10 And those who know your name put their trust in you,
for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you.
Psalm 9:10 ESV
Last year I saved up enough pennies to purchase a Werner MT telescoping multi-purpose ladder. Love the bad boy! Adjustable. Functional. Step ladder. Extension ladder. A man's man ladder. (Grunt, scratch, belch.)
There are other types of adjustable ladders out there, but I chose a Werner because of the reputation of the company. Werner has been making ladders for over the past 60 years.
"On jobsites across America, Werner is
preferred more than any brand because innovation, safety and durability
are built into every product." I trust Werner ladders because I have knowledge of them
I am not likely to purchase a ladder from the Slapstick Ladder Company or a ladder company owned by a chiropractic consortium. It is my knowledge of Werner that allow me to trust their product when I am 20 feet in the air on one of their ladders.
In today's verse, David reminds us that our faith in God should be borne out of a knowledge of Him. To blindly put your faith in a person or product is not wise and not likely to be a faith that will weather difficult times.
The deepening of ones relationship with God will only serve to strengthen the faith in Him. The more we know Him, the more we trust Him.
Real trust comes out of a deep knowledge of the object of that trust.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Duality August 27, 2014
3 You keep him in perfect peace
whose mind is stayed on you,
because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3 ESV
As I think back over my blog entries for the past 3+ years, I can recall several entries that deal with the putting of hands and feet to one's Christianity. While our salvation does not depend on acts of service, obedience, kindness, Samaritian-like behaviors, these types of behaviors will be the natural outcropping of the truly regenerated man.
But just as often, entries reflect the inner-workings of a child of God. "Wait upon the Lord." "Be still and know that I am God." "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Today's verse is a wonderful "inner-workings" verse.
Only seventeen words, but what a foundational truth.
God does the keeping. We don't have to find that inner-peace. We are not required to calm our fears through transcendental mediation. We do not have to find inner-peace through downward-facing dog or low warrior. Abba, Father, keeps us in perfect peace.
His peace is "perfect". Imperfect peace can be achieved through alcohol, extramarital affairs, a new motorcycle, momma's little helpers, etc. All the things Madison Avenue, Hollywood, and Cosmo tell us will give us satisfaction, peace, and value are temporary fixes. Surface changes bring only surface peace.
Our minds must be "stayed" on God. One of MW-online dictionary's definition of stay is "to stick with or remain with (as a race or trial of endurance) to the end". Now-and-again thoughts of God, truncated alone time with God, or brief prayer times will not gain that "perfect peace". Our minds must be fixated on, lashed to, bonded with God.
In addition, the perfect peace to which God references is not about doing or having. Leading a Sunday School class is not mentioned. Giving to the poor does not do the trick. Writing a big check to a charity has no bearing on that perfect peace. That peace only comes when ones mind is focused on the heavenly Father.
Peace comes when two things are aligned. First the object- God. End of story. Nothing more or nothing less. Second the method- the focus of the mind. Faith in God. Fixation on Yahweh.
whose mind is stayed on you,
because he trusts in you.
Isaiah 26:3 ESV
As I think back over my blog entries for the past 3+ years, I can recall several entries that deal with the putting of hands and feet to one's Christianity. While our salvation does not depend on acts of service, obedience, kindness, Samaritian-like behaviors, these types of behaviors will be the natural outcropping of the truly regenerated man.
But just as often, entries reflect the inner-workings of a child of God. "Wait upon the Lord." "Be still and know that I am God." "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Today's verse is a wonderful "inner-workings" verse.
Only seventeen words, but what a foundational truth.
God does the keeping. We don't have to find that inner-peace. We are not required to calm our fears through transcendental mediation. We do not have to find inner-peace through downward-facing dog or low warrior. Abba, Father, keeps us in perfect peace.
His peace is "perfect". Imperfect peace can be achieved through alcohol, extramarital affairs, a new motorcycle, momma's little helpers, etc. All the things Madison Avenue, Hollywood, and Cosmo tell us will give us satisfaction, peace, and value are temporary fixes. Surface changes bring only surface peace.
Our minds must be "stayed" on God. One of MW-online dictionary's definition of stay is "to stick with or remain with (as a race or trial of endurance) to the end". Now-and-again thoughts of God, truncated alone time with God, or brief prayer times will not gain that "perfect peace". Our minds must be fixated on, lashed to, bonded with God.
In addition, the perfect peace to which God references is not about doing or having. Leading a Sunday School class is not mentioned. Giving to the poor does not do the trick. Writing a big check to a charity has no bearing on that perfect peace. That peace only comes when ones mind is focused on the heavenly Father.
Peace comes when two things are aligned. First the object- God. End of story. Nothing more or nothing less. Second the method- the focus of the mind. Faith in God. Fixation on Yahweh.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Shhhh, , , August 26, 2014
3 Be silent, all flesh, before the Lord,
Zechariah 2:13 ESV
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10 ESV
35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.
Mark 1:35 ESV
15 Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself. John 6:15 ESV
11 And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. 13 And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him
1 Kings 19:11-13 ESV
Google is great, but it's not God. The internet is incredible, but it's not the Holy Spirit. CNN can bring you the world, but not peace.
In solitude one finds God. Unplug and connect.
Zechariah 2:13 ESV
10 “Be still, and know that I am God.
Psalm 46:10 ESV
35 And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there he prayed.
Mark 1:35 ESV
15 Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself. John 6:15 ESV
11 And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. 13 And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him
1 Kings 19:11-13 ESV
Google is great, but it's not God. The internet is incredible, but it's not the Holy Spirit. CNN can bring you the world, but not peace.
In solitude one finds God. Unplug and connect.
Friday, August 22, 2014
It's Good to Feel Bad August 22, 2014
Before positive change can take place, a person must recognize a need for change. Change is constantly occurring. Nothing is in a state of stasis. We are a day older than yesterday. Two more hairs have fallen out that will not be replaced. Ten more calories have decided to hang around the belly.
For a Christian, the Holy Spirit is our change agent. He convicts us of the disobedience of the skipped prayer times. He alerts us to the divisive attitude we have with our spouse. He whispers in our ear that the story we passed along at work was gossip. And, yes, the voice of the Holy Spirit will make us uncomfortable at times. Perhaps even miserable.
In the Psalms, David wrote many times about how being convicted of sin went way beyond discomfort.
3 For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer.
Psalm 32:3-4 ESV
4 For my iniquities have gone over my head;
like a heavy burden, they are too heavy for me.
Psalm 38:4 ESV
I woke up this morning convicted of my small, petty behavior toward Kristi last night. I had caused two very small disagreements to turn into evening-killers. The Holy Spirit was right there at dawn's early light to remind me of my disappointing behaviors.
At that point, I had two choices. One, ignore what I was feeling. Two, come into agreement with God and make things right with Kristi.
After years of ignoring God, I knew that was not going to be a fruitful path, to I chose number two. In addition I prayed to God that He would give me strength to handle things better in the future.
Had the Holy Spirit not created a sense if disquietude in my spirit, I might not have made the effort to restore the relationship with Kristi.
Just like pain in a pitcher's arm signals an injury, so does the pain in our heart signal an injury to a relationship with those around us. If a pitcher ignores the pain and finishes the game, he risks the danger of permanent damage. So to, if we ignore the Spirit's warning voice, we take a chance of permanently damaging a relationship.
- See more at: http://bible.knowing-jesus.com/topics/Conviction-Of-Sin#sthash.Qb1zPMyg.dpuf
For a Christian, the Holy Spirit is our change agent. He convicts us of the disobedience of the skipped prayer times. He alerts us to the divisive attitude we have with our spouse. He whispers in our ear that the story we passed along at work was gossip. And, yes, the voice of the Holy Spirit will make us uncomfortable at times. Perhaps even miserable.
In the Psalms, David wrote many times about how being convicted of sin went way beyond discomfort.
3 For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away
through my groaning all day long.
4 For day and night your hand was heavy upon me;
my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer.
Psalm 32:3-4 ESV
4 For my iniquities have gone over my head;
like a heavy burden, they are too heavy for me.
Psalm 38:4 ESV
I woke up this morning convicted of my small, petty behavior toward Kristi last night. I had caused two very small disagreements to turn into evening-killers. The Holy Spirit was right there at dawn's early light to remind me of my disappointing behaviors.
At that point, I had two choices. One, ignore what I was feeling. Two, come into agreement with God and make things right with Kristi.
After years of ignoring God, I knew that was not going to be a fruitful path, to I chose number two. In addition I prayed to God that He would give me strength to handle things better in the future.
Had the Holy Spirit not created a sense if disquietude in my spirit, I might not have made the effort to restore the relationship with Kristi.
Just like pain in a pitcher's arm signals an injury, so does the pain in our heart signal an injury to a relationship with those around us. If a pitcher ignores the pain and finishes the game, he risks the danger of permanent damage. So to, if we ignore the Spirit's warning voice, we take a chance of permanently damaging a relationship.
Psalms 32:3
When I kept silent about my sin, my body wasted away Through my groaning all day long.
Psalms 38:4
For my iniquities are gone over my head; As a heavy burden they weigh too much for me
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Habit of Sympathy August 21, 2014
1 We who are strong have an obligation to bear with the failings of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Romans 15:1 ESV
4 The Lord God has given me
the tongue of those who are taught,
that I may know how to sustain with a word
him who is weary.
Isaiah 50:4 ESV
4 The Lord God has given me
the tongue of those who are taught,
that I may know how to sustain with a word
him who is weary.
Isaiah 50:4 ESV
Ask Him to increase your powers of sympathy: to give you more quickness
and depth of sympathy, in little things as well as great. Opportunities of
doing a kindness are often lost from mere want of thought. Half a dozen
lines of kindness may bring sunshine into the whole day of some sick
person. Think of the pleasure you might give to some one who is much shut
up, and who has fewer pleasures than you have, by sharing with her some
little comfort or enjoyment that you have learnt to look upon as a
necessary of life,—the pleasant drive, the new book, flowers from the
country, etc. Try to put yourself in another's place. Ask "What should I
like myself, if I were hard-worked, or sick, or lonely?" Cultivate the
habit of sympathy.
G. H. WILKINSON.*
"Cultivate a habit of sympathy." All to often I have hidden behind the excuse that, "I am just not good at sympathy." I allow this to be an excuse not to send that card or offer a listening ear. But today's scripture verses point to the disobedience in that attitude.
I have an obligation to "bear with the failings of the weak". God expects me to "sustain with a word him who is weary". While sympathy not be my strong suit, it is none-the-less a habit that can be developed and strengthened.
If God can give us strength to conquer addictions, stand up against temptation, and get through rough times, surely He can help me to become more sympathetic. If God commands, He will equip. He is a God of action, not excuses.
*Daily Strength for Daily Needs. 8/21/14
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
August 20, 2014
14 Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!
Psalm 27:14 ESV
29 He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Isaiah 40:29 ESV
be strong, and let your heart take courage;
wait for the Lord!
Psalm 27:14 ESV
29 He gives power to the faint,
and to him who has no might he increases strength.
Isaiah 40:29 ESV
Should we feel at times disheartened and discouraged, a confiding thought,
a simple movement of heart towards God will renew our powers. Whatever
He may demand of us, He will give us at the moment the strength and the
courage that we need.
FRANÇOIS DE LA MOTHE FÉNELON.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Plain is Not Plain August 19, 2014
11 Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies.
Psalm 27:11 KJV
I selected the KJV translation for today's verse because of its use of "plain". The choice of other translations were:
ESV- "level"; ASV- "plain"; NIV- "straight"; The Message- "well-lighted"
"Plain" spoke to me because of the varied definitions of the word and the applicability of several of these definitions. I am using the Merriam-Webster Online dictionary as a reference.
: not having any added or extra things
: in a plain manner : without obscurity or ambiguity
Psalm 27:11 KJV
I selected the KJV translation for today's verse because of its use of "plain". The choice of other translations were:
ESV- "level"; ASV- "plain"; NIV- "straight"; The Message- "well-lighted"
"Plain" spoke to me because of the varied definitions of the word and the applicability of several of these definitions. I am using the Merriam-Webster Online dictionary as a reference.
plain
adjective: not having any added or extra things
: easy to see or understand
-God's path is sufficient. No extras required. No fluff, additions, or add-ons.
-Once revealed God's path is also "easy to see or understand". We might try to make it difficult or shrouded in mystery, but God is not a God of confusion. If we truly seek His path for our lives, He will reveal it to us.
-Once revealed God's path is also "easy to see or understand". We might try to make it difficult or shrouded in mystery, but God is not a God of confusion. If we truly seek His path for our lives, He will reveal it to us.
plain
adverb
God doesn't mince words. When He speaks He will also clarify. There is an old bumper sticker that exemplifies this mind set- "God said it. I believe it. Period." When God speaks, we will know.
plain
adverb
: absolutely
-Absolute, end of story, game set and match. God's word is our compass, our life GPS. There are no needs for additions, corrections, or substitutions.
plain
adjective
:belonging to the masses
No priests, preachers, or popes needed for the determination of God's path for the lives of individuals. Once we become born-again, we have direct, immediate, and constant access to God the Father.
This it not to say that God's path will always be easy or free from trouble. Plain does not mean problem free. In fact, He has promised His children there will be times of difficulty and heartache. But if we seek and His path, we can be assured both the peaks and valleys will be exactly what are in His plan for lives.
No priests, preachers, or popes needed for the determination of God's path for the lives of individuals. Once we become born-again, we have direct, immediate, and constant access to God the Father.
This it not to say that God's path will always be easy or free from trouble. Plain does not mean problem free. In fact, He has promised His children there will be times of difficulty and heartache. But if we seek and His path, we can be assured both the peaks and valleys will be exactly what are in His plan for lives.
Monday, August 18, 2014
There are No Shadows August 18, 2014
21 Beloved, if our heart does not condemn us, we have confidence before God; 1John 3:21 ESV
Nothing doth so much establish the mind amidst the rollings and turbulency
of present things, as both a look above them, and a look beyond them; above
them to the good and steady Hand by which they are ruled, and beyond them
to the sweet and beautiful end to which, by that Hand, they shall be
brought. Study pure and holy walking, if you would have your confidence
firm, and have boldness and joy in God. You will find that a little sin
will shake your trust and disturb your peace more than the greatest
sufferings: yea, in those sufferings, your assurance and joy in God will
grow and abound most if sin be kept out. So much sin as gets in, so much
peace will go out.
R. LEIGHTON.*
How often do we sincerely ask God to reveal our personal sins to us? Do we really want God to shine His holy light into the deepest, darkest corners of our heart and illuminate the habits and thoughts that displease Him?
If not, why not? Is it because we worry He might reveal to us some habit of which we are unaware? Maybe His examination will bring to light a sin of which we had no knowledge. While this is a possibility, I think it is more a case of "just ignore it, and it will go away". Not the sin, but God's conviction of that sin.
My belief is that our hesitancy to ask God's conviction is less about the fear of the unknown and more about our fear to talk about the elephant in the room. Christians are willing to tolerate a disquietude over a sin. We will ignore that still, small voice of conviction. But to have a conversation with God. . . It is at that point we can no longer claim ignorance. We cannot lift our hands to our mouths in mock surprise, "I had no idea, God. I really didn't know."
To be honest and open with God strips away our excuses. To ask for His revelation and/or conformation leaves us no room to hide.
It is amusing that we think anything is hidden from God. Adam and Eve tried to hide their sin from God. Ananias and Sapphira were not able to conceal their disobedience. He has knowledge even if we lack admission.
Confess. Come into agreement with God. Then enjoy the peace that comes with the restoration of the relationship with Him.
*Daily Strength for Daily Needs. Mary Tileston. August 18, 2014
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Mindset August 17, 2014
1I lift up my eyes to the hills.
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV)
How can you live sweetly amid the vexatious things, the irritating things, the multitude of little worries and frets, which lie all along your way, and which you cannot evade? You cannot at present change your surroundings. Whatever kind of life you are to live, must be lived amid precisely the experiences in which you are now moving. Here you must win your victories or suffer your defeats. No restlessness or discontent can change your lot. Others may have other circumstances surrounding them, but here are yours. You had better make up your mind to accept what you cannot alter. You can live a beautiful life in the midst of your present circumstances.
J.R. Miller*
There were several items in Mr. Miller's paragraph that caught my attention.
1. "You cannot at present change your surroundings." This statement is not necessarily true. Surroundings can be changed. Jobs can be quit. Spouses divorced. Houses sold and bought. Church membership moved. But what I have discovered over the years is that many times external changes done for the wrong reasons are temporary fixes at best. All too often the same disquietude, discontent, and dysfunction is present at the new job, with the new spouse, in the new church. "Living sweetly" is more a function of the internal rather than the external.
2. "Here you must win your victories or suffer your defeats." I will do _____ when_____. Tomorrow I will _____. If only _____ then I would be able to _____. That is such wrong thinking. If God calls, appoints, demands then it is to be done now, not when circumstances changes. We live in the here and now, not in tomorrow.
3. "You had better make up you mind. . ." Living a life of acceptance and contentment is not a matter of feeling like it. We choose our attitudes. Understandably there are circumstances which will greatly affect our emotions and mind, but at the end of the day, how we feel, what we think are ours to choose.
Take it from a professional worrier. Agita, anxiety, and apprehension do not change the situation. The make one tired, cost one sleep, and play havoc with the bowels, but they do not improve jobs marriages, or churches for the better.
Daily Strength for Daily Needs, Mary Tileston. August 17, 2014
From where does my help come?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
Psalm 121:1-2 (ESV)
How can you live sweetly amid the vexatious things, the irritating things, the multitude of little worries and frets, which lie all along your way, and which you cannot evade? You cannot at present change your surroundings. Whatever kind of life you are to live, must be lived amid precisely the experiences in which you are now moving. Here you must win your victories or suffer your defeats. No restlessness or discontent can change your lot. Others may have other circumstances surrounding them, but here are yours. You had better make up your mind to accept what you cannot alter. You can live a beautiful life in the midst of your present circumstances.
J.R. Miller*
There were several items in Mr. Miller's paragraph that caught my attention.
1. "You cannot at present change your surroundings." This statement is not necessarily true. Surroundings can be changed. Jobs can be quit. Spouses divorced. Houses sold and bought. Church membership moved. But what I have discovered over the years is that many times external changes done for the wrong reasons are temporary fixes at best. All too often the same disquietude, discontent, and dysfunction is present at the new job, with the new spouse, in the new church. "Living sweetly" is more a function of the internal rather than the external.
2. "Here you must win your victories or suffer your defeats." I will do _____ when_____. Tomorrow I will _____. If only _____ then I would be able to _____. That is such wrong thinking. If God calls, appoints, demands then it is to be done now, not when circumstances changes. We live in the here and now, not in tomorrow.
3. "You had better make up you mind. . ." Living a life of acceptance and contentment is not a matter of feeling like it. We choose our attitudes. Understandably there are circumstances which will greatly affect our emotions and mind, but at the end of the day, how we feel, what we think are ours to choose.
Take it from a professional worrier. Agita, anxiety, and apprehension do not change the situation. The make one tired, cost one sleep, and play havoc with the bowels, but they do not improve jobs marriages, or churches for the better.
Daily Strength for Daily Needs, Mary Tileston. August 17, 2014
Saturday, August 16, 2014
If A, Then B August 16, 2014
7 Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.
Galatians 6:7 ESV
A few years ago the idea of having a life verse became popular.
I googled "life verse" and each definition was similar to the two listed here:
"a verse from the Bible (or a small passage) that you choose to be your most favorite verse; it is the one that you commit to memory to share with others."*
"the scripture quote that seems to speak to you directly – the one that holds a personal meaning for you."**
I am going to resist the temptation to address all the problems I see associated with selection a personal life verse. However, today's verse from Galatians would be a front-runner for me if I were a life-verse fan.
Today's verse was one of those that immediately struck me at the very core of my being. "Whatever one sows, that will he also reap."
What a powerful verse to bring to apply before engaging in any activity or making any decision. The term "causal conditional" or "if A, then B" comes to mind when I consider Galatians 6:7
IF spend too much time at work THEN relationships at home suffer.
IF cigarettes are smoked THEN health is compromised.
IF the morning news replaces prayer time THEN distance is created with God.
But not all if-then propositions have to be negative.
IF God's guidance is sought THEN better decisions will be made.
IF Bibles are read (and applied) THEN positive change occurs.
IF the Gospel is shared THEN more people will choose Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
How powerful a life verse would Galatians 6:7 be if it were considered before any decision were made?
I believe it will have a transforming affect on my life as I attempt to apply it on a daily basis.
*http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/what-is-a-life-verse-20-good-choices-for-yours/
**http://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/choosing-your-life-verse.html
Galatians 6:7 ESV
A few years ago the idea of having a life verse became popular.
I googled "life verse" and each definition was similar to the two listed here:
"a verse from the Bible (or a small passage) that you choose to be your most favorite verse; it is the one that you commit to memory to share with others."*
"the scripture quote that seems to speak to you directly – the one that holds a personal meaning for you."**
I am going to resist the temptation to address all the problems I see associated with selection a personal life verse. However, today's verse from Galatians would be a front-runner for me if I were a life-verse fan.
Today's verse was one of those that immediately struck me at the very core of my being. "Whatever one sows, that will he also reap."
What a powerful verse to bring to apply before engaging in any activity or making any decision. The term "causal conditional" or "if A, then B" comes to mind when I consider Galatians 6:7
IF spend too much time at work THEN relationships at home suffer.
IF cigarettes are smoked THEN health is compromised.
IF the morning news replaces prayer time THEN distance is created with God.
But not all if-then propositions have to be negative.
IF God's guidance is sought THEN better decisions will be made.
IF Bibles are read (and applied) THEN positive change occurs.
IF the Gospel is shared THEN more people will choose Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
How powerful a life verse would Galatians 6:7 be if it were considered before any decision were made?
I believe it will have a transforming affect on my life as I attempt to apply it on a daily basis.
*http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/what-is-a-life-verse-20-good-choices-for-yours/
**http://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/choosing-your-life-verse.html
Friday, August 15, 2014
No Fear (Caution: Contains disturbing images) August 15, 2014
7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7 ESV
Sitting here at my desk in my comfortable middle-class house in Springfield, Missouri, USA today's verse should never be an issue. Sure, I have concerns involving work, family, retirement, etc. But fear? That should never enter into the picture.
However for millions of people around the world, today's verse would need to be conjoined with Philippians 4:13--"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." How can the people in Mosul where beheadings, rape, and torture are daily occurrences be expected to apply 2 Timothy 1:7?
A spirit of "power and love and self-control" for the 870 million people in the world who are chronically malnourished? What about the over 600,000 homeless Americans?
God did not inspire these words to Paul while Paul was sitting in a comfortable Lazy-Boy recliner. Paul was a regular guest of Roman prisons. His life after his conversion was much closer to the people groups mentioned above than my life in Springfield, MO.
I believe that the Bible has relevance for all people, in all geographic locales, for all generations. But to be able to apply verses such as today's when living in the conditions so many of the world does, is truly impossible without the supernatural help of the Holy Spirit.
For a nonChristian to receive the blessings from God, it is impossible because it is only through a relationship with Him that we have the strength to grasp His blessings.
Please take some time right now to say a prayer for the persecuted, hungry, scared around the world. May God's spirit become a presence in their life.
Sitting here at my desk in my comfortable middle-class house in Springfield, Missouri, USA today's verse should never be an issue. Sure, I have concerns involving work, family, retirement, etc. But fear? That should never enter into the picture.
However for millions of people around the world, today's verse would need to be conjoined with Philippians 4:13--"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." How can the people in Mosul where beheadings, rape, and torture are daily occurrences be expected to apply 2 Timothy 1:7?
A spirit of "power and love and self-control" for the 870 million people in the world who are chronically malnourished? What about the over 600,000 homeless Americans?
God did not inspire these words to Paul while Paul was sitting in a comfortable Lazy-Boy recliner. Paul was a regular guest of Roman prisons. His life after his conversion was much closer to the people groups mentioned above than my life in Springfield, MO.
I believe that the Bible has relevance for all people, in all geographic locales, for all generations. But to be able to apply verses such as today's when living in the conditions so many of the world does, is truly impossible without the supernatural help of the Holy Spirit.
For a nonChristian to receive the blessings from God, it is impossible because it is only through a relationship with Him that we have the strength to grasp His blessings.
Please take some time right now to say a prayer for the persecuted, hungry, scared around the world. May God's spirit become a presence in their life.
Wednesday, August 13, 2014
Impatience August 13, 2014
19 By your endurance you will gain your lives. Luke 21:19 (ESV)
The soul loses command of itself when it is impatient. Whereas, when it
submits without a murmur it possesses itself in peace, and possesses God.
To be impatient, is to desire what we have not, or not to desire what we
have. When we acquiesce in an evil, it is no longer such. Why make a real
calamity of it by resistance? Peace does not dwell in outward things, but
within the soul. We may preserve it in the midst of the bitterest pain,
if our will remains firm and submissive. Peace in this life springs from
acquiescence even in disagreeable things, not in an exemption from bearing
them.
FRANÇOIS DE LA MOTHE FÉNELON.
Impatience is disobedience. Disobedience is sin. Therefore impatience is disobedience.
I had never equated impatience with disobedience. But after reading today's entry from Daily Strength for Daily Needs, the connection was clear.
Monday, August 11, 2014
?, ?, ?, and more ? August 11, 2014
10 You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake.
Deuteronomy 15:10 ESV
I think I find most help in trying to look on all interruptions and hindrances to work that one has planned out for oneself as discipline, trials sent by God to help one against getting selfish over one's work. Then one can feel that perhaps one's true work—one's work for God—consists in doing some trifling haphazard thing that has been thrown into one's day. It is not waste of time, as one is tempted to think, it is the most important part of the work of the day,—the part one can best offer to God. After such a hindrance, do not rush after the planned work; trust that the time to finish it will be given sometime, and keep a quiet heart about it.
Annie Keary
The parting of the Red Sea. Manna from heaven. Raising Lazarus from the dead. Turing water into wine. All miracles. All impressive acts of God. I would like to add one more miracle to this list. One that is perhaps more impressive--God's individualization of His love.
Time and time again, I see how a verse has a direct application to a particular situation I am facing on that very day. Cannot be coincidence. In eternity past, God knew exactly what I would need for today, August 11, 2014. He arranged the order of Mary's book to remind me of His truths I will need for today.
Today's verse and subsequent devotion from Mary Tileson's book were not just happenstance. They were personally tailored for my day today.
Meet the Teacher is this afternoon. School starts tomorrow. Questions will abound today. Interruptions to my planned work will be plentiful.
The verse from Deuteronomy reminds me that if I give to God, He will bless me in all my work. The paragraph from Keary reminds me that those interruptions that will inevitably happen are opportunities to put others before self. It reminds me that today's questions, concerns, and weekend stories are about relationships. And relationships were Jesus' first order.
Jesus was a servant leader. He took the time to heal. He took the time to explain. He took the time to interact. His mission of the salvation of the human race was a bit more important than the opening of a small elementary school for the 2014-2015 school year; however, He was never too busy for the individual.
Each question, each "interruption" is sent from or allowed by God. They are an opportunity to model Jesus' leadership style of focusing on the individual.
Deuteronomy 15:10 ESV
I think I find most help in trying to look on all interruptions and hindrances to work that one has planned out for oneself as discipline, trials sent by God to help one against getting selfish over one's work. Then one can feel that perhaps one's true work—one's work for God—consists in doing some trifling haphazard thing that has been thrown into one's day. It is not waste of time, as one is tempted to think, it is the most important part of the work of the day,—the part one can best offer to God. After such a hindrance, do not rush after the planned work; trust that the time to finish it will be given sometime, and keep a quiet heart about it.
Annie Keary
The parting of the Red Sea. Manna from heaven. Raising Lazarus from the dead. Turing water into wine. All miracles. All impressive acts of God. I would like to add one more miracle to this list. One that is perhaps more impressive--God's individualization of His love.
Time and time again, I see how a verse has a direct application to a particular situation I am facing on that very day. Cannot be coincidence. In eternity past, God knew exactly what I would need for today, August 11, 2014. He arranged the order of Mary's book to remind me of His truths I will need for today.
Today's verse and subsequent devotion from Mary Tileson's book were not just happenstance. They were personally tailored for my day today.
Meet the Teacher is this afternoon. School starts tomorrow. Questions will abound today. Interruptions to my planned work will be plentiful.
The verse from Deuteronomy reminds me that if I give to God, He will bless me in all my work. The paragraph from Keary reminds me that those interruptions that will inevitably happen are opportunities to put others before self. It reminds me that today's questions, concerns, and weekend stories are about relationships. And relationships were Jesus' first order.
Jesus was a servant leader. He took the time to heal. He took the time to explain. He took the time to interact. His mission of the salvation of the human race was a bit more important than the opening of a small elementary school for the 2014-2015 school year; however, He was never too busy for the individual.
Each question, each "interruption" is sent from or allowed by God. They are an opportunity to model Jesus' leadership style of focusing on the individual.
*DAILY STRENGTH FOR DAILY NEEDS- August 11, 2014
Mary Wilder Tileston
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Doing Nothing can be Hard August 9, 2014
13 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 (ESV)
*The mind never puts forth greater power over itself than when, in great
trials, it yields up calmly its desires, affections, interests to God.
There are seasons when to be still demands immeasurably higher strength
than to act. Composure is often the highest result of power.
Wm E. Channing
It has been my experience that the oft' quoted verses from Luke 27 and Philippians 4 are related to "big" things. Victory over an addiction. Being healed from cancer. Getting a job after months of unemployment. And while the verses certainly apply to these situations, as Mr. Channing points out, it can be the internal struggle that proves most difficult.
How many times have my morning meditations been cut short because that mental to-do list crowds out heavenly thoughts? How many spiritual blessings have I missed because I have just taken a peek at email in the morning and had my 7/24 time derailed?
I am wired to fix, act, respond. Gotta' keep moving, doing. To still my mind and heart before God is perhaps not only my biggest struggle, but also my greatest obstacle to Christian growth and insight.
My "impossible with man is possible with God" is a quiet mind and calm spirit. If I can master that, the rest will follow.
*DAILY STRENGTH FOR DAILY NEEDS- August 9, 2014
Mary Wilder Tileston
Friday, August 8, 2014
Did Not Know That August 8, 2014
For the Lord takes pleasure in his people; he adorns the humble with salvation.
Psalm 149:4 (ESV)
God loves me. Knew that. God saves me. Knew that. God protects me. Knew that. God enjoys my company. What?!
After many years of sermons, Bible reading, small group discussions, and radio preaches, I get that God loves, saves, and protects us. But "takes pleasure" in me? He actually enjoys my company?
The Creator of the Universe likes me. He misses me when I am not around. The Alpha and the Omega smiles when I pull up a chair to visit. His brow creases and He places a hand on my shoulder when I have bad news. He laughs when I am joyful. He reassures when I am frightened.
Wars, famine, pestilence: He still enjoys my company. Natural disasters, economic meltdowns, moral decay: He takes time to welcome me to His hearth. What an awesome truth!
Psalm 149:4 (ESV)
God loves me. Knew that. God saves me. Knew that. God protects me. Knew that. God enjoys my company. What?!
After many years of sermons, Bible reading, small group discussions, and radio preaches, I get that God loves, saves, and protects us. But "takes pleasure" in me? He actually enjoys my company?
The Creator of the Universe likes me. He misses me when I am not around. The Alpha and the Omega smiles when I pull up a chair to visit. His brow creases and He places a hand on my shoulder when I have bad news. He laughs when I am joyful. He reassures when I am frightened.
Wars, famine, pestilence: He still enjoys my company. Natural disasters, economic meltdowns, moral decay: He takes time to welcome me to His hearth. What an awesome truth!
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Who be Blessing Whom? August 5, 2014
1 Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
3 who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
5 who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
2 Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
3 who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
5 who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
Psalm 103:1-5 (ESV)
This is a wonderful passage. It reminds God's children of all He is prepared to do for them.
1. Forgiveness- past, present, future
2. Healing- Maybe not tomorrow or next week, but ultimately.
3. Eternal salvation
4. Continual love and mercy from Him
5. Contentment- If we will allow it.
6. Strengthening
However, it also raised some questions in my mind. "'Bless the Lord, O my soul.' How do I "bless" God? Why would I bless Him? Isn't He supposed to be blessing me?"
I had always interpreted the verb "bless" as something we did to consecreate or hallow something or someone. God is holy. He is perfect, flawless. He has no need of my blessing. Then I went to a dictionary to see if perhaps I was misinterpreting "bless".
The first two definitions were in line with my original thinking.
: to ask God to care for and protect (someone or something)
However, further down was the following:
After reading this, the passage from Psalm 119 made more sense. God certainly doesn't need my prayer to make Him holy. He doesn't need my prayer for His care and protection. But He does desire my "blessings" in the form of praise and glorification.
At this point I could rehash earlier posts about how it is easier for me to thank God than to praise Him, but I am not sure He cares whether I start the prayer with "thank you for. . ." or "bless you for. . ." As long as I am calling to mind all He has, is, and will do for me. If I recognize His glory in creation, the verbiage is irrelevant. He desires conversation, relationship. Word choice is not His concern.
Bless, thank, praise. He knows my heart.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Cover or Content? August 3, 2014
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7 ESV
Although this verse's connection in scripture is to the momentous occasion of the selection of a new leader for a nation, it has application for the start of a new school year for teachers and principals alike.
As faculty and administration prepares for the 2014-2015 school years, classroom/building-wide themes will be developed, bulletin boards prepared, three-ring binders assembled, agendas presented. Many hours will go into tweaking the look and content of all these. But the success or failure of this school year is not dependent on the organization of binders or the appeal of a bulletin board.
Substance must prevail over flash. The lesson plans may be exemplary, but are they delivered with skill? The faculty handbook may be museum quality, but is it supported by instructional leadership?
Over 3000 years ago, God told Samuel the proof is in the pudding. Still today presentation and appearance may capture the eye, but it is what takes place day in and day out that determines success or failure.
1 Samuel 16:7 ESV
Although this verse's connection in scripture is to the momentous occasion of the selection of a new leader for a nation, it has application for the start of a new school year for teachers and principals alike.
As faculty and administration prepares for the 2014-2015 school years, classroom/building-wide themes will be developed, bulletin boards prepared, three-ring binders assembled, agendas presented. Many hours will go into tweaking the look and content of all these. But the success or failure of this school year is not dependent on the organization of binders or the appeal of a bulletin board.
Substance must prevail over flash. The lesson plans may be exemplary, but are they delivered with skill? The faculty handbook may be museum quality, but is it supported by instructional leadership?
Over 3000 years ago, God told Samuel the proof is in the pudding. Still today presentation and appearance may capture the eye, but it is what takes place day in and day out that determines success or failure.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Olly, Olly, Oxen Free August 1, 2014
You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.
Psalm 119:114 (ESV)
I remember playing hide-and-seek as a child. My clearest memories of this popular children's game are from my grandparents' home in Lockwood, MO. They had a two-story house with many nooks and crannies. Being on the smallish side, I was able to squeeze into spaces too small for many participants- underneath the kitchen sink, the clothes hamper, etc.
In addition to being out of sight, one had to be silent as well. I can remember being so quiet I could not only hear the seeker walking by, but could even hear myself breathe.
For Christians, God is our hiding place. In at least eight different places in the Psalms, David refers to God as his hiding place.
God desires us to come to Him for shelter. Small, scared, tired. He desires our silence. Our solitude. He is that nook, that cranny. He can be my clothes hamper. A place to let the seekers of the world walk on by as I rest quietly listening to the Holy Spirit quieten my mind and heart. Quiet. Peaceful. Restful.
The requirements of the world are endless. The noise relentless. The obligations legion. Learn to escape in God's love and protection. Seek Him for silence and rest. He is our hiding place.
Psalm 119:114 (ESV)
I remember playing hide-and-seek as a child. My clearest memories of this popular children's game are from my grandparents' home in Lockwood, MO. They had a two-story house with many nooks and crannies. Being on the smallish side, I was able to squeeze into spaces too small for many participants- underneath the kitchen sink, the clothes hamper, etc.
In addition to being out of sight, one had to be silent as well. I can remember being so quiet I could not only hear the seeker walking by, but could even hear myself breathe.
For Christians, God is our hiding place. In at least eight different places in the Psalms, David refers to God as his hiding place.
God desires us to come to Him for shelter. Small, scared, tired. He desires our silence. Our solitude. He is that nook, that cranny. He can be my clothes hamper. A place to let the seekers of the world walk on by as I rest quietly listening to the Holy Spirit quieten my mind and heart. Quiet. Peaceful. Restful.
The requirements of the world are endless. The noise relentless. The obligations legion. Learn to escape in God's love and protection. Seek Him for silence and rest. He is our hiding place.
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