are real and they are true!
So the gift of suffering can’t be overlooked because of its ability to get us to move – and once we move change begins to take place in our hearts and souls. We don’t glory in suffering: “Levon wears his war-wound like a crown…”; we accept suffering because we know it’s what get the ball rolling; the wheels turning; the water flowing.
Nor can we under-appreciate patience – the ability to endure as if nothing is wrong because in truth, if God is in charge, and our lives are being transformed by Him, then nothing is wrong – it’s all alright. And character – what a marvelous gift – that of character – becoming the real deal and being able to withstand the temptation to flee, complain, criticize, and grow inward and small; it enables us to handle the true gift of hope, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11.1) When the chaos crescendos and the crap is flying all around us and on us, hope enables us to see and remain steadfast to the glorious end.
What if today Jesus were to bring Solomon-sized blessings into my life and those blessings ended up becoming like Solomon’s wives; and I lost all sight of what is really important? Or what if Jesus were to bring great discomfort into my life for a season, and I came out on the other side of that season more like Him?
Lord Jesus,
Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And in hope I’m never disappointed, because our God and Father has poured out His love into my heart by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given me. Lord Jesus, whatever it takes – amen.
Romans 5:3-5 3 Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. NIV
It’s hard to say what is more important in these brief sentences. Suffering seems to be the catalyst and the catalyst is usually a very important part of permanent life-change or personal transformation. But then patience can be a big, big deal as well because patience helps us see the good, endure calmly, and disregard the discomfort of suffering, the catalyst. And then there is character – the golden formation of tangible goodness and godliness in our lives. And who can forget hope which says this all has a perfect and complete ending which culminates in supreme happiness in the presence of my Savior; His promises are real and they are true!
So the gift of suffering can’t be overlooked because of its ability to get us to move – and once we move change begins to take place in our hearts and souls. We don’t glory in suffering: “Levon wears his war-wound like a crown…”; we accept suffering because we know it’s what get the ball rolling; the wheels turning; the water flowing.
Nor can we under-appreciate patience – the ability to endure as if nothing is wrong because in truth, if God is in charge, and our lives are being transformed by Him, then nothing is wrong – it’s all alright. And character – what a marvelous gift – that of character – becoming the real deal and being able to withstand the temptation to flee, complain, criticize, and grow inward and small; it enables us to handle the true gift of hope, “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” (Hebrews 11.1) When the chaos crescendos and the crap is flying all around us and on us, hope enables us to see and remain steadfast to the glorious end.
What if today Jesus were to bring Solomon-sized blessings into my life and those blessings ended up becoming like Solomon’s wives; and I lost all sight of what is really important? Or what if Jesus were to bring great discomfort into my life for a season, and I came out on the other side of that season more like Him?
Lord Jesus,
Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And in hope I’m never disappointed, because our God and Father has poured out His love into my heart by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given me. Lord Jesus, whatever it takes – amen.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Employee or Friend
5.23.2011
Romans 4:4-5 5 However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.
Recently I ran across a book entitled, 48 Days to the Work You Love: Preparing for the New Normal. The editorial review says, “48 Days to the Work You Love, is not so much about finding a new job as it is learning about who we are really called to be in relation to our vocation-whatever shape that career may take in these changing times. According to the author, failing to make that fundamental discovery of calling is why so many people find themselves in jobs they hate. But now, thousands upon thousands are finding the work they love, thanks to practical advice from this leading career counselor.” Sounds like an interesting read…
As I read through Romans 4 today, I thought about work and works, and trying to please God by being the best I can be – only to realize that when I do, it seems to bring out the worst in me. God knows, and I need to know, that attempting to work out my salvation is futile. Living out my salvation however, is what God has called me to do regardless of my vocation.
God wants to share life with us, but when we attempt to work out our relationship with Him, then the focus becomes our work – and our work no matter how good it is, was never intended to be the focus of our life. Only God is to be our focus. Abraham got it, he understood relationship with God and because God was his Friend, Abraham lived accordingly. God expects nothing more from any of the rest of us. Our pride is what drives us to be pleasing to God. Cain’s offering was presented in the wrong heart – Look at what I can do God! Abel’s was offered in the right heart: O God! Have mercy on me – a sinner!
I cannot workout my salvation because then I become an employee. Any time we turn what we love into employment I can guarantee that the sheen will come off the apple – what once was love, is now just one more rock around my neck because there is no perfect job. Jobs demand; there are no demands in love…
Father in Heaven,
You never called us to be Your employees; You called us to be Your sons and daughters. It doesn’t matter how long it takes for us to work through the list of do’s and don’ts, we will never find You by checking off a list. You call us to rest and trust in You – and when we do – we find friendship and rest forever! Amen.
Romans 4:4-5 5 However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.
Recently I ran across a book entitled, 48 Days to the Work You Love: Preparing for the New Normal. The editorial review says, “48 Days to the Work You Love, is not so much about finding a new job as it is learning about who we are really called to be in relation to our vocation-whatever shape that career may take in these changing times. According to the author, failing to make that fundamental discovery of calling is why so many people find themselves in jobs they hate. But now, thousands upon thousands are finding the work they love, thanks to practical advice from this leading career counselor.” Sounds like an interesting read…
As I read through Romans 4 today, I thought about work and works, and trying to please God by being the best I can be – only to realize that when I do, it seems to bring out the worst in me. God knows, and I need to know, that attempting to work out my salvation is futile. Living out my salvation however, is what God has called me to do regardless of my vocation.
God wants to share life with us, but when we attempt to work out our relationship with Him, then the focus becomes our work – and our work no matter how good it is, was never intended to be the focus of our life. Only God is to be our focus. Abraham got it, he understood relationship with God and because God was his Friend, Abraham lived accordingly. God expects nothing more from any of the rest of us. Our pride is what drives us to be pleasing to God. Cain’s offering was presented in the wrong heart – Look at what I can do God! Abel’s was offered in the right heart: O God! Have mercy on me – a sinner!
I cannot workout my salvation because then I become an employee. Any time we turn what we love into employment I can guarantee that the sheen will come off the apple – what once was love, is now just one more rock around my neck because there is no perfect job. Jobs demand; there are no demands in love…
Father in Heaven,
You never called us to be Your employees; You called us to be Your sons and daughters. It doesn’t matter how long it takes for us to work through the list of do’s and don’ts, we will never find You by checking off a list. You call us to rest and trust in You – and when we do – we find friendship and rest forever! Amen.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
What People Want
5.22.2011
Psalm 99:6 6 Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel was among those who called on his name; they called on the Lord and he answered them. NIV
I think this verse sums up what people want – at least the people I am aware of – the people around me and the people of my culture and upbringing. I think it’s true of my relatives and friends; I think it’s true of my coworkers and neighbors and the people of my church. I think the Postal delivery people want it. I think the police and the city officials want it. I think it affects just about everyone I know and can think of in any stage of life or vocation. They want to know if God hears and answers. They want to know if God will hear them and answer them.
The sick want to know. The poor want to know. The sad want to know; the troubled want to know as well – does God hear me? Maybe they don’t act like it; maybe they put on a brave face and just tough it out; or they just whine and complain about their plight. Everyone wants to be happy in some way…maybe.
Many seem to have given up; they’ve made up their minds that God doesn’t hear and now have moved on to the place in their minds that God doesn’t exist. If God does exist, then He doesn't care – if He did care, He’d help me. But God does hear and God does care – it just comes with a price.
So then, God can be bought! Hmmm, I don’t think I’d put it in those words, but if God could be bought, then there is only one way: belief. We must believe that there is a God and that He hears the ones who diligently and unswervingly seek Him. And we don’t seek Him for our way – we seek Him for His way. His way is better by far – infinitely so – than our way. God cannot be bought but He does expect belief.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 NIV) If I expect Him to hear me and answer, I better make sure I have real relationship with Him – otherwise I’m just fooling myself…
Father in Heaven,
You hear and You answer – You always have to the heart of the one who believes in You and who believes You. I trust You hear me and I trust in the answers You give. Even when it’s not what I want to hear… Thank You Lord! Amen.
Psalm 99:6 6 Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel was among those who called on his name; they called on the Lord and he answered them. NIV
I think this verse sums up what people want – at least the people I am aware of – the people around me and the people of my culture and upbringing. I think it’s true of my relatives and friends; I think it’s true of my coworkers and neighbors and the people of my church. I think the Postal delivery people want it. I think the police and the city officials want it. I think it affects just about everyone I know and can think of in any stage of life or vocation. They want to know if God hears and answers. They want to know if God will hear them and answer them.
The sick want to know. The poor want to know. The sad want to know; the troubled want to know as well – does God hear me? Maybe they don’t act like it; maybe they put on a brave face and just tough it out; or they just whine and complain about their plight. Everyone wants to be happy in some way…maybe.
Many seem to have given up; they’ve made up their minds that God doesn’t hear and now have moved on to the place in their minds that God doesn’t exist. If God does exist, then He doesn't care – if He did care, He’d help me. But God does hear and God does care – it just comes with a price.
So then, God can be bought! Hmmm, I don’t think I’d put it in those words, but if God could be bought, then there is only one way: belief. We must believe that there is a God and that He hears the ones who diligently and unswervingly seek Him. And we don’t seek Him for our way – we seek Him for His way. His way is better by far – infinitely so – than our way. God cannot be bought but He does expect belief.
And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. (Hebrews 11:6 NIV) If I expect Him to hear me and answer, I better make sure I have real relationship with Him – otherwise I’m just fooling myself…
Father in Heaven,
You hear and You answer – You always have to the heart of the one who believes in You and who believes You. I trust You hear me and I trust in the answers You give. Even when it’s not what I want to hear… Thank You Lord! Amen.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Cut Away
5.21.2011
Romans 2:29 29 No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God. NIV
What is praise from men anyway? Praise from men is their approval of your lifestyle according to the way they think, act, and speak. Praise from men is what you get when you toe the party line. Praise from men is what you get when you behave as a child of man and walk according to the principles of this world – position, possession, and performance. Praise from men, although powerfully alluring, is fickle, faulty, and feckless because it is based on man’s thinking, and man’s rules. But men stick together and men mean business when it comes to praise from one another; it's how their game is played.
But if life isn’t about playing man’s game, then what is it about? If praise from men is a charade, then what means anything? Praise from God – that’s what means something; it means everything. God looks at our hearts (all six point something billion of them) and looks to see who’s playing the game and whose heart has been cut away from the game. Circumcision is not physical and outward – who cares? Physical and outward don’t inherit the Kingdom of heaven. Circumcision that is true is the circumcision that separates our hearts from the praise and approval of mankind.
Recently, a young man at our church received what is called a Gold Medal of Achievement award from Royal Rangers (a Bible-based organization dedicated to building godly character into the lives of young men). What is so special about this is not the medal or the achievement, but the heart behind it. He did what he did, not to impress us, but to devote himself to God. Amen!
Today, I’m gonna go off to my little ol' job - but I'll have a big opportunity to win God’s praise by simply conducting myself according to the Holy Spirit, Who has circumcised my heart. The measure of my life today won’t be because of this blog, or my prayers, or anything except this: Where do I seek my praise; from God or from men?
Father in Heaven,
You aren’t interested in position, possession, or performance – all You look at is the heart. And You look to see if the separation from the world has occurred. May I walk today with my heart set on eternal things and be careful of the praise that that sounds so good and means so little that comes from men… Amen.
Romans 2:29 29 No, a man is a Jew if he is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise is not from men, but from God. NIV
What is praise from men anyway? Praise from men is their approval of your lifestyle according to the way they think, act, and speak. Praise from men is what you get when you toe the party line. Praise from men is what you get when you behave as a child of man and walk according to the principles of this world – position, possession, and performance. Praise from men, although powerfully alluring, is fickle, faulty, and feckless because it is based on man’s thinking, and man’s rules. But men stick together and men mean business when it comes to praise from one another; it's how their game is played.
But if life isn’t about playing man’s game, then what is it about? If praise from men is a charade, then what means anything? Praise from God – that’s what means something; it means everything. God looks at our hearts (all six point something billion of them) and looks to see who’s playing the game and whose heart has been cut away from the game. Circumcision is not physical and outward – who cares? Physical and outward don’t inherit the Kingdom of heaven. Circumcision that is true is the circumcision that separates our hearts from the praise and approval of mankind.
Recently, a young man at our church received what is called a Gold Medal of Achievement award from Royal Rangers (a Bible-based organization dedicated to building godly character into the lives of young men). What is so special about this is not the medal or the achievement, but the heart behind it. He did what he did, not to impress us, but to devote himself to God. Amen!
Today, I’m gonna go off to my little ol' job - but I'll have a big opportunity to win God’s praise by simply conducting myself according to the Holy Spirit, Who has circumcised my heart. The measure of my life today won’t be because of this blog, or my prayers, or anything except this: Where do I seek my praise; from God or from men?
Father in Heaven,
You aren’t interested in position, possession, or performance – all You look at is the heart. And You look to see if the separation from the world has occurred. May I walk today with my heart set on eternal things and be careful of the praise that that sounds so good and means so little that comes from men… Amen.
Friday, May 20, 2011
My Moriah
5.20.2011
2 Chronicles 3:1 Then Solomon began to build the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the Lord had appeared to his father David. It was on the threshing floor of Araunaha the Jebusite, the place provided by David. NIV
At the close of both 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles it is recorded that David sinned greatly by a census of his people (his military). I’m not sure why he did it but when he did it he sinned greatly against the Lord. After the Lord had punished him and his people for such action, the prophet Gad told David to build an altar at the threshing floor of a guy named, Araunah the Jebusite. Araunah’s threshing floor was on Mount Moriah. In Genesis 22 God told Abraham to take Isaac, his son, and sacrifice him on an altar in the region of Moriah.
Moriah it seems is a place chosen by God to make things right. God tested Abraham in Moriah to see where his heart really was now that Isaac had been born. God dealt with David on Moriah at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. The census was one of David’s last great acts – and it was a bad one. But God made things right for David and David proclaimed that very spot was to be the site of the House of the Lord.
God made things right for Abraham by testing him with Isaac. God made things right for David at the same place. And Solomon built the Temple right where God chose for it to be – so He could make it right for His people.
A thousand years later another event occurred at Moriah where God made things right for the world – Jesus Christ was crucified there and rose from the dead in that very region. God has His places to get things done and to make it right for all of us. My Moriah was Elmer’s Restaurant on Fairview Avenue in Boise, Idaho. My wife’s was in an apartment house in San Francisco. These are the places God chose for us to finally get a true glimpse of our Savior.
Psalm 97 says, “Zion hears and rejoices and the villages of Judah are glad because of your judgments, O Lord.” (Ps 97:8 NIV) They are glad because God made things right for them at Moriah. Today I don’t remember the exact date of my salvation, but I do remember the exact place – my Moriah.
Father in Heaven,
Long before Adam and Eve fell You chose that there would be a Moriah for all of mankind; and that in that place You would make the offer of making all things right for all of us. Some chose to accept Your offer and others have yet to discover Moriah. My prayer is that You help me help the ones looking for things to be made right that they may discover in You and through Jesus Christ – their Moriah. Amen
2 Chronicles 3:1 Then Solomon began to build the temple of the Lord in Jerusalem on Mount Moriah, where the Lord had appeared to his father David. It was on the threshing floor of Araunaha the Jebusite, the place provided by David. NIV
At the close of both 2 Samuel and 1 Chronicles it is recorded that David sinned greatly by a census of his people (his military). I’m not sure why he did it but when he did it he sinned greatly against the Lord. After the Lord had punished him and his people for such action, the prophet Gad told David to build an altar at the threshing floor of a guy named, Araunah the Jebusite. Araunah’s threshing floor was on Mount Moriah. In Genesis 22 God told Abraham to take Isaac, his son, and sacrifice him on an altar in the region of Moriah.
Moriah it seems is a place chosen by God to make things right. God tested Abraham in Moriah to see where his heart really was now that Isaac had been born. God dealt with David on Moriah at the threshing floor of Araunah the Jebusite. The census was one of David’s last great acts – and it was a bad one. But God made things right for David and David proclaimed that very spot was to be the site of the House of the Lord.
God made things right for Abraham by testing him with Isaac. God made things right for David at the same place. And Solomon built the Temple right where God chose for it to be – so He could make it right for His people.
A thousand years later another event occurred at Moriah where God made things right for the world – Jesus Christ was crucified there and rose from the dead in that very region. God has His places to get things done and to make it right for all of us. My Moriah was Elmer’s Restaurant on Fairview Avenue in Boise, Idaho. My wife’s was in an apartment house in San Francisco. These are the places God chose for us to finally get a true glimpse of our Savior.
Psalm 97 says, “Zion hears and rejoices and the villages of Judah are glad because of your judgments, O Lord.” (Ps 97:8 NIV) They are glad because God made things right for them at Moriah. Today I don’t remember the exact date of my salvation, but I do remember the exact place – my Moriah.
Father in Heaven,
Long before Adam and Eve fell You chose that there would be a Moriah for all of mankind; and that in that place You would make the offer of making all things right for all of us. Some chose to accept Your offer and others have yet to discover Moriah. My prayer is that You help me help the ones looking for things to be made right that they may discover in You and through Jesus Christ – their Moriah. Amen
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Getting It Right
5.19.2011
2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. NIV
Probably one of the biggest rubs and perhaps one of the biggest abuses in the church is discipline. And yet it is so vitally necessary.
Our problem with discipline (i.e. dealing with behavioral issues) is that it hurts, it’s embarrassing, and most of us are guilty of similar things. But without discipline where’s accountability? Each of us is responsible to live godly lives but to whom are we accountable for such living? Accountability requires trust, vulnerability, and honesty. Much of the sting of Church discipline can be removed if we would simply be honest with each other, confess our sins to each other, and call out for help from each other. There is a way to get it right with the least collateral damage.
The rub with discipline is arrogance – Who put YOU in charge!? The abuse is either not taking enough action, or too much action. Discipline calls for honesty and wisdom. But discipline also calls for self-control. And discipline calls for redemptive action to win the errant one(s) back into the safety and sanctity of the fellowship. Anything less than this falls back on rub or abuse.
In my 28 or so years of walking with the Lord I have seen little church discipline and a lot of arrogance. My prayer is that in our respective churches, yours, mine, and those of those we know, we would repent and return to living holy and godly lives; dealing with our discipline issues correctly in the power and wisdom of the Lord. The precedent to that, however, is that we learn to honestly and courageously love one another to the point where we gently point out our faults and quickly get back on track. Discipline can be embarrassing and uncomfortable but neglecting to use it, or using it wrongly, can be deadly and divisive.
Father in Heaven,
You discipline us as sons in order that we may learn to discipline each other as brothers. May we be strong and courageous to discipline in love and redemption through Jesus Christ and by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit – amen.
2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother. NIV
Probably one of the biggest rubs and perhaps one of the biggest abuses in the church is discipline. And yet it is so vitally necessary.
Our problem with discipline (i.e. dealing with behavioral issues) is that it hurts, it’s embarrassing, and most of us are guilty of similar things. But without discipline where’s accountability? Each of us is responsible to live godly lives but to whom are we accountable for such living? Accountability requires trust, vulnerability, and honesty. Much of the sting of Church discipline can be removed if we would simply be honest with each other, confess our sins to each other, and call out for help from each other. There is a way to get it right with the least collateral damage.
The rub with discipline is arrogance – Who put YOU in charge!? The abuse is either not taking enough action, or too much action. Discipline calls for honesty and wisdom. But discipline also calls for self-control. And discipline calls for redemptive action to win the errant one(s) back into the safety and sanctity of the fellowship. Anything less than this falls back on rub or abuse.
In my 28 or so years of walking with the Lord I have seen little church discipline and a lot of arrogance. My prayer is that in our respective churches, yours, mine, and those of those we know, we would repent and return to living holy and godly lives; dealing with our discipline issues correctly in the power and wisdom of the Lord. The precedent to that, however, is that we learn to honestly and courageously love one another to the point where we gently point out our faults and quickly get back on track. Discipline can be embarrassing and uncomfortable but neglecting to use it, or using it wrongly, can be deadly and divisive.
Father in Heaven,
You discipline us as sons in order that we may learn to discipline each other as brothers. May we be strong and courageous to discipline in love and redemption through Jesus Christ and by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit – amen.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Ask Responsibly
5.18.2011
1 Kings 3:11-12 11 So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, 12 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. NIV
Solomon was a wise person; his request to God proved that. I am often an unwise person; my requests to God prove that. Solomon recognized the magnitude of the task in front of him and for this moment in his life he did the smart thing – he asked God for what he needed to do it - wisdom. He started out like a great and powerful dam controlling the flow of a vast river – he did his job with wisdom, efficiency, and skill. But he forgot that while dams serve a great purpose, behind those dams are the reservoirs which need attended to as well; a dam must never forget to care for what it was designed to care for.
The only way to handle our relationships is through wisdom. The only way to handle our finances is with wisdom. The only way to handle employment (or the lack thereof these days) is with wisdom. The only way to properly live our lives is by wisdom. The only way to get wisdom is to come to God with the right heart and ask Him (James 1). Wisdom is there for the taking – all we need do is ask.
But God also warned Solomon, “And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.”(1 Kings 3:14) Wisdom comes with a price: responsibility. It seems Solomon got the brass ring but forgot what to do with it. Wisdom demands we subject our agendas to God’s will. And it takes great courage, strength of heart, and wisdom to do that. So, when I ask God for wisdom, I must remember what it is I’m asking for, and use wisdom the wisdom He gives wisely and responsibly.
Father in Heaven,
The piles of my mistakes are mountainous. Solomon wisely asked You for wisdom, and for a while in his life it worked. I ask again for wisdom to live honestly, openly, and nakedly before You. May I praise You for Your grace, goodness, and gifts, and faithfully attend to the shadows in my life honestly and courageously. For the rest of my days in all of my circumstances, may I have Your wisdom to at least be wise enough to stop long enough to ask for Your wisdom – amen.
1 Kings 3:11-12 11 So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, 12 I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. NIV
Solomon was a wise person; his request to God proved that. I am often an unwise person; my requests to God prove that. Solomon recognized the magnitude of the task in front of him and for this moment in his life he did the smart thing – he asked God for what he needed to do it - wisdom. He started out like a great and powerful dam controlling the flow of a vast river – he did his job with wisdom, efficiency, and skill. But he forgot that while dams serve a great purpose, behind those dams are the reservoirs which need attended to as well; a dam must never forget to care for what it was designed to care for.
The only way to handle our relationships is through wisdom. The only way to handle our finances is with wisdom. The only way to handle employment (or the lack thereof these days) is with wisdom. The only way to properly live our lives is by wisdom. The only way to get wisdom is to come to God with the right heart and ask Him (James 1). Wisdom is there for the taking – all we need do is ask.
But God also warned Solomon, “And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.”(1 Kings 3:14) Wisdom comes with a price: responsibility. It seems Solomon got the brass ring but forgot what to do with it. Wisdom demands we subject our agendas to God’s will. And it takes great courage, strength of heart, and wisdom to do that. So, when I ask God for wisdom, I must remember what it is I’m asking for, and use wisdom the wisdom He gives wisely and responsibly.
Father in Heaven,
The piles of my mistakes are mountainous. Solomon wisely asked You for wisdom, and for a while in his life it worked. I ask again for wisdom to live honestly, openly, and nakedly before You. May I praise You for Your grace, goodness, and gifts, and faithfully attend to the shadows in my life honestly and courageously. For the rest of my days in all of my circumstances, may I have Your wisdom to at least be wise enough to stop long enough to ask for Your wisdom – amen.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
The Evidence
5.17.2011
2 Thessalonians 1:5 5 All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. NIV
In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he stated, “We always thank God for all of you…” In his second letter he says, “We ought always to thank God for you…” A subtle difference perhaps, but a big one. Their lives had changed. What they had gone through and were going through, Paul said, was evidence that God’s judgment was right in His choosing them to be one of His churches, and that they would be counted worthy of His Kingdom for which they were suffering.
In his first letter, Paul’s encouragement to them was that he prayed for them regularly because they were persevering; in a sense it was his partnering with them. In his second letter, he was affirming that their perseverance was paying off in their maturity in the faith with God’s affection. At this point he was saying their lives were worthy before God and worthy of His inheritance. And this was all evidence of who God was to them and in them. Their faith was unshakable.
Unshakable faith is a gift from God. Life with God can be very difficult because of the unbelieving hearts of men and the wiles of the devil. But to the one who takes the time first, to get to know the miracle of God, and second to understand the magnitude of the enmity against His presence, then to that one it soon becomes evident that life with God, despite all the opposition, is a no-brainer – why settle for that when I can have this!
I want the evidence to be visible – not to me – but to others who look at my life. The presence of God leads to an unshakable faith that is both repugnant to the world, and encouragement to the saints. As Josh McDowell said, evidence demands a verdict.
Wherever you are in your faith-walk today, remember to look for evidence in others, because where you find it, you’ll find God. And the God who gives faith to someone else, will also give faith to you…
Father in Heaven,
As Teresa prayed, “DEAR JESUS, help me to spread Thy fragrance everywhere I go. Flood my soul with Thy spirit and love. Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of Thine. Shine through me and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Thy presence in my soul. Let them look up and see no longer me but only [Thee]. Stay with me and then I shall begin to shine as you shine, so to shine as to be a light to others.” Amen
2 Thessalonians 1:5 5 All this is evidence that God’s judgment is right, and as a result you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering. NIV
In Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he stated, “We always thank God for all of you…” In his second letter he says, “We ought always to thank God for you…” A subtle difference perhaps, but a big one. Their lives had changed. What they had gone through and were going through, Paul said, was evidence that God’s judgment was right in His choosing them to be one of His churches, and that they would be counted worthy of His Kingdom for which they were suffering.
In his first letter, Paul’s encouragement to them was that he prayed for them regularly because they were persevering; in a sense it was his partnering with them. In his second letter, he was affirming that their perseverance was paying off in their maturity in the faith with God’s affection. At this point he was saying their lives were worthy before God and worthy of His inheritance. And this was all evidence of who God was to them and in them. Their faith was unshakable.
Unshakable faith is a gift from God. Life with God can be very difficult because of the unbelieving hearts of men and the wiles of the devil. But to the one who takes the time first, to get to know the miracle of God, and second to understand the magnitude of the enmity against His presence, then to that one it soon becomes evident that life with God, despite all the opposition, is a no-brainer – why settle for that when I can have this!
I want the evidence to be visible – not to me – but to others who look at my life. The presence of God leads to an unshakable faith that is both repugnant to the world, and encouragement to the saints. As Josh McDowell said, evidence demands a verdict.
Wherever you are in your faith-walk today, remember to look for evidence in others, because where you find it, you’ll find God. And the God who gives faith to someone else, will also give faith to you…
Father in Heaven,
As Teresa prayed, “DEAR JESUS, help me to spread Thy fragrance everywhere I go. Flood my soul with Thy spirit and love. Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of Thine. Shine through me and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Thy presence in my soul. Let them look up and see no longer me but only [Thee]. Stay with me and then I shall begin to shine as you shine, so to shine as to be a light to others.” Amen
Monday, May 16, 2011
What I Really Believe
5.16.2011
1 Thessalonians 5:5 5 You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. NIV
I am a comparison person; I weigh differing thoughts, I look for the differences between similar products. I compare what I read in my choice of news outlets with what is written in Scripture. I look at the lives of those who say they are to see if what they say matches how they live. Some call all this comparing a gift; others see it as a curse – I just accept it for who I am.
I believe lots of money passes through our banks these days that isn’t real money. Today, we seem to have adopted the attitude that counterfeit money just needs to be someone else’s problem and when the music stops, the one with the most bad cash loses. Cynical? Perhaps. We seem to be too busy to look at the differences in our leaders and the policies they promote. A crowd of protestors four miles long in Yemen – oughta get someone’s attention…
Paul told the Thessalonian church that the differences are night and day; and he said they were sons of the light and sons of the day. Whether they lived like that or not isn’t the question – it’s what they really believed they were that made all the difference. My pastor says it this way, “What would happen if we really believed – that what we really believe is really real?” The difference is enormous. It’s all a matter of night and day what we really believe about ourselves.
Today, I face this snowy May day with this attitude and understanding: I am a son of the day. Either I believe it and live accordingly – or I just try to fake it. Hmmm? What’s the comparison?
Father in Heaven,
You have told us who we are, and I believe You expect us, by faith, to believe it. You haven’t told us we were flawlessly perfect – but You have called us Your sons and told us we are sons of the day. May I live really believing that this day and honor You in that belief – through Jesus Christ, amen.
1 Thessalonians 5:5 5 You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. NIV
I am a comparison person; I weigh differing thoughts, I look for the differences between similar products. I compare what I read in my choice of news outlets with what is written in Scripture. I look at the lives of those who say they are to see if what they say matches how they live. Some call all this comparing a gift; others see it as a curse – I just accept it for who I am.
I believe lots of money passes through our banks these days that isn’t real money. Today, we seem to have adopted the attitude that counterfeit money just needs to be someone else’s problem and when the music stops, the one with the most bad cash loses. Cynical? Perhaps. We seem to be too busy to look at the differences in our leaders and the policies they promote. A crowd of protestors four miles long in Yemen – oughta get someone’s attention…
Paul told the Thessalonian church that the differences are night and day; and he said they were sons of the light and sons of the day. Whether they lived like that or not isn’t the question – it’s what they really believed they were that made all the difference. My pastor says it this way, “What would happen if we really believed – that what we really believe is really real?” The difference is enormous. It’s all a matter of night and day what we really believe about ourselves.
Today, I face this snowy May day with this attitude and understanding: I am a son of the day. Either I believe it and live accordingly – or I just try to fake it. Hmmm? What’s the comparison?
Father in Heaven,
You have told us who we are, and I believe You expect us, by faith, to believe it. You haven’t told us we were flawlessly perfect – but You have called us Your sons and told us we are sons of the day. May I live really believing that this day and honor You in that belief – through Jesus Christ, amen.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Use Me to Fix Me
5.15.2011
1 Thessalonians 4:1 Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. NIV
Much of our modern Christianity – at least in the US (as I perceive it) – centers on the notion of, fix me. For the most part we all know how messed up we are – that message seems to be communicated loud and clear. And for the most part we cling to an elusive promise of some kind of future fix through the potential we have in Christ, and (as we’re told) within ourselves to get our act together. And so we live trying our dangedest to be good so that God will somehow notice and then in some way cause us to be better.
So, when Paul made the statement above in his letter to the Church in Thessalonica, he was reminding them that their lives were to be lived in order to please God; and to do it more and more. Pleasing God is not about being good; pleasing God is about obedience. Instead of asking God to fix me; I’m to beg God to use me. My fixing is the by-product of His usage of me.
We will all learn the same way – not necessarily in the same style – but in the same way: God is in charge of every aspect of our lives and we are not. God gives the orders and we are under His orders. In other words, He says, we do. And in the doing is the miracle of the being – and the being is pleasing Him because we are doing what He says to do. And what He says to do is to share Him every opportunity we get with every person we can.
I have lived much of my life wanting to be different, or better, than I perceive myself. I realize that I’ve spent far too much of my time focused on the wrong person: me. It’s time to become the right person by focusing only on Him – and what He calls me to do in His power and presence. None of us is perfect; but we learn to become pleasing by seeking God first over all else in our lives, and then doing what He says to do; not works, but faithful obedience. That’s how it works.
Father in Heaven,
Use me. Amen. I won’t be fixed until You use me. I’ll only be transformed when You use me. And You’ll only use me when I obey You. Use me. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 4:1 Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more. NIV
Much of our modern Christianity – at least in the US (as I perceive it) – centers on the notion of, fix me. For the most part we all know how messed up we are – that message seems to be communicated loud and clear. And for the most part we cling to an elusive promise of some kind of future fix through the potential we have in Christ, and (as we’re told) within ourselves to get our act together. And so we live trying our dangedest to be good so that God will somehow notice and then in some way cause us to be better.
So, when Paul made the statement above in his letter to the Church in Thessalonica, he was reminding them that their lives were to be lived in order to please God; and to do it more and more. Pleasing God is not about being good; pleasing God is about obedience. Instead of asking God to fix me; I’m to beg God to use me. My fixing is the by-product of His usage of me.
We will all learn the same way – not necessarily in the same style – but in the same way: God is in charge of every aspect of our lives and we are not. God gives the orders and we are under His orders. In other words, He says, we do. And in the doing is the miracle of the being – and the being is pleasing Him because we are doing what He says to do. And what He says to do is to share Him every opportunity we get with every person we can.
I have lived much of my life wanting to be different, or better, than I perceive myself. I realize that I’ve spent far too much of my time focused on the wrong person: me. It’s time to become the right person by focusing only on Him – and what He calls me to do in His power and presence. None of us is perfect; but we learn to become pleasing by seeking God first over all else in our lives, and then doing what He says to do; not works, but faithful obedience. That’s how it works.
Father in Heaven,
Use me. Amen. I won’t be fixed until You use me. I’ll only be transformed when You use me. And You’ll only use me when I obey You. Use me. Amen.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
The Consequence of Absence
5.14.2011
1 Thessalonians 3:4-5(a) 5(a) For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. NIV
This has always been, to me, an endearingly odd statement by Paul, “…when I could stand it no longer…” Really Paul, it was that bad? Well, it was to him. But I don’t think Paul was blowing smoke – I think he genuinely cared about these people and was concerned about their spiritual health – and he was far, far away. I really haven’t seen that kind of response too often in the modern church; spiritual fathers these days are seemingly absent.
It’s often hard for me to let go of my preconceived notions about Paul – but one thing was for sure, he was very human and susceptible to the things that plague the rest of us. As yet, there has still only been One who walked in perfect unity and submission to the Holy Spirit… and Paul wasn’t Him. I think Paul worried. I think he wished he could be in about ten places at once. I think he tired of being the ‘only one’ with such passion and zeal for the Gospel – after all, he was the only one who’d had his butt kicked on the Damascus Road… But I think he suffered concerning himself for the welfare of these churches he’d planted.
So when Mr. Worry-wart could stand it no longer, he made the decision to get somebody to go check in on these folks! And subsequently his fears were allayed and he rejoiced that the Gospel had taken in the hearts of these who were far, far away from his leadership and influence.
Today in our history is the day of the absent father – many families are victims of divorce and/or slaves to the American Dream. Dad has either tired of his caged life in the family and left; or he’s absconded to the office, the career or the mission; abdicating to whatever he’s deemed worthy of his time or interest.
Spiritual fathers are rare as well. Time seems to be the precious resource that we are reluctant to release. I am both humored and stung by the words of the apostle who could stand it no longer; humored that he was so human – and stung that I am often so absent.
Father in Heaven,
You know that it is mostly my lack of understanding of what I claim as my priorities. Help me to be present and to see past my worrying about things that have no real consequence other than to steal my attention and thereby become the real consequence of absence. Amen.
1 Thessalonians 3:4-5(a) 5(a) For this reason, when I could stand it no longer, I sent to find out about your faith. NIV
This has always been, to me, an endearingly odd statement by Paul, “…when I could stand it no longer…” Really Paul, it was that bad? Well, it was to him. But I don’t think Paul was blowing smoke – I think he genuinely cared about these people and was concerned about their spiritual health – and he was far, far away. I really haven’t seen that kind of response too often in the modern church; spiritual fathers these days are seemingly absent.
It’s often hard for me to let go of my preconceived notions about Paul – but one thing was for sure, he was very human and susceptible to the things that plague the rest of us. As yet, there has still only been One who walked in perfect unity and submission to the Holy Spirit… and Paul wasn’t Him. I think Paul worried. I think he wished he could be in about ten places at once. I think he tired of being the ‘only one’ with such passion and zeal for the Gospel – after all, he was the only one who’d had his butt kicked on the Damascus Road… But I think he suffered concerning himself for the welfare of these churches he’d planted.
So when Mr. Worry-wart could stand it no longer, he made the decision to get somebody to go check in on these folks! And subsequently his fears were allayed and he rejoiced that the Gospel had taken in the hearts of these who were far, far away from his leadership and influence.
Today in our history is the day of the absent father – many families are victims of divorce and/or slaves to the American Dream. Dad has either tired of his caged life in the family and left; or he’s absconded to the office, the career or the mission; abdicating to whatever he’s deemed worthy of his time or interest.
Spiritual fathers are rare as well. Time seems to be the precious resource that we are reluctant to release. I am both humored and stung by the words of the apostle who could stand it no longer; humored that he was so human – and stung that I am often so absent.
Father in Heaven,
You know that it is mostly my lack of understanding of what I claim as my priorities. Help me to be present and to see past my worrying about things that have no real consequence other than to steal my attention and thereby become the real consequence of absence. Amen.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Evidence of God
5.12.2011
1 Thessalonians 1:3 3 We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. NIV
It seems there are three elements to the Christian’s ministry: work, or ministry, produced by faith; the effort put into it, prompted by love; and patience, or steadfastness in the work is inspired by hope in Jesus Christ.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Heb 11:1) So in faith I minister or work before the Lord even though I don’t get to see the big picture. I believe in the big picture, I just can’t see it – I don’t have the capacity for that kind of view. But by faith I am certain of its impact.
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. (1 Co 13:1-3). Love is the oil; love is the life-blood. Without love, there is selfishness, pride, and arrogance – without love it’s all about me.
And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (Ro 5:2-5) The hope we have in Jesus Christ is the fuel that keeps our hearts unshakeable for His Cause, His Name, His throne, and His Kingdom.
Paul thanked this church for their faith, hope and love, and they became an example for the churches in their region and beyond. My goal, is not to be exemplary but to operate in faith, hope, and love and let my actions speak for themselves… Only in Christ will people see in me the evidence of God.
Father in Heaven,
Your way is the only way to do what You inspire and to live as You require. I pray that You strengthen these things in me, so that others may know it’s the evidence of Your presence they see. In Jesus, amen.
1 Thessalonians 1:3 3 We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. NIV
It seems there are three elements to the Christian’s ministry: work, or ministry, produced by faith; the effort put into it, prompted by love; and patience, or steadfastness in the work is inspired by hope in Jesus Christ.
Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Heb 11:1) So in faith I minister or work before the Lord even though I don’t get to see the big picture. I believe in the big picture, I just can’t see it – I don’t have the capacity for that kind of view. But by faith I am certain of its impact.
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. (1 Co 13:1-3). Love is the oil; love is the life-blood. Without love, there is selfishness, pride, and arrogance – without love it’s all about me.
And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. (Ro 5:2-5) The hope we have in Jesus Christ is the fuel that keeps our hearts unshakeable for His Cause, His Name, His throne, and His Kingdom.
Paul thanked this church for their faith, hope and love, and they became an example for the churches in their region and beyond. My goal, is not to be exemplary but to operate in faith, hope, and love and let my actions speak for themselves… Only in Christ will people see in me the evidence of God.
Father in Heaven,
Your way is the only way to do what You inspire and to live as You require. I pray that You strengthen these things in me, so that others may know it’s the evidence of Your presence they see. In Jesus, amen.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
The Song in His Heart
5.11.2011
Ps 55:22 22 Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. NIV
Much of our culture these days is consumed with green-ism – taking better care of our planet. The First Lady is concerned (and seems to want us to be as well) with taking better care of our bodies. Many soap manufacturers are on the anti-bacterial bandwagon. And yet we find despite all of these things, life seems to be getting dirtier – I can’t imagine the ecological devastation in Japan following the tsunami; I can fathom the germ and filth impact of the floods currently soaking those who live in the Midwest and Deep South.
As many as are beset with a cleaner planet and cleaner bodies, are those who are plagued with financial tsunamis and debt-rivers over flowing their flimsy banks. The housing market is floundering – foreclosures, once looked upon as some sort of financial failure, are now as commonplace as dandelions in spring (which seems to be finally making its way into northeast Oregon…) Unemployment is frightening.
OBL met his match at the hands of Seal Team Six; and while that is an enormous victory in itself, only a fool would think that global terrorism is abating; pull up one by the roots, and five more grow in his place. Our world is, and has always been, a fear-driven and very scary place.
Think of a flaccid church which has become for many just a means of semi-peacefulness and pseudo sanctity. We are indeed a self-centered society trying to drown out our guilt and depression with our goodies and distractions. Often I am reminded of 1 Peter 5 where the ancient apostle said, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (Verse 7, NIV) I think Peter (whom then – btw – I think is a perfect example of most of us now) was quoting a song he’d sung in church many times: Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Peter, who found himself to be increasingly at odds with both the Romans, and the unbelieving Jews. Peter had lots to worry about – but he’d learned the song in his heart – cast [all] your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall – [He cares for you]. I’ll bet he sang that song as he was crucified upside-down on a cross.
Today’s verse for me is the song David – another who had much to worry about and fret over – sang throughout his life of crisis management. We have to remind ourselves of something – shouldn't it be for the believer to remind himself of God who invites us to give Him the toxic waste of our anxieties and fears which rob us of joy, and consume the precious inner-resources of our lives?
Father in Heaven,
Here my Lord, have them all – take all of my life as well. Use it all for Your good and glory – amen.
Ps 55:22 22 Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. NIV
Much of our culture these days is consumed with green-ism – taking better care of our planet. The First Lady is concerned (and seems to want us to be as well) with taking better care of our bodies. Many soap manufacturers are on the anti-bacterial bandwagon. And yet we find despite all of these things, life seems to be getting dirtier – I can’t imagine the ecological devastation in Japan following the tsunami; I can fathom the germ and filth impact of the floods currently soaking those who live in the Midwest and Deep South.
As many as are beset with a cleaner planet and cleaner bodies, are those who are plagued with financial tsunamis and debt-rivers over flowing their flimsy banks. The housing market is floundering – foreclosures, once looked upon as some sort of financial failure, are now as commonplace as dandelions in spring (which seems to be finally making its way into northeast Oregon…) Unemployment is frightening.
OBL met his match at the hands of Seal Team Six; and while that is an enormous victory in itself, only a fool would think that global terrorism is abating; pull up one by the roots, and five more grow in his place. Our world is, and has always been, a fear-driven and very scary place.
Think of a flaccid church which has become for many just a means of semi-peacefulness and pseudo sanctity. We are indeed a self-centered society trying to drown out our guilt and depression with our goodies and distractions. Often I am reminded of 1 Peter 5 where the ancient apostle said, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (Verse 7, NIV) I think Peter (whom then – btw – I think is a perfect example of most of us now) was quoting a song he’d sung in church many times: Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. Peter, who found himself to be increasingly at odds with both the Romans, and the unbelieving Jews. Peter had lots to worry about – but he’d learned the song in his heart – cast [all] your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall – [He cares for you]. I’ll bet he sang that song as he was crucified upside-down on a cross.
Today’s verse for me is the song David – another who had much to worry about and fret over – sang throughout his life of crisis management. We have to remind ourselves of something – shouldn't it be for the believer to remind himself of God who invites us to give Him the toxic waste of our anxieties and fears which rob us of joy, and consume the precious inner-resources of our lives?
Father in Heaven,
Here my Lord, have them all – take all of my life as well. Use it all for Your good and glory – amen.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
The Insistence
5.10.2011
2 Samuel 18:13 13 And if I had put my life in jeopardy—and nothing is hidden from the king—you would have kept your distance from me.” NIV
David had told his men as they marched out to encounter Absalom and his forces, “Be gentle with the young man Absalom for my sake.” (2 Samuel 18:5) It’s hard for me to imagine the emotional struggle David was in the midst of; I assume he thought most of the goings on was his fault.
Joab on the other hand was a guy who seemed to well understand the ways of the world – you mess with the king and you die. Absalom, in Joab’s eyes, was just another threat to the crown – he had to be dealt with. But David saw where this whole mess got started: with himself and in his disobedience to God.
The soldier under Joab, (Cf. 2 Samuel 18. 9-13) knew better – he knew what David had said and was going to honor the king’s request. Joab on the other hand was going to do what he thought David should’ve done all along – kill Absalom. The soldier knew his commander well, but insisted on honoring his king.
Sometimes we make up our minds that we are going to do as we are going to do. Sometimes rather than forgive we go for revenge; sometimes rather than mercy, all we can see is wrath. I know David knew it was all his fault; but there was a part of him that insisted the whole matter come to a peaceful end. David followed that insistence; Joab insisted on the traditions of men.
It’s hard in the heat of the moment to remember the insistence to do what is right. It’s hard sometimes to err on the side of grace. It’s a real wrestling match to grapple revenge to the ground and prevail over it… but it must be done because that’s what we are called to. When it is our fault grace and godliness must prevail. When it is someone else’s fault grace and mercy must prevail; we represent a King who never fails…to do what is right; and as His subjects we must do for the King what the King would do.
Father in Heaven,
This day Lord, I saw in Your word that Jesus willingly put aside His desires to defend Himself, and for my sake, offered Himself to be the substitutionary Sacrifice for my sin. He did the right thing before You. It took great strength and great faith for Jesus to do what He did. I only ask the same as I deal in the world for great grace to honor Your word no matter whose fault it is, and to do what is right. Help me God, I pray in Jesus’ Name, amen.
2 Samuel 18:13 13 And if I had put my life in jeopardy—and nothing is hidden from the king—you would have kept your distance from me.” NIV
David had told his men as they marched out to encounter Absalom and his forces, “Be gentle with the young man Absalom for my sake.” (2 Samuel 18:5) It’s hard for me to imagine the emotional struggle David was in the midst of; I assume he thought most of the goings on was his fault.
Joab on the other hand was a guy who seemed to well understand the ways of the world – you mess with the king and you die. Absalom, in Joab’s eyes, was just another threat to the crown – he had to be dealt with. But David saw where this whole mess got started: with himself and in his disobedience to God.
The soldier under Joab, (Cf. 2 Samuel 18. 9-13) knew better – he knew what David had said and was going to honor the king’s request. Joab on the other hand was going to do what he thought David should’ve done all along – kill Absalom. The soldier knew his commander well, but insisted on honoring his king.
Sometimes we make up our minds that we are going to do as we are going to do. Sometimes rather than forgive we go for revenge; sometimes rather than mercy, all we can see is wrath. I know David knew it was all his fault; but there was a part of him that insisted the whole matter come to a peaceful end. David followed that insistence; Joab insisted on the traditions of men.
It’s hard in the heat of the moment to remember the insistence to do what is right. It’s hard sometimes to err on the side of grace. It’s a real wrestling match to grapple revenge to the ground and prevail over it… but it must be done because that’s what we are called to. When it is our fault grace and godliness must prevail. When it is someone else’s fault grace and mercy must prevail; we represent a King who never fails…to do what is right; and as His subjects we must do for the King what the King would do.
Father in Heaven,
This day Lord, I saw in Your word that Jesus willingly put aside His desires to defend Himself, and for my sake, offered Himself to be the substitutionary Sacrifice for my sin. He did the right thing before You. It took great strength and great faith for Jesus to do what He did. I only ask the same as I deal in the world for great grace to honor Your word no matter whose fault it is, and to do what is right. Help me God, I pray in Jesus’ Name, amen.
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Duty of the Elderly
5.9.2011
Psalm 71:18 18 Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. NIV
At my age, I’m beginning to think about my age and my older age, if God grants me that grace. I think about my lack of retirement. I think about my health. I think about what is going to happen to me. I think about how lousy my golf game is… it’s lousy. But then I read a verse like this one and I think, “Oh yeah, there is something else for me to think about…”
God cares about the old and gray – I’m headed to that reality. God has something for them to do. God is not unaware of my thoughts, my lack of planning, or my golf game (I really don’t play golf). God thinks about me, cares for me, and has promised to take care of me when I’m old and gray. And God has something for me to do.
I am to declare His power to the next generation, and speak of His might to all who are to come. That’s my job; that's my mission - it’s also my passion. My life was never meant for me to sit back and just let life happen – my life is meant to be lived on my toes and ready for the interactions I’ll have with those around me who don’t know God and His Son, Jesus Christ. They might know about Him but they don’t know Him.
My job, my ministry, my mission, my joy, and my passion is to speak to others of the goodness of Him who provides for the elderly and cares for them in their weakness and limitations. The duty of the elderly in Christ is not retirement but missions! That is what I am called to – and that, my friends, is what I am doing.
Father in Heaven,
You know my thoughts about age, health and wealth. My age is an advantage because experience speaks for something. You have blessed me with relatively good health and it is a gift and a resource to be used for You. And my wealth – well, I’m trusting You for that too. Help me to fulfill the duty of the elderly even though I’m not quite there yet. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. Amen.
Psalm 71:18 18 Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. NIV
At my age, I’m beginning to think about my age and my older age, if God grants me that grace. I think about my lack of retirement. I think about my health. I think about what is going to happen to me. I think about how lousy my golf game is… it’s lousy. But then I read a verse like this one and I think, “Oh yeah, there is something else for me to think about…”
God cares about the old and gray – I’m headed to that reality. God has something for them to do. God is not unaware of my thoughts, my lack of planning, or my golf game (I really don’t play golf). God thinks about me, cares for me, and has promised to take care of me when I’m old and gray. And God has something for me to do.
I am to declare His power to the next generation, and speak of His might to all who are to come. That’s my job; that's my mission - it’s also my passion. My life was never meant for me to sit back and just let life happen – my life is meant to be lived on my toes and ready for the interactions I’ll have with those around me who don’t know God and His Son, Jesus Christ. They might know about Him but they don’t know Him.
My job, my ministry, my mission, my joy, and my passion is to speak to others of the goodness of Him who provides for the elderly and cares for them in their weakness and limitations. The duty of the elderly in Christ is not retirement but missions! That is what I am called to – and that, my friends, is what I am doing.
Father in Heaven,
You know my thoughts about age, health and wealth. My age is an advantage because experience speaks for something. You have blessed me with relatively good health and it is a gift and a resource to be used for You. And my wealth – well, I’m trusting You for that too. Help me to fulfill the duty of the elderly even though I’m not quite there yet. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. Amen.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Where is My I
5.8.2011
2 Samuel 16:10 10 “...If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’” NIV
If you take away all else, David was a man of faith. David’s life was so disciplined in God that he really did understand his relationship with God. To be sure, David made his mistakes and those mistakes cost him dearly – but he also learned from his mistakes and those lessons paid him richly.
In 2 Samuel 16.5-14 the scene is David and his family, officials, and friends are fleeing on foot from the coup staged by Absalom. As they approach a town called Bahurim, a man named Shimei met David and called down curses on him. Not only did he call down curses, but he threw rocks and dirt at the king; Shimei was one angry dude. Not everyone in your congregation is going to love you… Shimei’s anger, rage, and actions lasted for several miles and the Scripture says, “The king and all the people with him arrived at their destination exhausted.” (2 Sa 16:14) Shimei’s actions were emotionally brutal.
One of David’s generals offered to kill Shimei on the spot but David, in faith, said, “...If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’” That took great faith. David was a man of great faith, integrity, and skill; and it was all because of his relationship to God.
Look at the letter “i” and consider all of its implications and potential. “I” has been responsible for more trouble in my life than I care to admit. “I” is often my worst enemy – worse than people; worse than the devil himself. Not only has “I” been responsible, but “I” has caused so much evil in my life. And in order to control “I” like David, my “I” must find its place, “in Him”. Notice the placement of the letter “i” in “Him”. “I” only finds its true strength, meaning and purpose in “Him”. And when “I” gets to the point where it says by faith, ‘I am in You’; then “I” is transformed because there is no “I” in “You”. David’s “I” kept getting him in trouble but by fa-i-th in H-i-m, David’s “I” was controlled, and God’s purposes were served for the nation.
Today friends, let’s look at our lives and ask, “Where is my ‘I’?” If our “I” is causing trouble, maybe it isn’t in Him…maybe it needs to be. I is only safe in fa-i-th where it is transformed from in H-i-m to in You.
Father in Heaven,
May we only find our “I” transformed in You – amen.
2 Samuel 16:10 10 “...If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’” NIV
If you take away all else, David was a man of faith. David’s life was so disciplined in God that he really did understand his relationship with God. To be sure, David made his mistakes and those mistakes cost him dearly – but he also learned from his mistakes and those lessons paid him richly.
In 2 Samuel 16.5-14 the scene is David and his family, officials, and friends are fleeing on foot from the coup staged by Absalom. As they approach a town called Bahurim, a man named Shimei met David and called down curses on him. Not only did he call down curses, but he threw rocks and dirt at the king; Shimei was one angry dude. Not everyone in your congregation is going to love you… Shimei’s anger, rage, and actions lasted for several miles and the Scripture says, “The king and all the people with him arrived at their destination exhausted.” (2 Sa 16:14) Shimei’s actions were emotionally brutal.
One of David’s generals offered to kill Shimei on the spot but David, in faith, said, “...If he is cursing because the Lord said to him, ‘Curse David,’ who can ask, ‘Why do you do this?’” That took great faith. David was a man of great faith, integrity, and skill; and it was all because of his relationship to God.
Look at the letter “i” and consider all of its implications and potential. “I” has been responsible for more trouble in my life than I care to admit. “I” is often my worst enemy – worse than people; worse than the devil himself. Not only has “I” been responsible, but “I” has caused so much evil in my life. And in order to control “I” like David, my “I” must find its place, “in Him”. Notice the placement of the letter “i” in “Him”. “I” only finds its true strength, meaning and purpose in “Him”. And when “I” gets to the point where it says by faith, ‘I am in You’; then “I” is transformed because there is no “I” in “You”. David’s “I” kept getting him in trouble but by fa-i-th in H-i-m, David’s “I” was controlled, and God’s purposes were served for the nation.
Today friends, let’s look at our lives and ask, “Where is my ‘I’?” If our “I” is causing trouble, maybe it isn’t in Him…maybe it needs to be. I is only safe in fa-i-th where it is transformed from in H-i-m to in You.
Father in Heaven,
May we only find our “I” transformed in You – amen.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Sabbaths and Winters
5.7.2011
Matthew 24:20 20 Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. NIV
Jesus had the difficult task of explaining to His disciples what was going to happen “at the end of the age”. They wanted to know what was going to happen next. Curiosity plagued them – and it plagues mankind – for some reason we all seem to want to know what happens next. The urge may be stronger in some than it is in others, but it seems to be a universal trend among both believers and non-believers.
In the west we’ve become so affluent that we want to know if our affluence is going to last – so we spend much of our time and resources planning a thing called retirement in hope that we can finally relax and spend the remainder of our lives happily ever after. But we want to know, will we suffer from disease, will we die in some accident; what will happen so we know how to plan. The sad fact is: knowing the future and what events will befall us, doesn’t give us any advantage. Just ask the person who visits the doctor only to be told, go home and die, the party is over. Knowing you have terminal cancer doesn’t give you any advantage.
Well what does give you an advantage, Paul? This: knowing God who knows the beginning from the end. Jesus gave them a glimpse of what was coming and He said it was going to be really bad. Strangely, and probably to their disappointment He didn’t give them a crisis management plan; He simply instructed them to pray, Lord, if this has to come, let it not be on the Sabbath, or in winter. Winters and Sabbaths impede travel.
There are things in my life I wish I had answers to and wish I knew the outcome. I don’t. But I worship and serve a God who does; and who has promised to make a way for me in seasons of trouble and (even) tribulation. Not knowing makes me focus on right now and right now, and how I live right now, is more important than any uncertain future fate. I can pray for mercy and trust in His kindness and provision…
Father in Heaven,
You are in charge of all of my tomorrows. You are in charge of my today. Help me to remember that knowing the future doesn’t change a thing and often distracts me from the present which is all I have anyway. May I live one day at a time and enjoy each moment as it comes knowing that You love me, care for me, and have work for me to do. May that be my focus in Christ, amen.
Matthew 24:20 20 Pray that your flight will not take place in winter or on the Sabbath. NIV
Jesus had the difficult task of explaining to His disciples what was going to happen “at the end of the age”. They wanted to know what was going to happen next. Curiosity plagued them – and it plagues mankind – for some reason we all seem to want to know what happens next. The urge may be stronger in some than it is in others, but it seems to be a universal trend among both believers and non-believers.
In the west we’ve become so affluent that we want to know if our affluence is going to last – so we spend much of our time and resources planning a thing called retirement in hope that we can finally relax and spend the remainder of our lives happily ever after. But we want to know, will we suffer from disease, will we die in some accident; what will happen so we know how to plan. The sad fact is: knowing the future and what events will befall us, doesn’t give us any advantage. Just ask the person who visits the doctor only to be told, go home and die, the party is over. Knowing you have terminal cancer doesn’t give you any advantage.
Well what does give you an advantage, Paul? This: knowing God who knows the beginning from the end. Jesus gave them a glimpse of what was coming and He said it was going to be really bad. Strangely, and probably to their disappointment He didn’t give them a crisis management plan; He simply instructed them to pray, Lord, if this has to come, let it not be on the Sabbath, or in winter. Winters and Sabbaths impede travel.
There are things in my life I wish I had answers to and wish I knew the outcome. I don’t. But I worship and serve a God who does; and who has promised to make a way for me in seasons of trouble and (even) tribulation. Not knowing makes me focus on right now and right now, and how I live right now, is more important than any uncertain future fate. I can pray for mercy and trust in His kindness and provision…
Father in Heaven,
You are in charge of all of my tomorrows. You are in charge of my today. Help me to remember that knowing the future doesn’t change a thing and often distracts me from the present which is all I have anyway. May I live one day at a time and enjoy each moment as it comes knowing that You love me, care for me, and have work for me to do. May that be my focus in Christ, amen.
Friday, May 6, 2011
I Am The Man
5.6.2011
2 Samuel 12.7(a) 7(a) Then Nathan said to David, “You are the man! NIV
Busted was what he was – David was plain old busted. And he was as guilty as sin. Nathan indicted him and spoke judgment over David’s life and household. The difference between David and the likes of Eli, Saul and others in Scripture who were also busted was that David accepted the Lord’s rebuke and repented with a broken heart. He should’ve been stoned for adultery and for murder – but kings do what kings do, and though he thought he got away with murder, God caught him, and he paid dearly for his sins… but not without repenting.
David did some remarkable things for the nation but he also did some very stupid things. The good news is David ultimately learned his lessons. The bad things in his life that were stunting the good things were driven out of David by what happened next in his life. And he suffered but he came out at the end changed. David, like most of the rest of us, learned life the hard way.
It would be nice if we could learn without pain, suffering, embarrassment and humiliation, but these things help break the hold stupidity has on our lives. I wonder if God sometimes says, “How could they be so stupid!?” If He does, He is also quick to say, “I love them and will help them – they need My discipline!” Pain, suffering, embarrassment, and humiliation bring about repentance, healing, wellness, and humility; and these are necessary ingredients to living a healthy life.
I hate being wrong, but I hate worse having something ugly between me and another. I hate being stupid, but I hate worse being the cause of someone else’s pain. Far too often, I am the man. But with God’s help, love, and discipline I will become His tool and His servant to usher in His goodness in situations where others have discovered that they are the man.
Father in Heaven,
I have been the man so many times it’s pathetic. I pray for grace to learn my lessons and to live more on the side of doing good than on the side of being stupid. Help me to love, learn and live for the benefit of others and the furtherance of Your Kingdom. Have Your way in my life I pray in Jesus’ Name, amen.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
We Don’t Know
5.5.2011
Matthew 22:16 16 They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. "Teacher,” they said, “we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are. NIV
If Jesus were to visit with you this hour what would you tell Him you know about Him? The Pharisees, who were unflinching in their pursuit of the Law, and the Herodians who were unflinching in their pursuit of politics, linked up and told Jesus what they knew (or at least what they thought they knew) about Him. It sounds to me like they should’ve said, “Teacher, here is what we think about You…” Because, what they said, and what they thought, were poles apart. If Jesus was to visit with you in the next few moments, what would you tell Him?
The Pharisees and Herodians were vicious competitors; they hated each other. Putting them together would be like trying to mix oil and water, Democrats and Republicans; it just wouldn’t (and didn’t) work. But when enemies find a common cause to fight against, it makes for odd bedfellows. One common thing Jesus was to both groups: He was a threat. And threats had to be dealt with.
Why ask Jesus about paying tax to Caesar? Surely they didn’t care about paying taxes to Caesar! It’s not really so much what they said but what they thought – and they thought Jesus was a fraud; they wanted to use Rome and Roman taxation against Him. What is curious to me is the charge that Jesus paid no attention to who men were. I realize they were referencing His approach to people, but they erred when they said He didn’t care. If there is one thing our Savior does care about, it’s people. Jesus cares deeply about people. I don’t think He gives one whit about position, power, or politics; but He cares about people, and He came to lead all people to God. Neither the Pharisees nor the Herodians were doing that. And they thought wrong about Jesus, Caesar, and people – oh and taxes too!
In our theology we must be careful how we represent the One who cares ultimately about all of us – He cares the most and He cares the best because He’s the One who promises us rest. It’s foolish to say that Jesus pays no attention to who we are – nothing could be farther from the truth.
Lord Jesus,
I know You are the Son of God, and when You walked among us, You were a man of complete integrity teaching the ways of God in accordance with the His truth. You weren’t swayed by men, but You loved them; and You love us – You love me. I ask for grace to be a good student in Your school of learning the ways of God in accordance with His truth. Thank You that You love and care and mostly, Lord, You pay attention to me and the needs I have – thank You, amen.
Matthew 22:16 16 They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. "Teacher,” they said, “we know you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are. NIV
If Jesus were to visit with you this hour what would you tell Him you know about Him? The Pharisees, who were unflinching in their pursuit of the Law, and the Herodians who were unflinching in their pursuit of politics, linked up and told Jesus what they knew (or at least what they thought they knew) about Him. It sounds to me like they should’ve said, “Teacher, here is what we think about You…” Because, what they said, and what they thought, were poles apart. If Jesus was to visit with you in the next few moments, what would you tell Him?
The Pharisees and Herodians were vicious competitors; they hated each other. Putting them together would be like trying to mix oil and water, Democrats and Republicans; it just wouldn’t (and didn’t) work. But when enemies find a common cause to fight against, it makes for odd bedfellows. One common thing Jesus was to both groups: He was a threat. And threats had to be dealt with.
Why ask Jesus about paying tax to Caesar? Surely they didn’t care about paying taxes to Caesar! It’s not really so much what they said but what they thought – and they thought Jesus was a fraud; they wanted to use Rome and Roman taxation against Him. What is curious to me is the charge that Jesus paid no attention to who men were. I realize they were referencing His approach to people, but they erred when they said He didn’t care. If there is one thing our Savior does care about, it’s people. Jesus cares deeply about people. I don’t think He gives one whit about position, power, or politics; but He cares about people, and He came to lead all people to God. Neither the Pharisees nor the Herodians were doing that. And they thought wrong about Jesus, Caesar, and people – oh and taxes too!
In our theology we must be careful how we represent the One who cares ultimately about all of us – He cares the most and He cares the best because He’s the One who promises us rest. It’s foolish to say that Jesus pays no attention to who we are – nothing could be farther from the truth.
Lord Jesus,
I know You are the Son of God, and when You walked among us, You were a man of complete integrity teaching the ways of God in accordance with the His truth. You weren’t swayed by men, but You loved them; and You love us – You love me. I ask for grace to be a good student in Your school of learning the ways of God in accordance with His truth. Thank You that You love and care and mostly, Lord, You pay attention to me and the needs I have – thank You, amen.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Cracker Jack
5.4.2011
Matthew 21:22 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” NIV
Many people – myself included – have stumbled over these words by our Lord thinking He wasn’t giving us a blank check; He wasn’t. Prayer isn’t like getting a prize in a box of Cracker Jack*; but a lot of people see it that way: we pray in order to get God to give us something.
In 2 Samuel 8.6, we’re told that [God] gave David victory wherever he went. God also gave David wealth, power, lands, peoples, success, and great popularity. He had armies, advisors, and enormous adoration from his people. But getting all that wasn’t always all the best. David harbored a thirst for more, and his success fueled his thirst. With many wives and many children, he took Bathsheba illegally. With advisors out the kazoo, his sons were around him and as a bunch of spoiled rich kids, secretly criticized him and ultimately sought to overthrow him – Absalom. David conducted an unauthorized census of his people because in him it seems were the seeds of Empire-ism – something the Lord never gave David nor gave him permission to do.
So, what would it gain us if God gave us whatever we believed for in prayer? The prayer requests of many are, Lord save me from this, or heal me from that. The prayer requests of many are for stuff, wealth, health, and success. What would it do to us if we got all we wanted but lacked humility and grace? Where would we be if our answered prayers fostered pride, arrogance, and a false sense of security in a world where there are many who will vie or die trying to fill the void left by Usama Bin Laden?
But what if, by praying and believing, we received more of God – in the sense that we recognize Him, and walk in fellowship with Him? (We don’t actually get more of God – we get more capacity to worship, appreciate, cooperate, and depend upon Him…). But what if in praying, we said, Father, today may all that happens to me draw me closer to Your heart and better equip me to pray, to witness, and to testify more effectively to Your goodness and love toward mankind?
Jesus wasn’t offering us blank checks – He was trying to help us see that we will indeed accomplish God’s will if we’ll pray according to it and quit thinking only of ourselves… prayer is way more than 'candy-coated popcorn, peanuts, and a prize!'
*Cracker Jack is a U.S. brand of snack consisting of caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts, well known for being packaged with a prize of nominal value inside. (Wikipedia)
Matthew 21:22 22 If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” NIV
Many people – myself included – have stumbled over these words by our Lord thinking He wasn’t giving us a blank check; He wasn’t. Prayer isn’t like getting a prize in a box of Cracker Jack*; but a lot of people see it that way: we pray in order to get God to give us something.
In 2 Samuel 8.6, we’re told that [God] gave David victory wherever he went. God also gave David wealth, power, lands, peoples, success, and great popularity. He had armies, advisors, and enormous adoration from his people. But getting all that wasn’t always all the best. David harbored a thirst for more, and his success fueled his thirst. With many wives and many children, he took Bathsheba illegally. With advisors out the kazoo, his sons were around him and as a bunch of spoiled rich kids, secretly criticized him and ultimately sought to overthrow him – Absalom. David conducted an unauthorized census of his people because in him it seems were the seeds of Empire-ism – something the Lord never gave David nor gave him permission to do.
So, what would it gain us if God gave us whatever we believed for in prayer? The prayer requests of many are, Lord save me from this, or heal me from that. The prayer requests of many are for stuff, wealth, health, and success. What would it do to us if we got all we wanted but lacked humility and grace? Where would we be if our answered prayers fostered pride, arrogance, and a false sense of security in a world where there are many who will vie or die trying to fill the void left by Usama Bin Laden?
But what if, by praying and believing, we received more of God – in the sense that we recognize Him, and walk in fellowship with Him? (We don’t actually get more of God – we get more capacity to worship, appreciate, cooperate, and depend upon Him…). But what if in praying, we said, Father, today may all that happens to me draw me closer to Your heart and better equip me to pray, to witness, and to testify more effectively to Your goodness and love toward mankind?
Jesus wasn’t offering us blank checks – He was trying to help us see that we will indeed accomplish God’s will if we’ll pray according to it and quit thinking only of ourselves… prayer is way more than 'candy-coated popcorn, peanuts, and a prize!'
*Cracker Jack is a U.S. brand of snack consisting of caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts, well known for being packaged with a prize of nominal value inside. (Wikipedia)
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Completely Overwhelmed
5.3.2011
Matthew 20:16 16 “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” NIV
Okay, I admit it; I had to go to a commentary to get some insight on this verse. It’s repeated in various forms in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The term isn’t found in John at all. It means everyone is recognized as the same no matter how or when they enter the game. It is all about relationship. Only God can relate perfectly to all men equally (albeit individually) at the same time.
We tend to want to think that guys like Billy Graham are going to get a bigger slice of the pie when they get to heaven – that isn’t true because God is the “Pie” and we, who worship and serve Him, all get all of Him as our Reward. I don’t think there will be bigger mansions for better service – we’re all saved by the same God in the same way – through faith alone in all that He says and is – no one gets in any other way. True faith paves the way for true reward.
In Genesis 15, God told Abram (Abraham), “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” (Genesis 15:1) A literal translation reads, “I, your reward, will be very great.” God is so vast, none of us can or will ever be able to take all of Him in; or truly appreciate Him for His greatness. What will happen is we’ll be completely overwhelmed with Him from moment one, and then continue to be completely overwhelmed every subsequent ‘moment’ thereafter.
How God rewards us is with Himself; that’s the whole point of our faith. And that’s to be the point of our living. We don’t have to wait until heaven to be overwhelmed – we can be overwhelmed today – and every subsequent day thereafter. The child of God looks for the great Reward and walks this life mindful of, “Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” (1 Co 13:12)
Father in Heaven,
Today – which is all I have, You are my very great Reward! Amen!
Matthew 20:16 16 “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” NIV
Okay, I admit it; I had to go to a commentary to get some insight on this verse. It’s repeated in various forms in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The term isn’t found in John at all. It means everyone is recognized as the same no matter how or when they enter the game. It is all about relationship. Only God can relate perfectly to all men equally (albeit individually) at the same time.
We tend to want to think that guys like Billy Graham are going to get a bigger slice of the pie when they get to heaven – that isn’t true because God is the “Pie” and we, who worship and serve Him, all get all of Him as our Reward. I don’t think there will be bigger mansions for better service – we’re all saved by the same God in the same way – through faith alone in all that He says and is – no one gets in any other way. True faith paves the way for true reward.
In Genesis 15, God told Abram (Abraham), “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” (Genesis 15:1) A literal translation reads, “I, your reward, will be very great.” God is so vast, none of us can or will ever be able to take all of Him in; or truly appreciate Him for His greatness. What will happen is we’ll be completely overwhelmed with Him from moment one, and then continue to be completely overwhelmed every subsequent ‘moment’ thereafter.
How God rewards us is with Himself; that’s the whole point of our faith. And that’s to be the point of our living. We don’t have to wait until heaven to be overwhelmed – we can be overwhelmed today – and every subsequent day thereafter. The child of God looks for the great Reward and walks this life mindful of, “Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.” (1 Co 13:12)
Father in Heaven,
Today – which is all I have, You are my very great Reward! Amen!
Monday, May 2, 2011
The Only Way We Can Hear
5.2.2011
Psalm 106:15 15 So he gave them what they asked for, but sent a wasting disease upon them. NIV
Sometimes God’s answer is ‘yes’; sometimes it is ‘no’. Sometimes He says ‘wait’; and sometimes he says, “If you insist”. Psalm 106 is David’s recounting of the nation of Israel and the wanderings in the wilderness; and God’s giving in to their insisting. This song speaks of all their sin and rebellion, but sums it all up by saying, “But [God] took note of their distress when he heard their cry; for their sake he remembered his covenant and out of his great love he relented.” (Ps 106:44-45 NIV)
Sometimes the only way we can hear God is when He gives us what we demand; only to find how grievous our demands were. Sometimes we get the “…if you insist…” because God allows us to see how foolish our demands truly are. God opposes pride and stupidity but chooses to let them happen so that we can see clearly at the end of it all that the true choice, the real choice’ and the right is only Him. God disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12.5ff).
God won’t let us wallow in our stupidity forever. He knows when we’re in too deep; He hears the cries of our hearts when we can’t. God’s discipline is divinely designed to get us to respond correctly – it has purpose in mind for our good. And when God sees that we get it, He relents and embraces us again. Discipline finds its birthing place in the heart of God.
At what price are the things we crave; at what cost is having our own way? So He gave them what they asked for, but… and even the ‘but’ is for our own good.
Father in Heaven,
You only are wise and true. You lead nations and men and seek for them to do what is right and persist in it always. Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but only You make them succeed. Help me to succeed in walking teachably and humbly by Your side – joyfully doing Your bidding in the world around me… amen.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
God’s Choice – God’s Desire
5.1.2011
Psalm 132:13-14 13 For the Lord has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling: 14 “This is my resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it…” NIV
What a psalm of magnificence! The truth here is that God desires to be in Zion – and what is in Zion? His people are in Zion. Even God’s enemies call His people Zionists – that says something.
When I think that God desires it kind of blows my fuses; it’s a thought that is way too big for me to comprehend. What do you give the God Who has everything? I used to struggle in trying to find the perfect gift for my dad – what do you give the dad who seemed to have everything? I think had I just asked him, my dad would’ve said, “Son, just spend some time with me…” In retrospect, I think that’s really what he wanted.
And so when I think about God’s desire – Zion, I think about what it is that our God really wants. (And just so we get it, He wants nothing – He is completely and eternally self-sufficient; He has no needs; nothing can be added to Him.) But what God really wants is me, and you and anyone else who will in their lives find a place for the Lord, a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob. (Psalm 132.5) God repeatedly says in His word that He will be our God and we will be His people and He will dwell among us. He says repeatedly, that He will write His laws on tablets of flesh (our hearts) and will be with us. Jesus said, I will be with you and I will be in you… (Cf. John, chapters, 13-17). We are God’s desire!
David looked for a place to put the Ark and it had to be in the midst of the people of God – it was a picture of what God Himself intended – to be among those who love Him and enjoy being around Him… forever!
Father in Heaven,
Your desire – oh, how I am humbled reading this today. I think about how lousy I am at times and what a cesspool my soul is and yet, You desire to dwell there and somehow bring about change I can never do on my own. Thank You God! Thank You that in faith today, and even with a dirty rearview mirror, I can say, I am Your desire – such words make me tremble – amen.
Psalm 132:13-14 13 For the Lord has chosen Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling: 14 “This is my resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it…” NIV
What a psalm of magnificence! The truth here is that God desires to be in Zion – and what is in Zion? His people are in Zion. Even God’s enemies call His people Zionists – that says something.
When I think that God desires it kind of blows my fuses; it’s a thought that is way too big for me to comprehend. What do you give the God Who has everything? I used to struggle in trying to find the perfect gift for my dad – what do you give the dad who seemed to have everything? I think had I just asked him, my dad would’ve said, “Son, just spend some time with me…” In retrospect, I think that’s really what he wanted.
And so when I think about God’s desire – Zion, I think about what it is that our God really wants. (And just so we get it, He wants nothing – He is completely and eternally self-sufficient; He has no needs; nothing can be added to Him.) But what God really wants is me, and you and anyone else who will in their lives find a place for the Lord, a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob. (Psalm 132.5) God repeatedly says in His word that He will be our God and we will be His people and He will dwell among us. He says repeatedly, that He will write His laws on tablets of flesh (our hearts) and will be with us. Jesus said, I will be with you and I will be in you… (Cf. John, chapters, 13-17). We are God’s desire!
David looked for a place to put the Ark and it had to be in the midst of the people of God – it was a picture of what God Himself intended – to be among those who love Him and enjoy being around Him… forever!
Father in Heaven,
Your desire – oh, how I am humbled reading this today. I think about how lousy I am at times and what a cesspool my soul is and yet, You desire to dwell there and somehow bring about change I can never do on my own. Thank You God! Thank You that in faith today, and even with a dirty rearview mirror, I can say, I am Your desire – such words make me tremble – amen.
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