Thursday, March 31, 2016
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
March 30, 2016
3 He was despised and rejected by men;
a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief;
and as one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4 Surely he has borne our griefs
and carried our sorrows;
yet we esteemed him stricken,
smitten by God, and afflicted.
Isaiah 53:3-4 ESV
While no one knows for sure when Jesus became aware of the horrible fate awaiting him on Easter weekend, I believe early in his ministry he knew that he was destined for short life with a painful death. Surely he knew of this passage from Isaiah. Even if he did not have a vision of the crucifixion, Isaiah 53 makes it abundantly clear life on earth was not going to be a picnic. If Nazareth High had had a yearbook, Jesus' senior picture would have been labeled "Most Likely to be Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted".
Yet nowhere in scripture do we seen even a hint of him complaining or feeling sorry for himself. No "woe is me" sermons appear in the Gospels. I can't locate any scripture that even hints at depression or self-pity. In fact the opposite appears to be true. Christ attended weddings. He shared meals with those around him. He ministered to others. He encouraged.
Jesus shared little of his fate with his followers, even with those closest to him until his final weeks on earth. Then it only done so in an effort to prepare them for his departure, not to elicit sympathy. There were times he spoke of going ahead of them, preparing mansions, and a departure, but not beatings, abandonment, and murder.
It is important that we have one or two close confidants who we can call up when we need a sympathetic ear or some advice. But that circle needs to be a small, private, and confidential. Facebook is not a forum for the problems besetting us. Twitter announcements of failed marriages, cancerous tumors, or wayward children strike me as very unChrist-like. When we have a bad day at work, don't tote around a black cloud. Health problems will afflict many of us throughout our lives. How much greater our witness if we take our concerns to God in the prayer closet than laying them out in the break room for all to hear. People are drawn to joy. They respond to positive.
When Affliction visits our lives will we follow Christ's example or Eeyore's?
a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief;
and as one from whom men hide their faces
he was despised, and we esteemed him not.
4 Surely he has borne our griefs
and carried our sorrows;
yet we esteemed him stricken,
smitten by God, and afflicted.
Isaiah 53:3-4 ESV
While no one knows for sure when Jesus became aware of the horrible fate awaiting him on Easter weekend, I believe early in his ministry he knew that he was destined for short life with a painful death. Surely he knew of this passage from Isaiah. Even if he did not have a vision of the crucifixion, Isaiah 53 makes it abundantly clear life on earth was not going to be a picnic. If Nazareth High had had a yearbook, Jesus' senior picture would have been labeled "Most Likely to be Stricken, Smitten, and Afflicted".
Yet nowhere in scripture do we seen even a hint of him complaining or feeling sorry for himself. No "woe is me" sermons appear in the Gospels. I can't locate any scripture that even hints at depression or self-pity. In fact the opposite appears to be true. Christ attended weddings. He shared meals with those around him. He ministered to others. He encouraged.
Jesus shared little of his fate with his followers, even with those closest to him until his final weeks on earth. Then it only done so in an effort to prepare them for his departure, not to elicit sympathy. There were times he spoke of going ahead of them, preparing mansions, and a departure, but not beatings, abandonment, and murder.
It is important that we have one or two close confidants who we can call up when we need a sympathetic ear or some advice. But that circle needs to be a small, private, and confidential. Facebook is not a forum for the problems besetting us. Twitter announcements of failed marriages, cancerous tumors, or wayward children strike me as very unChrist-like. When we have a bad day at work, don't tote around a black cloud. Health problems will afflict many of us throughout our lives. How much greater our witness if we take our concerns to God in the prayer closet than laying them out in the break room for all to hear. People are drawn to joy. They respond to positive.
When Affliction visits our lives will we follow Christ's example or Eeyore's?
Monday, March 28, 2016
Active Acceptance March 28, 2016
Last night we watched "The Passion of the Christ". When the movie was released in 2004 it received mixed reviews. Some applauded it for its realism, others panned the movie because of that same level of realism. "Moving. Powerful. Epic. Beautiful." wrote one reviewer. "Primitive and pornographic bloodbath" was how another critic described the film. I enjoyed the film, but can see why someone who does not accept the Gospels' account of Christ's last week on earth would be put off by the film.
While I enjoyed many things about the movie, the deepest impression the film made on me came near the end of the movie. When Jesus had been beaten, flogged, and forced to carry his cross to Golgotha, he is lying there beside the cross, exhausted,wracked with pain, nearer to life than death. We see him slowly, painfully start to drag his scarred, bleeding body on top of the cross, moving toward the final showdown with pain and suffering and death.
In John 10:18 Christ tells his disciples, "18 No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again." In the Garden of Gethsemane he prays, "Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done." Luke 22:42 Jesus had accepted God's plan for his life. He had resigned himself to the fact his last hours on earth were to be filled with pain and humiliation beyond imagination. But to think of that willingness being active, not a passive acceptance of God's plan was something I had not considered.
Jesus did not simply accept his fate, he moved toward it his entire ministry. He was not a leaf flowing along on the events of history. His march to that fateful meeting with the cross was the intentional, resolute plan of his life. Even as he lay bleeding out beside the cross, he crawled over sand and gravel to hasten the end of his life so that we would never have to bear the punishment for our sins.
Is my life marked by quiet acceptance of God's plan? Do I witness if the opportunity presents itself, or do I walk across the hall to that coworker's office and initiate a conversation? Are my offerings given only at the behest of a call from the pulpit for an Ecuador fund or do I set aside additional funds and seek out ministries to support? Are we passive "accepters" of God's plan or are we active initiators?
No matter how tired, broken, or overwhelmed we feel at times, let's continue to drag ourselves on the cross each day. Regardless of the pain and suffering we endure, we must continue to die to self daily. Yes, Christ suffered and died on the cross, but it was after that suffering and death that he was resurrected, restored, and victorious. Our victory will also come on the other side of death. Death to self. Death to our human nature. Death to sin.
*Critics' quotes from Rotten Tomatoes
Saturday, March 26, 2016
A Matter of Degrees March 26, 2026
For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake,
Philippians 1:29 ESV
When I read verses like today's submission from Philippians, I often feel a twinge of guilt with a surge of thankfulness. My guilt comes from realizing that in a country where I am free to preach, teach, and proclaim the Gospel, I have done a minimal amount of any. Jail is not a threat. Beatings are not a danger. Loss of property is not a consideration. But still the proclamtion of God's love and Jesus' salvation remain behind the safe doors of Ridgecrest or within the confines of like-minded social groups. The surge of thankfulness comes from the fact that I do live in a country where, if I chose, I could freely proclaim God's love and Jesus' salvation.
This morning as I prayed over today's verse, I realize that even though beheadings and jailings do not happen in the United States for preaching the Word of God or living a Christian life, we do suffer for our beliefs. Not being a part of the "in" group at work because we won't go that after-work happy hour. Losing a business contact because Sunday morning is spent at church rather than on the golf course. Not taking that extra vacation because 10% of our earnings are tithed each month. Not having that ice-cold beer after work because the Holy Spirit's conviction about drinking. While these do not in any equate with the social, emotional, and physical persecution so many Christians suffer in other countries, they are forfeitures even American Christians make.
Suffering happens at many levels. Perhaps suffering is not the correct work for what takes place to American Christians, maybe inconvenience is a better word. But at the end of the day, all Christians are asked to make sacrifices for His name sake.
Philippians 1:29 ESV
When I read verses like today's submission from Philippians, I often feel a twinge of guilt with a surge of thankfulness. My guilt comes from realizing that in a country where I am free to preach, teach, and proclaim the Gospel, I have done a minimal amount of any. Jail is not a threat. Beatings are not a danger. Loss of property is not a consideration. But still the proclamtion of God's love and Jesus' salvation remain behind the safe doors of Ridgecrest or within the confines of like-minded social groups. The surge of thankfulness comes from the fact that I do live in a country where, if I chose, I could freely proclaim God's love and Jesus' salvation.
This morning as I prayed over today's verse, I realize that even though beheadings and jailings do not happen in the United States for preaching the Word of God or living a Christian life, we do suffer for our beliefs. Not being a part of the "in" group at work because we won't go that after-work happy hour. Losing a business contact because Sunday morning is spent at church rather than on the golf course. Not taking that extra vacation because 10% of our earnings are tithed each month. Not having that ice-cold beer after work because the Holy Spirit's conviction about drinking. While these do not in any equate with the social, emotional, and physical persecution so many Christians suffer in other countries, they are forfeitures even American Christians make.
Suffering happens at many levels. Perhaps suffering is not the correct work for what takes place to American Christians, maybe inconvenience is a better word. But at the end of the day, all Christians are asked to make sacrifices for His name sake.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Jericho Alert March 24, 2016
1 Now Jericho was shut up inside and outside. None went out, and none came in.
Joshua 6:1 ESV
For churches and individuals we must guard against becoming like the city of Jericho.
Ridgecrest has ministries that serve those outside of our walls and ministries that meet the needs of those inside our walls. Mission trips abound. Left-pocket offerings are taken for the Crisis Pregnacy Center. But are we bringing others in? Has our membership grown over the past year? Has the demographics of our membership changed? I cannot answer either of these questions, but as a church we must guard against a Jericho mentality.
Things are good at The Crest right now. Energetic pastor. Many baptisms. Mission opportunities abound. All of these point to a healthy church, a church that is moving in the right direction. Let's be sure that we are extending our arms to those who are different, who may push us from our comfort zone.
I think today's verse can apply to the individual, but on an emotional level. When is the last time you have allowed someone other than family or a small group member to be a part of your life? Our adult special needs ministry needs workers. The homeless ministry needs volunteers. Life Builders can always use new site leaders.
Jesus allowed others into his life. He drew people close and spend time with them. He did not just show up once a week and spend an hour or two with his comfortable 12. A once-a-week morning synagogue session was not the entirety of Jesus' ministry. He made emotional connections. He allowed others to depend on him. He laughed at weddings. He cried at funerals. He railed against injustices. He was not a walled city of self.
Let's not, individually or collectively, become a Jericho.
Joshua 6:1 ESV
For churches and individuals we must guard against becoming like the city of Jericho.
Ridgecrest has ministries that serve those outside of our walls and ministries that meet the needs of those inside our walls. Mission trips abound. Left-pocket offerings are taken for the Crisis Pregnacy Center. But are we bringing others in? Has our membership grown over the past year? Has the demographics of our membership changed? I cannot answer either of these questions, but as a church we must guard against a Jericho mentality.
Things are good at The Crest right now. Energetic pastor. Many baptisms. Mission opportunities abound. All of these point to a healthy church, a church that is moving in the right direction. Let's be sure that we are extending our arms to those who are different, who may push us from our comfort zone.
I think today's verse can apply to the individual, but on an emotional level. When is the last time you have allowed someone other than family or a small group member to be a part of your life? Our adult special needs ministry needs workers. The homeless ministry needs volunteers. Life Builders can always use new site leaders.
Jesus allowed others into his life. He drew people close and spend time with them. He did not just show up once a week and spend an hour or two with his comfortable 12. A once-a-week morning synagogue session was not the entirety of Jesus' ministry. He made emotional connections. He allowed others to depend on him. He laughed at weddings. He cried at funerals. He railed against injustices. He was not a walled city of self.
Let's not, individually or collectively, become a Jericho.
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Deep and Wide March 23, 2016
7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,
Jeremiah 17:7,8 ESV
Today's entry won't be long. Won't be emotional. Won't be theological. But will hopefully be encouraging.
As I am well into the seventh year of this blog, I have thought at times, "Am I going to run out of stuff to write about? Will ideas start to repeat themselves?" Monday's entry belied those concerns.
Every so often I will reread a blog post from previous years but the same day on which I happen to be writing. Monday was one of those random days. On March 21, 2016 I revisited my posting from March 21, 2013. I was very surprised to find that on both dates I had referenced the same verses from Jeremiah. What I found was amazing. Same verses. Same translation. But completely different impressions of the verses.
In 2013 I had written about faith, troubles, and hope. In 2016 the focus was on bearing fruit.
This "coincidence" made me realize the depth of scripture, the breadth of scripture, and the convictions of the Holy Spirit will provide by far and away plenty of inspiration for many, many years of blog entries. I needn't worry about emptying God's well.
whose trust is the Lord.
8 He is like a tree planted by water,
that sends out its roots by the stream,
and does not fear when heat comes,
for its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
8 He is like a tree planted by water,
that sends out its roots by the stream,
and does not fear when heat comes,
for its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:7,8 ESV
Today's entry won't be long. Won't be emotional. Won't be theological. But will hopefully be encouraging.
As I am well into the seventh year of this blog, I have thought at times, "Am I going to run out of stuff to write about? Will ideas start to repeat themselves?" Monday's entry belied those concerns.
Every so often I will reread a blog post from previous years but the same day on which I happen to be writing. Monday was one of those random days. On March 21, 2016 I revisited my posting from March 21, 2013. I was very surprised to find that on both dates I had referenced the same verses from Jeremiah. What I found was amazing. Same verses. Same translation. But completely different impressions of the verses.
In 2013 I had written about faith, troubles, and hope. In 2016 the focus was on bearing fruit.
This "coincidence" made me realize the depth of scripture, the breadth of scripture, and the convictions of the Holy Spirit will provide by far and away plenty of inspiration for many, many years of blog entries. I needn't worry about emptying God's well.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Schemes March 22, 2016
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
Ephesians 6:10-11 ESV
Kristi and I are currently watching the "Northern Exposure" series on DVDs. We watch 3-4 episodes a week at dinner time. While several episodes are memorable, other not so much. Last week we watched an episode entitled "The Robe". One of the three story lines for this particular show was Shelly being tempted by an offer from the Devil (in the guise of a spa salesman) to fulfill her wildest dream. Throughout the show the "salesman" is at times forceful, casual, or insightful, but ever-present.
As I read today's verse, I thought of the word "schemes". That speaks to an on-going, intentional, planned set of events. Not the random "devil-made-me-do-it" temptation. Scripture makes several references to fleeing temptation, and that is certainly advice we need to follow.
But avoiding sin is not all about reacting to this temptation or that opportunity to sin. Satan is a schemer. He sits and waits. He plans and conspires. Our downfall might come after multiple pieces of Satan's plan have been put in place.
The business man who contacts the Ashley Madison website didn't wake up and decide to have an adulterous affair with a stranger while on a business meeting in Chicago. Satan has been working for months even years. Small disagreements with his wife never resolved. A slow erosion of quiet time. The extinction of church attendance. All were building blocks that separated him from God and his wife.
Yes, fleeing is necessary. But just as necessary is an awareness that Satan may be using small victories today for that monumental fall next year. Situations will arise. From those we flee. Schemes are present. Be ever vigilant.
Monday, March 21, 2016
Continual Fruit March 21, 2016
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord.
He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the
stream,. . .it does not cease to bear
fruit.”
Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV
This is my 30th year in public education. In the next couple of years I will be looking at retirement. No more school pictures, winter breaks (used to call it Christmas break), or cafeteria food. I am not sure what God has planned for me during my retirement years, but one thing is certain, a retirement from Kingdom work is not an option.
As I think about Christ's last days on earth, I am drawn this morning to one of the last utterances of our Lord and Savior as he hung dying on the cross. To the thief crucified beside Jesus who defended his Christ's honor, Jesus spoke these words, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Just hours or minutes from death, Jesus is still bearing fruit for the kingdom of God. Yes, he was God, but he was also man. He felt pain just as deeply you or me. His body reacted just as ours would to the lashes and nails. Jesus hurt and bled. His concern about this criminal's soul did not come from a high, heavenly place beyond our grasp. It came through his humanity, through his pain, through his compassion. He did "not cease to bear fruit."
Does Christian service get tiring? Sure. Do we have dry seasons during our ministries? Most likely. But if we follow Christ's example, our love for others and our desire to share the Gospel message will be on lips even at death.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 ESV
This is my 30th year in public education. In the next couple of years I will be looking at retirement. No more school pictures, winter breaks (used to call it Christmas break), or cafeteria food. I am not sure what God has planned for me during my retirement years, but one thing is certain, a retirement from Kingdom work is not an option.
As I think about Christ's last days on earth, I am drawn this morning to one of the last utterances of our Lord and Savior as he hung dying on the cross. To the thief crucified beside Jesus who defended his Christ's honor, Jesus spoke these words, "Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
Just hours or minutes from death, Jesus is still bearing fruit for the kingdom of God. Yes, he was God, but he was also man. He felt pain just as deeply you or me. His body reacted just as ours would to the lashes and nails. Jesus hurt and bled. His concern about this criminal's soul did not come from a high, heavenly place beyond our grasp. It came through his humanity, through his pain, through his compassion. He did "not cease to bear fruit."
Does Christian service get tiring? Sure. Do we have dry seasons during our ministries? Most likely. But if we follow Christ's example, our love for others and our desire to share the Gospel message will be on lips even at death.
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Yeah But. . . March 19, 2016
1There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:1
"Yeah but I repeated that piece of gossip at work that I knew wasn't true."
"No condemnation."
"What about the time I yelled and swore at my daughter for not keeping her room clean?"
"No condemnation."
"But God, I hit my wife when I lost my temper."
"No condemnation."
"No condemnation?"
"No condemnation."
Have we sinned? "All have sinned." Romans 3:23
Will we continue to sin? "For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate." Romans 7:15
Will there still be consequences for our sin? "For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” Hebrews 12:6
But we are NOT condemned! When we accept the forgiveness Christ purchased at the cross of Calvary with his perfect, sinless blood, we are made free from ALL condemnation.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
What a wondrous, joyful realization! We are forgiven, cleansed, made holy in His sight. All charged dropped. Condemnation cancelled. If God does not condemn, they why do we continue to condemn ourselves? If God forgives why do we continue to batter ourselves with our past sin?
NO condemnation. None. Zero. Zip. Zilch. Nada. Thank God. Praise God. Rejoice in this knowledge!
*All verses are English Standard Version unless otherwise stated.
Romans 8:1
"Yeah but I repeated that piece of gossip at work that I knew wasn't true."
"No condemnation."
"What about the time I yelled and swore at my daughter for not keeping her room clean?"
"No condemnation."
"But God, I hit my wife when I lost my temper."
"No condemnation."
"No condemnation?"
"No condemnation."
Have we sinned? "All have sinned." Romans 3:23
Will we continue to sin? "For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate." Romans 7:15
Will there still be consequences for our sin? "For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” Hebrews 12:6
But we are NOT condemned! When we accept the forgiveness Christ purchased at the cross of Calvary with his perfect, sinless blood, we are made free from ALL condemnation.
9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
What a wondrous, joyful realization! We are forgiven, cleansed, made holy in His sight. All charged dropped. Condemnation cancelled. If God does not condemn, they why do we continue to condemn ourselves? If God forgives why do we continue to batter ourselves with our past sin?
NO condemnation. None. Zero. Zip. Zilch. Nada. Thank God. Praise God. Rejoice in this knowledge!
*All verses are English Standard Version unless otherwise stated.
Friday, March 18, 2016
It's a Brain Thing March 18, 2016
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.
Romans 8:5 ESV
In the Old Testament the Hebrew people were expected to obey 613 laws. This group of laws is called the Mitzvot. However, with Jesus death and resurrection, people are no longer required to uphold those 613 laws to be in right standing with God the Father. Through faith alone we can come to a saving relationship with Yahweh. However James discusses at length the importance of our faith being demonstrated through our works. So works are not disregarded as an important part of a Christian's life.
If works are an outward demonstration of a person's internal condition, what about those times when you just doesn't feel like doing the right thing or going so far as to intentionally sin, maybe even allowing a sinful habit to continue in your life? Ultimately God only knows the real condition of a person's heart, but today's verse is encouraging when you just can't seem to get your Christian life together.
For those times when we knowingly sin or continue to allow a sinful habit to perpetuate itself in our lives, do a conviction check. Is your mind set on things of the Spirit? Are we convicted when we sin or engage in that habit? Is there a desire to do better next time?
People are stubborn. We are stiff-necked, not wanting to bow or give up control. That does not mean our names are not written in the book of life. When we repeat that dirty joke, do our brains say, "You shouldn't have done that."? After a sarcastic retort to a spouse is there a tweak of conviction?
None among us will ever reach a state of sinless imperfection in this life. But are our minds set on the things of God? Our our spirits focused on pleasing Him? Are our missions each day to align our thoughts and actions more and more with God's will for our livs? "Set your mind on the things of the Spirit."
Romans 8:5 ESV
In the Old Testament the Hebrew people were expected to obey 613 laws. This group of laws is called the Mitzvot. However, with Jesus death and resurrection, people are no longer required to uphold those 613 laws to be in right standing with God the Father. Through faith alone we can come to a saving relationship with Yahweh. However James discusses at length the importance of our faith being demonstrated through our works. So works are not disregarded as an important part of a Christian's life.
If works are an outward demonstration of a person's internal condition, what about those times when you just doesn't feel like doing the right thing or going so far as to intentionally sin, maybe even allowing a sinful habit to continue in your life? Ultimately God only knows the real condition of a person's heart, but today's verse is encouraging when you just can't seem to get your Christian life together.
For those times when we knowingly sin or continue to allow a sinful habit to perpetuate itself in our lives, do a conviction check. Is your mind set on things of the Spirit? Are we convicted when we sin or engage in that habit? Is there a desire to do better next time?
People are stubborn. We are stiff-necked, not wanting to bow or give up control. That does not mean our names are not written in the book of life. When we repeat that dirty joke, do our brains say, "You shouldn't have done that."? After a sarcastic retort to a spouse is there a tweak of conviction?
None among us will ever reach a state of sinless imperfection in this life. But are our minds set on the things of God? Our our spirits focused on pleasing Him? Are our missions each day to align our thoughts and actions more and more with God's will for our livs? "Set your mind on the things of the Spirit."
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Just a Pinch March 17, 2016
Today is St. Patrick's Day and, as a public school principal, one of the days I wish was always on a weekend. Wearing green- not a problem. Shamrocks- okay by me. BUT pinching in absence of green attire- a principal's nightmare.
We warn kids. We advise kids. We beg kids. However there are still the multiple reports of, "He pinched me."
"She wasn't wearing green!"
"It hurt."
"Okay, sorry."
Or even better the older students who invite the pinch by hiding their green by wearing socks that have a green band around the top or drawing a green shamrock on the palm of the hand. Then using that as an excuse to return 10 pinches for being wrongly pinched. Good times!
Too bad the Holy Spirit is not on St. Paddy's green watch with us all year round. When we are about to make that financially foolish purchase, we feel a pinch in the upper arm. Right before signing an incorrect tax return, "Ouch!" a sharp pain on the shoulder.
The Holy Spirit does convict, guide, and advise, but not with pinches. Through daily meditation, Bible reading, and prayer we an become more in tune with its leading. The closer we grow to God, the more in tuned we are to the Holy Spirit's voice.
We may never receive a holy pinch, but the Holy Spirit will certainly be our daily guide if we are open to its leading.
We warn kids. We advise kids. We beg kids. However there are still the multiple reports of, "He pinched me."
"She wasn't wearing green!"
"It hurt."
"Okay, sorry."
Or even better the older students who invite the pinch by hiding their green by wearing socks that have a green band around the top or drawing a green shamrock on the palm of the hand. Then using that as an excuse to return 10 pinches for being wrongly pinched. Good times!
Too bad the Holy Spirit is not on St. Paddy's green watch with us all year round. When we are about to make that financially foolish purchase, we feel a pinch in the upper arm. Right before signing an incorrect tax return, "Ouch!" a sharp pain on the shoulder.
The Holy Spirit does convict, guide, and advise, but not with pinches. Through daily meditation, Bible reading, and prayer we an become more in tune with its leading. The closer we grow to God, the more in tuned we are to the Holy Spirit's voice.
We may never receive a holy pinch, but the Holy Spirit will certainly be our daily guide if we are open to its leading.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Election Reform 3:12 March 16, 2016
12 Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience,
Colossians 3:12 ESV
When I did a Google search of "election laws for presidential candidates" within .45 seconds there were "about 23,200,000 results". Campaign finance laws. Electoral college laws. United States presidential eligibility laws. Ballot access for Presidential candidates legislation. On and on. I searched for a Colossians 3:12 law governing Presidential campaigns. No luck.
How different would the rhetoric and tone be if there were a Colossians 3:12 law on the books.
Pre 3:12
"I am the only one who can lead this country. All my opponents are bozos."
"I did not do anything illegal. It is simply the (choose one) far right or liberal press trying to smear my reputation."
Post 3:12
"I have some good ideas about leading the country, but so do my Republican/Democratic opponents."
"Yes, I have made some mistakes, but will take responsibility for them and am working to make amends to those I have wronged."
This election cycle is a black eye to a Christian nation (or former Christian nation). Racist statements, rally violence, deliberate lies, and name calling seem to be par for the course. Several of the front runners claim to be Christians, but were it not for those pronouncements, a person would be hard pressed to guess which ones based on rhetoric and actions.
Let's lift up not just the candidates but also our nation in this election year.
Colossians 3:12 ESV
When I did a Google search of "election laws for presidential candidates" within .45 seconds there were "about 23,200,000 results". Campaign finance laws. Electoral college laws. United States presidential eligibility laws. Ballot access for Presidential candidates legislation. On and on. I searched for a Colossians 3:12 law governing Presidential campaigns. No luck.
How different would the rhetoric and tone be if there were a Colossians 3:12 law on the books.
Pre 3:12
"I am the only one who can lead this country. All my opponents are bozos."
"I did not do anything illegal. It is simply the (choose one) far right or liberal press trying to smear my reputation."
Post 3:12
"I have some good ideas about leading the country, but so do my Republican/Democratic opponents."
"Yes, I have made some mistakes, but will take responsibility for them and am working to make amends to those I have wronged."
This election cycle is a black eye to a Christian nation (or former Christian nation). Racist statements, rally violence, deliberate lies, and name calling seem to be par for the course. Several of the front runners claim to be Christians, but were it not for those pronouncements, a person would be hard pressed to guess which ones based on rhetoric and actions.
Let's lift up not just the candidates but also our nation in this election year.
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Movement Required March 15, 2016
“As soon as you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God being carried by the Levitical priests, then you shall set out from your place and follow it."
Joshua 3:3 ESV
Joshua told the Israelites to follow God. Follow Him where? For how long? What is our final destination? None of those questions were answered. The instructions were to follow. Not lead. Not accompany. Follow.
Control is part of our human nature. From early man who wanted to control the temperature of the cave with fire, to on-line calendar organizers, to organizational charts to plan and direct companies, we need to direct and govern our lives. But there will be times when the Holy Spirit says, "Go." Details will be fuzzy. Destination hidden. Directions provided only for the next step.
The Israelites moved forward on faith not facts. Their obedience was based on what they knew about God's character, not their destination.
The Jordan parted after the people walked to its edge. The barrier was solidly in place until the first steps were taken. God's miracle was prompted by Israel's movement.
Joshua 3:3 ESV
Joshua told the Israelites to follow God. Follow Him where? For how long? What is our final destination? None of those questions were answered. The instructions were to follow. Not lead. Not accompany. Follow.
Control is part of our human nature. From early man who wanted to control the temperature of the cave with fire, to on-line calendar organizers, to organizational charts to plan and direct companies, we need to direct and govern our lives. But there will be times when the Holy Spirit says, "Go." Details will be fuzzy. Destination hidden. Directions provided only for the next step.
The Israelites moved forward on faith not facts. Their obedience was based on what they knew about God's character, not their destination.
The Jordan parted after the people walked to its edge. The barrier was solidly in place until the first steps were taken. God's miracle was prompted by Israel's movement.
Monday, March 14, 2016
Blaahhh! March 14, 2016
For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with
virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and
self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and
godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love.
For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from
being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus
Christ.
2 Peter 1:5-8 ESV
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22,23 ESV
This morning these lists of spiritual qualities, Christian traits, or holy habits seem overwhelming. I know salvation is not dependent on anything we do or say, but let's face it, salvation is to bring growth in the various areas listed above. It is a very daunting list for the Monday morning following the spring forward daylight savings time changes.
And, yes, I know all the platitudes: "Christianity is about growth, not a finished product." "The indwelling of the Holy Spirit makes the growth possible." "There will be mountain tops and valleys in your Christian walk." Etc. But Peter and Paul both present a daunting list of growth areas for life.
Would we be wonderful people and craft a marvelous society of these traits, qualities, and/or habits were second nature? Surely. But right now, this morning, in the dark morning of yet another Monday, I cannot help but think of just how often I am found wanting in these areas.
2 Peter 1:5-8 ESV
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Galatians 5:22,23 ESV
This morning these lists of spiritual qualities, Christian traits, or holy habits seem overwhelming. I know salvation is not dependent on anything we do or say, but let's face it, salvation is to bring growth in the various areas listed above. It is a very daunting list for the Monday morning following the spring forward daylight savings time changes.
And, yes, I know all the platitudes: "Christianity is about growth, not a finished product." "The indwelling of the Holy Spirit makes the growth possible." "There will be mountain tops and valleys in your Christian walk." Etc. But Peter and Paul both present a daunting list of growth areas for life.
Would we be wonderful people and craft a marvelous society of these traits, qualities, and/or habits were second nature? Surely. But right now, this morning, in the dark morning of yet another Monday, I cannot help but think of just how often I am found wanting in these areas.
Saturday, March 12, 2016
Core Changes March 12, 2016
4 by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature. . . 2 Peter 1:4 ESV
I recently attended a three-day symposium presented by the Steven Covey organization. Covey became an international celebrity with the publication of his book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People in 1990. 7 Habits has sold over 25 million copies and been translated into 25 languages.
The guest speaker at the symposium used a tree to illustrate the difference between a person's personality and character. Personality is what the public sees. Personality adapts to the situation and social group. Personality changes over time. However a person's character speaks to their core values. Character is very difficult to change Character is determines our life choices.
In today's verse, Peter makes a bold statement. We become "partakers of the divine nature". When we accept Christ as our savior, we don't just get a new rule book or a revised list of do's and don'ts, but we enter into a character changing relationship. We are joined with the roots of Jesus Christ.
"The divine nature". Not habits. Not behaviors. Not personality. But the very nature of God. Take a minute and think that through. The "divine nature". Our root system changes. What a glorious transformation! A wonderful change. Change at the core of who we are.
I recently attended a three-day symposium presented by the Steven Covey organization. Covey became an international celebrity with the publication of his book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People in 1990. 7 Habits has sold over 25 million copies and been translated into 25 languages.
The guest speaker at the symposium used a tree to illustrate the difference between a person's personality and character. Personality is what the public sees. Personality adapts to the situation and social group. Personality changes over time. However a person's character speaks to their core values. Character is very difficult to change Character is determines our life choices.
In today's verse, Peter makes a bold statement. We become "partakers of the divine nature". When we accept Christ as our savior, we don't just get a new rule book or a revised list of do's and don'ts, but we enter into a character changing relationship. We are joined with the roots of Jesus Christ.
"The divine nature". Not habits. Not behaviors. Not personality. But the very nature of God. Take a minute and think that through. The "divine nature". Our root system changes. What a glorious transformation! A wonderful change. Change at the core of who we are.
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Wait Means "No" March 10, 2016
39 When Moses told these words to all the people of Israel, the people mourned greatly. 40 And they rose early in the morning and went up to the heights of the hill country, saying, “Here we are. We will go up to the place that the Lord has promised, for we have sinned.” 41 But Moses said, “Why now are you transgressing the command of the Lord, when that will not succeed? 42 Do not go up, for the Lord is not among you, lest you be struck down before your enemies. 43 For there the
Amalekites and the Canaanites are facing you, and you shall fall by the
sword. Because you have turned back from following the Lord, the Lord will not be with you.” 44 But they presumed to go up to the heights of the hill country, although neither the ark of the covenant of the Lord nor Moses departed out of the camp. 45 Then the Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in that hill country came down and defeated them and pursued them, even to Hormah. Numbers 14:39-45 ESV
Yes, much of the Book of Numbers if filled with "begats". And much of the Pentateuch concerns itself with sacrifices, laws, and rituals, but beneath those family trees and regulations there is the story of a real people with flaws, warts, and issues which parallel our lives today.
In this passage from Numbers, Moses has just told the Jewish people that the current generation will not enter the Promised Land because there were frightened of the current inhabitants and threatened to stone Moses and Aaron and return to Egypt where they lived as slaves. Now when they hear of their punishment, a different song is on their lips.
"Uh-oh, God it mad at us. Forty years in the desert!! We had better saddle up and attack the "ites"." The problem is that God has just told them that entry into the promised land was no longer an option. It would be forty years before any Israelite set foot in the "land flowing with milk and honey".
"No so," say the stiff-necked people. "We will attack regardless of Your word." Disobedience in reaction to punishment caused by disobedience.
Throughout our lives God will open a window of opportunity for a period of time. This job, that ministry. If your disobedience causes you to miss an opportunity, God may close that window for you. How foolhardy to try to force open what God has closed. Going back may not be an option. Opportunities lost may be just that, lost.
How important then it is that when God speaks, we are timely in our obedience. A "not now" response to God may be a lost opportunity. Telling God to wait may be tantamount to telling Him, "No." A couple of years ago Ridgecrest put out the call for a photographer to take pictures of members just before and after their baptism. I remember sitting in that service thinking that would be something I would enjoy and could be pretty good at doing. But I waited a couple of weeks to contact the church office. By then the position had been filled by someone else. I have wondered what blessings I have missed by not acting quicker on that spiritual nudge. Window closed.
When God speaks with clarity and you are sure of His direction- MOVE! Don't wait. Don't postpone. Certainly don't say, "No." It may be forty years before God provides you with that opportunity again.
Yes, much of the Book of Numbers if filled with "begats". And much of the Pentateuch concerns itself with sacrifices, laws, and rituals, but beneath those family trees and regulations there is the story of a real people with flaws, warts, and issues which parallel our lives today.
In this passage from Numbers, Moses has just told the Jewish people that the current generation will not enter the Promised Land because there were frightened of the current inhabitants and threatened to stone Moses and Aaron and return to Egypt where they lived as slaves. Now when they hear of their punishment, a different song is on their lips.
"Uh-oh, God it mad at us. Forty years in the desert!! We had better saddle up and attack the "ites"." The problem is that God has just told them that entry into the promised land was no longer an option. It would be forty years before any Israelite set foot in the "land flowing with milk and honey".
"No so," say the stiff-necked people. "We will attack regardless of Your word." Disobedience in reaction to punishment caused by disobedience.
Throughout our lives God will open a window of opportunity for a period of time. This job, that ministry. If your disobedience causes you to miss an opportunity, God may close that window for you. How foolhardy to try to force open what God has closed. Going back may not be an option. Opportunities lost may be just that, lost.
How important then it is that when God speaks, we are timely in our obedience. A "not now" response to God may be a lost opportunity. Telling God to wait may be tantamount to telling Him, "No." A couple of years ago Ridgecrest put out the call for a photographer to take pictures of members just before and after their baptism. I remember sitting in that service thinking that would be something I would enjoy and could be pretty good at doing. But I waited a couple of weeks to contact the church office. By then the position had been filled by someone else. I have wondered what blessings I have missed by not acting quicker on that spiritual nudge. Window closed.
When God speaks with clarity and you are sure of His direction- MOVE! Don't wait. Don't postpone. Certainly don't say, "No." It may be forty years before God provides you with that opportunity again.
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
At Least be Honest March 9, 2016
39 And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” Matthew 26:39 ESV
While none of us will ever have the burden of the salvation of mankind on our shoulders, and most of us will not face death because of our obedience, I think that Jesus' garden prayer is applicable in our work-a-day world.
As I reread the passages in Matthew 26:36-42, Mark 14:35,36, and Luke 22:41-42, it occurred to me that we constantly ask God to remove an undesirable cup from us. One of the main differences is that at least Jesus had the courage and integrity to tell the Father he was not looking forward to the required obedience. In three of the four Gospels, Jesus goes to the Father and honestly, openly asks for an option to death on the cross.
How often do we avoid doing God's will? You should apologize to your spouse, but she started it! That small group needs a teacher, but it will conflict with that monthly tee time at Highland Springs. Sure the homeless ministry could use an extra $50 a month, but that would mean dropping the premium channels on cable. Do you have the guts to go to God in earnest prayer and tell Him you are not excited about what He is asking of you, or do you just slink away from obedience and ignore His leading?
God would rather you approach Him openly and humbly and tell Him you are not looking forward to obedience, even to the point of asking for an alternative IF we are willing to be obedient regardless of His answer. Jesus would have taken a path other than crucifixion if offered by Jehovah, but that was the only path for our salvation, therefore, Jesus was obedient even unto death.
God is not afraid of your fears, your indecisions, your objections as long as you walk away from the Garden with a resolute attitude of obedience to His final answer. Trust God enough to be honest. He can handle it.
While none of us will ever have the burden of the salvation of mankind on our shoulders, and most of us will not face death because of our obedience, I think that Jesus' garden prayer is applicable in our work-a-day world.
As I reread the passages in Matthew 26:36-42, Mark 14:35,36, and Luke 22:41-42, it occurred to me that we constantly ask God to remove an undesirable cup from us. One of the main differences is that at least Jesus had the courage and integrity to tell the Father he was not looking forward to the required obedience. In three of the four Gospels, Jesus goes to the Father and honestly, openly asks for an option to death on the cross.
How often do we avoid doing God's will? You should apologize to your spouse, but she started it! That small group needs a teacher, but it will conflict with that monthly tee time at Highland Springs. Sure the homeless ministry could use an extra $50 a month, but that would mean dropping the premium channels on cable. Do you have the guts to go to God in earnest prayer and tell Him you are not excited about what He is asking of you, or do you just slink away from obedience and ignore His leading?
God would rather you approach Him openly and humbly and tell Him you are not looking forward to obedience, even to the point of asking for an alternative IF we are willing to be obedient regardless of His answer. Jesus would have taken a path other than crucifixion if offered by Jehovah, but that was the only path for our salvation, therefore, Jesus was obedient even unto death.
God is not afraid of your fears, your indecisions, your objections as long as you walk away from the Garden with a resolute attitude of obedience to His final answer. Trust God enough to be honest. He can handle it.
Monday, March 7, 2016
Give a Guy a Break March 7, 2016
The Waters of Meribah
2 Now there was no water for the congregation. And they assembled themselves together against Moses and against Aaron.
6 Then Moses and Aaron went from the presence of the assembly to the entrance of the tent of meeting and fell on their faces. And the glory of the Lord appeared to them, 7 and the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 8 “Take the staff, and assemble the congregation, you and Aaron your brother, and tell the rock before their eyes to yield its water. So you shall bring water out of the rock for them and give drink to the congregation and their cattle.” 9 And Moses took the staff from before the Lord, as he commanded him.
Moses Strikes the Rock
10 Then Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock, and he said to them, “Hear now, you rebels: shall we bring water for you out of this rock?” 11 And Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock with his staff twice, and water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their livestock. 12 And the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel (italics mine), therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.” Numbers 20:2,6-12 ESVQuick timeline of Moses' life. Saved from being murdered as an infant Raised in Pharaoh's palace. Banished from the palace for committing murder. Forty years a shepherd. Returns to Egypt. Plagues. Exodus. Miracles. Leads a grumbling, grumpy people for 40 years in the desert. On several occasions pleads with God not to destroy these grumbling, grumpy people. Promised land just over the horizon. But not for Moses.
The brass ring. The land of plenty. Nope, not you Moses. You were obedient. You served Me well. You sacrificed much. But you hit a rock with a stick. Stop here. Do not pass "go". I cannot imagine what Moses must have felt, thought, and said.
It wasn't the striking of the rock that doomed Moses' entrance to the Promised Land. Look at verse 12. "You did not believe in me (and) hold me as holy." Moses had been instructed to speak water from the rock. He fell back on the staff that has served him well in the past. God was moving him beyond props and crutches. Moses was not ready.
What is God trying to move you from and to? Perhaps the comfortable small group at church is keeping you from the next level of spiritual growth. Maybe you are putting off retirement one more year because it is the tried and true "staff" you hold in your hand.
If God instructs you to move, to grow, to evolve, and you don't, you are showing a lack of faith. You are not "holding Him as holy". Perhaps you will also miss the Promised Land.
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Joy of Giving March 5, 2016
For the Lord will again take delight in prospering you. Deuteronomy 30:9 ESV
Christmas morning. Gifts have been distributed. You have opened a present and made the necessary thank-yous. Now it is time for your (select one): wife, son, grandchild, husband to open that gift you have selected especially for them. Months of thought. Hours of shopping (or at least sometime spent on Amazon.com). Carefully wrapped with a matching bow. They start to peel back the paper. Realization slowly spreads across their face. A smile. Then a grin. Then excitement bursts forth. You get a (select one): smile, hug, kiss, thank you, high five, all of the above. It was a hit. Nailed it! You enjoyed the gift as much as the recipient. The happiness you felt was a result of the joy you gave to that special someone.
Our Heavenly Father rejoices in giving to us just as we enjoy giving to our loved ones. God does not give to us out of a sense of obligation. "Well, they followed my commandments so I guess I had better throw them a bone. Gotta' string 'em along so they will continue to follow the rules." Today's verse is cause for celebration, rejoicing, thankfulness. We have a Father who loves to make us happy. He "takes delight" in giving us good things. Our success brings him joy.
What a happy thought!!
Christmas morning. Gifts have been distributed. You have opened a present and made the necessary thank-yous. Now it is time for your (select one): wife, son, grandchild, husband to open that gift you have selected especially for them. Months of thought. Hours of shopping (or at least sometime spent on Amazon.com). Carefully wrapped with a matching bow. They start to peel back the paper. Realization slowly spreads across their face. A smile. Then a grin. Then excitement bursts forth. You get a (select one): smile, hug, kiss, thank you, high five, all of the above. It was a hit. Nailed it! You enjoyed the gift as much as the recipient. The happiness you felt was a result of the joy you gave to that special someone.
Our Heavenly Father rejoices in giving to us just as we enjoy giving to our loved ones. God does not give to us out of a sense of obligation. "Well, they followed my commandments so I guess I had better throw them a bone. Gotta' string 'em along so they will continue to follow the rules." Today's verse is cause for celebration, rejoicing, thankfulness. We have a Father who loves to make us happy. He "takes delight" in giving us good things. Our success brings him joy.
What a happy thought!!
Friday, March 4, 2016
Uttermost Parts March 4, 2016
2 and return to the Lord
your God, . . .4 If your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of heaven, from there the Lord your God will gather you, and from there he will take you. Deuteronomy 30:2-4 ESV
In my work with the homeless I have witnessed and heard stories of people who have made life choices that include drug use and criminal activity. Some of these are told in past tense, others- present tense. Stories of both being abused and being the abuser. Tales of abandonment and mental illness abound. As I read today's verse and ponder the lives of these children of God, I wonder if any of them fail to accept God's grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation because they feel a loving, pure, holy God could never open His arms to them and adopt them into sonship.
Society considers these homeless as outcasts, but in today's verse, God specifically addresses the disenfranchised, the cast offs, the expendables. It doesn't matter how far from God you feel you have moved. No distance is too far, even the "uttermost parts of heaven". We have but only return to God. Not go to church. Not quit using drugs. Not stop all sin. Just return. Walk to Him. Reach out a hurting, desperate hand to Him. Step one- "re" turn. Turn back to Him.
Our sin has made us all outcasts. Each of us is separated from God because of our disobedience. While the effects of sin may be more apparent in some lives, even the CEO on the 61st floor is isolate from God because of choices made. Careful that we do not see ourselves with just as great a need as the person sleeping in the doorway.
It doesn't matter where you are. Deep in drug use. Buried in an adulterous affair. Drowning in pornography. Engulfed in bitterness. He will gather you from the "uttermost parts of heaven." From the most distant place, He will find you. Your in cannot exceed His reach. Your disobedience cannot surpass His grasp.
Satan, the great deceiver, would love to convince you the distance it too great, the chasm too wide; God would never traverse the chasm created by our sin. God tells a different story. There is no place too remote for His grace. The question is, "Who will you believe: The Father of Lies, or El Emet, the God of Truth?"
In my work with the homeless I have witnessed and heard stories of people who have made life choices that include drug use and criminal activity. Some of these are told in past tense, others- present tense. Stories of both being abused and being the abuser. Tales of abandonment and mental illness abound. As I read today's verse and ponder the lives of these children of God, I wonder if any of them fail to accept God's grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation because they feel a loving, pure, holy God could never open His arms to them and adopt them into sonship.
Society considers these homeless as outcasts, but in today's verse, God specifically addresses the disenfranchised, the cast offs, the expendables. It doesn't matter how far from God you feel you have moved. No distance is too far, even the "uttermost parts of heaven". We have but only return to God. Not go to church. Not quit using drugs. Not stop all sin. Just return. Walk to Him. Reach out a hurting, desperate hand to Him. Step one- "re" turn. Turn back to Him.
Our sin has made us all outcasts. Each of us is separated from God because of our disobedience. While the effects of sin may be more apparent in some lives, even the CEO on the 61st floor is isolate from God because of choices made. Careful that we do not see ourselves with just as great a need as the person sleeping in the doorway.
It doesn't matter where you are. Deep in drug use. Buried in an adulterous affair. Drowning in pornography. Engulfed in bitterness. He will gather you from the "uttermost parts of heaven." From the most distant place, He will find you. Your in cannot exceed His reach. Your disobedience cannot surpass His grasp.
Satan, the great deceiver, would love to convince you the distance it too great, the chasm too wide; God would never traverse the chasm created by our sin. God tells a different story. There is no place too remote for His grace. The question is, "Who will you believe: The Father of Lies, or El Emet, the God of Truth?"
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Don't Give Up March 3, 2016
4 But to this day the Lord has not given you a heart to understand or eyes to see or ears to hear. Deuteronomy 29:4 ESV
The Israelites had recently been witness to plagues, miracles, and Red Sea partings that were all engineered by Elohim in the effort to free them from the bondage and mistreatment of Egypt. A mighty God had arranged not only their freedom, but a freedom that included untold riches from the Egyptian people. Yet within a few weeks, the Israelites were crafting an idol out of gold to be their object of worship.
Forty years of desert wandering was the consequence of this decision. Forty years of sand. Forty years of a nomadic existence. Before reading today's verse, I had always viewed this time as punishment. Sort of an extended time out. A sand-filled "you're grounded" discipline. But it was much more than that.
God was giving the Jewish people a time to get their hearts right. In His infinite wisdom He knew what it would take to purge the world from the Jews hearts and minds. Sure their actions may have changed as a result of having to drink gold-laced water. Perhaps a few years of desert wandering would have affected behavior, but God wishes for a transformation of the heart.
The generation that had spent their lives in the world of Egyptian gods and goddesses were conditioned to a world view that was in opposition to the demands of the One True God. They had grown accustomed to Ra, Isis, and Horus. Miracles and marvels made temporary believers. However, God knew that a period of seasoning and tempering were necessary to make the foundational heart changes.
There may be areas in our lives that have become so accustomed to a certain sin or pattern of behavior that it will take an extended period of desert detention for foundational change to take place. Forty years may not be required, but forty days or even forty weeks. Eventually that change will happen if we are sincere, consistent, and fervent in our will to change. If we cry out to God, kneel in prayer, and humbly approach Him, that transformation will take place. Don't get discouraged. Don't allow Satan to tell you it's never going to happen. It will. Have faith. Persevere.
The Israelites had recently been witness to plagues, miracles, and Red Sea partings that were all engineered by Elohim in the effort to free them from the bondage and mistreatment of Egypt. A mighty God had arranged not only their freedom, but a freedom that included untold riches from the Egyptian people. Yet within a few weeks, the Israelites were crafting an idol out of gold to be their object of worship.
Forty years of desert wandering was the consequence of this decision. Forty years of sand. Forty years of a nomadic existence. Before reading today's verse, I had always viewed this time as punishment. Sort of an extended time out. A sand-filled "you're grounded" discipline. But it was much more than that.
God was giving the Jewish people a time to get their hearts right. In His infinite wisdom He knew what it would take to purge the world from the Jews hearts and minds. Sure their actions may have changed as a result of having to drink gold-laced water. Perhaps a few years of desert wandering would have affected behavior, but God wishes for a transformation of the heart.
The generation that had spent their lives in the world of Egyptian gods and goddesses were conditioned to a world view that was in opposition to the demands of the One True God. They had grown accustomed to Ra, Isis, and Horus. Miracles and marvels made temporary believers. However, God knew that a period of seasoning and tempering were necessary to make the foundational heart changes.
There may be areas in our lives that have become so accustomed to a certain sin or pattern of behavior that it will take an extended period of desert detention for foundational change to take place. Forty years may not be required, but forty days or even forty weeks. Eventually that change will happen if we are sincere, consistent, and fervent in our will to change. If we cry out to God, kneel in prayer, and humbly approach Him, that transformation will take place. Don't get discouraged. Don't allow Satan to tell you it's never going to happen. It will. Have faith. Persevere.
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Watch Out Below! March 2, 2016
2 And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God. Deuteronomy 28:2 ESV
When I read this verse I had a mental image of an avalanche high up in the Himalayas. A small section of snow starts at the top, then gets larger and larger as it races down the mountain covering everything in its path. Obedience to "the LORD your God" will result in a similar avalanche of blessings.
Not just one or two nice things that happen, but a covering over with blessings. Mounds of blessings. A storm of good stuff. I am not talking a new Lexus in the drive, but wisdom to make that tough call at work. Winning lottery tickets are not promised, but peace "which surpasses all understanding" will be your companion.
Blessings racing down the mountain. An unstoppable flow of manna. God's goodness raining down on your life. This is God's promise for the obedient.
When I read this verse I had a mental image of an avalanche high up in the Himalayas. A small section of snow starts at the top, then gets larger and larger as it races down the mountain covering everything in its path. Obedience to "the LORD your God" will result in a similar avalanche of blessings.
Not just one or two nice things that happen, but a covering over with blessings. Mounds of blessings. A storm of good stuff. I am not talking a new Lexus in the drive, but wisdom to make that tough call at work. Winning lottery tickets are not promised, but peace "which surpasses all understanding" will be your companion.
Blessings racing down the mountain. An unstoppable flow of manna. God's goodness raining down on your life. This is God's promise for the obedient.
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Deeper than Bulls March 1, 2016
47 Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joyfulness and gladness of heart, because of the abundance of all things, 48 therefore you shall serve your enemies whom the Lord will send against you, in hunger and thirst, in nakedness, and lacking everything. Deuteronomy 28:47,48 ESV
So much of Deuteronomy concerns itself with what the Jewish people must do or not do in order to receive God's blessings. Eat this, not this. Sacrifice a bull, but make sure the fat is treated thus and so. Better make plans for the Passover, Feast of Weeks, and Feast of Booths. It is no wonder God ordained an entire tribe to read and remind the rest of the nation of the commandments and requirements.
God's blessings were contingent upon obedience to these commandments, but God also moves beyond robot-like obedience and addresses the heart. Obedience is still required, but "joyfulness and gladness of heart" are mentioned. A remembrance of God's blessings during service.
How often is our Christian witness tarnished in the workplace because we grumble about an act of service we have been called upon to perform? Driving an ailing parent to the doctor is treated like a chore. Having to attend a meeting at work is done with much grumbling. A Sunday morning golf game is turned down with a "gotta' go to church" frown rather than an excited response about the pastor's sermon series.
Is grumbling obedience better than disobedience? I am not sure there is any difference in God's eyes. Both are sin. Both damage the relationship. Both hurt our Father's heart.
Obedience goes beyond action. It speaks also to attitude. Pray that your hands and heart will both be obedient to God today.
So much of Deuteronomy concerns itself with what the Jewish people must do or not do in order to receive God's blessings. Eat this, not this. Sacrifice a bull, but make sure the fat is treated thus and so. Better make plans for the Passover, Feast of Weeks, and Feast of Booths. It is no wonder God ordained an entire tribe to read and remind the rest of the nation of the commandments and requirements.
God's blessings were contingent upon obedience to these commandments, but God also moves beyond robot-like obedience and addresses the heart. Obedience is still required, but "joyfulness and gladness of heart" are mentioned. A remembrance of God's blessings during service.
How often is our Christian witness tarnished in the workplace because we grumble about an act of service we have been called upon to perform? Driving an ailing parent to the doctor is treated like a chore. Having to attend a meeting at work is done with much grumbling. A Sunday morning golf game is turned down with a "gotta' go to church" frown rather than an excited response about the pastor's sermon series.
Is grumbling obedience better than disobedience? I am not sure there is any difference in God's eyes. Both are sin. Both damage the relationship. Both hurt our Father's heart.
Obedience goes beyond action. It speaks also to attitude. Pray that your hands and heart will both be obedient to God today.
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