Take every thought captive.
2 Corinthians 10:4 ESV
8 Finally,
brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just,
whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there
is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about
these things.
Philippians 4:8 ESV
Our dog, Roxie, is a big, lumbering, lovable Ozarks-mix mutt. Part boxer, part German Shepherd, part Labrador, part goofball. She stalks imaginary opossoms in the neighbor's trees, "harrumps" us when we don't let her outside quick enough in the mornings, and let's out a satisfied sigh when she settles in each evening before falling asleep. She also eats- lots. Although she is getting older, her appetite has not abated at all.
In order appease her appetite, Kristi and I have an agreement in place that I feed Roxie in the morning and Kristi takes care of the evening feeding. Simple right? Not so much. Roxie's food bowl is in the basement, and Kristi spends little time there. I am in the basement more frequently and am apt to notice an empty food bowl late into the evening that has not been filled. Many times I have filled the bowl, but with great production and drama.
Perhaps I will tap out a loud rhythm on the bowl as I ascend the stairs to the food bin. Or maybe I announce, "I am feeding Roxie." It might be even more pointed, "Are you going to feed Roxie?" Usually when I handle the evening feedings in this manner, it creates friction between Kristi and me.
Last week when I was providing Roxie her evening meal I found myself once again nursig martyr-complex thoughts. Instead of traveling down that road, I choose to think of all the other things Kristi does to make our house a home. The meals she prepares. The clean laundry that appears neatly folded on the drying. The beautiful flowers she has planted. All of a sudden walking up 12 steps to the garage to put two scoops of dog food into a stainless steel bowl seemed very insignificant. Certainly not worthy of berating the most wonderful person in my life. My irritation with became thankfulness for.
Our thoughts can ruin a moment, a day, or a lifetime. Take them captive. Think only of those things which are "true, honorable, just,
pure, lovely, commendable, excellence, and/or worthy of praise."
After thought: As I was typing the title for today's entry, I wondered if it were possible to have an "unconscious" thought. Can we have thoughts of which we are unaware? Based on these two verses, I would posit, "No." If we are encouraged to control our thoughts, then I don't believe we would have unconscious rouge thoughts bouncing around in our brains.
Saturday, June 25, 2016
Friday, June 24, 2016
In All Things June 24, 2016
3 But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 ESV
When I have read this verse in the past things such as Satanic attacks, overwhelming temptations, and unbearable trials have come to mind. But recently I realized another application of today's verse.
I love motorcycles, but have to fight attention deficit when it comes to my bikes. Love this one this season, but soon I start to justify a bigger/smaller/different style bike. So it is off to Craigslist where I usually lose a bit of money on the bike I have just to make a move to something else that really meets my needs no better than what is currently in the garage.
I am in the midst of such a cycle (no pun intended) at the current time. I was within one more rationalization of committing to a different motorcycle when that still, small voice said, "No." I tried to override the innervoice (Holy Spirit), but the nagging wouldn't go away. So I texted the gentleman with an apology, but did not proceed with the purchase.
It was then I realized that we need to be guarded against the evil one in area of temptation, attacks, and trials, but also in the day-in-day-outness of life. Decisions both large and small can have untold effects on our lives and the "evil one" would love to use our humaness to encourage us to make the wrong choice. But the Lord has promised protection. This protection extents to the most minute details of our lives.
2 Thessalonians 3:3 ESV
When I have read this verse in the past things such as Satanic attacks, overwhelming temptations, and unbearable trials have come to mind. But recently I realized another application of today's verse.
I love motorcycles, but have to fight attention deficit when it comes to my bikes. Love this one this season, but soon I start to justify a bigger/smaller/different style bike. So it is off to Craigslist where I usually lose a bit of money on the bike I have just to make a move to something else that really meets my needs no better than what is currently in the garage.
I am in the midst of such a cycle (no pun intended) at the current time. I was within one more rationalization of committing to a different motorcycle when that still, small voice said, "No." I tried to override the innervoice (Holy Spirit), but the nagging wouldn't go away. So I texted the gentleman with an apology, but did not proceed with the purchase.
It was then I realized that we need to be guarded against the evil one in area of temptation, attacks, and trials, but also in the day-in-day-outness of life. Decisions both large and small can have untold effects on our lives and the "evil one" would love to use our humaness to encourage us to make the wrong choice. But the Lord has promised protection. This protection extents to the most minute details of our lives.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
It's Not That Easy June 23, 2016
As I read through the headlines in today's newspapers/blogs/on-line news sources, I am struck with just how much more difficult it has become to navigate the world as a Christian. The issues that are at the forefront of today's public debate were not even being considered when I was growing up. I can only imagine how much more change has taken place since my parents and grandparents were growing up.
I can remember the main source of doctrinal dispute in my church growing up was the six 24-hour creation days vs six time epochs. Homosexuality was wrong. Abortion was always a last resort. Assisted suicide was never considered. Transgender was unheard of, and men were preachers. You accepted Christ as Savior. Got baptized. Went on a summer mission trip to an inner city neighborhood or poverty-stricken area in Mexico. And, oh yeah, better not get caught with a beer in your hand.
Today public debate rages on about these and other issues, and this debate is spilling over into the churches. Mainline Christian denominations are accepting gays into their membership with some even ordaining homosexual ministers. Marijuana is become legalized in states across the country. Five states have legalized physician-assisted suicide. Women behind the pulpit no longer raises an eye-brow in most churches.
I am not here to argue the right or wrong of these changes. That is for another time and place. But it seems that today living a Christian life requires more thought and reflection than ever before. It is no longer about singing four verses of "Amazing Grace", tithing 10%, and donating to the Lottie Moon Christmas fund. How do we connect with those whose lifestyle is radically different from ours? What if our childhood-instilled doctrine was incomplete or incorrect?
I had always assumed as I got older I would see things more clearly. Age would give me the wisdom to be better determine the "rightness" of all things. HAH!! The older I get the more I wonder about what I learned in Vacation Bible School many years ago.
I can remember the main source of doctrinal dispute in my church growing up was the six 24-hour creation days vs six time epochs. Homosexuality was wrong. Abortion was always a last resort. Assisted suicide was never considered. Transgender was unheard of, and men were preachers. You accepted Christ as Savior. Got baptized. Went on a summer mission trip to an inner city neighborhood or poverty-stricken area in Mexico. And, oh yeah, better not get caught with a beer in your hand.
Today public debate rages on about these and other issues, and this debate is spilling over into the churches. Mainline Christian denominations are accepting gays into their membership with some even ordaining homosexual ministers. Marijuana is become legalized in states across the country. Five states have legalized physician-assisted suicide. Women behind the pulpit no longer raises an eye-brow in most churches.
I am not here to argue the right or wrong of these changes. That is for another time and place. But it seems that today living a Christian life requires more thought and reflection than ever before. It is no longer about singing four verses of "Amazing Grace", tithing 10%, and donating to the Lottie Moon Christmas fund. How do we connect with those whose lifestyle is radically different from ours? What if our childhood-instilled doctrine was incomplete or incorrect?
I had always assumed as I got older I would see things more clearly. Age would give me the wisdom to be better determine the "rightness" of all things. HAH!! The older I get the more I wonder about what I learned in Vacation Bible School many years ago.
Wednesday, June 22, 2016
RYR June 22, 2016
21 And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” 22 Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.
Mark 10:21,22 ESV
Youth. Wealth. Power. He had it all. And, by golly, he was going to keep it all!
If you have spent much time at all attending church, watching Christian t.v., or listening to religious radio, you have probably heard the story of the rich young ruler. Jesus' request of the young man seems draconian. Sell it all. Give the proceeds away. Perhaps Jesus was testing the man's heart. Or maybe the wealthy power broker was being used by Jesus for an object lesson for others. Whatever the purpose, we read the young man walked away "sorrowful, for he had great possessions".
When we hear this story, it is tempting to take it lightly because of the severity of Jesus' request. Sell it all, then give the proceeds to the poor. Nothing left to provide for the family. No house. No bank account. No transportation. While there may be a time when Jesus leads us into poverty, I don't think that is the true lesson in this oft repeated story.
While the entirety of our possessions may not be required of us, are there things God is asking we sacrifice for Him that we are still holding on to? One are I am being convicting about is time. As as educator, my summer schedule is a bit less structured and as a result my bedtime has been crept back slightly over these past several weeks. As a result the snooze button is being pressed more often in the morning which in turn puts me behind in the a.m. What gets pushed aside? Walking the dog? Shaving? Breakfast? Time with God? You guessed it, time with God.
I have been unwilling to give up that extra rerun of "Law and Order" or put John Grisham latest novel down a couple of chapters earlier each evening so that I will have the rest and time to give God quality time in the morning. In this case, the "sacrifice" is a small thing, but the benefits of obedience are tenfold compared to what is given up.
What is God asking you to give up? Maybe it is walking away from the gossip group in the staff lounge. Perhaps it is a relationship that needs to be adjusted or abandoned. It might be a financial sacrifice. Whatever it is, until you are obedient, our relationship with our Heavenly Father will suffer until we step our in faith and are obedient to Him.
Mark 10:21,22 ESV
Youth. Wealth. Power. He had it all. And, by golly, he was going to keep it all!
If you have spent much time at all attending church, watching Christian t.v., or listening to religious radio, you have probably heard the story of the rich young ruler. Jesus' request of the young man seems draconian. Sell it all. Give the proceeds away. Perhaps Jesus was testing the man's heart. Or maybe the wealthy power broker was being used by Jesus for an object lesson for others. Whatever the purpose, we read the young man walked away "sorrowful, for he had great possessions".
When we hear this story, it is tempting to take it lightly because of the severity of Jesus' request. Sell it all, then give the proceeds to the poor. Nothing left to provide for the family. No house. No bank account. No transportation. While there may be a time when Jesus leads us into poverty, I don't think that is the true lesson in this oft repeated story.
While the entirety of our possessions may not be required of us, are there things God is asking we sacrifice for Him that we are still holding on to? One are I am being convicting about is time. As as educator, my summer schedule is a bit less structured and as a result my bedtime has been crept back slightly over these past several weeks. As a result the snooze button is being pressed more often in the morning which in turn puts me behind in the a.m. What gets pushed aside? Walking the dog? Shaving? Breakfast? Time with God? You guessed it, time with God.
I have been unwilling to give up that extra rerun of "Law and Order" or put John Grisham latest novel down a couple of chapters earlier each evening so that I will have the rest and time to give God quality time in the morning. In this case, the "sacrifice" is a small thing, but the benefits of obedience are tenfold compared to what is given up.
What is God asking you to give up? Maybe it is walking away from the gossip group in the staff lounge. Perhaps it is a relationship that needs to be adjusted or abandoned. It might be a financial sacrifice. Whatever it is, until you are obedient, our relationship with our Heavenly Father will suffer until we step our in faith and are obedient to Him.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Learn, Not Dwell June 20, 2016
8 Saul
was very angry; this refrain displeased him greatly. “They have
credited David with tens of thousands,” he thought, “but me with only
thousands. What more can he get but the kingdom?” 9 And from that time on Saul kept a close eye on David.
10 The next day an evil spirit from God came forcefully on Saul. 1 Samuel 18:8-10 ESV On one of the doors to a barracks at Auschwitz, there is a plaque with these immortal words from George Santayana, "The one who does not remember history is bound to live through it again." There is a fine line between remembering the past so we can learn from it and dwelling on the past. Saul seems to have done neither.
In chapters of 13 and 15 of 1 Samuel, we find Saul is the object of God's displeasure because Saul listened to and was swayed by the murmurings of the people. He was more concerned about the opinion polls than God's plan for his life. Once again in chapter 18, Saul becomes fixated on what others are saying. And once again, Saul suffers for his disobedience.
1 Samuel presents the two extremes of ignoring and dwelling in the past. Samuel is reprimanded by God in chapter 16 for moping around about a past failure. Yet Saul gives no thought to past sin and as a result repeats the same transgression over and over.
I tend to be a dweller. All too often my reflection strays from "what can I learn from this" to "I am an awful person and will never recover from (fill in the blank)". I believe God would have us reflect on the past, but only with the goal of improving and avoiding a repeat.
Easier done than said for some of us dwellers. So how can the dwellers among us accomplish this task.
First- prayer. Pray that God will take captive every thought. When we head down that road of reflection, ask God for it to be a productive trip. For each thought of failure, search for the lesson to be learned and a plan to avoid.
Second- limits. Don't allow the trip down failure lane to consume much of your quiet/prayer time. Confess your sin. Construct a plan to avoid in the future. Then move on.
Third- pray. Satan will do his best to reinsert thoughts of past failure into your mind. Don't allow it. Rebuke him. Realize those thoughts are not from God and serve no constructive purpose.
Ignoring the past is dangerous. Living there likewise. Acknowledging past failures allow for an improved future.
Sunday, June 19, 2016
June 19, 2016
12 Now he (David) was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome.
1 Samuel 13:12 ESV
18 One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.”
1 Samuel 16:18 ESV
14 And David had success in all his undertakings, for the Lord was with him.
1 Samuel 18:14 ESV
Much as been written about David, both in scripture and more recently. Books, songs, poems all recount the heroics and failures of this man "after (God's) heart, who will do all my will."
(Acts 13:22)
Sure David was good looking, He could play the lyre, was brave, carried himself well, and a tough individual. But at the end of the day, it came down to his relationship with God. The LORD was with David, and he was a man after God's heart. None of the external trappings mattered.
Saul was good looking dude, a man's man.
2 And he had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man. There was not a man among the people of Israel more handsome than he. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people. (1Samuel 9:2)
He could kick some Ammonite and Philistine tail. (1 Samuel 11 and 13) But because of consistent disobedience, Saul ended up crazed, paranoid, and committed suicide. Not a glamorous life or death of the first king of Israel. Saul's heart betrayed him.
We can have all the trappings of success. Job, possessions, physical health, wealth, but at the end of the day, it is our heart that matters. Humility, love, service matter. Not bank accounts, possessions, or status.
Would you rather be a crazed king or a God-pleasing shepherd?
1 Samuel 13:12 ESV
18 One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.”
1 Samuel 16:18 ESV
14 And David had success in all his undertakings, for the Lord was with him.
1 Samuel 18:14 ESV
Much as been written about David, both in scripture and more recently. Books, songs, poems all recount the heroics and failures of this man "after (God's) heart, who will do all my will."
(Acts 13:22)
Sure David was good looking, He could play the lyre, was brave, carried himself well, and a tough individual. But at the end of the day, it came down to his relationship with God. The LORD was with David, and he was a man after God's heart. None of the external trappings mattered.
Saul was good looking dude, a man's man.
2 And he had a son whose name was Saul, a handsome young man. There was not a man among the people of Israel more handsome than he. From his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the people. (1Samuel 9:2)
He could kick some Ammonite and Philistine tail. (1 Samuel 11 and 13) But because of consistent disobedience, Saul ended up crazed, paranoid, and committed suicide. Not a glamorous life or death of the first king of Israel. Saul's heart betrayed him.
We can have all the trappings of success. Job, possessions, physical health, wealth, but at the end of the day, it is our heart that matters. Humility, love, service matter. Not bank accounts, possessions, or status.
Would you rather be a crazed king or a God-pleasing shepherd?
Friday, June 17, 2016
Get Over It June 17, 2016
1 The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go. I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.”
1 Samuel 16:1 ESV
"How long will you grieve?"
I am once of the world's worst at allowing yesterday's mistakes to affect today's life. Financial missteps. Career misjudgements. Failed relationships. My mind creeps back to the times, places, and faces of the countless times I have been found wanting. This slide into the sins, transgressions, and failures of the past serve no kingdom purpose.
Yes, we should learn from our past. If given to rash financial outlays, be wary of new investments. If anger has ruined past relationships, acknowledge that failure and pray for growth. But to dwell on and wallow in the memories of bygone is a tool of Satan to drag us into depression, self-loathing, and in-action.
God reminds Samuel that He is in change. Things are in His control. It is time to get up, grab the tools of the trade, and move forward.
Let's learn from the past, but not live there.
1 Samuel 16:1 ESV
"How long will you grieve?"
I am once of the world's worst at allowing yesterday's mistakes to affect today's life. Financial missteps. Career misjudgements. Failed relationships. My mind creeps back to the times, places, and faces of the countless times I have been found wanting. This slide into the sins, transgressions, and failures of the past serve no kingdom purpose.
Yes, we should learn from our past. If given to rash financial outlays, be wary of new investments. If anger has ruined past relationships, acknowledge that failure and pray for growth. But to dwell on and wallow in the memories of bygone is a tool of Satan to drag us into depression, self-loathing, and in-action.
God reminds Samuel that He is in change. Things are in His control. It is time to get up, grab the tools of the trade, and move forward.
Let's learn from the past, but not live there.
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Old Habits June 16, 2016
24 Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice. 25 Now therefore, please pardon my sin and return with me that I may bow before the Lord.”
30 Then he said, “I have sinned; yet honor me now before the elders of my people and before Israel, and return with me, that I may bow before the Lord your God.”
1 Samuel 15:24-25,30 ESV
Samuel has just related to Saul God's message that Saul has been rejected as king of Israel. Saul has continually disobeyed the Lord to the point that He "regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel." (v. 35)
While Saul realizes his fate is sealed and his future, he appears contrite and willing to make amends to God. However, his words do not support a true repentance.
Yes, Saul admits to sinning against God, but seems just as worried he has disobeyed Samuel. In fact he asks Samuel for pardon, not God. He is concerned that is has "trangressed your (Samuel) words". Once again we see Saul more worried about his relationships with man than his obedience to God.
This is reinforced in verse 30 when Saul wants Samuel to accompany him before the elders and Israelites. He wanted his name cleared before man. His standing in the community trumped his right standing with God.
When we have sinned against God, public opinion be damned. Yes, our horizontal relationships are important. But it is that vertical relationship with God that must be made right. It is the priority.
Until we lay prostrate before God crying out like David "against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your eyes" we will fall short of true repentance. If we are more concerned about who we have made mad rather than the Spirit we have grieved, our contrition is lacking.
Most likely God will call us to restore some horizontal relationships, but those are secondary. Get things right with God first.
30 Then he said, “I have sinned; yet honor me now before the elders of my people and before Israel, and return with me, that I may bow before the Lord your God.”
1 Samuel 15:24-25,30 ESV
Samuel has just related to Saul God's message that Saul has been rejected as king of Israel. Saul has continually disobeyed the Lord to the point that He "regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel." (v. 35)
While Saul realizes his fate is sealed and his future, he appears contrite and willing to make amends to God. However, his words do not support a true repentance.
Yes, Saul admits to sinning against God, but seems just as worried he has disobeyed Samuel. In fact he asks Samuel for pardon, not God. He is concerned that is has "trangressed your (Samuel) words". Once again we see Saul more worried about his relationships with man than his obedience to God.
This is reinforced in verse 30 when Saul wants Samuel to accompany him before the elders and Israelites. He wanted his name cleared before man. His standing in the community trumped his right standing with God.
When we have sinned against God, public opinion be damned. Yes, our horizontal relationships are important. But it is that vertical relationship with God that must be made right. It is the priority.
Until we lay prostrate before God crying out like David "against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your eyes" we will fall short of true repentance. If we are more concerned about who we have made mad rather than the Spirit we have grieved, our contrition is lacking.
Most likely God will call us to restore some horizontal relationships, but those are secondary. Get things right with God first.
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
God or Gallup? June 14, 2016
10 As soon as he had finished offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came. And Saul went out to meet him and greet him. 11 Samuel
said, “What have you done?” And Saul said, “When I saw that the people
were scattering from me, and that you did not come within the days
appointed, and that the Philistines had mustered at Michmash,
1 Samuel 13:10-11 ESV
19 "Why then did you not obey the voice of the Lord? Why did you pounce on the spoil and do what was evil in the sight of the Lord?”
21 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the best of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrifice to the Lord your God in Gilgal.”
24 Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice.
1 Samuel 15:19, 21, 24 ESV
I have often wondered why God would place select Saul as first king of Israel. Within a few short years of his anointing, God "regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel." 1 Samuel 15:34 ESV Perhaps it was to serve as a lesson for generations to come. Maybe God allowed the weak and flawed to rise and fall as object lessons for us throughout the ages.
Today's scriptures serve as a lesson for all leaders. Whether leading a household or a Fortune 500 company, the lesson is not to allow popular opinion to drive your decisions.
In chapter 13, Saul has just claimed a victory over the Philistines and was waiting for Samuel to arrive in order to make a sacrifice to the Lord. Saul had been instructed to wait. However, since Samuel was running late and the "people were scattering", Saul took it upon himself to make the sacrifice. This was not Saul's duty. It was disobedience. But he disobeyed because of pubic opinion. It was this sin that
As soon as Saul was finished, Samuel appeared and was shocked. He pronounced, "But now (because of you sin) your kingdom shall not continue." (v 14) Just like that. Saul worried about public opinion rather than God's word and he lost his future. But didn't learn his lesson.
Later in chapter 15, after defeating "defeated the Amalekites from Havilah as far as Shur, which is east of Egypt," Saul and the Hebrews keep the best of the spoil for themselves rather than complete destruction as directed by God. When Saul was asked by Samuel, "Why then did you not obey the voice of the Lord? Why did you pounce on the spoil and do what was evil in the sight of the Lord?” Saul once again pointed to the poll numbers.
"Because I feared the people and obeyed their voice," was Saul's pathetic reply. They weren't going to like me. They might talk about me in the break room. I might take some social media fall out. What about Twitter!
I get it. We all want to be liked. Immortalized in song and verse. We want teeth to gnash and voices to wail when we announce our retirement. There is nothing wrong with this UNLESS we compromise in order to achieve it. If we allow our need for popularity to override God's direction for our lives we run the risk of losing it all. Earthly thumbs up traded for heavenly "well done".
Not a wise trade.
1 Samuel 13:10-11 ESV
19 "Why then did you not obey the voice of the Lord? Why did you pounce on the spoil and do what was evil in the sight of the Lord?”
21 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the best of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrifice to the Lord your God in Gilgal.”
24 Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice.
1 Samuel 15:19, 21, 24 ESV
I have often wondered why God would place select Saul as first king of Israel. Within a few short years of his anointing, God "regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel." 1 Samuel 15:34 ESV Perhaps it was to serve as a lesson for generations to come. Maybe God allowed the weak and flawed to rise and fall as object lessons for us throughout the ages.
Today's scriptures serve as a lesson for all leaders. Whether leading a household or a Fortune 500 company, the lesson is not to allow popular opinion to drive your decisions.
In chapter 13, Saul has just claimed a victory over the Philistines and was waiting for Samuel to arrive in order to make a sacrifice to the Lord. Saul had been instructed to wait. However, since Samuel was running late and the "people were scattering", Saul took it upon himself to make the sacrifice. This was not Saul's duty. It was disobedience. But he disobeyed because of pubic opinion. It was this sin that
As soon as Saul was finished, Samuel appeared and was shocked. He pronounced, "But now (because of you sin) your kingdom shall not continue." (v 14) Just like that. Saul worried about public opinion rather than God's word and he lost his future. But didn't learn his lesson.
Later in chapter 15, after defeating "defeated the Amalekites from Havilah as far as Shur, which is east of Egypt," Saul and the Hebrews keep the best of the spoil for themselves rather than complete destruction as directed by God. When Saul was asked by Samuel, "Why then did you not obey the voice of the Lord? Why did you pounce on the spoil and do what was evil in the sight of the Lord?” Saul once again pointed to the poll numbers.
"Because I feared the people and obeyed their voice," was Saul's pathetic reply. They weren't going to like me. They might talk about me in the break room. I might take some social media fall out. What about Twitter!
I get it. We all want to be liked. Immortalized in song and verse. We want teeth to gnash and voices to wail when we announce our retirement. There is nothing wrong with this UNLESS we compromise in order to achieve it. If we allow our need for popularity to override God's direction for our lives we run the risk of losing it all. Earthly thumbs up traded for heavenly "well done".
Not a wise trade.
Friday, June 10, 2016
"I'll Pray for You" June 10, 2016
23 Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you,
1 Samuel 12:23 ESV
Seven Deadly Sins, the 10 Commandments, "shalls" and "shall nots". Throughout the Bible there are some very clear mentions of sins, both specific and categorical. But in Samuel's closing address he mentions a "sin against the LORD" which many of us would be guilty of committing.
When a friend is in a medical crisis, "I'll pray for you."
A family member having to make a tough decision, "We'll keep you in our prayers."
That coworker who confides in you about his/her impending divorce, "You'll be in my prayers."
Maybe the promise is sincere. If so, then the issue most likely gets 1-2 days on a prayer list soon to be replaced or forgotten. Perhaps is is just a throw-away line because we don't know what else to say.
A "sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for (fill in the blank)". Anything we do or fail to do that God has required of us is a sin. If we commit to or are led to pray for a situation, group, or individual, but fail to follow through with those prayers, it is a sin. If we tell a person we will pray for him, but don't- then we have sinned. If we ignore the Holy Spirit's conviction to pray for a situation- we have sinned.
I also find it revealing that Samuel places this transgression as a sin against God. Sure all sin goes against God, but Samuel specifically identifies this a being against the LORD. His concern was not what the Hebrews would think of him or how they would react to his lack of pray for their welfare. It feels as if Samuel has elevated this particular sin to a level of direct affront to Yahweh. If sin has a hierarchy, then invoking God's name in an effort to comfort or advocate then not following through is taking His name in vain, which as we all know is one of the Big Ten.
If our "I'll pray for you" is just a through away line, then let's find another line of comfort for that friend, coworker, or family member. However if we choose to follow through on our promises of prayer, we might see God work in miraculous ways and our relationship with God and man grow.
1 Samuel 12:23 ESV
Seven Deadly Sins, the 10 Commandments, "shalls" and "shall nots". Throughout the Bible there are some very clear mentions of sins, both specific and categorical. But in Samuel's closing address he mentions a "sin against the LORD" which many of us would be guilty of committing.
When a friend is in a medical crisis, "I'll pray for you."
A family member having to make a tough decision, "We'll keep you in our prayers."
That coworker who confides in you about his/her impending divorce, "You'll be in my prayers."
Maybe the promise is sincere. If so, then the issue most likely gets 1-2 days on a prayer list soon to be replaced or forgotten. Perhaps is is just a throw-away line because we don't know what else to say.
A "sin against the LORD by ceasing to pray for (fill in the blank)". Anything we do or fail to do that God has required of us is a sin. If we commit to or are led to pray for a situation, group, or individual, but fail to follow through with those prayers, it is a sin. If we tell a person we will pray for him, but don't- then we have sinned. If we ignore the Holy Spirit's conviction to pray for a situation- we have sinned.
I also find it revealing that Samuel places this transgression as a sin against God. Sure all sin goes against God, but Samuel specifically identifies this a being against the LORD. His concern was not what the Hebrews would think of him or how they would react to his lack of pray for their welfare. It feels as if Samuel has elevated this particular sin to a level of direct affront to Yahweh. If sin has a hierarchy, then invoking God's name in an effort to comfort or advocate then not following through is taking His name in vain, which as we all know is one of the Big Ten.
If our "I'll pray for you" is just a through away line, then let's find another line of comfort for that friend, coworker, or family member. However if we choose to follow through on our promises of prayer, we might see God work in miraculous ways and our relationship with God and man grow.
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Undeserving June 8, 2016
19 And all the people said to Samuel, “Pray for your servants to the Lord your God, that we may not die, for we have added to all our sins this evil, to ask for ourselves a king.” 20 And Samuel said to the people, “Do not be afraid; you have done all this evil. Yet do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all your heart.
1 Samuel 12:19,20 ESV
We serve a God of second, third, fourth, and even fifth changes. Here the Israelites are openly admitting to yet another round of disobedience. In fact they term their actions "evil" and are afraid they will be put to death by Yahweh. What fear and trembling must have been present.
But even with them acknowledging their intentional, on-going sinfulness, they are reassured by Samuel that if they will "not turn aside from following the Lord, they will be spared.
How many times in my life have I feared the smite button from God. Whether it was an intentional sin or a foolhardy choice, many times in my past, God would have been justified in administering harsh retribution. Yet He chose to forgive and protect me.
As undeserved as His mercy was, He showered it time and time again, and continues to this day.
How this should increase our thankfulness to and love for Him, as well as serve as a life model for us.
1 Samuel 12:19,20 ESV
We serve a God of second, third, fourth, and even fifth changes. Here the Israelites are openly admitting to yet another round of disobedience. In fact they term their actions "evil" and are afraid they will be put to death by Yahweh. What fear and trembling must have been present.
But even with them acknowledging their intentional, on-going sinfulness, they are reassured by Samuel that if they will "not turn aside from following the Lord, they will be spared.
How many times in my life have I feared the smite button from God. Whether it was an intentional sin or a foolhardy choice, many times in my past, God would have been justified in administering harsh retribution. Yet He chose to forgive and protect me.
As undeserved as His mercy was, He showered it time and time again, and continues to this day.
How this should increase our thankfulness to and love for Him, as well as serve as a life model for us.
Tuesday, June 7, 2016
Lose your ass. . .Find a king June 7, 2016
3 Now
the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. So Kish said to Saul his
son, “Take one of the young men with you, and arise, go and look for
the donkeys.” 1 Samuel 9:3 ESV
So often when bad things happen in life we fail to look for God's plan in the situation. We may put on a brave face and quote Romans 8:28, but so we really believe it, and do we recognize when God's plan is moved forward as a result of the unfortunate or even tragic event?
When we catch up with the Israelites in the 9th chapter of 1 Samuel, they had already demanded a king to rule over them, even though God has warned them against such a course of action. Since they are resolute in their demands for a king, the next step was for God to identify that man to Samuel so he could anoint the new monarch.
Since this was a new form of government for the Jewish nation, there was no lineage or precedent to determine who would be king, so divine intervention was needed. God's plan was put in motion through a herd of lost donkeys. Kish's donkeys to be exact.
When Kish discovered his missing donkeys he called on his son, Saul, to go in search of the missing live stock. After searching in Ephriam, Shalishah, the land of Benjamin, and Zuph to no avail, Saul and his servant were ready to return home empty handed. However, Saul's servant suggested they go visit the local prophet to get some direction. Saul agreed.
The prophet was Samuel who has been told by God in a vision about a man who will be visiting who Samuel is to "anoint to be prince over my people Israel." This newly anointed king will "save my (God's) people from the hand of the Philistines."
When Saul and Samuel meet the following day, God tells Samuel, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you! He it is who shall restrain my people.” And true to God's word, Saul does lead the Israelites in their successful war of independence from the Philistines.
This God-ordained meeting between Saul and Samuel was put into motion through what seemed at first to be an unfortunate event- the loss of a heard of donkeys. Yet this event was the catalyst to bring about a series of events that lead the independence of a nation.
We may not always be able to make such a direct connection between unfortunate/tragic events and God's greater plan, but that connection is there for His children. We must trust God's promises. "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 ESV
So often when bad things happen in life we fail to look for God's plan in the situation. We may put on a brave face and quote Romans 8:28, but so we really believe it, and do we recognize when God's plan is moved forward as a result of the unfortunate or even tragic event?
When we catch up with the Israelites in the 9th chapter of 1 Samuel, they had already demanded a king to rule over them, even though God has warned them against such a course of action. Since they are resolute in their demands for a king, the next step was for God to identify that man to Samuel so he could anoint the new monarch.
Since this was a new form of government for the Jewish nation, there was no lineage or precedent to determine who would be king, so divine intervention was needed. God's plan was put in motion through a herd of lost donkeys. Kish's donkeys to be exact.
When Kish discovered his missing donkeys he called on his son, Saul, to go in search of the missing live stock. After searching in Ephriam, Shalishah, the land of Benjamin, and Zuph to no avail, Saul and his servant were ready to return home empty handed. However, Saul's servant suggested they go visit the local prophet to get some direction. Saul agreed.
The prophet was Samuel who has been told by God in a vision about a man who will be visiting who Samuel is to "anoint to be prince over my people Israel." This newly anointed king will "save my (God's) people from the hand of the Philistines."
When Saul and Samuel meet the following day, God tells Samuel, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you! He it is who shall restrain my people.” And true to God's word, Saul does lead the Israelites in their successful war of independence from the Philistines.
This God-ordained meeting between Saul and Samuel was put into motion through what seemed at first to be an unfortunate event- the loss of a heard of donkeys. Yet this event was the catalyst to bring about a series of events that lead the independence of a nation.
We may not always be able to make such a direct connection between unfortunate/tragic events and God's greater plan, but that connection is there for His children. We must trust God's promises. "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." Hebrews 11:1 ESV
Thursday, June 2, 2016
Trending June 2, 2016
Yesterday as I was running errands one of my favorite radio preachers, either Alistair Begg or Ravi Zacharais, said something to the effect that our nation's troubles won't be cured even if we get Christians elected to office because no one is following Christians' lead any way. Christian principles are not in vogue. Billy Graham is not a trend setter. The Church's views on many political/social issues are not the prevailing views. A Judeo-Christian world view is met more times than not with at least silent skepticism if not outright ridicule.
Electing a slew of Christian leaders would only further highlight the secular worldview of the majority of Americans, indeed the world. The courts would likely strike down any legislation that did not follow a progressive track. Trump, Clinton, or Saunders won't change America's path. Congress won't change America's woes. The Supreme Court can't "fix" things.
Rather than fill the seats of Congress with baptized evangelists, we need to personally, individually strive each day to become more Christ-like. Our daily walk must take individual Christians closer to God. Not so we can sit at the dining room table with a high lighter in hand or at the computer pounding the keys with our latest blog entry, but so we become beacons of Christ's light in an increasingly dark world.
It is through relationships and friendships we are to share the Gospel message. I feel we have passed the tipping point of American ever again returning to the nation of yore where Christian principles guided our path. We should still vote, speak out in public forums, and support those causes/organizations that espouse Christian principles. However, we must also face the fact that like the Titanic we are headed for destruction. The course is set. The iceberg is looming. Our call is to lead as many people as possible to a saving knowledge in Christ Jesus. Our duty is to share the life-changing message of the Gospel.
Each day we must become more Christ-like so we can share His love with each person with which we come in contact.
Electing a slew of Christian leaders would only further highlight the secular worldview of the majority of Americans, indeed the world. The courts would likely strike down any legislation that did not follow a progressive track. Trump, Clinton, or Saunders won't change America's path. Congress won't change America's woes. The Supreme Court can't "fix" things.
Rather than fill the seats of Congress with baptized evangelists, we need to personally, individually strive each day to become more Christ-like. Our daily walk must take individual Christians closer to God. Not so we can sit at the dining room table with a high lighter in hand or at the computer pounding the keys with our latest blog entry, but so we become beacons of Christ's light in an increasingly dark world.
It is through relationships and friendships we are to share the Gospel message. I feel we have passed the tipping point of American ever again returning to the nation of yore where Christian principles guided our path. We should still vote, speak out in public forums, and support those causes/organizations that espouse Christian principles. However, we must also face the fact that like the Titanic we are headed for destruction. The course is set. The iceberg is looming. Our call is to lead as many people as possible to a saving knowledge in Christ Jesus. Our duty is to share the life-changing message of the Gospel.
Each day we must become more Christ-like so we can share His love with each person with which we come in contact.
Wednesday, June 1, 2016
He Wouldn't. . .Would He? June 1, 2016
18 "And in that day you will cry out because of your king, whom you have chosen for yourselves, but the Lord will not answer you in that day.” 1 Samuel 8:18 ESV
19 But the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel. And they said, “No! But there shall be a king over us."
1 Samuel 8:19 ESV
Again we see the nation of Israel rebelling against God. In the eighth chapter of 1 Samuel, they are demanding a king. God tells Samuel that this desire for a monarch is not a rejection of Samuel, but indeed a rejection of God's authority over them. Ever the loving God, He tells Samuel to warn the Hebrew nation of the downsides of having a king: loss of property, taxes, and conscription. But they insist on an earthly king.
I wonder if Samuel was surprised with their decision even after his harsh warning. Even after been presented with a list of negatives, they still demanded a king. If he were shocked at their insistence on having a king, he should not have been. Since they did not believe God was sufficient to lead them, why would they have worried if he abandoned them?
I wonder if their ignoring of Samuel's warning was because they did not believe God would punish them or that God could punish them. I think it was the former.
Do we really believe God will punish us for disobedience? His discipline is for that other guy. Surely a loving God will not hold one of His children accountable. In fact, the Bible tells us He "not leave or forsake" us. It was the Old Testament that rained fire. The New Testament God is all about mercy.
How many choices do we make each day ignoring the possible consequences? How many people have chosen a diet full of sugar only to be shocked that they were diagnosed with diabetes? Which ones of us have pushed God to a Sunday only god only to be dismayed when He allowed to make a very bad investment decision?
If we spit in the eye of our Heavenly Father, he might not "leave or forsake us", but don't expect Him to shield us from all of the consequences of our choices. God will allow us to receive a painful burn when we touch the stove, otherwise we would continually tough the stove. When God speaks, it is best to listen and obey.
19 But the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel. And they said, “No! But there shall be a king over us."
1 Samuel 8:19 ESV
Again we see the nation of Israel rebelling against God. In the eighth chapter of 1 Samuel, they are demanding a king. God tells Samuel that this desire for a monarch is not a rejection of Samuel, but indeed a rejection of God's authority over them. Ever the loving God, He tells Samuel to warn the Hebrew nation of the downsides of having a king: loss of property, taxes, and conscription. But they insist on an earthly king.
I wonder if Samuel was surprised with their decision even after his harsh warning. Even after been presented with a list of negatives, they still demanded a king. If he were shocked at their insistence on having a king, he should not have been. Since they did not believe God was sufficient to lead them, why would they have worried if he abandoned them?
I wonder if their ignoring of Samuel's warning was because they did not believe God would punish them or that God could punish them. I think it was the former.
Do we really believe God will punish us for disobedience? His discipline is for that other guy. Surely a loving God will not hold one of His children accountable. In fact, the Bible tells us He "not leave or forsake" us. It was the Old Testament that rained fire. The New Testament God is all about mercy.
How many choices do we make each day ignoring the possible consequences? How many people have chosen a diet full of sugar only to be shocked that they were diagnosed with diabetes? Which ones of us have pushed God to a Sunday only god only to be dismayed when He allowed to make a very bad investment decision?
If we spit in the eye of our Heavenly Father, he might not "leave or forsake us", but don't expect Him to shield us from all of the consequences of our choices. God will allow us to receive a painful burn when we touch the stove, otherwise we would continually tough the stove. When God speaks, it is best to listen and obey.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)