December 31, 2011

Hebrews 12:1 Therefore since we are surrounded  by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.

I promise I am not hand selecting these Blackaby readings to complement the big days on the calendar.

December 25-- I had not planned on a Christmas-oriented post.  God said otherwise.

December 31--I was going to resist the natural old year/new year December 31 communique.  Why do I even bother to predetermine what I will write about?  The Holy Spirit  keeps meddling.

I cannot think of a more appropriate December 31 verse that Hebrews 12:1.  As Christians this is the perfect opportunity to examine those things in our lives that are displeasing to God, disobedient to His Word and disappointing to His heart.

So many resolutions made.  So many resolutions failed.

I wonder if we were more honest in naming our faults, we might take them more seriously.

Smoking- habit or sin?  1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Overeating- lack of self-discipline or sin?  1 Corinthians 10:13

Questionable internet sites- harmless diversion or sin?  Matthew 5:28

Underreporting income- working the system or sin?  Mark 12:17

I believe we would increase our level of conviction and therefore confession/repentance if we labeled our "bad habits", "mistakes" and "weaknesses" as God labels them- SIN.

As we move into a new year, let's get gut-level honest with ourselves and invite the Holy Spirit to kick our britches with conviction and "throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles."  We cannot do this alone, but through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit "everything is possible for one who believes." Mark 9:23

No temptation has overtaken you but what is common to mankind.  And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.  Hebrews 10:13

2011- Done      2012- Beginning  

What changes in my life will I allow the Holy Spirit to make this year?

December 30, 2011

Mark 1:36 Simon and his companions went to look for him (Jesus). . .
Matthew 26:58 But Peter followed him (Jesus) at a distance, right up to the courtyard of the high priest. . .
Luke 24:12 Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb.
John 21:7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!"  As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.
Matthew 14:29 . . .Then Peter got out of the boat, walked on water and came toward the Lord.

It seems all to often the foibles and warts of Peter are highlighted.  His impetuousness.  His ill-timed comments.  His betrayal.  And yes, we can learn a lot from these stories, but I think a greater lesson is in store when Peter's constant desire to be with Christ is examined.

Blackaby uses the verses listed above to illustrate Peter's near obsession to be with Jesus.

In the verse from Mark, Jesus' morning quiet time is interrupted because Peter leads a group of disciples to search Jesus out.

In Matthew 26, Peter follows Jesus right up to the mouth of the lion in order to be near his Lord.

Luke recounts the story where the others disbelieved those who had returned from the Christ's empty tomb.  But ever-seeking Peter "RUNS" to the tomb.

In John, Peter jumps out of a boat to swim to Christ.  In Matthew, we find Peter literally walking on water in the middle of a storm to be with Jesus.

How strong is my desire to be with Christ?  How does my morning time of 15-30 minutes stack up against Peter's Christ-obsession?

I know that the Christian life is one of growth.  Satan loves to discourage believers by encouraging us to compare ourselves to others.  But I also believe that Satan loves complacency just as much.

Yes, Peter has set the bar very high in his desire to be with Jesus.  Yes, I realize I may never attain that level of zeal to be with God.  But why set my sights on a lesser example?  God inspired these examples of Peter's Christ-obsession to be recorded for a reason.

"All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be equipped for every good work."  2 Timothy 3:16-17

I cannot think of a better New Year's resolution than to allow the Holy Spirit to magnify by many times my desire to spend time with God.

December 26, 2011

Luke 24:32 They asked each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scripture to us?"

Blackaby uses this verse to point out that although the living, breathing Jesus does not walk among us today, spending time in the Word can give us that same connection to the Heavenly Father.  However, it must be more than a mechanical, gotta' get this read exercise.  Time in the Word must be earnest, purposeful, distraction-free and consistent.

What I gleaned from the the 24th chapter of Luke was "two of them (followers of Christ) were talking about everything that had happened.  As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them."

I did not do an exhaustive search, but if memory serves me correctly, none of Jesus' post-crucifixion appearances happened to an individual who was alone.  Jesus appeared to groups of believers who were gathered together.  They were together praying, discussing, fellowshipping.

An hour of small group on Sunday mornings with time constraints and prescribed lesson plans do not allow for that type of spirit-led, seeker types of conversations.  I wonder how many Jesus visits are lost each week because of our current church design.

Where did we lose that type of church structure?  Has it ever existed outside of the 1st century church?  Could something like this be a grassroots movement within a megachurch?

Were it not for my breakfast conversations with my father, I would have few or no "road to Emmaus conversations."

Interesting how time with God will often lead to more questions than answers.

December 25, 2011

When I sit down this morning to make this blog entry, I said to myself, "Self, resist the urge to write something Christmassy."  Sermons, blogs, emails, etc. have saturated the season with retellings, summarizations, wonderings and postulations concerning the birth of Jesus.  My thoughts were:  1.  There is nothing I can write that has not already been put out there many times over.  2.  Go against the flow.  Be that salmon and swim against the Yuletide.

But the Holy Spirit had other plans for me.

Today's verses from Blackaby's book come from John.

John 21:20-21  Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. . . When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?"

Chapter 21 takes place after Jesus' resurrection.  He is bringing Peter back into the fold after Peter's trifecta denial of Jesus during the trial and crucifixion.  Jesus is presenting Peter with the awesome privilege and responsibility of taking care of the fledgling Christian church.  Jesus is even giving Peter a veiled prediction of Peter's death.  One would think that a person would be completely engrossed in such a conversation, especially with a person who had just risen from the dead and was the Son of God.

Oh, Peter, my boy.  How human you were.  Rather falling at Jesus' feet in praise, thanksgiving and adoration or at the very least asking some probing questions, Peter starts to worry about another disciple.  Peter's concern and attention were so easily drawn away from the Lord.

Have I allowed my eyes to be drawn away from the Christ child during this holiday season?  Has Madison Avenue replaced the manger?  Has wrapping paper replaced swaddling clothes?  Have gift cards replaced gold, frankincense and myrrh?  I would like to be able to answer those questions with a resounding, "No!" But like Peter, my attention is so easily drawn away from the Christ child.  The good news is, that also like Peter, God continues to forgive and receive me back.

May this Christmas day be about Christ and His love for each of us.

December 23, 2011

Acts 26:19 "So then, King Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven."  In this scene, Paul is defending himself before the Romans.  (Interesting note:  King Agrippa was the last of the Herrodian kings whose lineage could be traced back to King Herod.  We know that it was King Herod that tired to kill baby Jesus by ordering the death of many babies.  Matthew 2:16   Now Paul, who is spreading the faith, is testifying before a relative of Herod.  Herod- dead.  Agrippa- dead.  Christ- still living!)

Paul is being accused of many serious things by the Jews.  He knows his life is at stake.  (Acts 25:10-11)  


Paul addresses the charges against him brought by the Jews in Acts 26.  He takes the Festus and Agrippa on a journey through his life as persecuter turned preacher, but the foundation of his defense is "I was not disobedient to the vision from heaven."

Oh that we all could say that with such confidence.  "I was not disobedient."

It's time for the "but monkeys". . .  

"But I did not have a vision."  Bull pucky!  The Bible illustrates and the Holy Spirit convicts.  We know when we are disobedient.

"But in today's society it is much harder to live an obedient life."  REALLY!  Paul turned his back on his entire lifestyle in just three days and became obedient to the point of persecution and death.  (Acts 9)

"But you don't know how hateful and unfriendly the people at work are toward me."  Boo-hoo.  Any of them turned you over to the authorities in hopes you would be killed?  (Acts 22)

If we (and I most certainly include "me" in that "we") are gut-level honest, our disobedience is a result of our laziness, pride, arrogance and selfishness.  No reasons for disobedience.  Excuses, yes.  Reasons, no.

However, there is hope.  Bible study, meditation and unceasing prayer will greatly decrease those instances of disobedience in our lives.

Please pray that my disobedience will decrease as my obedience increases.

December 14, 2011

Ezekiel 22:30  "I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one."

When I read this verse I sense that God was hoping for a bold prayer warrior.  Someone who would hold God to his promises.  A confident Israelite with just a touch of reverent confrontation.  At the very least a very insistent intercessor. There are fine lines between arrogant demanding from God, milk toast weak puny prayers and confident assertiveness.  I think I too often fall on the milk toast end of the spectrum.  I ask, but don't expect.  I pray, but don't look with anticipation for the answer to prayer.

I wonder if most 4 year-olds have more confidence in Santa bringing a Lego set than Christians have in God's answering prayers.

Why don't we pray with more confidence?  Blackaby offers these possible answers:
1.  We don't really believe God will answer our prayers.
2.  We believe our human efforts will garner more results that prayer.
3.  We don't see quick answers so we get discouraged and give up.

BUT each of these excuses is refuted in Scripture.
1.  John 14:13   "And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father."
2.  John 15:5   "I am the vine; you are the branches.  If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
3.  1 Corinthians 3:6  I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.

As Christians we can go confidently (yet reverently and humbly) before the throne with our requests and fully expect our Loving Father to listen to and answer our prayers.

December 12, 2011

Gonna' try something different on the blog.  I had a minor epiphany at Sunday School yesterday.

One of the verses from yesterday's lesson was James 5:17-18   17 Elijah was a human being even as we are.  He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. 18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.

I began to imagine what Elijah's prayer life must have looked like.  The intensity was awesome.  The time incalculable.  The passion unimaginable.  Countless hours on his knees.  Rivers of tears shed.

If I get in two 7-minute snooze button prayer times each morning, I consider myself prayed up for the day. How laughable.  How ineffective.

Kristi and I talked about this some on the ride home Sunday morning.  She mentioned that two 7-snooze button prayer times were better than nothing at all.  I agree to a point.  The danger is with that type of praying is I can start to feel complacent.  Holy.  Righteous.  (Make that self-righteous.)

Rain-stopping prayer comes from hours in the prayer closet.  Knees raw from kneeling.  Drops of sweat staining the pages of the Holy Bible.

With that in mind, my morning times will be spent in prayer, meditation and Bible reading.  My father has cautioned me about blogging during my quiet times.  He is right.  An insight becomes a link, a blog entry, a downloaded You Tube.  Soon I am out of time and heading out the door to work.  The still, small voice quickly forgotten in my rush to post.

Evening will be for posting.  Mornings for prayer and just basking in the presence of my Heavenly Father's love.

I humbly ask for prayer from everyone who ventures onto this blog that I will strive to become an Elijah.  I may never be a rain-stopper, but what a goal to work toward.

December 9, 2011

Hebrews 5:7-8  During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.  Son, though he was, he learned obedience through what he suffered. . .

Hearing and saying, "yes" are two different things.

In a recent Sunday School lesson several verses from the fifth chapter of James that seemed to suggest pray with enough faith and it will be yours were discussed.  Today's verses from Hebrews are the "yeah-that-ain't-gonna'-happen" response to such theology.  If God's son, Jesus, had even one of his requests denied, what right to we have to expect that everyone of our prayer requests will be answered?

Regardless of our level of faith, there will be times when God, in order to accomplish a far greater good, will refuse to grant my requests.

This is one of those "head" knowledge items of Christian theology, but when faced with a child's death, the loss of a job or other catastrophic life event, it is really put to the test in a believer's life.  Recognition does not equal belief.

Hebrews 5:10 states that (Jesus) was "designated to be a high priest in the order of Melchizedec".  Huh?

Have a glorious Friday and even better weekend!

December 8, 2011

John 6:65  He went on to say, "This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them."

Blackaby writes about this verse, "You do not seek quiet times with God in order to experience Him.  The fact that He has brought you to a place of fellowship with Him is evidence that you are already sensing His activity."

My mind is having a hard time focusing on anything this morning.  I believe I will sign off and just sit alone with God for a while.

December 7, 2011

John 1:38b-39 They said "Rabbi" (which means "Teacher"), where are you staying?"
                      "Come," he replied, "and you will see."

Scripture goes on to tell us that Andrew and Simon went on to spend the day with Jesus.  What rush that must have been!  A private audience with the Creator of the Universe.  Q & A with the Lamb of God.  Jesus' undivided attention for a whole day.  How lucky were Andrew and Simon Peter.

Hold the phone!  I have the same opportunity as Andrew and Peter.  God is just as accessible to me as he was to the disciples of yesteryear.  I too can have a private audience with the Creator of the Universe.  Q & A with the Lamb of God?  A daily privilege for all believers.  It is not luck.  It is not mere happenstance.  Our access to God was a carefully orchestrated plan implemented by God through his Son devised just for me.  It is only my lack of accessibility and self-discipline that keeps me from having the same closeness and time with God that the 12 had for three years.

Blackaby points out that Andrew and Peter's time with God started out in a room, but soon moved to the streets and hillsides of Israel.  They put shoe leather to their faith.  The effective Christian life (I believe the pleasing-to-God Christian life) is one of action, not just study.  Hands of service have to accompany hearts of love and heads of knowledge.

How would you use my hands to day, Lord Jesus?

December 6, 2011

John 8:32  "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

How oft quoted is today's verse.  From Hollywood preachers shouting it from a sound stage pulpit to the punchline of a joke told by a workroom comedian, this verse is used and misused so often is has become easy to disregard it as a foundational truth of Christianity.

Many people, both Christians and nonChristians, alike view Christianity as a list of "do's" and "don't's".  Time requirements.  Morality clauses.  Tithing percentages.  Activity determiners.  I confess to living much of my Christian life under these self-imposed requirements.  Those were joyless, unproductive, empty years of Christian service.

In reality God's word is a freedom giver.  It is only through claiming Philippians 4:6-7 have I been able to stop losing sleep from worry.  Ephesians 5:25-27 has shown me how to love Kristi in a way never humanly possible.  James 4:7-8 has taught me that I do have the power, through God, to live a life free from constant sin.  The ultimate freedom is freedom from an eternity separated from God; and the Truth is the ONLY provider of this freedom.

It is only through recognizing and claiming God's truths for my own have I been truly set free.

December 2, 2011

John 17: 25-26   "Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me.  I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them."

Not once in his book so far has Blackaby written about anything a Christian needs "to do".  No suggested minutes of quiet time each day.  No read-the-Bible-through-in-a-year plan.  Not even a "sacrificial giving" entry.  Even today's verses which talk about love, does not turn into a reading about how we are to love others.

Before we teach Sunday School.  Before we write the monthly tithe check.  Even before we can love others, a person must know, really know the depth and passion of God's love for him.  Until we acknowledge, accept and rejoice in the how much God loves each of one of us individually, Blackaby contends we cannot minister to, forgive or love others in a manner pleasing to God.

Fascinating that my relationship with God hinges not on my loving him, but on recognizing how much he loves me.  Then will I be motivated to spend time with him.  Then will I want to gather together with other believers.  Then will I want to serve him with all my heart, soul and mind.

Father, during the quiet times in the mornings and hectic times throughout the day, please sharpen my awareness of how great your love is for me.

December 1, 2011

John 17:17-18   17Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. 18As you have sent Me into the world, I have sent them into the world.

God prepares before he sends.  That is the lesson Blackaby teaches from today's verse.  He references several verses where the disciples were challenged, chastised or rebuked by Jesus as part of the sanctification process.

Blackaby also reminds readers that these disciples were just men like us with an array of human foibles.  Peter- temper.  James and John- pride.  Matthew- lack of business integrity.  Yet, Jesus loved, corrected, encouraged and eventually used these and others like them to change the world.

I have a past that would rival the shortcomings of the worst of the 12.  (Yes, even Judas, for my thoughts and actions have betrayed Christ to the world on countless occasions for much less than 30 pieces of silver.)  It is easy for me to allow Satan to use those lost years to create doubt in my mind as to my present usefulness in Kingdom work.  "Yet, there is no freedom that compares to a soul set free by God's grace." p. 21 Blackaby  What a powerful statement!  When those doubts start to creep in, claiming my God-given freedom from and forgiveness from sin can and will drive away those feelings of worthlessness and remind me I am sanctified, justified and will, one day, be glorified all because of the redemptive power of Christ's blood that was shed for me at Calvary.  Praise God!

November 29

1 Peter 1:9  But you are chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.

Blackaby uses this verse to remind believers that we are priests and enumerates some of the duties/responsibilities/privileges that accompany priesthood.

1.  As a priest, we do not need an intermediary in order to enter God's presence.  Whether it is for supplication, confession or consolation, each Christian is blessed with immediate, 24-7 access to God the Father.

2.  Priests also function within a priesthood.  (Leviticus 9:1)  Our position as priests comes with the duty to act in concert with other "priests" to accomplish God's purposes here on earth.  (Side thought- Does God have purposes, or just one purpose?)

3.  A priest is responsible for taking the cares/concerns/burdens of others to God.  Am I faithful in praying for those needs on the Faith Family prayer list?  When I tell someone at work, "I'll be praying for you/your family/your health/etc.", do I follow through?

In addition to the priestly duties outlined by Blackaby, two words in today's reading jumped out at me--"his possession".  I have heard preached time and again that all I own is God's.  My time, talent and money all belong to him.  But this is the first time I have really realized that not only is all my "stuff" his, but he also owns me.  I have no "rights" under God.  There is no room for me to demand that God do this or that.  He owns me.  I am his possession.  He has the right to do with me what he wills, when he wills and how he wills it be done.  I am not sure yet what this realization means to me or how it will play out in my life, but I needed to record the epiphany before I let the cares of today wipe it from my memory.

November 26, 2011

Colossians 1:27  To them God willed to make known what are the riches of his glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

In today's reading Blackaby uses the verse from Colossians to remind believers that the Christian life is much more than doing Christian stuff.  He writes, "it (discipleship) is learning to give Jesus Christ total access to your life so He will live His life through you."

Through you, not just in you.  I had to stop and think this about this a while.  They a light started to creep in around the edges of my ol' brain.  If all I do is think of Christ as living in me, then my focus becomes internal.  However, if I regard Christ as living through me, Christian living takes on a whole other dimension.

Many times I have heard the statement made of parents who are pushing their child to succeed at an unreasonable level, that the parent is "living his/her life through the child".  The parent is unable to be the beauty queen or stellar quarterback, so the parent gets his/her fulfillment through the child's success.

In the human sense, living one's life through a child is negative and frowned upon.  But for believers, it should be the model for Christian living.  For 33 years, as Jesus, God walked on the earth.  He modeled love, compassion, righteous anger, purposeful living and obedience to the Heavenly Father (the list could go on).  Since His ascension to heaven after his crucifixion, He has not been that physical model for all that is good and right.  Therefore, He must "live his life through us".  We must be the Jesuses on earth.  We must be the models of  love, compassion, righteous anger, purposeful living and obedience to the Heavenly Father (the list should go on).

"That's impossible!" you say.  Quite right, mon frere.  If we try to be Christ's earthly conduit on our own power, we will fail miserably.  I can attest to that time and time again.  It is only by recognizing and embracing the Christ in us can we be a worthy Christ model.  He lives IN me so He can work THROUGH me.  My biggest challenge is to allow my relationship with God to eclipse in importance my activities for God.

November 23, 2011

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:  The old has gone, the new is here!

"The old is gone, the new is here!"  I am not a Bibleologist, but I don't remember the exclamation point being used a lot in scripture.  But it is certainly the appropriate punctuation mark for today's verse.

Old habits- gone!
Old thought patterns- gone!
Destructive behaviors- gone!

Or are they?  I know as a Christian, salvation does not mean perfection.  Even Paul bemoaned the fact that "I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do, this I keep on doing."  Romans 7:19   Even the great apostle Paul continued to sin.  So what hope is there for us "normal" Christians?

Here is one part of an answer to that question-  Fervently claim 2 Corinthians 5:17.  In God's eyes, the old is truly gone.  It is no longer a part of the believer.  However, I all too often abuse the fact that as a believer ALL my sin is forgiven- past, present and future.  It is easier to be mad than ask for forgiveness.  Sometimes I don't want to not tell that piece of gossip I overheard.  Perhaps if I used today's verse and similar verses to remind myself I am new creation in Christ and that the old me is gone, I would not have to rely on the forgiveness portion of my salvation quite so often.

I see 2 Corinthians 5:17 as a strengthening verse.  A satan rebuker.  An encourager when tempted.

I ask the Lord's help today to help me claim that I am a new being in Him, and the old does not have any control in my life unless I yield to the carnal self.

November 22, 2011

Matthew 5:23-24  23 "Therefore if you are offering your gift at the alter and there remember that a brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the alter.  First go and be reconciled to them, then come and offer your gift."

Relationships BEFORE religion.
Harmony BEFORE hymns.
Peace BEFORE preaching.
Accord BEFORE alters.

Note: The verse is not "do I have something against a brother", but does that brother have something against me.  Even if I have not warranted the ill will, I am still required to make things right with him.  (In reality, most of the time, I will have played a part in the ill will.)  The onus of action is on the offending party here, not the offended.  AND it doesn't matter if we were right or wrong in the disagreement.  If a someone has something against us- justified or not- we are to actively attempt reconciliation.

BE reconciled, not TRY to be reconciled.  Perhaps that means more than just a "Hey, bud, sorry I made you mad."  The reconciliation may take time and more than one attempt.  That brings the question to mind, if time is required, am I to stay away from church until the reconciliation takes place?  I think common sense would say that is not the intent of Jesus' teaching here.  But, I am not released from the reconciliation requirement until the relationship is restored.

CAUTION: Do NOT attempt this alone.  Prayer and the Holy Spirit's guidance are integral to this process.

Practical application thought. . . Just how far back and what past hurts should be dug up?  Does a party in a bitter divorce call up an ex after 10 years?  Should a mistreated former employee call the department manager who fired him after a lot of time has passed?  Is there a risk of damaging current relationships by dredging up past mistakes?  (Or am I making a justification to avoid an uncomfortable Biblical mandate?)

Commentary link.

November 18, 2011

Genesis 12:2- "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing."

This verse starts the saga of the beginnings of the Jewish nation.  So preachers and commentators focus on Abraham's obedience and the God's miracle of allowing Abraham and Sarah to conceive their first child when well advanced in years.  Certainly these are two aspect of the story that are deserving of lessons and sermons.  BUT Blackaby, brings out another aspect of the story.

What Blackaby highlights is the fact that from Genesis 12 until the birth of Isaac, twenty-five years passed.  God's plans for Abraham did not change during that quarter of a century, but Abraham surely did.  When God made the promise to Abraham, God knew that Abraham was not ready for the fulfillment of the blessing.  Much more character shaping was required before the nation building could begin.

Over the past several years, there have been times I have felt led to become more involved in the church and Christian service, but those doors of opportunities remained closed.  It was only after I allowed God to shape my character, increase my knowledge and focus my spirit did service opportunities present themselves.

If you are feeling underutilized when it comes to Kingdom service, perhaps God is still doing some character shaping to help prepare you for that service.  Maybe God needs to work in you before you can work for Him.

November 16, 2011

Hebrews 12:6 ". . . because the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son."

I could really connect with today's reading.  I have met Christians who feel most of the hardships in their lives are caused by Satan's attacks and almost see difficult times as a badge of honor.  Blackaby points out that many of life's hardships are brought on by our own poor decisions.  Decisions that we made:  A) without consulting God.     B) consulted God then ignored his leading.     C)  knew without needing to consult God, but did it anyway.  Perhaps we ignored God and got involved in a bad relationship.  Maybe someone was not diligent in his job and received a reprimand or missed a promotion.  A person who is foolish with her money can expect to have financial distress.

God will forgive us our sins.  He promises  that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28  We can be assured that if we confess, repent and realign our decisions with His will and guidance, He will take care of us and ultimately good can come from our bad.  BUT there is no scripture that guarantees He will remove the consequences of our sin.

So before a believer elevates life's troubles to a spiritual warfare badge of honor, he should take a long, honest look at his choices and determine if perhaps, just maybe, the mess he is in was created by his own actions.

One other quick point.  Today's passage from Hebrews states that God chastens EVERYONE he accepts as his son.  Not some, many or most, but EVERYONE.  If you are not being disciplined and redirected by God,  perhaps you have never truly accepted him as your Lord and Savior.

November 15, 2011

Hebrews 4:12- For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Under Christ's blood, I am declared innocent of all sin- past, present and future, so feelings of guilt are not from God.  However, the Holy Spirit can and will convict me of areas of sin in my life.  Whether it is during my prayer time, through a scripture or sermon, or by the example of a fellow Christian's life, spiritual conviction is the way God keeps me on track in my life.

This conviction is seldom what I want to "hear" from God, yet without it, I would continue down nonproductive and destructive paths.  I think that is why at times in my life, I have avoided Bible study, prayer and church attendance.  When I am engaged in those things, the conviction of the Holy Spirit is much clearer and harder to ignore.

I have also learned time and again, that when I am close to God, responsive to the Holy Spirit's leading and conviction, decisions I make are wiser, sleep is deeper and contentment is more a constant companion.

It is interesting that most people get to a dentist as soon as possible when they have a toothache.  Even though they know their time in the chair might cause some temporary pain, after the procedure long-term relief awaits.  Yet in things spiritual, many (including me) try to avoid that temporary discomfort/pain of conviction by avoiding those activities that allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us in that still small voice.

Dear God, I invite and plead with You to shine Your light of conviction onto any areas of my life that are out of alignment with Your will for my life.  I than ask for the wisdom and strength to make the changes You require of me.

November 14, 2011

First blog  entry from new address.  I would like to report that even though my blog entries have been on hiatus, my spiritual growth has continued, but sadly that is not the case.  The move into our new home has been an excuse to fall away from morning quiet times, private Bible study and daily prayer.  Time to recommit my time and heart to these things.

I am going old school for my next series of posts.  During the move, I came across my copy of Experiencing God, Day-by-Day, The Daily Devotional and Journal.  Written back in the late 90's, Experiencing God  took many churches by storm.  Sermon series were preached, Sunday School lessons taught and small group curriculum written around the book.  Back in January 2000, I had made a few entries in the journal, but alas, did not stick with it.  So with a renewed sense of commitment and a stubbornness borne our my me German roots, I reopen the pages of Experiencing God, Day-by-Day.

Proverbs 29:18- "Where there is no wisdom, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who needs wisdom's instruction."- God's people live by revelation, not by human vision.  The writer cautions Christians from making their own plans then having the "audacity to pray and ask God to bless their efforts!"  If medals were given for such behavior, I would most certainly receive at least a bronze medal, if not silver or gold.  Whether it is cars, houses or relationships, I have a history of acting first, praying later.  During my years as a carnal Christian (some people say  there is no such thing, I disagree), I understand that sort of decision making, but what baffles me is that even since I have become a more intentional, Spirit-led believer, I still act, then pray.

What is absolutely amazing is that through it all, God has still orchestrated my life and caused those thousands of David-directed decisions to work for good.  Now I am sure I have missed blessings, set myself back financially and disappointed my Father, but He has never thrown up His hands and walked away.  He continues to bless, love and  rescue me.  What an AMAZING God we serve!

So, what ya' gonna' do about it, Dave?
1.  Pray each day for a attentiveness and responsiveness to the Holy Spirit's leading.
2.  During quiet time, reflect on those times the previous day the Holy Spirit's leading has helped me make the best decision.
3.  Refuse to make a decision (especially on those big things) until I am sure the Holy Spirit has given direction.
4.  Ask those who read this blog to pray for me in this endeavor.

October 10- Final Post

This will be my final post from our Loren Street address.  Future posts will be from our new Delaware address.

I have mixed feelings about the move.  We are excited to be back in the old neighborhood, but I will sure miss the ease of living in a 1998 constructed home as opposed to a 1941 home.  So many hours of planning, planting and painting went into this home.  But as a friend told me, it is only a house.

As I was praying this morning, the James 1:22-24 came to mind.  These verses remind me that merely listening to or reading the Word of God is only the first step.  Unless what we hear/read creates a positive change in me, it is the same as looking in a mirror and forgetting what I look like.  I am afraid I fall into that category in a lot of ways.

This weekend we spent dozens of hours moving.  On many occasions, I was short, irritable and just plain disagreeable.  Because of this I robbed much of the joy from Kristi during what should have been an exciting, fun time.  It got to the point last night I lost any semblance of composure over the dryer vent.  (I hate flexible dryer vent tubing and sheet metal extenders!!)  All the hours of church, sermons and Bible study went right out the window.

My prayer is to become a joy giver, not a joy taker.  Exhort, not criticize.  Laugh rather than frown.  I need to ask for Kristi's and Seth's forgiveness.  But more importantly, I need to get on my knees in an attitude of repentance to my Heavenly Father for I have not been a "well-done-my-good-and-faithful-servant" Christian this weekend.

October 8- Colossians

^{Colossians 1:27} To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.


Our glory is Christ "in us".  Not believing that Jesus was a good teacher.  Not attending church on a regular basis.  Not going to Bible studies 4x a week.  Not giving Burmese rubies to the Salvation Army.  Not even believing in God.  Without the indwelling of Christ, we have no hope.

October 7- Colossians

The past.  The recent past.  The not-so-recent past.  Sins committed.  Righteous acts omitted.  I lied.  I gossiped.  I lusted.  I hated.  I sinned.  The letters "ed" are added to verbs to change the tense from present to past.  Past.  Already taken place.  History.

We all know that is it impossible for us to change what has happened or what didn't happen.  Until someone modifies a DeLoren in a Michael J. Foxesque manner, the past is just that.  Past.  Why then do we continue to allow all the "ed" parts of our lives to adversely affect our todays?  (I am one of the best at that.)  


In Colossians 1:22, Paul reminds Christians that through his death we are "holy in his (God's) sight, without blemish and free from accusation"!  Not only are we pure, but there is not even an accusation leveled against us. Not for our committed sins, our omitted sins or even our future sins.  HOLY, PURE, FREE FROM ACCUSATION.  That truth alone should make each Christian on the earth smile a bit wider, walk a bit lighter and praise a bit louder.


What a powerful witnessing tool that truth from Colossians could be.  A coworker depressed because his actions led to a failed marriage.  A family member a master at self-flagellation because she didn't insist the family attend church and now the son is out of control.  If we are a child of God, none of this is held against.  "Holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation. . .that is the us God sees if we have accepted his Son as Lord and Savior.  What a liberating truth that is.


Dear Father,
Please help me to fully grasp and rejoice in this truth.  All my "ed"s are not held against me.  In your sight I am holy and without blemish.  Not through my own actions, but through the sacrifice of your Son on the cross.  Thank you Lord Jesus.


P.S.  How would my family life be different if I tried to apply this truth to Kristi and Seth.  Do I hold their "ed"s against them?  How much of the past differences, hurts and arguments do I hold against them?  
Hmmm. . .

October 3- Colossians

"For he (God) has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."  Colossians 1:13-14

September 27- Colossians

Each year at work we have to prepare and submit a School Improvement Plan (SIP).  In this document we list academic growth goals for the students and measures that will be used to determine if that growth is occurring.

In chapter 1, verse 6, Paul wrote about "this gospel (that) is bearing fruit. . ."  Is the Gospel bearing fruit in my life?  If I answer "yes" to that question, what is the evidence of that fruit?  If I answer "no" to that question, what personal Spiritual Improvement Plan do I need to design?

In countless movies and television shows, a young child will kneel by his or her bed at night and pray for mommy, daddy, grandpa, grandma, dog Toby, mean old Mr. Wilson, etc.  I too grew up being taught to pray for those in my life, but after reading Colossians 1:9, I wonder if I have been mispraying all these years.  I have spent time (although not nearly enough) praying for specific needs of others.  While that is certainly not wrong, I have spent little time following Paul's example--". . .we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding."  

Certainly temporary things such as a job, physical healing, protection on a trip are all things about which we can, and should pray, but a "knowledge of His will" should be a goal for each Christian and consequently an item of prayer for each of us- for ourselves and for those for whom we pray.

September 26 Colossians 1

Only cars and trucks have cruise controls, not life.

Colossians 1-  v. 2  Paul wrote to Christ's followers at Colosse.  He refers to them as "holy and faithful".  Would those in my sphere of influence refer to me as "holy"?  How does that look to God?  To the world?

v. 3  Paul wrote that he "always thank(ed) God" when he prayed for the believers at Colosse.  Would I be a better husband/father if I not only prayed for Kristi and Seth, but also specifically thanked God for each for her and him.  Not just a throwaway, "thanks for Seth and Kristi", but list several things about each for which I am thankful.

James 1:23-27

This Sunday I will be substitute teaching for a adult Sunday School class at Ridgecrest.  So I was hoping to get thoughts/feedback on the verses covered by the lesson-  James 1:23-27.



²³ Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror ²⁴ and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. ²⁵ But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.  (What exactly does this mean?  What does being 'blessed in what (we) do look like?  Hmmm. . .)

 ²⁶ Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. ²⁷ Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

August 2

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

²⁸ “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

²⁹ “Come,” he said.

Matthew 14 continues to be a tasty little onion with multiple, juicy layers.  

The last posting looked at how Jesus is the only "I" we require for all our needs, both earthly and eternal.  

When Jesus told the disciples to "Take courage!" (v 27) in the face of the storm, he didn't tell them how he would solve their problems.  He didn't say, "The sea will be calm in a couple of minutes."  Nor did He warn them, "You all gotta' ride this storm out for a few more hours."  

What He did was remind them of who He was.  Sovereign Lord.  The Messiah.  The Alpha and Omega.  So many times in our lives we trust the Lord to solve our problems, provide for our needs and fix what is broken, but we want to know how and when.  Verse 27 is a reminder that while the Lord is faithful and trustworthy, the how and when of His work often times remains a mystery.

Ah, but good ol' Peter.  Not content to wait patiently, to trust quietly.  Loud brash Peter shouting to the Lord, "If it is you."  

Remember the setting.  On a boat in the middle of the Sea of Galilee in a storm.  This was not a quiet, humble request.  Peter was yelling at Jesus.  Almost ordering the Lord to act.

"Hey, there.  Put up or shut up!"  

"Put your money where you mouth is."

Peter was lucky Jesus did not pull a Jonah on him.  What did Jesus do?  He met Peter's request.  

I would not recommend such a demand of God each time we are waiting on Him to respond to a prayer or intervene in a crisis.  OR. . . Should Christians pray with a greater sense of expectancy and urgency?  Not demand, but assuredness.  Have our prayers become like our witness--milk toast and weak?

Where is the line between confidence and arrogance?  On which side should we err?  

July 28

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

 ²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”


"It is I".  These three words are the summation of the Christian life.

Salvation- "It is I."
Peace- "It is I."
Comfort- "It is I."
Guidance- "It is I."
Purpose- "It is I."
Protection- "It is I."
Strength- "It is I."

Jesus is the "I" who makes provides access to an eternity with God the Father, created the conditions necessary for the sending of the Holy Spirit and allows for forgiveness of all sin.  "It is I, " states Jesus Christ.

Yet the world refuses to accept Him.   The world's list would look similar to:
Salvation- "It is being good."
Peace- "It is finding one's center and healing the chakra."
Comfort- "It is in the arms of a coworker when my spouse thinks I am working late."
Guidance- "It is Tony Robbins or Oprah."
Purpose- "Amass as much wealth as possible."
Protection- "My 401K."
Strength- "Gotta' find it within."

How empty and ultimately useless are all the items on the world's list.  Only the "I Am" can fulfill our needs and only those things done for Him have any true significance.

Three little words, "It is I"--- full of eternal ramifications.

July 26

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

²⁵ Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

 ²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

 ²⁸ “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

 ²⁹ “Come,” he said.

 Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. ³⁰ But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

 ³¹ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him.“You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

³² And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down.

The action heats up as we move to the next verses in Matthew 14.  In Sunday School recently, the teacher said that God only performs miracles that are within the boundaries of natural laws.  He was referring to the end of time plagues.  I didn't want to disagree with him, but I have always been taught that a miracle was an act of God that was outside the boundaries of nature with no scientific explanation.  

IMO, verse 25 is a miracle that is outside of the boundaries of natural law, but in verse 32 we find Jesus performing a miracle that has a scientific explanation.  What makes a "miracle" a miracle?  Thoughts? 

Although the scripture doesn't give a time reference for how long the disciples were in the storm, I have a feeling it was quite some time.  They most likely boarded the boat before dark, and Jesus approaches them "shortly before dawn".   God's rescue from problems is not always quick, but it is timely.  If Christ had approached them too soon, perhaps the relief would not have been a great.  If too late, the boat may have capsized.  God's timing is perfect, but when we are in the middle of a storm, it is easy to demand immediate relief.  

Adversity creates strength in Christians if we allow it to, and God knows exactly when we need Him to calm the storm.  Faith allows us to wait on His perfect timing.  Easy to write, hard to put into practice.

July 23

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

Jesus Walks on the Water

 ²² Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. ²³ After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, ²⁴ and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. ²⁵ Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
 ²⁷ But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”


I find verse 25 interesting for a couple of reasons.


I wonder if any of the disciples blamed Jesus for their predicament?  Do we ever blame God for situations in which we find ourselves?  Do we get angry at God for not fixing things immediately and in the manner of which we approve?   


It is also interesting to note that the disciples are not calling out to Jesus for rescue.  Verse 25 states, "Jesus went out to them. . ."  As I look back over my life, I can see many times where Jesus saved me from capsizing when calling on Him for help was the furthest thing from my mind.  Would Jesus have responded earlier if the disciples had called on Him?  Or was the time for His rescue set and would not have been hastened by earnest prayers?  Do our prayers change circumstances or just our reaction to those circumstances?


Hmmm. . .  

July 20

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

Jesus Walks on the Water

 ²² Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. ²³ After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, ²⁴ and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

The above passage follows Jesus feeding the 5K with just a few loaves and fishes.  Once again Jesus withdraws from his disciples to spend time alone with the Father.  It is interesting that before he withdraws he sends the disciples to the other side of the Sea of Galilee.  

Interesting for two reasons:

1.  Even though Jesus was God incarnate, the leader of the 12, the undisputed head of the group, the CEO of Disciples, Inc., he was the last one to depart from the event.  Jesus didn't leave his subordinates to wrap things up.  He stuck around until blankets were folded, food left overs were packed up and sandals were tied back on for the return trip to town.  What a wonderful example of servant leadership.  Knowing his disciples were tired and worn down, he let them take off while he stuck around to the end.  

2.  However, it is just as interesting to note that by sending the 12 on ahead, he caused them to get caught up in a storm.  How much omniscience did Jesus have during his time on earth?  Did he know the disciples' boat would be "buffeted by waves"?  Did he say, "Uh-oh." or "Just what I had planned."?  Personally I think he knew the storm was on its way, but also knew God would be glorified and an important lesson taught to the disciples (and untold generations in the future) through the event.  

God does allow storms into our lives to test, strengthen and, perhaps, redirect us.    Does God just allow, or does He create, personal storms for His children?  Are our storms just a natural occurrence when He removes His protective hand, or are some them created by Him?  Thoughts?  

I guess that doesn't really matter.  What does matter is how we choose to handle our storms.  We will take a look in the next couple of days at how the disciples handled their storm.

July 19

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

In chapter 14, we see Jesus feeding over 5000 people with a miraculous expansion of a few loaves and fishes.  Two thoughts arise  in my mind concerning this miracle.

First, God is in the business of provision and protection for ALL people, not just those who are Christians.  I would venture to say many of the 5000+ were not Jesus seekers or even good Jews.  Most likely a many of the individuals in the crowd were just looky-loos jumping on the bandwagon of the latest fad.  BUT, Jesus still met their basic physical need of food.  

Second, a reminder that whatever we give to God will not only benefit us (whomever had the original loaves and fishes got to eat), but will also benefit untold others.  Giving to God did not by any means diminish the gift.  Look at how God multiplied the gift!

The caution here is to guard against giving just so the gift will be multiplied.  Giving to God should be done out of love and obedience with  joyful heart. 

Question for further thought-  What examples are there where Jesus performed a direct miracle for a person who was not seeking Him?

July 18

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14

I am not sure if all the events in chapter 14 happened in one day, but it appears so.

1.   Jesus learns his cousin has been beheaded.

2.  Jesus seeks solitude to commune with his Father.

3.  Crowds descend on Jesus for miracles.

4.  Jesus teaches, heals and ministers to the substantial crowd.

5.  Dinner time approaches and few in the crowd thought to bring food.

6.  Once again,  the a request is made of Jesus to solve a seemingly unsolvable problem because people had failed to plan ahead or make wise decisions.  "Bail us out, Jesus."

7.  As he did then, and as he always will for his sheep, Jesus comes to the rescue.

As I was typing this, #6 jumped out at me.  The scripture is replete with instances where God's children are placed in situations of  trials and persecution through no mistakes of their own.  In fact, I believe that there are times where a particular challenge is actually a badge of Christian honor.  God will not allow any temptation or difficulty in our lives unless He is sure we have the ability to be victorious in that situation.

HOWEVER, most of my difficult times have been due to my lack of planning and wise decision making.  Much like the crowds in Matthew 14, I run after the latest craze or whim.  Would Christ have had to bail out the hungry crowd if more of them had planned ahead? The lesson for me here is to slow down, think things through and, consequently, my "bail me out" prayers will be fewer and fewer.  

Yet it is comforting to know that in those times when I am the foodless crowd member, Jesus will still come to the rescue with loaves and fishes.

July 13- NDS- Stormy Places

Next Door Savior by Max Lucado

"Stormy Places" Matthew 14:22-33

As I mentioned in my previous posting, there were two of Jesus' traits in the verses preceding the stormy sea episode, I wanted to focus on.


The first was to withdraw from all distractions on a regular basis to spend intentional, uninterrupted, significant time blocks with God.  No dog, phone, spouse or wi-fi.  Just God and an expectant soul.


Moving on to Matthew 14:14, Jesus once again demonstrates an extraordinary act.  


Let's review- Jesus has just learned that his cousin and baptizer, John the Baptist, was beheaded.  Jesus has withdrawn to a solitary place to grieve, pray and commune with his Father.    When Jesus lands on shore following this time of solitude- BOOM!- there are the multitudes.  Taking.  Wanting.  Needing.  Demanding.


Imagine how most of us would react in this situation.  A best friend and cousin has just been brutally murdered.  You know who did it.  You have to power to avenge his death, but have orders to let it ride.  Then immediately after a short time of grieving, swarms of people descend on your just for what you can do for them.  They are few, if any, sincere words of sympathy.  No casseroles proffered.  Not one offer of "what can I do for you" in the bunch.  Just gimme', gimme', gimme'.


What did Jesus do?  "When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick." (14:4)  Incredible.  No down time for the Savior.  How many times have I been too busy or preoccupied with my own life to offer compassion to another?  How often have I allowed my worries about school, family, etc. to cause me to overlook or intentionally ignore the needs of another?  If Christ is truly our role model, I had better reevaluate how I choose to respond in future situations.


There is also a great encouragement in verse 4.  Just like Christ had time for the needs of the crowds 2000 years ago, He still has time for me today.  He is never too busy.  Never too overwhelmed with the world.  Never too preoccupied with life in Heaven.  I can go to Him whenever and about whatever, and His response is the same today as it was then.  He will have compassion on me and heal me.  


I would never attempt to rank God's qualities in order of importance.  What a fool's errand that would be.  But for me one of the most reassuring qualities is His immutability.  He is the same today as He was in eternity past and will be in eternity future. 


What an honor to serve such an awesome God. 


D