John 17:3 "Now this is eternal live; that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."
Blackaby must have been writing directly to me in today's entry when he wrote, "You may become discouraged because the truths you read about in the Bible are much richer than the reality of your own experience." While discouraged may not describe my spiritual walk, the sentiment of Blackaby's entry applies. The hallelujah joy of Christianity has eluded me. The stormy-weather-stern sleep is not forthcoming. (Mark 4:38)
Blackaby goes on to write that experience is the only way we can really know God. "Don't settle for a head knowledge of God's love." (This next line is one of my favorite Blackaby lines so far.) "Bring your experience up to the standard of Scripture, never reduce Scripture to the level of your experience."
I agree with Blackaby on the experience vs knowledge argument. But the frustration is how do I get that experiential knowledge of God? In my safe, secure physical existence where do I find that level of knowledge that transcends the mental forays into scripture?
Luckily Blackaby provides an answer to those questions. "If you sense there are biblical truths that you are not experiencing, keep the truth before you and ask God to bring it into your everyday experience. Ask God if there are any adjustments you need to make in order to receive His promise. Don't give up on the promises of God, stay with them until you are fully experiencing them." (italics mine)
Please pray for me that I will first have a head knowledge of what Christ wants for me, then that I will be diligent in the spiritual disciplines in order that I may experience those truths on a day-by-day, minute-by-minute way.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
February 27, 2012
Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-- think about such things.
Other than late night frustration and hopeless head scratching I remember little from my undergraduate computer programming class. I believe BASIC was the language that forced me to deal with "if,then" statements, creating fictional car payment schedules and printing endless reams of green and white paper. One of the few things I retained was "GIGO"--garbage in, garbage out. If I inserted one too many commas or had a command out of order, the results of any given problem would be far from correct.
Blackaby's selection for today reminds Christians that we too live by the axiom of GIGO. If we focus on what is wrong with a person or organization, we become negative. If we allow thoughts of world turmoil to dominate our minds, we become pessimistic. Paul reminds us of what our mental focus should be- truth, nobility, purity and excellence.
In April of 1965, the Four Lads recorded "Standing on the Corner". There is a line from the song, "Oh they can't give you a ticket for what you're thinking." But you can disappoint God and affect your actions with "what you're thinking".
Check out this Casting Crowns video and the accompanying lyrics. (Couldn't embed video, but here is a link.)
Be careful little eyes what you see
It's the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it's the little feet behind you that are sure to follow
It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It's a slow fade, it's a slow fade
Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattery leads to compromise, the end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray
It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking
It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
For the Father up above is looking down in love
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
Other than late night frustration and hopeless head scratching I remember little from my undergraduate computer programming class. I believe BASIC was the language that forced me to deal with "if,then" statements, creating fictional car payment schedules and printing endless reams of green and white paper. One of the few things I retained was "GIGO"--garbage in, garbage out. If I inserted one too many commas or had a command out of order, the results of any given problem would be far from correct.
Blackaby's selection for today reminds Christians that we too live by the axiom of GIGO. If we focus on what is wrong with a person or organization, we become negative. If we allow thoughts of world turmoil to dominate our minds, we become pessimistic. Paul reminds us of what our mental focus should be- truth, nobility, purity and excellence.
In April of 1965, the Four Lads recorded "Standing on the Corner". There is a line from the song, "Oh they can't give you a ticket for what you're thinking." But you can disappoint God and affect your actions with "what you're thinking".
Check out this Casting Crowns video and the accompanying lyrics. (Couldn't embed video, but here is a link.)
Be careful little eyes what you see
It's the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the strings
Be careful little feet where you go
For it's the little feet behind you that are sure to follow
It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
It's a slow fade, it's a slow fade
Be careful little ears what you hear
When flattery leads to compromise, the end is always near
Be careful little lips what you say
For empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray
It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
The journey from your mind to your hands
Is shorter than you're thinking
Be careful if you think you stand
You just might be sinking
It's a slow fade when you give yourself away
It's a slow fade when black and white have turned to gray
Thoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paid
When you give yourself away
People never crumble in a day
Daddies never crumble in a day
Families never crumble in a day
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
For the Father up above is looking down in love
Oh be careful little eyes what you see
Friday, February 24, 2012
February 24, 2012
Hebrews 11:6 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.
Blackaby's first line in today's reading is "Your relationship with God is largely determined by your faith."
Other lines/passages that made me stop and say "Hmmmm." were:
"You may say, 'I love God, but I just have difficulty trusting Him.' Then you are not pleasing him. You cannot struggle at the core of your relationship with God and still enjoy a vibrant fellowship with Him!" (bold typeface mine)
"Faith does not eliminate problems. Faith keeps you in a trusting relationship with God in the midst of problems."
As I pondered today's reading, I had this reoccurring line of thought, "What does the Hebrew's kind of faith look like?" "How does one demonstrate this faith?" God is not calling me to move our family to an unknown land. He has not asked me to build a boat to house the Earth's beasties and birdies. How does an increased faith in Him manifest itself in my life?
Blackaby's first line in today's reading is "Your relationship with God is largely determined by your faith."
Other lines/passages that made me stop and say "Hmmmm." were:
"You may say, 'I love God, but I just have difficulty trusting Him.' Then you are not pleasing him. You cannot struggle at the core of your relationship with God and still enjoy a vibrant fellowship with Him!" (bold typeface mine)
"Faith does not eliminate problems. Faith keeps you in a trusting relationship with God in the midst of problems."
As I pondered today's reading, I had this reoccurring line of thought, "What does the Hebrew's kind of faith look like?" "How does one demonstrate this faith?" God is not calling me to move our family to an unknown land. He has not asked me to build a boat to house the Earth's beasties and birdies. How does an increased faith in Him manifest itself in my life?
Thursday, February 23, 2012
February 21, 2012
Isaiah 61-1-2 1The spirit of the sovereign Lord is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives, and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our GOD, to comfort for all who mourn,
Blackaby opens his entry about the above verses with "God's timing is perfect! When He speaks, the time to respond in obedience is now." Blackaby contends that many times Christians don't act because we are too busy with our own stuff. We will get around to obedience when it better fits our schedule and timing. Matthew 8:21
That may very well be the case, but I think another leading cause of disobedience is a lack of knowledge of God's will. While much of how we should live our lives is made clear in the Bible, many larger decisions such as what ministry to support, which church to attend, how to best invest money, etc. are items that only become clear after prayer and meditation, and even then there is often times
Welcome, folks! Step right up! See Mr. Rationalization. For only one thin dime you can see him rationalize, defend and deflect.
As I was writing my entry for today, it hit me, the areas in my life where disobedience has been and is still an issue are not because of a lack of knowledge, but just a case of "donwannas". I don't think that I even offer a "when I get around to it" excuse to God. I can think of at least three areas of my life where I am being consistently, willfully disobedient. While I don't care to discuss these areas specifically, I do ask for your prayer that I will find the ( ____________ ) to be obedient to God's will for me in these areas.
I left a blank in the above paragraph because I am not sure what noun best fit. "Strength?" "Humility?" "Self-discipline?" "Willingness?" Hmmm. . .
Blackaby opens his entry about the above verses with "God's timing is perfect! When He speaks, the time to respond in obedience is now." Blackaby contends that many times Christians don't act because we are too busy with our own stuff. We will get around to obedience when it better fits our schedule and timing. Matthew 8:21
Welcome, folks! Step right up! See Mr. Rationalization. For only one thin dime you can see him rationalize, defend and deflect.
As I was writing my entry for today, it hit me, the areas in my life where disobedience has been and is still an issue are not because of a lack of knowledge, but just a case of "donwannas". I don't think that I even offer a "when I get around to it" excuse to God. I can think of at least three areas of my life where I am being consistently, willfully disobedient. While I don't care to discuss these areas specifically, I do ask for your prayer that I will find the ( ____________ ) to be obedient to God's will for me in these areas.
I left a blank in the above paragraph because I am not sure what noun best fit. "Strength?" "Humility?" "Self-discipline?" "Willingness?" Hmmm. . .
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
February 21, 2012
Although it is still several years off, thoughts of retirement are not as far fetched as they once were. I have this notion that upon retirement I will become this Biblical scholar. Spending hours in study of the holy writ. But yesterday leads me to believe easier said than done. No school yesterday. All my time was mine to do with as I pleased. Did I spend extra time in heavenly pursuits? Were my knees raw from hours in prayer? Nah. I did have my usual quiet time and blog entry, which for me is a victory because many times days off quiet time gets relegated to the I-will-get-to-it-later column that seldom gets revisited. But none of the "extra" time I had yesterday was devoted to heavenly pursuits. (Not that this is relevant to today's Blackaby reading, but it was an interesting observation.)
Romans 14:19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.
Wow! I cannot think of too many more appropriate verses to serve as start of the week reminder for me. Encouragement does not come easy to me. I don't need the accolades of others, therefore I tend not to be an encourager. I think this comes from a low sense of self-worth. On some level it seems as if I am afraid that if I build others up, that in some way decreases me.
In today's reading, Paul commands us to "edify another". Although he was writing to the Christian church about how to treat other believers, it applies equally to all people.
Paul urges us to "pursue" the edification of others. Blackaby points out that the word "pursue" means to "passionately focus one's undistracted effort toward a goal." The edification of others is not a casual matter. It is not the throw away compliment of "you look nice" tossed over my shoulder to Kristi as I head out the door for work. How much more powerful would the compliment of "your students are lucky to have such a caring teacher in their classroom" mean?
Compliments and edifying remarks to others do not cost me a thing. No state, local or Federal taxes. No surcharges or shipping and handling. But the difference it can make in the lives of others is incalculable.
Heavenly Father, please help my words and actions today be uplifting to those around me.
Romans 14:19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.
Wow! I cannot think of too many more appropriate verses to serve as start of the week reminder for me. Encouragement does not come easy to me. I don't need the accolades of others, therefore I tend not to be an encourager. I think this comes from a low sense of self-worth. On some level it seems as if I am afraid that if I build others up, that in some way decreases me.
In today's reading, Paul commands us to "edify another". Although he was writing to the Christian church about how to treat other believers, it applies equally to all people.
Paul urges us to "pursue" the edification of others. Blackaby points out that the word "pursue" means to "passionately focus one's undistracted effort toward a goal." The edification of others is not a casual matter. It is not the throw away compliment of "you look nice" tossed over my shoulder to Kristi as I head out the door for work. How much more powerful would the compliment of "your students are lucky to have such a caring teacher in their classroom" mean?
Compliments and edifying remarks to others do not cost me a thing. No state, local or Federal taxes. No surcharges or shipping and handling. But the difference it can make in the lives of others is incalculable.
Heavenly Father, please help my words and actions today be uplifting to those around me.
Monday, February 20, 2012
February 20, 2012
Back to Blackaby.
I will be returning back to the Blackaby book, Experiencing God Day-by-Day, Devotional and Journal. While I will still keep up with the weekly Sunday School lessons, I found those daily lessons more of an intellectual pursuit as opposed to a springboard for prayer, meditation and life-change.
Psalm 23:3 What a difference an updated translation can make! I am using the 2011 update of the New International Version for this blog's scripture links. Today's verse reads: ". . .he refreshes my soul. He guides me along right paths for his name's sake." (Note lack of capitalization of God pronouns.)
I prefer the verbiage used in the earlier version of the NIV which is the translation Blackaby uses. "He restores my soul. He leads me in the path of righteousness for His name's sake."
"Why?" you ask.
First, it bothers me when a writer fails to capitalize any pronoun that refers to God. It just seems irreverent. Perhaps I am old-school. I still believe kids should not run in church and "church clothes" are not a bad idea.
Second,and most importantly, in this particular passage, the original NIV choice of "restores" as opposed the the 2011 "refreshes" more correctly reflects how God has worked (and still does) in my life.
"Refreshes" brings to mind a short break on a hot hike. It speaks of a cold drink of water as I mow the lawn. "Coca-cola, the pause that refreshes." Nothing wrong with being refreshed, but far from the capabilities of the Holy Spirit.
"Restores". That's the ticket. When I think of restoration I pictures a frame-off, down-to-the-bare-metal classic car restoration. In such a restoration the body is taken off the frame for body work, all bumpers are rechromed, rubber window gaskets are replaced and it leaves the shop as good or better than original. That is the soul restoration offered by God to all who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
When I cannot face one more meeting or new initiative at work- He restores. When a family member turns his back on the family- He restores. When the thought of getting out of bed is overwhelming- He restores. When financial obligations appear insurmountable- He restores.
Grab on to Psalm 23:3. Pray it. Expect it. Cry out for soul restoration. He is faithful and just. He will provide.
I will be returning back to the Blackaby book, Experiencing God Day-by-Day, Devotional and Journal. While I will still keep up with the weekly Sunday School lessons, I found those daily lessons more of an intellectual pursuit as opposed to a springboard for prayer, meditation and life-change.
Psalm 23:3 What a difference an updated translation can make! I am using the 2011 update of the New International Version for this blog's scripture links. Today's verse reads: ". . .he refreshes my soul. He guides me along right paths for his name's sake." (Note lack of capitalization of God pronouns.)
I prefer the verbiage used in the earlier version of the NIV which is the translation Blackaby uses. "He restores my soul. He leads me in the path of righteousness for His name's sake."
"Why?" you ask.
First, it bothers me when a writer fails to capitalize any pronoun that refers to God. It just seems irreverent. Perhaps I am old-school. I still believe kids should not run in church and "church clothes" are not a bad idea.
Second,and most importantly, in this particular passage, the original NIV choice of "restores" as opposed the the 2011 "refreshes" more correctly reflects how God has worked (and still does) in my life.
"Refreshes" brings to mind a short break on a hot hike. It speaks of a cold drink of water as I mow the lawn. "Coca-cola, the pause that refreshes." Nothing wrong with being refreshed, but far from the capabilities of the Holy Spirit.
"Restores". That's the ticket. When I think of restoration I pictures a frame-off, down-to-the-bare-metal classic car restoration. In such a restoration the body is taken off the frame for body work, all bumpers are rechromed, rubber window gaskets are replaced and it leaves the shop as good or better than original. That is the soul restoration offered by God to all who have accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
When I cannot face one more meeting or new initiative at work- He restores. When a family member turns his back on the family- He restores. When the thought of getting out of bed is overwhelming- He restores. When financial obligations appear insurmountable- He restores.
Grab on to Psalm 23:3. Pray it. Expect it. Cry out for soul restoration. He is faithful and just. He will provide.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
February 19, 2012
Thank you, God for the "just now" epiphany. As I was sitting here trying to make today's S.S. lesson relevant, my mind was wandering to some work-related issues. Without going into great detail, the question of my relevance or "fit" with Rountree has been weighing on me for quite a while. My "fit" or relevance at a temporary job (temporary in Kingdom sense, not in the I-am-going-go-be-looking-for-a-job-soon sense) is of such minor importance compared to my relationship with God the Father and His Kingdom work here on earth.
I have allowed my vision to become horizontal, rather than vertical. I have been worrying more about positive feedback from others (BTW, when did "compliments" become "positive feedback"?) than a "well done my good and faithful servant" from Yahweh. As long as comparisons to and the praise from those around me is a top priority my life will be one emotional roller coaster.
"Oh goody, they liked my presentation at that meeting!"
"Oh man, she didn't like the say I handled that situation."
"Yeah, my idea at that meeting got some positive nods from colleagues."
"#@#$ our test scores didn't bring the accolades of my bosses".
So on, so forth to the point of exhaustion, irritability and depression.
This not so say I can just use the Holy Spirit as an excuse to stomp my way through life. But if I am faithful to God's Word, to the Holy Spirit's leading and to Jesus Christ's example, I can live a life of correct decisions, improved relationships and restful nights. But most of all I will hear from Abba Father, "well done my good and faithful servant".
I have allowed my vision to become horizontal, rather than vertical. I have been worrying more about positive feedback from others (BTW, when did "compliments" become "positive feedback"?) than a "well done my good and faithful servant" from Yahweh. As long as comparisons to and the praise from those around me is a top priority my life will be one emotional roller coaster.
"Oh goody, they liked my presentation at that meeting!"
"Oh man, she didn't like the say I handled that situation."
"Yeah, my idea at that meeting got some positive nods from colleagues."
"#@#$ our test scores didn't bring the accolades of my bosses".
So on, so forth to the point of exhaustion, irritability and depression.
This not so say I can just use the Holy Spirit as an excuse to stomp my way through life. But if I am faithful to God's Word, to the Holy Spirit's leading and to Jesus Christ's example, I can live a life of correct decisions, improved relationships and restful nights. But most of all I will hear from Abba Father, "well done my good and faithful servant".
Friday, February 17, 2012
February 17, 2012
Week 6- Reading the Stories from the New Testament
Day 3- How Stories are Arranged for Emphasis
(continued)
Matthew 4:1-11
Luke 4:1-13
The these two recountings of Jesus' temptation in the desert, the author of our study book states that Luke may have chosen the "cast yourself off the temple" temptation last in order to emphasize the key themes of his book. However, I think the author is straining the soup a bit too thin. This particular part of this particular lesson feels to me to be an attempt to justify the author's feelings of a certain passage rather than a legitimate Biblical study technique.
Day 3- How Stories are Arranged for Emphasis
(continued)
Matthew 4:1-11
Luke 4:1-13
The these two recountings of Jesus' temptation in the desert, the author of our study book states that Luke may have chosen the "cast yourself off the temple" temptation last in order to emphasize the key themes of his book. However, I think the author is straining the soup a bit too thin. This particular part of this particular lesson feels to me to be an attempt to justify the author's feelings of a certain passage rather than a legitimate Biblical study technique.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
February 16, 2012
Week 6- Reading the Stories from the New Testament
Day 3- How Stories are Arranged for Emphasis
John 11:1-44 According to the author, this text points to Jesus' divinity because he raises Lazarus from the dead. While this was certainly one aspect of Christ's divinity, some of his disciples also raised people from the dead.
Matthew 4:1-11
Luke 4:1-13
There is more in today's reading. I will try to find time later tonight the complete the entry.
Day 3- How Stories are Arranged for Emphasis
John 11:1-44 According to the author, this text points to Jesus' divinity because he raises Lazarus from the dead. While this was certainly one aspect of Christ's divinity, some of his disciples also raised people from the dead.
Matthew 4:1-11
Luke 4:1-13
There is more in today's reading. I will try to find time later tonight the complete the entry.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
February 15, 2012
Week 6- Reading the Stories of the New Testament
Day 2- How the Stories Work
Mark 8:31-33
Sidenote: Hey, there reader. Have you chosen a Psalm and "prayed" it yet? If not, why not? Ya' chicken? I double dare you. :-) Don't be afraid to take risks in your spiritual life. The way we have "always done things" oft times leads one in to a rut. I don't know where I heard it, but a "rut is just a grave with no ends". Hmmm. . .
On Sunday, the question was raised, "Why did the disciples wait so long to write the gospels?" The answer offered by the instructor was that the disciples had the notion that Christ 2nd coming was going to happen in their lifetimes. When they realized this might not happen, they decided to record their time with Christ. I cannot offer a better answer, but for some reason, that answer leaves me unsettled. Thoughts?
As I spend time reading and rereading the New Testament, the personality of Peter and his relationship with Christ fascinates me more and more. Today's lesson was from the eighth chapter of Mark. Jesus was speaking "openly" about his future rejection, torture, death and resurrection. Peter "took Him (Jesus) aside and began to rebuke Him". Yikes! Obviously Peter still did not get that Jesus was God incarnate. Jesus was the Great I Am. Pretty bold of Peter to rebuke God. However in Peter's defense, he had not yet witnessed the death and resurrection of Christ. Peter did not have the synoptic gospels to reassure him. Peter was being asked to believe the near impossible without the benefit of hindsight.
I can give Peter some leeway. BUT, as a Christians I do have the gospels. I do have the Holy Spirit indwelling me. I can be sure that what Christ predicted came to fruition. Why then do I "pull Christ aside and rebuke Him" through my disobedience. God tells me He will provide for all my needs. Yet I rebuke Him by worrying about money. I am instructed to seek Him first and all I need will be provided. Yet I rebuke Him by spending far more time in earthly pursuits than in the Heavenly.
My rebukes are not verbal, or perhaps even conscious most of the time. However, on a consistent basis, my actions speak far louder than Peter's words. How many times does God shake His head and say, "David, you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns!"
Obedience not sacrifice. Heart assurance, not intellectual belief.
Day 2- How the Stories Work
Mark 8:31-33
Sidenote: Hey, there reader. Have you chosen a Psalm and "prayed" it yet? If not, why not? Ya' chicken? I double dare you. :-) Don't be afraid to take risks in your spiritual life. The way we have "always done things" oft times leads one in to a rut. I don't know where I heard it, but a "rut is just a grave with no ends". Hmmm. . .
On Sunday, the question was raised, "Why did the disciples wait so long to write the gospels?" The answer offered by the instructor was that the disciples had the notion that Christ 2nd coming was going to happen in their lifetimes. When they realized this might not happen, they decided to record their time with Christ. I cannot offer a better answer, but for some reason, that answer leaves me unsettled. Thoughts?
As I spend time reading and rereading the New Testament, the personality of Peter and his relationship with Christ fascinates me more and more. Today's lesson was from the eighth chapter of Mark. Jesus was speaking "openly" about his future rejection, torture, death and resurrection. Peter "took Him (Jesus) aside and began to rebuke Him". Yikes! Obviously Peter still did not get that Jesus was God incarnate. Jesus was the Great I Am. Pretty bold of Peter to rebuke God. However in Peter's defense, he had not yet witnessed the death and resurrection of Christ. Peter did not have the synoptic gospels to reassure him. Peter was being asked to believe the near impossible without the benefit of hindsight.
I can give Peter some leeway. BUT, as a Christians I do have the gospels. I do have the Holy Spirit indwelling me. I can be sure that what Christ predicted came to fruition. Why then do I "pull Christ aside and rebuke Him" through my disobedience. God tells me He will provide for all my needs. Yet I rebuke Him by worrying about money. I am instructed to seek Him first and all I need will be provided. Yet I rebuke Him by spending far more time in earthly pursuits than in the Heavenly.
My rebukes are not verbal, or perhaps even conscious most of the time. However, on a consistent basis, my actions speak far louder than Peter's words. How many times does God shake His head and say, "David, you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns!"
Obedience not sacrifice. Heart assurance, not intellectual belief.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
February 14, 2012
Week 6- Reading the Stories of the New Testament
Day 1- We Need the Cultural Context
Our study takes a 400-year leap from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Moving the focus to the New Testament is a two-edged sword.
One one hand, the majority of the N.T. stories are easier to understand and apply than many of the O.T. narratives. The Good Samaritan story has a clearer application than the prohibition against tattoos and shellfish.
On the other hand, the New Testament stories have been so oft repeated in VBS lessons, S.S. quarterlies and pulpit sermons that it will be easy to surface read the lessons thinking there are no new nuggets to be mined.
Day 1 focused on Matthew 9:9-13 where Jesus eats with the tax collector, Matthew. The background was presented about how tax collectors were social outcasts due to their real or perceived dishonesty, their position as a Roman lackey and being considered ceremonially unclean. While most of the cultural and background information were not new to me, two things did start to roll around in my head.
The first was a question posed by the author. That was "in what ways can modern religious people put up barriers between themselves and those who do not follow Christ?". At first I approached this question from the viewpoint of how the church might not welcome nonbelievers and create barriers. After a bit of research I discovered that church attendance in America over the past 50 years has remained fairly stable.
Then I examined the question on a more personal level. What as an individual Christian do I do that might create a barrier? This tack was more in-line with how Christ interacted. His connections were personal, not corporate. Jesus broke bread as opposed to leaving Bilyeu Family Concert tickets on the break room table. (This is not to disparage the BFC. However, what if two of those tickets were accompanied with a let's- grab-a-bite-before-or-coffee-after-offer?)
The other new learning I took away from today's lesson was that Jesus quoted scripture much more often that I had realized. The time when He was tempted in the desert is a well-known scripture quoting story from Jesus' life. However, in Matthew 9, Jesus goes to the O.T. book of Hosea to challenge the Pharisee's condemnation of His dinner companion choices.
My memorized scripture arsenal is woefully lacking. Scripture memorization has so many benefits, both spiritual and secular.
1. The Word is the sword of our spiritual armor. It allows us to directly confront and deflect Satan's attacks.
2. The discipline required to memorize scripture can assist in the development of all spiritual disciplines.
3. When the brain is focused on one task, such as scripture memorization, it cannot worry about deadlines, the economy or health concerns.
4. More and more brain research confirms that memorization of text not only helps delay/avoid Alzheimer's and dementia, but can actually increase a person's I.Q.
Today's reading showed me that if I will enter into God's presence with an open mind, an expectant heart and a hungry soul, He will reward my faithfulness.
Day 1- We Need the Cultural Context
Our study takes a 400-year leap from the Old Testament to the New Testament. Moving the focus to the New Testament is a two-edged sword.
One one hand, the majority of the N.T. stories are easier to understand and apply than many of the O.T. narratives. The Good Samaritan story has a clearer application than the prohibition against tattoos and shellfish.
On the other hand, the New Testament stories have been so oft repeated in VBS lessons, S.S. quarterlies and pulpit sermons that it will be easy to surface read the lessons thinking there are no new nuggets to be mined.
Day 1 focused on Matthew 9:9-13 where Jesus eats with the tax collector, Matthew. The background was presented about how tax collectors were social outcasts due to their real or perceived dishonesty, their position as a Roman lackey and being considered ceremonially unclean. While most of the cultural and background information were not new to me, two things did start to roll around in my head.
The first was a question posed by the author. That was "in what ways can modern religious people put up barriers between themselves and those who do not follow Christ?". At first I approached this question from the viewpoint of how the church might not welcome nonbelievers and create barriers. After a bit of research I discovered that church attendance in America over the past 50 years has remained fairly stable.
Then I examined the question on a more personal level. What as an individual Christian do I do that might create a barrier? This tack was more in-line with how Christ interacted. His connections were personal, not corporate. Jesus broke bread as opposed to leaving Bilyeu Family Concert tickets on the break room table. (This is not to disparage the BFC. However, what if two of those tickets were accompanied with a let's- grab-a-bite-before-or-coffee-after-offer?)
The other new learning I took away from today's lesson was that Jesus quoted scripture much more often that I had realized. The time when He was tempted in the desert is a well-known scripture quoting story from Jesus' life. However, in Matthew 9, Jesus goes to the O.T. book of Hosea to challenge the Pharisee's condemnation of His dinner companion choices.
My memorized scripture arsenal is woefully lacking. Scripture memorization has so many benefits, both spiritual and secular.
1. The Word is the sword of our spiritual armor. It allows us to directly confront and deflect Satan's attacks.
2. The discipline required to memorize scripture can assist in the development of all spiritual disciplines.
3. When the brain is focused on one task, such as scripture memorization, it cannot worry about deadlines, the economy or health concerns.
4. More and more brain research confirms that memorization of text not only helps delay/avoid Alzheimer's and dementia, but can actually increase a person's I.Q.
Today's reading showed me that if I will enter into God's presence with an open mind, an expectant heart and a hungry soul, He will reward my faithfulness.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
February 11, 2012
The Poetic Language of the Psalms (Day 4)
Left me a bit flat. Did exercises, but they were just that, exercises.
Using the Psalms in Prayer (Day 5)
I struggle with the emotionality of the Psalms. Whether good or bad, I can see the Psalms being a "go to as needed" book for me. I don't think that is necessarily a bad thing as long as I don't turn the entire Bible into a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency book.
Left me a bit flat. Did exercises, but they were just that, exercises.
Using the Psalms in Prayer (Day 5)
I struggle with the emotionality of the Psalms. Whether good or bad, I can see the Psalms being a "go to as needed" book for me. I don't think that is necessarily a bad thing as long as I don't turn the entire Bible into a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency book.
Friday, February 10, 2012
February 10, 2012
Embracing the Figurative Language of the Psalms (Day 3)
The authors ask the reader to identify several needs in my life, and then use the 23rd Psalm to pray to God about these needs. There is an example on page 105 of the book. This is what I have been taught in the past as praying through a scripture.
Need 23rd Psalm
-To be satisfied with what the Lord had given me v1 "I lack nothing"
-Hectic life, too many activities v 2 "He makes me lie
down in green
pastures and lie
beside still waters.
I can see this type of praying through the Psalms were be very beneficial. Time consuming, yes. Fulfilling, yes.
The authors ask the reader to identify several needs in my life, and then use the 23rd Psalm to pray to God about these needs. There is an example on page 105 of the book. This is what I have been taught in the past as praying through a scripture.
Need 23rd Psalm
-To be satisfied with what the Lord had given me v1 "I lack nothing"
-Hectic life, too many activities v 2 "He makes me lie
down in green
pastures and lie
beside still waters.
I can see this type of praying through the Psalms were be very beneficial. Time consuming, yes. Fulfilling, yes.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
February 8, 2012
Understanding the Functions of the Psalms, Part 2
Love the line from page 98, "They (psalms) also help us reflect on various aspects of life, constructing tracks on which our thoughts can run to God." (italics mine) That word picture made one of the major purposes of the psalms very clear to me. They direct my mind toward God. I also pictured a wooded path, overarched with trees.
The challenge I have with the Psalms is twofold. First, the sheer number of Psalms makes it a challenge for me to know which one to read. Do I start at the beginning and read in a linear manner even though they are not recorded as a sequential story? Do I randomly pick one each day? Thoughts?
The second challenge takes refers back to the wooded path analogy. While I appreciate the "tracks" analogy the author uses, a train on a set of tracks seldom jumps those tracks. I wish my thought train would stay on track better. I am more of a wooded path meditator. While the path may be clearly marked by the psalms, my mind wanders down secondary paths far too often. Keeping my mind focused on books like the Book of Psalms is tough for me. It is easier for me to focus on the story-telling sections/books in the Bible. (Yeah, I know that difficult does not excuse giving up.)
The chart on page 100 of Read the Bible for Life will be helpful when I read through the Book of Psalms.
Love the line from page 98, "They (psalms) also help us reflect on various aspects of life, constructing tracks on which our thoughts can run to God." (italics mine) That word picture made one of the major purposes of the psalms very clear to me. They direct my mind toward God. I also pictured a wooded path, overarched with trees.
The challenge I have with the Psalms is twofold. First, the sheer number of Psalms makes it a challenge for me to know which one to read. Do I start at the beginning and read in a linear manner even though they are not recorded as a sequential story? Do I randomly pick one each day? Thoughts?
The second challenge takes refers back to the wooded path analogy. While I appreciate the "tracks" analogy the author uses, a train on a set of tracks seldom jumps those tracks. I wish my thought train would stay on track better. I am more of a wooded path meditator. While the path may be clearly marked by the psalms, my mind wanders down secondary paths far too often. Keeping my mind focused on books like the Book of Psalms is tough for me. It is easier for me to focus on the story-telling sections/books in the Bible. (Yeah, I know that difficult does not excuse giving up.)
The chart on page 100 of Read the Bible for Life will be helpful when I read through the Book of Psalms.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
February 7, 2012
This week's Read the Bible for Life lessons is about how to better read, understand and appreciate the Psalms. One interesting line from page 96 is "the psalms are the main place in Scripture where we find primarily human words to God or human words about God, instead of God's words to us."
The questions are asked, "What is your favorite psalm? Why?"
For me it is Psalm 16. Why? Hmmm. . . Verses 2, 5, and 8 really speak to me. These verses affirm the fact that God supplies all we need. The verses remind the reader that we should thank God for all we have and look ONLY to God for what we need. Whether it is stuff or security, God is our supplier. Not a job. Not a hobby. Not even a spouse. But God alone. El Shaddai- The All Sufficient God.
Verse 4 reminds me of those long stretches of my life when I turned my back on God and was living proof that "those who run after other gods will suffer more and more".
How would you answer the questions, "What is your favorite psalm? Why?"
The questions are asked, "What is your favorite psalm? Why?"
For me it is Psalm 16. Why? Hmmm. . . Verses 2, 5, and 8 really speak to me. These verses affirm the fact that God supplies all we need. The verses remind the reader that we should thank God for all we have and look ONLY to God for what we need. Whether it is stuff or security, God is our supplier. Not a job. Not a hobby. Not even a spouse. But God alone. El Shaddai- The All Sufficient God.
Verse 4 reminds me of those long stretches of my life when I turned my back on God and was living proof that "those who run after other gods will suffer more and more".
How would you answer the questions, "What is your favorite psalm? Why?"
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