SCRIPTURE
Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.'" (John 18:37)
OBSERVATION
After Jesus was arrested the Jews took him to Pilate. Pilate invited him inside the palace and began to question him. Jesus' answer was in response to Pilate's statement, "You are a king then!"
Having just celebrated Christmas we are mindful of Jesus coming into the world. In this verse he gives us the reason, to testify to the truth. He did not just testify to the truth in his words but he testified by his lifestyle. He was truth incarnate, in the flesh.
Truth has been defined as that "which corresponds to reality." There couldn't be a better definition for Jesus as truth. God is the ultimate reality. Everything begins and ends with him. Jesus came to earth to show us that truth. He spoke what the Father spoke. He did what the Father did. So in reality, Christmas is all about truth breaking into the world as a person.
APPLICATION
I often hear people say God is on our side. But the question really is, "Am I on God's side?" How do I know? Jesus says if I listen to him, then I am on the side of truth. Christmas is about light and darkness and the truth of Jesus lights my way in this world. If I'm lost or in need of direction, not sure where to turn or what to do, I look to Jesus. Really, my entire life is lived after Christmas, on this side of the first Christmas (post-incarnation). Jesus has come, testified to the truth, and returned to the Father. Pilate asked Jesus, "What is truth?" My question becomes, "Who is truth?" It is Jesus.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to live the truth of Jesus, listening to him, and living my life on the side of truth.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
The Christmas Pageant
In 1897, eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun newspaper. "Dear Editor: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.' Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?”
Like Virginia O’Hanlon, wondering about the existence of Santa Claus, people have wondered about the existence of God. Or, if he does exist, how we can know him. C.S. Lewis was so convinced of his agnosticism that he once wrote: “Man cannot know God any more than Hamlet could know Shakespeare.” He conceded the fact that there is perhaps an author to life. However, if we are part of a cosmic story we could not know God with any certainty, just as the characters in a play could not know the playwright.
Lewis, a little time later, became a follower of Jesus. He was approached by a colleague who reminded him of his previous agnostic stance and asked, “Didn’t you once write a paper defending your agnosticism?” Lewis replied, “I was right – Hamlet could not know Shakespeare” but he continued, “Unless Shakespeare wrote himself into the play of Hamlet and introduced himself.” What was it that C.S Lewis discovered? In a word, Christmas. Not the holiday as we celebrate it, but the movement of God in history that precipitated the holiday.
A common perception of God is that he is the “man upstairs.” Life is viewed as living in a high-rise. We live on the lower floors and discovering God is a matter of going to the upper floors. If we go high enough we will find him. The problem is, God is not higher he is other. He doesn’t live in the same building. He is not a part of this created world. Going higher will be of no avail. It may provide a nice view but we won’t run into God.
To know God he must reveal himself to us. He must break through into our world, pull back the curtains, and let us know he is there. That is the meaning of Christmas. God introduced himself to us. Previously, he had spoken through his appointed messengers, the prophets, as conveyers of self-disclosure. Even creation points to his eternal qualities. But nothing shows us who he is like the Christ of Christmas.
Christmas is God becoming flesh and moving into our building. Christmas is God writing himself into human history through his son Jesus. God became flesh so we who are in the flesh could meet him and know him in an extraordinary way. Jesus stepped out of heaven and planted his feet on the earth.
Beginning life as a baby, born in the village of Bethlehem, God showed up on the planet. When Mary changed his diaper, she was changing God’s diaper. When Joseph taught him how to use a hammer, it was God’s hands that gripped the mallet. When the baby cried and kept his parents awake at night, it was God who caused them to lose sleep.
Christmas is a big deal not because of the decorations, food, family gatherings, gifts or goodwill. It’s a big deal because the author of all that exists walked onto the stage of human experience. Jesus who has eternally existed with the Father became a player in the drama of life. It was the Christmas pageant performed 2,000 years ago.
Not such a big deal? Imagine if we had to become a slug, enduring life with other slugs, doing slug stuff. Not a very appealing or comprehensible existence. Consider this, the distance from Jesus to human being is exponentially greater than the distance between us and a slug. That is a big deal.
So why did he do it? The prophets of old could only do so much. They were killed, run out of town, or at the least misunderstood. Creation can be discounted as an act of random change over time. Christmas is God revealing himself to us in the way we could best understand, as another human being. God, as an all-personal, all-relational being, wants us to know him, so our lives can center on him. We were created to enjoy a relationship with him.
Yet, the brokenness, heartache, and misery of this world can be traced back to the self-serving interests of the human heart. God had a radical plan to draw people back to him. He entered our world to communicate with us, in word and deed, by showing us a Life of self-sacrifice and giving. Not ignoring our condition, he entered into our experience of brokenness, heartache and misery. Christmas changes everything.
The saying, “like father like son” applies to Jesus. To know Jesus is to know God. His life showed us what God is like. If a character had been written into Hamlet that talked and acted like William Shakespeare, Hamlet could begin to know his author.
Deep in every human heart is the desire to know that we are more than, as Kierkegaard wrote, a “cosmic bum.” There is a longing to know that our lives matter and that our lives are more than matter.
The meaning of Christmas is that our lives ultimately have meaning. God entered our world to demonstrate his great love for us by revealing himself to us beginning as a tiny, fragile, dependant, vulnerable baby. Aren’t those the places we often find ourselves? Those are the very places God decided to join us in our story.
Christmas doesn’t answer all of our questions with certainty. Does God exist? Or, those deep, heartfelt questions that often begin with “Why?” However, it does explain the relationship of God with the world as we’ve inherited it. It is his story that helps us make sense of our story. Maybe Virginia’s papa was on to something. “If you see it in THE SON it’s so.”
Like Virginia O’Hanlon, wondering about the existence of Santa Claus, people have wondered about the existence of God. Or, if he does exist, how we can know him. C.S. Lewis was so convinced of his agnosticism that he once wrote: “Man cannot know God any more than Hamlet could know Shakespeare.” He conceded the fact that there is perhaps an author to life. However, if we are part of a cosmic story we could not know God with any certainty, just as the characters in a play could not know the playwright.
Lewis, a little time later, became a follower of Jesus. He was approached by a colleague who reminded him of his previous agnostic stance and asked, “Didn’t you once write a paper defending your agnosticism?” Lewis replied, “I was right – Hamlet could not know Shakespeare” but he continued, “Unless Shakespeare wrote himself into the play of Hamlet and introduced himself.” What was it that C.S Lewis discovered? In a word, Christmas. Not the holiday as we celebrate it, but the movement of God in history that precipitated the holiday.
A common perception of God is that he is the “man upstairs.” Life is viewed as living in a high-rise. We live on the lower floors and discovering God is a matter of going to the upper floors. If we go high enough we will find him. The problem is, God is not higher he is other. He doesn’t live in the same building. He is not a part of this created world. Going higher will be of no avail. It may provide a nice view but we won’t run into God.
To know God he must reveal himself to us. He must break through into our world, pull back the curtains, and let us know he is there. That is the meaning of Christmas. God introduced himself to us. Previously, he had spoken through his appointed messengers, the prophets, as conveyers of self-disclosure. Even creation points to his eternal qualities. But nothing shows us who he is like the Christ of Christmas.
Christmas is God becoming flesh and moving into our building. Christmas is God writing himself into human history through his son Jesus. God became flesh so we who are in the flesh could meet him and know him in an extraordinary way. Jesus stepped out of heaven and planted his feet on the earth.
Beginning life as a baby, born in the village of Bethlehem, God showed up on the planet. When Mary changed his diaper, she was changing God’s diaper. When Joseph taught him how to use a hammer, it was God’s hands that gripped the mallet. When the baby cried and kept his parents awake at night, it was God who caused them to lose sleep.
Christmas is a big deal not because of the decorations, food, family gatherings, gifts or goodwill. It’s a big deal because the author of all that exists walked onto the stage of human experience. Jesus who has eternally existed with the Father became a player in the drama of life. It was the Christmas pageant performed 2,000 years ago.
Not such a big deal? Imagine if we had to become a slug, enduring life with other slugs, doing slug stuff. Not a very appealing or comprehensible existence. Consider this, the distance from Jesus to human being is exponentially greater than the distance between us and a slug. That is a big deal.
So why did he do it? The prophets of old could only do so much. They were killed, run out of town, or at the least misunderstood. Creation can be discounted as an act of random change over time. Christmas is God revealing himself to us in the way we could best understand, as another human being. God, as an all-personal, all-relational being, wants us to know him, so our lives can center on him. We were created to enjoy a relationship with him.
Yet, the brokenness, heartache, and misery of this world can be traced back to the self-serving interests of the human heart. God had a radical plan to draw people back to him. He entered our world to communicate with us, in word and deed, by showing us a Life of self-sacrifice and giving. Not ignoring our condition, he entered into our experience of brokenness, heartache and misery. Christmas changes everything.
The saying, “like father like son” applies to Jesus. To know Jesus is to know God. His life showed us what God is like. If a character had been written into Hamlet that talked and acted like William Shakespeare, Hamlet could begin to know his author.
Deep in every human heart is the desire to know that we are more than, as Kierkegaard wrote, a “cosmic bum.” There is a longing to know that our lives matter and that our lives are more than matter.
The meaning of Christmas is that our lives ultimately have meaning. God entered our world to demonstrate his great love for us by revealing himself to us beginning as a tiny, fragile, dependant, vulnerable baby. Aren’t those the places we often find ourselves? Those are the very places God decided to join us in our story.
Christmas doesn’t answer all of our questions with certainty. Does God exist? Or, those deep, heartfelt questions that often begin with “Why?” However, it does explain the relationship of God with the world as we’ve inherited it. It is his story that helps us make sense of our story. Maybe Virginia’s papa was on to something. “If you see it in THE SON it’s so.”
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Hope of His Coming
SCRIPTURE
"Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow...Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.'" (1 Peter 1:10-11, 13)
OBSERVATION
The prophets tried to discern Jesus' first coming into the world. That time when he would be born, suffer, and be received into glory. Peter described the incarnation (the first Christmas) as the "grace that was to come to you." God's coming into the world, in the person of Jesus, was a display of grace. Grace is a gift (receiving what we do not deserve). And the greatest gift was Jesus. Grace = Gift. Gift = Jesus. Therefore, Grace = Jesus. Now, 2,000 years after the birth of Jesus, it is no longer the grace that is to come but the grace that has come.
The prophets anticipated this coming of the Messiah, searching intently with the greatest care. Peter also gives us something to look forward to with the same anticipation. The second coming of Jesus (when he is revealed). This is also describes as "the grace to be given to you." He reminds us that this is where we find our hope. Whenever Jesus physically comes to this world is described in terms of grace. God is gracing us with the presence of his son.
APPLICATION
I find that it's easy to be jealous of the people who were alive at the time of Jesus' birth. I mean, they were anticipating the Messiah, but more than that they were able to witness his arrival. Shepherds even got in on his first visit to the planet. Their hopes were fulfilled. Peter reminds me that I can have the same kind of hope as them. Jesus is coming again and that will be another demonstration of God's grace. It's very easy to get caught up in life down here and forget to live in anticipation of Jesus' coming.
In the meantime, I don't just wait around and stare at the sky. But I am to be living a life of anticipation: self-controlled with a mind prepared for action. It is active waiting. That may sound like an oxymoron but it is the walk of a child of God. Waiting with hope and living the life God's called me to live. God once again will send his indescribable gift...Jesus. And I just may be able to witness it.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your gift of grace. Jesus. Who came and is coming again.
"Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow...Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.'" (1 Peter 1:10-11, 13)
OBSERVATION
The prophets tried to discern Jesus' first coming into the world. That time when he would be born, suffer, and be received into glory. Peter described the incarnation (the first Christmas) as the "grace that was to come to you." God's coming into the world, in the person of Jesus, was a display of grace. Grace is a gift (receiving what we do not deserve). And the greatest gift was Jesus. Grace = Gift. Gift = Jesus. Therefore, Grace = Jesus. Now, 2,000 years after the birth of Jesus, it is no longer the grace that is to come but the grace that has come.
The prophets anticipated this coming of the Messiah, searching intently with the greatest care. Peter also gives us something to look forward to with the same anticipation. The second coming of Jesus (when he is revealed). This is also describes as "the grace to be given to you." He reminds us that this is where we find our hope. Whenever Jesus physically comes to this world is described in terms of grace. God is gracing us with the presence of his son.
APPLICATION
I find that it's easy to be jealous of the people who were alive at the time of Jesus' birth. I mean, they were anticipating the Messiah, but more than that they were able to witness his arrival. Shepherds even got in on his first visit to the planet. Their hopes were fulfilled. Peter reminds me that I can have the same kind of hope as them. Jesus is coming again and that will be another demonstration of God's grace. It's very easy to get caught up in life down here and forget to live in anticipation of Jesus' coming.
In the meantime, I don't just wait around and stare at the sky. But I am to be living a life of anticipation: self-controlled with a mind prepared for action. It is active waiting. That may sound like an oxymoron but it is the walk of a child of God. Waiting with hope and living the life God's called me to live. God once again will send his indescribable gift...Jesus. And I just may be able to witness it.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your gift of grace. Jesus. Who came and is coming again.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Me, Anxious?
SCRIPTURE
"Do not be anxious about anything.'" (Philippians 4:6)
OBSERVATION
Webster's defines anxious as: "concern or solicitude respecting some thing or event, future or uncertain, which disturbs the mind, and keeps it in a state of painful uneasiness." We can certainly relate to anxiety as a state of painful uneasiness in the mind. How many tension headaches to we experience. Anxiety has a way of putting a vice on our brains.
But Paul reminds us not to be anxious about anything. Which sounds much easier said than done. However, in that same chapter he gives us some clues that may help ease the brain pain.
"Do not be anxious about anything.'" (Philippians 4:6)
OBSERVATION
Webster's defines anxious as: "concern or solicitude respecting some thing or event, future or uncertain, which disturbs the mind, and keeps it in a state of painful uneasiness." We can certainly relate to anxiety as a state of painful uneasiness in the mind. How many tension headaches to we experience. Anxiety has a way of putting a vice on our brains.
But Paul reminds us not to be anxious about anything. Which sounds much easier said than done. However, in that same chapter he gives us some clues that may help ease the brain pain.
- Pray with thanksgiving.
- Think about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy.
- Practice following his example.
- Learn the secret of contentment.
- Rely on God's strength to be able to do everything through him.
The result? The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. In a way, peace is the antidote to anxiety. It replaces uncertainty and uneasy minds are calmed.
If anxiety is a state of mind, then the focus of our thoughts can either create or relieve anxiety. In fact, Paul said God's peace will guard our minds. It is the kind of peace that cannot be explained, but is real enough to be understood as it quells our concerns.
APPLICATION
I'm my own worse anxiety enemy. Me, anxious? At times. When I focus on the troubles, future or uncertain, I can be overwhelmed. However, when I focus on the things of God somehow I rise above the trouble to connect with Him. I find when I'm anxious it's because I'm focusing on my circumstances and not praying, or thinking about the things that lead to God's peace. It's so much easier to focus on the negative or unknown instead of being content with what is known, namely God and his power in my life. Because even when I feel that I can't, he will give me the strength to do what needs to be done. That is a worry free philosophy.
PRAYER
Lord, you are the God of peace. Thank you for your gift of non-understandable peace even in the midst of circumstances I do not or cannot understand.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Against All Hope
SCRIPTURE
"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, 'So shall your offspring be.'" (Romans 4:18)
OBSERVATION
God promised Abraham a son. However, at almost 100 years old, with Sarah just a little younger, it didn't look like it was going to happen. However, in Romans 4, Paul reminds us that Abraham did not look at his condition but at the God who made the promise. "He did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." (vv. 20-21).
In spite of his circumstances he still believed God. That is the essence of hope. "Against all hope...in hope." Hope is what gave Abraham the ability to remain strong and not waver. Hope is what enabled him to give glory to God, even though at a ripe old age he still did not have an heir. Hope is the spotlight that sees through the fog of our circumstances to the God of the promise.
APPLICATION
Abraham's story is not just for him but for me too. In spite of whatever is happening I can have hope. Not that I need to like what is happening but I can still give glory to God who will fulfill every promise. Unlike Abraham, I can know Jesus, the ultimate promise of God. Whatever condition I find myself in, physical, financial, friends or family, I have something to hold on to...that is hope. Against all hope (even though it looks bleak) in hope (walking with the living Christ) I can face the world with confidence and joy, giving glory to God.
PRAYER
Lord, you are the only sure thing in this life. Because you fulfill your promises to me I can have hope, no matter what is going on around me.
"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, 'So shall your offspring be.'" (Romans 4:18)
OBSERVATION
God promised Abraham a son. However, at almost 100 years old, with Sarah just a little younger, it didn't look like it was going to happen. However, in Romans 4, Paul reminds us that Abraham did not look at his condition but at the God who made the promise. "He did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." (vv. 20-21).
In spite of his circumstances he still believed God. That is the essence of hope. "Against all hope...in hope." Hope is what gave Abraham the ability to remain strong and not waver. Hope is what enabled him to give glory to God, even though at a ripe old age he still did not have an heir. Hope is the spotlight that sees through the fog of our circumstances to the God of the promise.
APPLICATION
Abraham's story is not just for him but for me too. In spite of whatever is happening I can have hope. Not that I need to like what is happening but I can still give glory to God who will fulfill every promise. Unlike Abraham, I can know Jesus, the ultimate promise of God. Whatever condition I find myself in, physical, financial, friends or family, I have something to hold on to...that is hope. Against all hope (even though it looks bleak) in hope (walking with the living Christ) I can face the world with confidence and joy, giving glory to God.
PRAYER
Lord, you are the only sure thing in this life. Because you fulfill your promises to me I can have hope, no matter what is going on around me.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Mountain Mover
SCRIPTURE
"Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20-21)
OBSERVATION
How much faith does it take? The disciples could not drive out a demon from a boy. They asked Jesus why they were not able to, and he used this opportunity to remind them about the smallness of their faith.
Jesus used a great visual to get his point across. You have little faith (couldn't exorcise the demon) + If you had faith as small as a mustard seed (could move a mountain) = Your faith isn't even as big as a mustard seed. Slam.
Jesus used hyperbole, describing this extremely small faith and an extremely large obstacle...mustard seeds and mountains. The ridiculousness of it all. But that is the nature of faith. It is ridiculous. It doesn't make sense to our human way of thinking. The power of belief and trust coupled with the power of what God can do as we connect with him through faith is far greater than our minds can comprehend. Jesus said, "What is impossible with human beings is possible with God." We can't move the mountain but he can.
APPLICATION
I have to remember God is the mountain mover. I'm just the mustard seed believer. It's not about straining, trying harder, getting a migraine, getting in the zone, just hoping to move the mountain. It is trusting in God. Jesus words are both a challenge and a comfort. The challenge is to have the faith to move the mountain. That means trusting God and not myself. But his words are also a comfort. He did not say I need a faith that is proportional to the obstacle, ie. the size of a mountain. That would require a lot of work and I'm not sure, in my own strength, I can muster up that kind of faith. My faith isn't in the mustard seed or mountain, my faith is in my Maker for whom nothing is impossible.
PRAYER
Lord, sometimes my back hurts from trying to move the mountain. Thank you that you are the God who can toss that thing from one place to another. You are the mountain mover.
"Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you." (Matthew 17:20-21)
OBSERVATION
How much faith does it take? The disciples could not drive out a demon from a boy. They asked Jesus why they were not able to, and he used this opportunity to remind them about the smallness of their faith.
Jesus used a great visual to get his point across. You have little faith (couldn't exorcise the demon) + If you had faith as small as a mustard seed (could move a mountain) = Your faith isn't even as big as a mustard seed. Slam.
Jesus used hyperbole, describing this extremely small faith and an extremely large obstacle...mustard seeds and mountains. The ridiculousness of it all. But that is the nature of faith. It is ridiculous. It doesn't make sense to our human way of thinking. The power of belief and trust coupled with the power of what God can do as we connect with him through faith is far greater than our minds can comprehend. Jesus said, "What is impossible with human beings is possible with God." We can't move the mountain but he can.
APPLICATION
I have to remember God is the mountain mover. I'm just the mustard seed believer. It's not about straining, trying harder, getting a migraine, getting in the zone, just hoping to move the mountain. It is trusting in God. Jesus words are both a challenge and a comfort. The challenge is to have the faith to move the mountain. That means trusting God and not myself. But his words are also a comfort. He did not say I need a faith that is proportional to the obstacle, ie. the size of a mountain. That would require a lot of work and I'm not sure, in my own strength, I can muster up that kind of faith. My faith isn't in the mustard seed or mountain, my faith is in my Maker for whom nothing is impossible.
PRAYER
Lord, sometimes my back hurts from trying to move the mountain. Thank you that you are the God who can toss that thing from one place to another. You are the mountain mover.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Fill in the Blank
SCRIPTURE
"Surely I spoke of things I do not understand; things too wonderful for me." (Job 42:3)
OBSERVATION
Up until this point in the book of Job, both he and his friends were trying to make sense of Job's suffering. Job defended his innocence. His friends wanted him to admit his guilt. It's difficult to determine how much of the recorded conversation between Job and his friends is theology and how much is speculation. They all ran into the same problem. They tried to fill in the blanks. God __________ (is like this, or does this because, the reason for this is...). There was a lot they did not know about what was happening (they were not in on the behind the scenes action in the first two chapters.) So they ended up speaking for God where he had not spoken.
And then God interrupted the conversation bombarding them with a list of questions that they could not answer. They were not around when the world was created nor do the keep the world in order. They are not the Creator, He is. Then Job confessed his shortcoming. He admitted he spoke of wonderful things he did not understand. He was trying to make sense of the situation, trying to fill in the blanks. In the end he did not receive the answer he was looking for. More important than the answer was the person...God himself showed up.
APPLICATION
Job's confession challenged me to speak only the things about God I know. The things he has revealed in his word. Instead of filling in the blank, and speaking for God, I need to trust in God. Let him be who he is without needing all of life's questions answered. To know that he is the one who created it all and sustains it all gives me the courage and strength to go on through it all. God himself is the answer that goes in the blank, the void of wanting to find reasons and explanations. If I knew why everything happened it would be easy to trust in the understanding than in God. So he leaves things unanswered and unexplained so I come back to him in trust and faith.
PRAYER
Lord, you are too wonderful for words. You are the almighty, creator God. the God who needs no defending. You are the source of all that is because you are the great I Am. You are the source of all that will be because you are the great I Am. You are and I am not. I'll fill in the blank with you.
"Surely I spoke of things I do not understand; things too wonderful for me." (Job 42:3)
OBSERVATION
Up until this point in the book of Job, both he and his friends were trying to make sense of Job's suffering. Job defended his innocence. His friends wanted him to admit his guilt. It's difficult to determine how much of the recorded conversation between Job and his friends is theology and how much is speculation. They all ran into the same problem. They tried to fill in the blanks. God __________ (is like this, or does this because, the reason for this is...). There was a lot they did not know about what was happening (they were not in on the behind the scenes action in the first two chapters.) So they ended up speaking for God where he had not spoken.
And then God interrupted the conversation bombarding them with a list of questions that they could not answer. They were not around when the world was created nor do the keep the world in order. They are not the Creator, He is. Then Job confessed his shortcoming. He admitted he spoke of wonderful things he did not understand. He was trying to make sense of the situation, trying to fill in the blanks. In the end he did not receive the answer he was looking for. More important than the answer was the person...God himself showed up.
APPLICATION
Job's confession challenged me to speak only the things about God I know. The things he has revealed in his word. Instead of filling in the blank, and speaking for God, I need to trust in God. Let him be who he is without needing all of life's questions answered. To know that he is the one who created it all and sustains it all gives me the courage and strength to go on through it all. God himself is the answer that goes in the blank, the void of wanting to find reasons and explanations. If I knew why everything happened it would be easy to trust in the understanding than in God. So he leaves things unanswered and unexplained so I come back to him in trust and faith.
PRAYER
Lord, you are too wonderful for words. You are the almighty, creator God. the God who needs no defending. You are the source of all that is because you are the great I Am. You are the source of all that will be because you are the great I Am. You are and I am not. I'll fill in the blank with you.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Foolish Message
SCRIPTURE
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." (1 Co. 1:18)
OBSERVATION
God's wisdom and the world's wisdom are vastly different. We can be too smart for our own spiritual good. But God has turned the world's wisdom on its head by making it foolish. Dying on a cross initially looked like failure, but when we recognize the full impact of what God did, it suddenly becomes the most intelligent plan ever initiated. The world's wisdom is merely words taught by humans, but God's wisdom comes from words taught by the Spirit.
Our celebrity culture has conditioned us to prefer performance over substance...not what is said, but how it is said. This would make the cross a show stopper. A dying Messiah, how ridiculous. On the other hand, God's wisdom is about substance, a demonstration of the Spirit's power. This makes the cross the most powerful event of God who was reconciling the world to himself.
God is looking for people who are wise according to his standards. Ultimately, that wisdom is found in the person of Jesus, who Paul writes "has become for us the wisdom of God" (1:30).
APPLICATION
It's a mistake to think wisdom is all about what I know. More importantly, it is who I know. My wisdom needs to be found in Christ. To truly be wise means to be more like Jesus. Someone once said wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge to life. Wisdom comes as I follow Jesus and allow him to work through me, shaping my worldview and my life. That means I still have a lot of learning to do and I am probably not even as smart as a fifth grader.
PRAYER
God, help me to grow in the wisdom that is Jesus.
"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." (1 Co. 1:18)
OBSERVATION
God's wisdom and the world's wisdom are vastly different. We can be too smart for our own spiritual good. But God has turned the world's wisdom on its head by making it foolish. Dying on a cross initially looked like failure, but when we recognize the full impact of what God did, it suddenly becomes the most intelligent plan ever initiated. The world's wisdom is merely words taught by humans, but God's wisdom comes from words taught by the Spirit.
Our celebrity culture has conditioned us to prefer performance over substance...not what is said, but how it is said. This would make the cross a show stopper. A dying Messiah, how ridiculous. On the other hand, God's wisdom is about substance, a demonstration of the Spirit's power. This makes the cross the most powerful event of God who was reconciling the world to himself.
God is looking for people who are wise according to his standards. Ultimately, that wisdom is found in the person of Jesus, who Paul writes "has become for us the wisdom of God" (1:30).
APPLICATION
It's a mistake to think wisdom is all about what I know. More importantly, it is who I know. My wisdom needs to be found in Christ. To truly be wise means to be more like Jesus. Someone once said wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge to life. Wisdom comes as I follow Jesus and allow him to work through me, shaping my worldview and my life. That means I still have a lot of learning to do and I am probably not even as smart as a fifth grader.
PRAYER
God, help me to grow in the wisdom that is Jesus.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Arguing with God
SCRIPTURE
"If only I knew where to find him; if only I could go to his dwelling! I would state my case before him and fill my mouth with arguments. I would find out what he would answer me, and consider what he would say to me." (Job 23-3-5)
OBSERVATION
Job wanted his day in court. He wanted the opportunity to state his case before God. It would go something like this: "I am blameless and upright and yet you have caused these tragedies in my life for no apparent reason. My friends say it is because I'm a sinner. I'm receiving my due. However, you and I both know otherwise. I want you to declare my innocence and deliver me from these horrible events."
Job was either a man of integrity or an idiot. God already gave his verdict. In 1:8 he said, "There is no one one earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." So Job could make this complaint, to stand before God, because there would be no specific charges God could level against him that would have precipitated the hard times in Job's life. Job wanted justice to be served.
APPLICATION
I, on the other hand, would be an idiot. I would not dare state my case before God. I know the dark spots of my heart and so does he. I would not want to find out what God would answer me. He would render a verdict of "guilty" on my life were it not for Jesus. So instead of pleading for justice, as in the case of Job, I plead for mercy. Job wanted what he deserved. I don't want what I deserve. It's not about my own merits but because, in Christ, I have received a pardon from the death sentence that I had incurred. I admire Job's boldness but I must humbly stand behind the cross.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for the mercy you have shown me in Jesus.
"If only I knew where to find him; if only I could go to his dwelling! I would state my case before him and fill my mouth with arguments. I would find out what he would answer me, and consider what he would say to me." (Job 23-3-5)
OBSERVATION
Job wanted his day in court. He wanted the opportunity to state his case before God. It would go something like this: "I am blameless and upright and yet you have caused these tragedies in my life for no apparent reason. My friends say it is because I'm a sinner. I'm receiving my due. However, you and I both know otherwise. I want you to declare my innocence and deliver me from these horrible events."
Job was either a man of integrity or an idiot. God already gave his verdict. In 1:8 he said, "There is no one one earth like him; he is blameless and upright, a man who fears God and shuns evil." So Job could make this complaint, to stand before God, because there would be no specific charges God could level against him that would have precipitated the hard times in Job's life. Job wanted justice to be served.
APPLICATION
I, on the other hand, would be an idiot. I would not dare state my case before God. I know the dark spots of my heart and so does he. I would not want to find out what God would answer me. He would render a verdict of "guilty" on my life were it not for Jesus. So instead of pleading for justice, as in the case of Job, I plead for mercy. Job wanted what he deserved. I don't want what I deserve. It's not about my own merits but because, in Christ, I have received a pardon from the death sentence that I had incurred. I admire Job's boldness but I must humbly stand behind the cross.
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for the mercy you have shown me in Jesus.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Standing on a Hole in the Ground
SCRIPTURE
"I stand on trial because of the hope of the resurrection." (Acts 23:6)
OBSERVATION
Paul was on trial before the Sanhedrin (these guys had a way of dragging the apostles in for a court session). His audience was theologically diverse. The Sadducees did not believe in a resurrection, angels, nor spirits. The Pharisees, on the other hand, believed in all of these things. It comes as no surprise then that a dispute broke out among them because Paul was talking about a controversial topic, to the Sadducees at least, which was the resurrection of Jesus. The dispute became so violent the commander put him in the barracks for his own protection. Ironically, the following night Jesus stood near Paul and told him to have courage. The very reason the fight broke out was because some did not believe in the resurrection and here is Jesus, alive, encouraging Paul in his cell.
Paul's hope was real because he had seen the risen Jesus. He knew what he was teaching and believed it with every fiber of his being. The resurrection proved to be the focal point of Paul's faith. It is what gave him courage to face opposition and hope for the future.
APPLICATION
Do I really live like Jesus is alive? Like Paul, my faith needs to rest on the resurrection of Jesus. Everything hinges on that one event in history. Hope, courage, and the story of Jesus are validated by the fact that he is alive. Everyday can be different when I'm aware that Jesus is part of my daily experience. He is the constant companion as I journey through life. Mountains and valleys are not the same because he goes with me. In the end, he is all that matters. My life is standing on a hole in the ground. It just happens to be empty.
PRAYER
Lord, I desire to walk in constant awareness of the presence of the resurrected Christ in my life.
"I stand on trial because of the hope of the resurrection." (Acts 23:6)
OBSERVATION
Paul was on trial before the Sanhedrin (these guys had a way of dragging the apostles in for a court session). His audience was theologically diverse. The Sadducees did not believe in a resurrection, angels, nor spirits. The Pharisees, on the other hand, believed in all of these things. It comes as no surprise then that a dispute broke out among them because Paul was talking about a controversial topic, to the Sadducees at least, which was the resurrection of Jesus. The dispute became so violent the commander put him in the barracks for his own protection. Ironically, the following night Jesus stood near Paul and told him to have courage. The very reason the fight broke out was because some did not believe in the resurrection and here is Jesus, alive, encouraging Paul in his cell.
Paul's hope was real because he had seen the risen Jesus. He knew what he was teaching and believed it with every fiber of his being. The resurrection proved to be the focal point of Paul's faith. It is what gave him courage to face opposition and hope for the future.
APPLICATION
Do I really live like Jesus is alive? Like Paul, my faith needs to rest on the resurrection of Jesus. Everything hinges on that one event in history. Hope, courage, and the story of Jesus are validated by the fact that he is alive. Everyday can be different when I'm aware that Jesus is part of my daily experience. He is the constant companion as I journey through life. Mountains and valleys are not the same because he goes with me. In the end, he is all that matters. My life is standing on a hole in the ground. It just happens to be empty.
PRAYER
Lord, I desire to walk in constant awareness of the presence of the resurrected Christ in my life.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Going Up...and Down
SCRIPTURE
"God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins." (Acts 5:21)
OBSERVATION
Peter was talking about Jesus before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish rulers). After bluntly pointing out that they had killed Jesus on a cross, Peter went on to say that God had raised him from the dead. It's almost as if God went over their heads, raising the Messiah from the dead and seating him at his own right hand, the place of power and prominence. All of this was in spite of the fact that they are the ones who put him to death. God did not hold the death of his son against them. What a great display of his mercy and grace.
In this verse, Jesus is going up (exalted as Prince and Savior) and people are to be going down (repenting). John the Baptist put it this way, "He [Jesus] must increase and I must decrease." As Jesus goes up in our lives, we set him apart as Lord and see him seated next to the throne of God, our response is one of humility, or lowering ourselves before him. He then gives us grace and forgiveness.
APPLICATION
When I see Jesus for who he really is, exalted at God's right hand, I also see myself for who I am. But the reason Jesus is exalted is not to leave me feeling helpless or worthless but to bring me to repentance. To change my mind about my own life and plans and follow God's plans and purposes for my life. God's wonderful gift is to provide the forgiveness of my sins. It begins when Jesus goes up and I live life in proper perspective of who he is and what he desires for me.
PRAYER
Lord, your desire to forgive sins is a great reminder of your grace and mercy.
"God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins." (Acts 5:21)
OBSERVATION
Peter was talking about Jesus before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish rulers). After bluntly pointing out that they had killed Jesus on a cross, Peter went on to say that God had raised him from the dead. It's almost as if God went over their heads, raising the Messiah from the dead and seating him at his own right hand, the place of power and prominence. All of this was in spite of the fact that they are the ones who put him to death. God did not hold the death of his son against them. What a great display of his mercy and grace.
In this verse, Jesus is going up (exalted as Prince and Savior) and people are to be going down (repenting). John the Baptist put it this way, "He [Jesus] must increase and I must decrease." As Jesus goes up in our lives, we set him apart as Lord and see him seated next to the throne of God, our response is one of humility, or lowering ourselves before him. He then gives us grace and forgiveness.
APPLICATION
When I see Jesus for who he really is, exalted at God's right hand, I also see myself for who I am. But the reason Jesus is exalted is not to leave me feeling helpless or worthless but to bring me to repentance. To change my mind about my own life and plans and follow God's plans and purposes for my life. God's wonderful gift is to provide the forgiveness of my sins. It begins when Jesus goes up and I live life in proper perspective of who he is and what he desires for me.
PRAYER
Lord, your desire to forgive sins is a great reminder of your grace and mercy.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Calm Yourself
SCRIPTURE
"My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have calmed myself and quieted my ambitions. I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. Israel, put your hope in the Lord both now and forevermore." (Psalm 131)
OBSERVATION
What was happening in David's life when he penned this psalm? As the king, he certainly would have had a lot of concerns weighing heavily on his life. Matters of state and personal problems that could consume his time, energy, and thoughts. In this psalm of personal disclosure, he seems to reign back his ambitions and focus only on the things he needed to concern himself with, letting the rest go. It took humility. A proud heart and haughty eyes convince us we can concern ourselves with everything. The reality is that most everything does not concern us. Realizing that he could not do it all or have it all. The result? He found that he was satisfied, content, and secure in the presence of God (like a well-fed child with its mother).
APPLICATION
It's easy to become consumed with things I can do nothing about (the state of the economy, politics, the environment). Now, I need do my part, but I cannot do more than my part. Pride convinces me to take on more concerns than I need to be concerned about. However, when I humble my heart and focus my ambitions on the things right in front of me, without the need to do more, I find real peace and security Those "great matters" or "things too wonderful for me" can become sources of hope knowing that God will take care of everything I can't.
PRAYER
Lord, in you there is contentment and rest. I put my hope in you.
"My heart is not proud, Lord, my eyes are not haughty; I do not concern myself with great matters or things too wonderful for me. But I have calmed myself and quieted my ambitions. I am like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child I am content. Israel, put your hope in the Lord both now and forevermore." (Psalm 131)
OBSERVATION
What was happening in David's life when he penned this psalm? As the king, he certainly would have had a lot of concerns weighing heavily on his life. Matters of state and personal problems that could consume his time, energy, and thoughts. In this psalm of personal disclosure, he seems to reign back his ambitions and focus only on the things he needed to concern himself with, letting the rest go. It took humility. A proud heart and haughty eyes convince us we can concern ourselves with everything. The reality is that most everything does not concern us. Realizing that he could not do it all or have it all. The result? He found that he was satisfied, content, and secure in the presence of God (like a well-fed child with its mother).
APPLICATION
It's easy to become consumed with things I can do nothing about (the state of the economy, politics, the environment). Now, I need do my part, but I cannot do more than my part. Pride convinces me to take on more concerns than I need to be concerned about. However, when I humble my heart and focus my ambitions on the things right in front of me, without the need to do more, I find real peace and security Those "great matters" or "things too wonderful for me" can become sources of hope knowing that God will take care of everything I can't.
PRAYER
Lord, in you there is contentment and rest. I put my hope in you.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
The Humpty Dumpty Life
SCRIPTURE
"The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, but anyone on whom it falls will be crushed." (Luke 20:17-18)
OBSERVATION
Jesus had just told a parable about an owner who rented his vineyard to tenants. At harvest time he sent three of his servants, who the tenants in turn beat and sent away empty handed. Finally the owner sent his son, thinking the tenants would respect him. However, the tenants threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. The builders (the tenants) rejected the stone (the son).
Jesus told this parable about himself. The builders (God's people) were in charge of building the kingdom, the house of God. Yet, they rejected the Messiah (the main part of the building) who became the chief cornerstone of a new building, the church.
With regards to that stone there are two observations. First, a person can fall on it. Everyone who does will be broken. Or, the stone can fall on a person. Anyone on whom it falls will be crushed. Jesus seems to be contrasting these two options. He states one, then the other. And the second option is the less desirable. Does that mean the first option is more desirable?
APPLICATION
Maybe the first part of the equation (falling on the stone) is not such a bad thing. Isn't that what it means to live for Christ? Falling on him, living a crucified life, allowing him to break me of my pride and self-centerdness. It means walking in humility and allowing Jesus to break up the fallow ground in my life. Perhaps he wants me to live broken to pieces. It leaves me only with one choice. I can choose to fall on him and live the emptied out life. If I don't choose that option, he will fall on me, the crushing of judgment. I think I'll choose to be broken. It's the Humpty-Dumpty life with a major twist...the King can, and does, put me back together again.
PRAYER
Lord, I desire for my life to be broken, poured out, and lived on the chief cornerstone of Christ.
"The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces, but anyone on whom it falls will be crushed." (Luke 20:17-18)
OBSERVATION
Jesus had just told a parable about an owner who rented his vineyard to tenants. At harvest time he sent three of his servants, who the tenants in turn beat and sent away empty handed. Finally the owner sent his son, thinking the tenants would respect him. However, the tenants threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. The builders (the tenants) rejected the stone (the son).
Jesus told this parable about himself. The builders (God's people) were in charge of building the kingdom, the house of God. Yet, they rejected the Messiah (the main part of the building) who became the chief cornerstone of a new building, the church.
With regards to that stone there are two observations. First, a person can fall on it. Everyone who does will be broken. Or, the stone can fall on a person. Anyone on whom it falls will be crushed. Jesus seems to be contrasting these two options. He states one, then the other. And the second option is the less desirable. Does that mean the first option is more desirable?
APPLICATION
Maybe the first part of the equation (falling on the stone) is not such a bad thing. Isn't that what it means to live for Christ? Falling on him, living a crucified life, allowing him to break me of my pride and self-centerdness. It means walking in humility and allowing Jesus to break up the fallow ground in my life. Perhaps he wants me to live broken to pieces. It leaves me only with one choice. I can choose to fall on him and live the emptied out life. If I don't choose that option, he will fall on me, the crushing of judgment. I think I'll choose to be broken. It's the Humpty-Dumpty life with a major twist...the King can, and does, put me back together again.
PRAYER
Lord, I desire for my life to be broken, poured out, and lived on the chief cornerstone of Christ.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
What to Do With Jesus?
SCRIPTURE
"But they were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus." (Luke 6:11)
OBSERVATION
Jesus was teaching in the synagogue and healed a man with a shriveled hand. The problem: it was on the Sabbath. It ticked off the religious leaders because he did not follow their preconceived ideas of right Sabbath behavior. Jesus did not conform to their expectations. The fact is Jesus purposely healed the man on the Sabbath to challenge the Pharisees theology.
The bible says they were furious and trying to decide what to do with him....more like do away with him. What happens when Jesus does not conform to our expectations or teaches something we don't like? We have a few options. Try to do away with him by ignoring him, live life without an awareness of his presence. Or minimize his teaching by disregarding it and rationalizing our behavior as a way to avoid obedience.
APPLICATION
What do I do with Jesus? I've been guilty of both responses. If I want to do what I want, I pretend he doesn't see or isn't around. If I don't' like what he teaches I can explain it away or think it applies to someone else. I need to allow those moments to teach me and help me grow closer to him. Jesus made it clear the reason he was healing the man on the Sabbath (not conforming to people's expectations) was to do good and save a life (vs. 9). If I keep those two thoughts in mind, he's doing good and saving my life, that would revolutionize the way I see him when he doesn't conform to my plans. What do I do with Jesus? In the end I can only trust and submit to who he is.
PRAYER
Father, I long to see Jesus for who he truly is. When I find him, help me to trust with a childlike faith.
"But they were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus." (Luke 6:11)
OBSERVATION
Jesus was teaching in the synagogue and healed a man with a shriveled hand. The problem: it was on the Sabbath. It ticked off the religious leaders because he did not follow their preconceived ideas of right Sabbath behavior. Jesus did not conform to their expectations. The fact is Jesus purposely healed the man on the Sabbath to challenge the Pharisees theology.
The bible says they were furious and trying to decide what to do with him....more like do away with him. What happens when Jesus does not conform to our expectations or teaches something we don't like? We have a few options. Try to do away with him by ignoring him, live life without an awareness of his presence. Or minimize his teaching by disregarding it and rationalizing our behavior as a way to avoid obedience.
APPLICATION
What do I do with Jesus? I've been guilty of both responses. If I want to do what I want, I pretend he doesn't see or isn't around. If I don't' like what he teaches I can explain it away or think it applies to someone else. I need to allow those moments to teach me and help me grow closer to him. Jesus made it clear the reason he was healing the man on the Sabbath (not conforming to people's expectations) was to do good and save a life (vs. 9). If I keep those two thoughts in mind, he's doing good and saving my life, that would revolutionize the way I see him when he doesn't conform to my plans. What do I do with Jesus? In the end I can only trust and submit to who he is.
PRAYER
Father, I long to see Jesus for who he truly is. When I find him, help me to trust with a childlike faith.
Conscientious Objector
SCRIPTURE
"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." (Daniel 6:10)
OBSERVATION
King Darius, made it illegal to worship anyone besides himself. Actually he was put up to it by his administrators so they could find a charge against Daniel (sounds like partisan politics). After the king put the decree in writing, Daniel didn't bat an eye. He went to an upstairs room (providing a better view) and prayed three times a day (increasing his odds of getting caught). Daniel was a conscientious objector. He disobeyed the law because he could not comply. In fact, it did not alter his routine of worship because he did it "just as he had done before." Only now it was illegal. Daniel had to make a decision. Follow God or the law?
APPLICATION
This passage made me wonder if I would continue to worship God, just as I had done before, if it became illegal. What if there was a law that made it illegal to pray in public? Would I continue to pray at a restaurant? I like to think I would. However, what I do find is there is a tension to be more of a subconscious acquiescer (as opposed to a conscientious objector). This is yielding to the things that are sanctioned by society but may not be what God desires. For example, I have the right to own stuff (actually encouraged by society) but not to hold it so tightly that I do not help someone in need. I'm learning more and more that God's ways are not the ways of man. It's dangerous to read the book of Daniel. It's so much more than fiery furnaces and lions' dens. It's about taking a stand for God and his ways in the face of opposition from culture.
PRAYER
God, give the wisdom to view the world as you do.
"Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before." (Daniel 6:10)
OBSERVATION
King Darius, made it illegal to worship anyone besides himself. Actually he was put up to it by his administrators so they could find a charge against Daniel (sounds like partisan politics). After the king put the decree in writing, Daniel didn't bat an eye. He went to an upstairs room (providing a better view) and prayed three times a day (increasing his odds of getting caught). Daniel was a conscientious objector. He disobeyed the law because he could not comply. In fact, it did not alter his routine of worship because he did it "just as he had done before." Only now it was illegal. Daniel had to make a decision. Follow God or the law?
APPLICATION
This passage made me wonder if I would continue to worship God, just as I had done before, if it became illegal. What if there was a law that made it illegal to pray in public? Would I continue to pray at a restaurant? I like to think I would. However, what I do find is there is a tension to be more of a subconscious acquiescer (as opposed to a conscientious objector). This is yielding to the things that are sanctioned by society but may not be what God desires. For example, I have the right to own stuff (actually encouraged by society) but not to hold it so tightly that I do not help someone in need. I'm learning more and more that God's ways are not the ways of man. It's dangerous to read the book of Daniel. It's so much more than fiery furnaces and lions' dens. It's about taking a stand for God and his ways in the face of opposition from culture.
PRAYER
God, give the wisdom to view the world as you do.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Yet
SCRIPTURE
"Yet I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope. Because of the Lord's faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! I say: The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in Him." (Lamentations 3:21-24)
OBSERVATION
In Lamentations Jeremiah laments about his circumstances. He has seen affliction, dwelt in darkness, forgotten what happiness is, has become a laughingstock, and is depressed from remembering all of the above. He laments about God. He is a bear in ambush, a lion in hiding, he rejects Jeremiah's prayers, and has turned his hand against him.
In the midst of all that is going on, Jeremiah utters a great theological word, "yet." It's the word that turns the table on the circumstances, because whatever happens God is still God. It's as if to say: "Do you see all these terrible things. Nevertheless, think about who God is and you will find hope." The mere fact that we are able to get up in the morning and lament over our circumstances is evidence of God's faithfulness. It's a choice we make as to where we focus (call to mind). We can allow circumstances to fill our days or we can allow God to be our portion. Life can dish it out but only God can fill it up.
APPLICATION
I need to continually call to mind the "yet." The "yet" that says God has the final word. No matter what happens. No matter what I have to mourn, grieve, or bewail...yet, God is faithful. The fact that I'm alive to lament is a sign of God's mercy. No matter what the world serves up..."yet", God is my portion and tomorrow I'll have a second helping.
PRAYER
God, each day you reveal yourself anew. You are the God of faithful love, mercy, and hope.
"Yet I call this to mind, and therefore I have hope. Because of the Lord's faithful love we do not perish, for His mercies never end. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness! I say: The Lord is my portion, therefore I will put my hope in Him." (Lamentations 3:21-24)
OBSERVATION
In Lamentations Jeremiah laments about his circumstances. He has seen affliction, dwelt in darkness, forgotten what happiness is, has become a laughingstock, and is depressed from remembering all of the above. He laments about God. He is a bear in ambush, a lion in hiding, he rejects Jeremiah's prayers, and has turned his hand against him.
In the midst of all that is going on, Jeremiah utters a great theological word, "yet." It's the word that turns the table on the circumstances, because whatever happens God is still God. It's as if to say: "Do you see all these terrible things. Nevertheless, think about who God is and you will find hope." The mere fact that we are able to get up in the morning and lament over our circumstances is evidence of God's faithfulness. It's a choice we make as to where we focus (call to mind). We can allow circumstances to fill our days or we can allow God to be our portion. Life can dish it out but only God can fill it up.
APPLICATION
I need to continually call to mind the "yet." The "yet" that says God has the final word. No matter what happens. No matter what I have to mourn, grieve, or bewail...yet, God is faithful. The fact that I'm alive to lament is a sign of God's mercy. No matter what the world serves up..."yet", God is my portion and tomorrow I'll have a second helping.
PRAYER
God, each day you reveal yourself anew. You are the God of faithful love, mercy, and hope.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Needed Rest
SCRIPTURE
There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or anyone who receives the mark of his name. Here is the endurance of the saints, who keep the commands of God and the faith in Jesus. (Rev. 14:11-12)
OBSERVATION
When John wrote Revelation, the Roman Emperor was considered a god. In order to enter the marketplace, a person had to first offer incense to the emperor and would then receive a mark (a kind of admission ticket) granting him access. For Christians this was unthinkable. Jesus cannot be Lord if Caesar is lord (a clash of crowns). So they were faced with a dilemma. Refuse to worship Rome (the beast) and not be allowed to participate in the economy of the day, or bow down to the beast and gain access.
Why not receive the mark and not really mean it? Cross your fingers behind your back, offer the incense, and enjoy the favor of the culture. John reminds his readers there is no rest, day or night, for compromise. It is through endurance, keeping God's commands and faith in Jesus that we can have rest. This explains why Christians who are persecuted for their faith have a deep sense of joy, peace, and rest. They have not bowed down to the gods of this world.
APPLICATION
It is hard to live counter-culturally. It is much easier to go with the flow of society than to really discern if what I'm doing is bowing down to the gods of this world. It's not about making my own clothes and churning my own butter. It comes in more subtle ways from the smorgasbord of philosophies and worldviews promoted in the marketplace. Faith in Jesus means I persevere and listen to God's voice about the clamor of competing voices. The irony is, that when I try to quiet those voices by giving in, there is no rest, even if it is dead quiet, because only God gives true rest.
PRAYER
God, thank you for the rest that only comes from following you.
There is no rest day or night for those who worship the beast and his image, or anyone who receives the mark of his name. Here is the endurance of the saints, who keep the commands of God and the faith in Jesus. (Rev. 14:11-12)
OBSERVATION
When John wrote Revelation, the Roman Emperor was considered a god. In order to enter the marketplace, a person had to first offer incense to the emperor and would then receive a mark (a kind of admission ticket) granting him access. For Christians this was unthinkable. Jesus cannot be Lord if Caesar is lord (a clash of crowns). So they were faced with a dilemma. Refuse to worship Rome (the beast) and not be allowed to participate in the economy of the day, or bow down to the beast and gain access.
Why not receive the mark and not really mean it? Cross your fingers behind your back, offer the incense, and enjoy the favor of the culture. John reminds his readers there is no rest, day or night, for compromise. It is through endurance, keeping God's commands and faith in Jesus that we can have rest. This explains why Christians who are persecuted for their faith have a deep sense of joy, peace, and rest. They have not bowed down to the gods of this world.
APPLICATION
It is hard to live counter-culturally. It is much easier to go with the flow of society than to really discern if what I'm doing is bowing down to the gods of this world. It's not about making my own clothes and churning my own butter. It comes in more subtle ways from the smorgasbord of philosophies and worldviews promoted in the marketplace. Faith in Jesus means I persevere and listen to God's voice about the clamor of competing voices. The irony is, that when I try to quiet those voices by giving in, there is no rest, even if it is dead quiet, because only God gives true rest.
PRAYER
God, thank you for the rest that only comes from following you.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
No Greater Joy
SCRIPTURE
I have no greater joy than this: to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 4)
OBSERVATION
John's joy came from the spiritual maturity of people he taught and discipled (affectionately called children). Nothing brought him greater joy. There are a lot of things we can get excited about for other people: promotions, new house, job, the birth of a child. How often do we rejoice over spiritual growth and advancement?
John invested in the church personally...they were his children. It's a term of endearment, intimacy, and relationship. He was their spiritual father who saw to their well being. They were not talking the life but walking the life. Walking in the truth was following the way of Jesus, truth with a capital "T".
APPLICATION
Yesterday, I heard a mom talking about how excited she was that her son had just earned his Ph.D.. That is exciting stuff. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication and if Josiah pursues such a direction in his life I'll be the first one in the proud-parent, "that's my boy" line. Yet, when I read John, I can't help but think that there would be no greater joy (even a Ph.D.) than to have Josiah walking in the truth. Knowing Jesus and walking in relationship with him. Not just Josiah, but those who I disciple (my spiritual family). What could be better than to see people walking in the truth? No greater joy is a term of comparison...there is nothing higher than that. There are lesser joys (Ph.D.'s, promotions, etc.) but my heart should be the fullest when people seek God and walk after him. I need to cultivate those moments, spiritual father to spiritual children, encouraging others to walk in the truth.
PRAYER
God, give me eyes to see people walking in the truth and to recieve no greater joy.
I have no greater joy than this: to hear that my children are walking in the truth." (3 John 4)
OBSERVATION
John's joy came from the spiritual maturity of people he taught and discipled (affectionately called children). Nothing brought him greater joy. There are a lot of things we can get excited about for other people: promotions, new house, job, the birth of a child. How often do we rejoice over spiritual growth and advancement?
John invested in the church personally...they were his children. It's a term of endearment, intimacy, and relationship. He was their spiritual father who saw to their well being. They were not talking the life but walking the life. Walking in the truth was following the way of Jesus, truth with a capital "T".
APPLICATION
Yesterday, I heard a mom talking about how excited she was that her son had just earned his Ph.D.. That is exciting stuff. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication and if Josiah pursues such a direction in his life I'll be the first one in the proud-parent, "that's my boy" line. Yet, when I read John, I can't help but think that there would be no greater joy (even a Ph.D.) than to have Josiah walking in the truth. Knowing Jesus and walking in relationship with him. Not just Josiah, but those who I disciple (my spiritual family). What could be better than to see people walking in the truth? No greater joy is a term of comparison...there is nothing higher than that. There are lesser joys (Ph.D.'s, promotions, etc.) but my heart should be the fullest when people seek God and walk after him. I need to cultivate those moments, spiritual father to spiritual children, encouraging others to walk in the truth.
PRAYER
God, give me eyes to see people walking in the truth and to recieve no greater joy.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
It's Not Survivor
SCRIPTURE
But you must say to this people, "This is what the Lord says: Look, I am presenting to you the way of life and the way of death." (Jer. 21:8)
OBSERVATION
Jeremiah was warning the people of the impending invasion by the Babylonians. There were two options. Stay in Jerusalem and die by the sword, famine and plague. Or, surrender to the Babylonians and live. I'm sure the options seemed counterintuitive. Why give yourself over to the enemy? Why not stay and try to survive? But that is the way God designed it. He wanted to see if his people would listen to his voice, even if it didn't make sense.
This is one example of many where God's judgment is preceded by a warning. Before God acts he gives his people a choice. He tells in advance what he is about to do and leaves it up to us to decide. Obey him and live--the way of life. Or, do it our way and die--the way of death.
APPLICATION
I'm not facing an invading army or the threat of exile but I'm well aware of the choices before me each day. If I listen to God and follow his voice it will lead to life. I have to admit, there are commands that don't make sense and I'm tempted to do my own thing. However, I need to walk by faith and trust that when I obey God will take care of the consequences. Life is not a game of "Survivor" where God has placed me on this island and I try to outwit, outplay, and outlast to the finish. The way of life means I surrender, cooperate, and persevere. That is the way of life. God warned me ahead of time so now the choice is mine.
PRAYER
God, give me wisdom to continually choose the way of life.
But you must say to this people, "This is what the Lord says: Look, I am presenting to you the way of life and the way of death." (Jer. 21:8)
OBSERVATION
Jeremiah was warning the people of the impending invasion by the Babylonians. There were two options. Stay in Jerusalem and die by the sword, famine and plague. Or, surrender to the Babylonians and live. I'm sure the options seemed counterintuitive. Why give yourself over to the enemy? Why not stay and try to survive? But that is the way God designed it. He wanted to see if his people would listen to his voice, even if it didn't make sense.
This is one example of many where God's judgment is preceded by a warning. Before God acts he gives his people a choice. He tells in advance what he is about to do and leaves it up to us to decide. Obey him and live--the way of life. Or, do it our way and die--the way of death.
APPLICATION
I'm not facing an invading army or the threat of exile but I'm well aware of the choices before me each day. If I listen to God and follow his voice it will lead to life. I have to admit, there are commands that don't make sense and I'm tempted to do my own thing. However, I need to walk by faith and trust that when I obey God will take care of the consequences. Life is not a game of "Survivor" where God has placed me on this island and I try to outwit, outplay, and outlast to the finish. The way of life means I surrender, cooperate, and persevere. That is the way of life. God warned me ahead of time so now the choice is mine.
PRAYER
God, give me wisdom to continually choose the way of life.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Fire in My Bones
SCRIPTURE
If I say: I won't mention Him or speak any longer in His name, His message becomes a fire burning in my heart, shut up in my bones. I become tired of holding it in, and I cannot prevail. (Jer. 20:9)
OBSERVATION
God chose Jeremiah before he was born (1:5) to be a prophet to the nations calling people back to faith in Him. However, his message was not well received. The bible tells us he became a laughingstock, everyone ridiculed him, the message he proclaimed became a source of disgrace and derision, everyone he trusted watched for his fall. He was even forbidden to marry (16:2).
Talk about a tough job. Yet, the message was so powerful and important that it drove his life and compelled him so much that he couldn't help but preach it. If he held it in it was like a fire burning in his heart and his bones. It was the passion deep within that was God's very purpose for him.
APPLICATION
I have a greater message than even Jeremiah. He called the people to repentance to avoid God's judgement and exile. I have a message of grace that comes through Jesus. How much more should this be a fire burning in my bones so that even in the face of opposition and derision I am compelled to let it out. The message (God reconciling the world through Jesus) needs to be the driving factor in my life. It needs to be the thing that motivates me and keeps me going. I can be tempted to hold it in. If I try to please people, or fulfill a need to be liked, I may compromise the message. If I'm faithful to the message I may not necessarily please others or be liked. One is external, the affection of others. One is internal, the fire within. I need Jeremiah's passion to proclaim the message of God.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for the message of the cross. Fan the fire within as the motivation for your calling in my life..
If I say: I won't mention Him or speak any longer in His name, His message becomes a fire burning in my heart, shut up in my bones. I become tired of holding it in, and I cannot prevail. (Jer. 20:9)
OBSERVATION
God chose Jeremiah before he was born (1:5) to be a prophet to the nations calling people back to faith in Him. However, his message was not well received. The bible tells us he became a laughingstock, everyone ridiculed him, the message he proclaimed became a source of disgrace and derision, everyone he trusted watched for his fall. He was even forbidden to marry (16:2).
Talk about a tough job. Yet, the message was so powerful and important that it drove his life and compelled him so much that he couldn't help but preach it. If he held it in it was like a fire burning in his heart and his bones. It was the passion deep within that was God's very purpose for him.
APPLICATION
I have a greater message than even Jeremiah. He called the people to repentance to avoid God's judgement and exile. I have a message of grace that comes through Jesus. How much more should this be a fire burning in my bones so that even in the face of opposition and derision I am compelled to let it out. The message (God reconciling the world through Jesus) needs to be the driving factor in my life. It needs to be the thing that motivates me and keeps me going. I can be tempted to hold it in. If I try to please people, or fulfill a need to be liked, I may compromise the message. If I'm faithful to the message I may not necessarily please others or be liked. One is external, the affection of others. One is internal, the fire within. I need Jeremiah's passion to proclaim the message of God.
PRAYER
Father, thank you for the message of the cross. Fan the fire within as the motivation for your calling in my life..
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Where is the Lord?
SCRIPTURE
For My people have committed a double evil: They have abandoned Me, the fountain of living water, and dug cisterns for themselves, cracked cisterns that cannot hold water. (Jer. 2:13)
OBSERVATION
It's tempting to turn from the true God (fountain of living water) and create our own forms of spirituality (dug cisterns). There is a longing in each of us to connect with God. If it's not God, with the big "G" then it is a god, with a little "g." If we don't' connect with the Creator, we may connect with something created.
In the beginning of this chapter, Jeremiah gives a clue to part of the problem that can cause us to pick up the shovel. The fathers and the priests quit asking: Where is the Lord? (2:6,8) When we quit seeking God, quit looking for him in the midst of our everyday lives, we tend to look for him elsewhere. It's tempting to dig our own cisterns and create our own gods because they ask nothing of us in return. Yet, in the time of disaster, trials, suffering, they also cannot deliver, they are empty.
APPLICATION
I need to keep asking: Where is the Lord? It helps me to focus my attention on him, the true living water. It is not a question of doubt but a question of faith. Doubt asks the question, does not expect to find God, and is surprised if it does. On the other hand, faith asks the question, expecting to find God, and is surprised if it doesn't. Seeking God needs to begin when my feet hit the floor every morning. Where is he today? I want to see him and expectantly wait for him to show up. While I'm seeking him I have no thought to pick up a shovel and start digging my own cistern.
PRAYER
Where are you God? Father, I seek you, the living water, today. Reveal yourself in my life.
For My people have committed a double evil: They have abandoned Me, the fountain of living water, and dug cisterns for themselves, cracked cisterns that cannot hold water. (Jer. 2:13)
OBSERVATION
It's tempting to turn from the true God (fountain of living water) and create our own forms of spirituality (dug cisterns). There is a longing in each of us to connect with God. If it's not God, with the big "G" then it is a god, with a little "g." If we don't' connect with the Creator, we may connect with something created.
In the beginning of this chapter, Jeremiah gives a clue to part of the problem that can cause us to pick up the shovel. The fathers and the priests quit asking: Where is the Lord? (2:6,8) When we quit seeking God, quit looking for him in the midst of our everyday lives, we tend to look for him elsewhere. It's tempting to dig our own cisterns and create our own gods because they ask nothing of us in return. Yet, in the time of disaster, trials, suffering, they also cannot deliver, they are empty.
APPLICATION
I need to keep asking: Where is the Lord? It helps me to focus my attention on him, the true living water. It is not a question of doubt but a question of faith. Doubt asks the question, does not expect to find God, and is surprised if it does. On the other hand, faith asks the question, expecting to find God, and is surprised if it doesn't. Seeking God needs to begin when my feet hit the floor every morning. Where is he today? I want to see him and expectantly wait for him to show up. While I'm seeking him I have no thought to pick up a shovel and start digging my own cistern.
PRAYER
Where are you God? Father, I seek you, the living water, today. Reveal yourself in my life.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
A Through Way
SCRIPTURE
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him, and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.'") And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-17)
OBSERVATION
God's plan of redemption is a "through way."
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness, to bear witness about the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John bore witness about him, and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.'") And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-17)
OBSERVATION
God's plan of redemption is a "through way."
- All things were made through the Word (Jesus), v. 3.
- John came as a witness so all might believe through him, v. 7.
- The law was given through Moses, v. 17.
- Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ, v. 17.
Throughout history God works both directly and indirectly in our world. He works indirectly, through people, to bring about his redemptive end. Jesus, John, and Moses are the agents through which something is brought about...grace, truth, and light.
APPLICATION
What is God trying to do through me? I cannot be involved in the creative act, like the Word, but I can like John, point people to the light of Christ. I can, like Jesus, be an agent of grace and truth to the world. Jesus came into the world, he brought grace and truth, I receive that grace and truth, and I pass it on to others. The great thing is that God works through people to accomplish his purposes. Since I'm a "people" he can work through me. I can re-present Jesus to others. However, the question I need to answer is: Am I a throughway or a dead end?.
PRAYER
God, sometimes I think that you only work through the "biggies", the prophets, apostles, and of course your Son but you desire and will work through me. Show me how to be a way for your work to be accomplished through me in the world.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Don't Be Surprised
SCRIPTURE
"So those who suffer according to God's will should, in doing good, entrust themselves to a faithful Creator." (1 Peter 4:19)
OBSERVATION
What is it about suffering and hardship that takes us by surprise when we know that this world is messed up and does not run according to God's perfect will? In chapter 4 of 1 Peter, he reminds us of a few things:
"So those who suffer according to God's will should, in doing good, entrust themselves to a faithful Creator." (1 Peter 4:19)
OBSERVATION
What is it about suffering and hardship that takes us by surprise when we know that this world is messed up and does not run according to God's perfect will? In chapter 4 of 1 Peter, he reminds us of a few things:
- Fiery ordeals are not unusual and we shouldn't be surprised (12).
- They are an opportunity for us to share in the sufferings of Jesus, so we should rejoice (much easier said than done) (13).
- We are blessed if we are ridiculed for the name of Christ (14).
- We are not to be ashamed for suffering as a Christian (16).
OK, the easy answer is that suffering is a part of living in this broken world. We're not talking about suffering from our own sinful choices, but the suffering that seems to find us, broadsides us as we are driving through life. But what do we do? We can't run away or hide our head in the sand (our best side is definitely not showing at that point). Even if we moved to a deserted island suffering would follow. Remember the movie Castaway? Suffering provides an opportunity to activate our faith.
APPLICATION
Peter reminds me to face suffering head-on, rejoice and be proud because it more fully identifies me with Christ. God is the faithful Creator (he made the universe so he knows what's going on) so I can entrust myself to him. He will ultimately bring about justice. That is what I really want when I suffer. To have the inequities and unfairness of life accounted for...to know that there is a greater purpose and meaning to it all and that I'm not just a cog in some senseless, mechanical universe. I love how Peter says I can trust a faithful Creator. I'm not here by accident or chance. There is a design and purpose and somehow suffering fits into all of that. I can't always explain it but I shouldn't be surprised.
PRAYER
God, I can trust you, the faithful Creator, even in times of difficulty and stress.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
The Lure of Comfort
SCRIPTURE
"And they spoke of the God of Jerusalem as they spoke of the gods of the peoples of the earth, which are the work of men's hands." (2 Chronicles 32:19)
OBSERVATION
Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, threatened to besiege Jerusalem and warned them of what would happen if he did (worse case scenario the inhabitants of Jerusalem would have to eat their own dung and drink their own urine, 2 Kg. 18:27).
In order to entice the people to surrender he sent his servants to taunt the Israelites. Saying things like, "Hezekiah (the king of Judah) is misleading you by relying on the Lord." "Make peace with me and you will have your own grapevine, fig tree, and water cistern." "I will take you and settle you in a land that is better than where you are now." "No go of all the nations I have conquered has been able to deliver them. What makes you think you can rely on your God?"
Sennacherib's tactic was to wear the people down so they would despair of their situation and turn from God to follow him. He was taking advantage of their hardship to get them to abandon their faith and loyalty to the one true God. He was offering them quick relief from their suffering.
APPLICATION
It is tempting when I'm in the midst of stress, difficult situations, etc. to give in and go the easy way. To find quick relief. It is easy in those times to doubt God's deliverance and to look at the proverbial "carrot on a stick", the lure of comfort, the enemy is dangling in front of me. But those times are just opportunities for me to prove my faithfulness to God. Instead of taking the shortcut and trying to find relief, I am to be faithful to the Lord and follow his ways, wherever they may lead. The truth is, even though I may find quick relief through compromise, it is never lasting, and in the end will bring more pain than the original situation ever could. Do I really trust God and what he says or am i going to give in to the enticements of the enemy? In the end he will prevail. "So the Lord saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib king of Assyria and from the hand of all his enemies, and he provided for them on every side." (2 Ch. 32:22) God not only will come through for me but he will provide much more "on every side" than the enemy could ever offer. I just need to stay on the right side.
PRAYER
Father, when times are tough you are still God. Thanks for the reminder that you will provide far more then the enemy ever could. In those times of challenge you are still God and you are still working to deliver your people.
"And they spoke of the God of Jerusalem as they spoke of the gods of the peoples of the earth, which are the work of men's hands." (2 Chronicles 32:19)
OBSERVATION
Sennacherib, the king of Assyria, threatened to besiege Jerusalem and warned them of what would happen if he did (worse case scenario the inhabitants of Jerusalem would have to eat their own dung and drink their own urine, 2 Kg. 18:27).
In order to entice the people to surrender he sent his servants to taunt the Israelites. Saying things like, "Hezekiah (the king of Judah) is misleading you by relying on the Lord." "Make peace with me and you will have your own grapevine, fig tree, and water cistern." "I will take you and settle you in a land that is better than where you are now." "No go of all the nations I have conquered has been able to deliver them. What makes you think you can rely on your God?"
Sennacherib's tactic was to wear the people down so they would despair of their situation and turn from God to follow him. He was taking advantage of their hardship to get them to abandon their faith and loyalty to the one true God. He was offering them quick relief from their suffering.
APPLICATION
It is tempting when I'm in the midst of stress, difficult situations, etc. to give in and go the easy way. To find quick relief. It is easy in those times to doubt God's deliverance and to look at the proverbial "carrot on a stick", the lure of comfort, the enemy is dangling in front of me. But those times are just opportunities for me to prove my faithfulness to God. Instead of taking the shortcut and trying to find relief, I am to be faithful to the Lord and follow his ways, wherever they may lead. The truth is, even though I may find quick relief through compromise, it is never lasting, and in the end will bring more pain than the original situation ever could. Do I really trust God and what he says or am i going to give in to the enticements of the enemy? In the end he will prevail. "So the Lord saved Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem from the hand of Sennacherib king of Assyria and from the hand of all his enemies, and he provided for them on every side." (2 Ch. 32:22) God not only will come through for me but he will provide much more "on every side" than the enemy could ever offer. I just need to stay on the right side.
PRAYER
Father, when times are tough you are still God. Thanks for the reminder that you will provide far more then the enemy ever could. In those times of challenge you are still God and you are still working to deliver your people.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
You Are What You Worship
SCRIPTURE
"Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but to not speak; eyes, but do not see. They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound with their throat. Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them." (Psalm 115:4-8)
OBSERVATION
Idols are the work of human hands. Their origin is with man, not God. They are powerless. Even though they may have features (mouths, eyes, ears, etc.), they cannot speak, see, or hear. The psalmist was not so much concerned with the appearance of the idol but the effect it would have on a person's character and on their spirit. The problem is that those who make them become like them, taking on their characteristics. We are what we worship. It's a similar thought to we are what we eat. We don't turn into a Krispy Kreme donut but it is the effect that the donut has on our bodies that is the concern. Similarly, those who worship idols do not physically look like them but it is the effect that the idol has on their heart.
The idols we deal with are more than statues they are philosophies and worldviews. If our idol is money, we tend to become greedy and covetous. If our idol is sensuality, we tend to become licentious. If our idol is self we become very self centered. If our idol is acceptance, we compromise and flatter to get people to like us. The heart is formed by what we worship.
APPLICATION
The answer is found in verse 9, "O, Israel, trust in the Lord!" He is the one I am to model and become like. He is the one who should shape my character. It is much easier in the short run to fashion my own idols but it will not lead to Christ likeness or godliness in my actions. The Lord is holy, or set apart, so I need to make sure he is the entire focus of my worship. It is true, I become what I worship. And becoming like God is a great thing.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to keep you as the only object of my worship.
"Their idols are silver and gold, the work of human hands. They have mouths, but to not speak; eyes, but do not see. They have ears, but do not hear; noses, but do not smell. They have hands, but do not feel; feet, but do not walk; and they do not make a sound with their throat. Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them." (Psalm 115:4-8)
OBSERVATION
Idols are the work of human hands. Their origin is with man, not God. They are powerless. Even though they may have features (mouths, eyes, ears, etc.), they cannot speak, see, or hear. The psalmist was not so much concerned with the appearance of the idol but the effect it would have on a person's character and on their spirit. The problem is that those who make them become like them, taking on their characteristics. We are what we worship. It's a similar thought to we are what we eat. We don't turn into a Krispy Kreme donut but it is the effect that the donut has on our bodies that is the concern. Similarly, those who worship idols do not physically look like them but it is the effect that the idol has on their heart.
The idols we deal with are more than statues they are philosophies and worldviews. If our idol is money, we tend to become greedy and covetous. If our idol is sensuality, we tend to become licentious. If our idol is self we become very self centered. If our idol is acceptance, we compromise and flatter to get people to like us. The heart is formed by what we worship.
APPLICATION
The answer is found in verse 9, "O, Israel, trust in the Lord!" He is the one I am to model and become like. He is the one who should shape my character. It is much easier in the short run to fashion my own idols but it will not lead to Christ likeness or godliness in my actions. The Lord is holy, or set apart, so I need to make sure he is the entire focus of my worship. It is true, I become what I worship. And becoming like God is a great thing.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to keep you as the only object of my worship.
The Greatness of Jesus
SCRIPTURE
"Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son, today I have begotten you"? Or again, "I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son"? And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him." Of the angels he says, "He makes his angels winds, and his ministers a flame of fire." But of the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions." And, "You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of your hands; they will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment, like a robe you will roll them up, like a garment they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will have no end." And to which of the angels has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet"? Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:1-14)
OBSERVATION
It's great to be reminded of who Jesus is.
"Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs. For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son, today I have begotten you"? Or again, "I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son"? And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him." Of the angels he says, "He makes his angels winds, and his ministers a flame of fire." But of the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, the scepter of uprightness is the scepter of your kingdom. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions." And, "You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning, and the heavens are the work of your hands; they will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment, like a robe you will roll them up, like a garment they will be changed. But you are the same, and your years will have no end." And to which of the angels has he ever said, "Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet"? Are they not all ministering spirits sent out to serve for the sake of those who are to inherit salvation? (Hebrews 1:1-14)
OBSERVATION
It's great to be reminded of who Jesus is.
- Heir of all things.
- God created the world through him.
- Radiance of God's glory.
- Exact imprint of God's nature.
- Upholds the universe by his word.
- Sits at the right hand of the Majesty on high.
- Superior to angels with a more excellent name.
- God's angels worship him.
- His throne is forever and ever.
- Anointed with the oil of gladness beyond his companions.
- Will never change and his years will have no end.
APPLICATION
That is the Jesus I serve and worship. Jesus, as described in the Bible, is awesome. My image of him needs to constantly be refined and reshaped so I worship him for who he truly is and not worship the image of him I've created in my mind...which is idolatry. Since my goal in life is to become more like Jesus, I need to make sure I'm headed toward the right goal.
PRAYER
Lord, smash the idols of my mind and help me to see Jesus for who he really is.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Making a Living or a Life
SCRIPTURE
"Then Amos answered and said to Amaziah, 'I was no prophet, nor a prophet's son, but I was a herdsman and a dresser of sycamore figs. But the Lord took me from following the flock, and the Lord said to me, 'Go prophesy to my people Israel.'" (Amos 7:14-15)
OBSERVATION
Amos prophesied that the king of Israel, Jeroboam, would die and Israel would go into exile. Amaziah, Jeroboam's priest, heard this prophesy, told Jeroboam and came back to Amos basically saying that the king didn't want to hear it and he should flee the country. Amos' response indicated that he was just relaying God's message. In fact, he was a shepherd, minding his own business when God took him from his flock and gave him a new career path. He was just obedient to God's call in his life, professing the message in his new profession.
God may take us from where we are, perhaps more so in the midst of where we are, and redirect our lives to serve him. It may not be popular or well received but the important thing is to be obedient to him in the midst of whatever profession we find ourselves. Our careers make us a living but our calling makes a life.
APPLICATION
Whatever profession I find myself in I am to be obedient to God's call on my life. It is more important to serve him by faithfully proclaiming his word than to please people. This is no excuse for harshness, it must be done with gentleness and respect. However, when God calls to go from flocks and figs to be obedient to his direction, like Amos I need to obey.
PRAYER
Lord, give me the boldness of Amos to follow you wherever you lead.
"Then Amos answered and said to Amaziah, 'I was no prophet, nor a prophet's son, but I was a herdsman and a dresser of sycamore figs. But the Lord took me from following the flock, and the Lord said to me, 'Go prophesy to my people Israel.'" (Amos 7:14-15)
OBSERVATION
Amos prophesied that the king of Israel, Jeroboam, would die and Israel would go into exile. Amaziah, Jeroboam's priest, heard this prophesy, told Jeroboam and came back to Amos basically saying that the king didn't want to hear it and he should flee the country. Amos' response indicated that he was just relaying God's message. In fact, he was a shepherd, minding his own business when God took him from his flock and gave him a new career path. He was just obedient to God's call in his life, professing the message in his new profession.
God may take us from where we are, perhaps more so in the midst of where we are, and redirect our lives to serve him. It may not be popular or well received but the important thing is to be obedient to him in the midst of whatever profession we find ourselves. Our careers make us a living but our calling makes a life.
APPLICATION
Whatever profession I find myself in I am to be obedient to God's call on my life. It is more important to serve him by faithfully proclaiming his word than to please people. This is no excuse for harshness, it must be done with gentleness and respect. However, when God calls to go from flocks and figs to be obedient to his direction, like Amos I need to obey.
PRAYER
Lord, give me the boldness of Amos to follow you wherever you lead.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Is There No God?
SCRIPTURE
"Now Ahaziah fell through the lattice in his upper chamber in Samaria, and lay sick; so he sent messengers, telling them, 'Go, inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether I shall recover from this sickness.'But the angel of the Lord said to Elijah the Tishbite, 'Arise, go up to meet the messengers of the king of Samaria, and say to them, 'Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are going to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron?'" (2 Kings 1:2-3)
OBSERVATION
Ahaziah had fallen and couldn't get up. He sent his messengers to a pagan god to find out whether or not he would recover. The bible makes it clear that pagan gods are no gods at all. They have no capacity to hear, move, or act. Yet, Ahaziah, knowing full well about the God who does hear, move, and act, sends his messengers to Baal.
God is tried and true. However, we tend to look for new and novel approaches to spirituality. Whether it's Oprah's spiritual smorgasbord or improving our self-talk, we tend to run after the gods of this world. Elijah's response to Ahaziah was basically, "Think about what you're doing? There is a God in Israel-the Lord. You don't need to go after Baal."
God did prove himself. Ahaziah sent messengers to Elijah three times. Two out of the three times fire fell from heaven and consumed the captains with there 50 men. You'd think Ahaziah would've caught on the first time. Amaziah did not recover from his injuries eventually dying. You have to wonder how things would've turned out different if he went right to the Lord the first time.
APPLICATION
I think one of the reasons it's tempting to run after other "gods" is because they seem to offer quick fixes and promise to deliver exactly what I want. However, God, the true God, is on his own timetable and he does things in his own way. I have to give up control of my life to seek him. The "gods" with a little "g" can be manipulated and give me the answer I'm looking for. God doesn't kowtow to my preferences. Frankly, I don't like that sometimes. But, that's what growing in faith and trust is all about. There is a God in the land and I need to seek him only.
PRAYER
Lord, you are in the land. I seek your wisdom and your word for direction in my life.
"Now Ahaziah fell through the lattice in his upper chamber in Samaria, and lay sick; so he sent messengers, telling them, 'Go, inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron, whether I shall recover from this sickness.'But the angel of the Lord said to Elijah the Tishbite, 'Arise, go up to meet the messengers of the king of Samaria, and say to them, 'Is it because there is no God in Israel that you are going to inquire of Baal-zebub, the god of Ekron?'" (2 Kings 1:2-3)
OBSERVATION
Ahaziah had fallen and couldn't get up. He sent his messengers to a pagan god to find out whether or not he would recover. The bible makes it clear that pagan gods are no gods at all. They have no capacity to hear, move, or act. Yet, Ahaziah, knowing full well about the God who does hear, move, and act, sends his messengers to Baal.
God is tried and true. However, we tend to look for new and novel approaches to spirituality. Whether it's Oprah's spiritual smorgasbord or improving our self-talk, we tend to run after the gods of this world. Elijah's response to Ahaziah was basically, "Think about what you're doing? There is a God in Israel-the Lord. You don't need to go after Baal."
God did prove himself. Ahaziah sent messengers to Elijah three times. Two out of the three times fire fell from heaven and consumed the captains with there 50 men. You'd think Ahaziah would've caught on the first time. Amaziah did not recover from his injuries eventually dying. You have to wonder how things would've turned out different if he went right to the Lord the first time.
APPLICATION
I think one of the reasons it's tempting to run after other "gods" is because they seem to offer quick fixes and promise to deliver exactly what I want. However, God, the true God, is on his own timetable and he does things in his own way. I have to give up control of my life to seek him. The "gods" with a little "g" can be manipulated and give me the answer I'm looking for. God doesn't kowtow to my preferences. Frankly, I don't like that sometimes. But, that's what growing in faith and trust is all about. There is a God in the land and I need to seek him only.
PRAYER
Lord, you are in the land. I seek your wisdom and your word for direction in my life.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Spiritual Paralysis
SCRIPTURE
"Elijah came near to all the people and said, 'How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.'" (1 Kings 18:21)
OBSERVATION
Sometimes it's hard for Josiah to make a decision. "Do you want peanut butter or ham for lunch?" This question is oftentimes met with an indecisive look and a 3 year old's "Hmm?" After a while of indecisiveness we have to press him for an answer, "What will it be?"
In this passage Elijah challenged King Ahab to gather prophets who were serving the pagan god Baal. They were to meet him at Mount Carmel for a little challenge. If fire came down from heaven and consumed their offering, this would mean that Baal was a true god. However, if fire consumed Elijah's offering, that meant that God was the true God. (By the way, fire did fall on Elijah's offering.)
Elijah was pressing the people to make a choice. Decide who you are going to serve. Indecisiveness about who we worship is like limping through life. We drag our feet because we want the best of both worlds. Not fully committed to God but wanting to do the things we want to do. However, if we confess "Jesus is Lord," that means he claims allegiance and control over every area of our lives. There comes a point when we need to decide...who are we going to serve?
APPLICATION
I can limp through life spiritually by not fully committing to God. I want my way, to fulfill my desires, and can give all kinds of excuses why I can't commit, not at this time, perhaps when it's more convenient. I just need to jump in with both feet. If I believe that God is really who he says he is, he deserves my total allegiance. I'm not doing him any favors by pretending to love him, yet at the same time entertaining the gods of this world. Either he is my Lord or he isn't. He won't settle for anything less than 100%. Wavering causes spiritual paralysis that cripples my walk with God.
PRAYER
Lord, I don't want to limp through life but I commit to you as my God.
"Elijah came near to all the people and said, 'How long will you go limping between two different opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.'" (1 Kings 18:21)
OBSERVATION
Sometimes it's hard for Josiah to make a decision. "Do you want peanut butter or ham for lunch?" This question is oftentimes met with an indecisive look and a 3 year old's "Hmm?" After a while of indecisiveness we have to press him for an answer, "What will it be?"
In this passage Elijah challenged King Ahab to gather prophets who were serving the pagan god Baal. They were to meet him at Mount Carmel for a little challenge. If fire came down from heaven and consumed their offering, this would mean that Baal was a true god. However, if fire consumed Elijah's offering, that meant that God was the true God. (By the way, fire did fall on Elijah's offering.)
Elijah was pressing the people to make a choice. Decide who you are going to serve. Indecisiveness about who we worship is like limping through life. We drag our feet because we want the best of both worlds. Not fully committed to God but wanting to do the things we want to do. However, if we confess "Jesus is Lord," that means he claims allegiance and control over every area of our lives. There comes a point when we need to decide...who are we going to serve?
APPLICATION
I can limp through life spiritually by not fully committing to God. I want my way, to fulfill my desires, and can give all kinds of excuses why I can't commit, not at this time, perhaps when it's more convenient. I just need to jump in with both feet. If I believe that God is really who he says he is, he deserves my total allegiance. I'm not doing him any favors by pretending to love him, yet at the same time entertaining the gods of this world. Either he is my Lord or he isn't. He won't settle for anything less than 100%. Wavering causes spiritual paralysis that cripples my walk with God.
PRAYER
Lord, I don't want to limp through life but I commit to you as my God.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Suit Up & Stand
SCRIPTURE
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor or God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil...Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." (Ephesians 6:10-11,13)
OBSERVATION
We do not have to lose ground in the battle. With the armor God has provided we can stand firm. We can feel alone, or ill-equipped at times, but God has given us everything we need. Twice in this passage Paul reminds us to put on the whole armor of God. It's not about bits and pieces, but to be fully dressed and prepared. We don't fight with our own strength, which would give out rather quickly, but in the strength of God's might.
The cool part of the battle is this...once we are suited up we just need to stand, firm. We don't have to run, either away from or after the devil. James reminds us that if we resist, he will do the running (James 4:7). It's tiring to run but strength comes from God as we stand. He has given us what we need to stand. He wants us to succeed and wants us to be victorious. That happens when we do all, suiting up, so that with the full armor of God and his strength we can stand even in the evil day.
APPLICATION
I tend to put on bits and pieces of the armor. I wear the belt of truth, but because of my sinful inclinations do not wear the breastplate of righteousness. Or, I will have the sword of the Spirit, the word of God, in my life but not share my faith, forgetting the shoes, the readiness given by the gospel of peace. I'm not praying at all times, but I'm wearing the helmet of salvation. Because I'm partially dressed my strength is sapped and I'm not prepared. God wants me to do all by wearing the full armor.
I wouldn't go out of the house partially dressed (OK, maybe to grab the paper but not to grab lunch). How much more should I never enter the battle without the full armor of God, doing everything he asks so I can stand firm. God has supplied. I need to suit up and stand, taking advantage of the resources he has given me.
PRAYER
Lord, I need your strength for the battle. Thank you that you have given me everything I need to stand firm.
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor or God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil...Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." (Ephesians 6:10-11,13)
OBSERVATION
We do not have to lose ground in the battle. With the armor God has provided we can stand firm. We can feel alone, or ill-equipped at times, but God has given us everything we need. Twice in this passage Paul reminds us to put on the whole armor of God. It's not about bits and pieces, but to be fully dressed and prepared. We don't fight with our own strength, which would give out rather quickly, but in the strength of God's might.
The cool part of the battle is this...once we are suited up we just need to stand, firm. We don't have to run, either away from or after the devil. James reminds us that if we resist, he will do the running (James 4:7). It's tiring to run but strength comes from God as we stand. He has given us what we need to stand. He wants us to succeed and wants us to be victorious. That happens when we do all, suiting up, so that with the full armor of God and his strength we can stand even in the evil day.
APPLICATION
I tend to put on bits and pieces of the armor. I wear the belt of truth, but because of my sinful inclinations do not wear the breastplate of righteousness. Or, I will have the sword of the Spirit, the word of God, in my life but not share my faith, forgetting the shoes, the readiness given by the gospel of peace. I'm not praying at all times, but I'm wearing the helmet of salvation. Because I'm partially dressed my strength is sapped and I'm not prepared. God wants me to do all by wearing the full armor.
I wouldn't go out of the house partially dressed (OK, maybe to grab the paper but not to grab lunch). How much more should I never enter the battle without the full armor of God, doing everything he asks so I can stand firm. God has supplied. I need to suit up and stand, taking advantage of the resources he has given me.
PRAYER
Lord, I need your strength for the battle. Thank you that you have given me everything I need to stand firm.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Do No Harm
SCRIPTURE
"Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law...Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.'" (Romans 13:8-10)
OBSERVATION
The only debt we should have outstanding is the debt to love one another. The bible talks about another kind of indebtedness--unforgiveness. When we have offended someone we are indebted to them. When someone has offended us they are indebted to us. In order to release the debt, we offer forgiveness. Here Paul is reminding us to keep our accounts current. The only allowable debt is the one that we owe each other to fulfill the law...love. Love always seeks the best for the other person. It does no wrong to a neighbor. Jesus' example shows us what love involves...sacrifice. It's not about the feeling we receive, that would make it focused on us. But it is about the other person, making it a debt we owe to them. It always seeks to do the best thing for the other person no matter how hard that may be.
APPLICATION
I really need to develop that kind of love. Instead of trying to think of every way that I can be more loving, this verse simply states it in the negative: do no harm. I need to run everything through this filter. Is this word or action going to do wrong or will it benefit the other person? I need to cancel the debt of unforgiveness by forgiving, but the debt to love others is one that I will never payoff. It is to be the habit of my heart.
PRAYER
Lord, you showed me what love looks like in Jesus. I want to more fully develop that sacrificial kind of love by doing no harm to the people around me.
"Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law...Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.'" (Romans 13:8-10)
OBSERVATION
The only debt we should have outstanding is the debt to love one another. The bible talks about another kind of indebtedness--unforgiveness. When we have offended someone we are indebted to them. When someone has offended us they are indebted to us. In order to release the debt, we offer forgiveness. Here Paul is reminding us to keep our accounts current. The only allowable debt is the one that we owe each other to fulfill the law...love. Love always seeks the best for the other person. It does no wrong to a neighbor. Jesus' example shows us what love involves...sacrifice. It's not about the feeling we receive, that would make it focused on us. But it is about the other person, making it a debt we owe to them. It always seeks to do the best thing for the other person no matter how hard that may be.
APPLICATION
I really need to develop that kind of love. Instead of trying to think of every way that I can be more loving, this verse simply states it in the negative: do no harm. I need to run everything through this filter. Is this word or action going to do wrong or will it benefit the other person? I need to cancel the debt of unforgiveness by forgiving, but the debt to love others is one that I will never payoff. It is to be the habit of my heart.
PRAYER
Lord, you showed me what love looks like in Jesus. I want to more fully develop that sacrificial kind of love by doing no harm to the people around me.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Son or Slave?
SCRIPTURE
"So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" (Romans 8:12-15)
OBSERVATION
Paul continues to contrast a life lived in the Spirit and a life lived in the flesh. The two "laws" deliver two qualities of life. The Law of the Spirit: wee are set free in Christ Jesus, it brings life and peace, we have our minds set on the Spirit. The Law of Sin and Death: is weakened by the flesh, we have our minds set on the flesh, it brings death and is hostile to God, it cannot submit to God.
The struggle is choosing which law to live under. The flesh cries out with its temptations and desires but the way of the Spirit is life. On our own we cannot do it. It is the work of Christ that helps us to overcome. He came in the flesh and by the cross condemned sin in the flesh. The life we live as a follower of Jesus is not lived in our own strength but in the strength of the Spirit. The Spirit who raised Christ from the dead gives us new life and helps raise us from the dead life of the flesh.
APPLICATION
It is by the Spirit that I put to death the deeds of my flesh. Shear willpower is not enough..that is trying to live by the flesh. The reality of my relationship with Christ is that he lives in me. By his death and resurrection he helps me to put to death the deeds of my flesh so I too can live a resurrected life. I only have the strength to do so much for so long. However, God's Spirit in me gives me new life and an everlasting source of strength. I need to set my mind on the Spirit and on the things of God. He brought me into a relationship with him so that I can live under a new law, the law of the Spirit, as a son and not as a slave to fear.
PRAYER
Lord, today I will face the struggle between choosing the flesh or the Spirit. Help me to focus on the Spirit and walk according to the new way of life.
"So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!'" (Romans 8:12-15)
OBSERVATION
Paul continues to contrast a life lived in the Spirit and a life lived in the flesh. The two "laws" deliver two qualities of life. The Law of the Spirit: wee are set free in Christ Jesus, it brings life and peace, we have our minds set on the Spirit. The Law of Sin and Death: is weakened by the flesh, we have our minds set on the flesh, it brings death and is hostile to God, it cannot submit to God.
The struggle is choosing which law to live under. The flesh cries out with its temptations and desires but the way of the Spirit is life. On our own we cannot do it. It is the work of Christ that helps us to overcome. He came in the flesh and by the cross condemned sin in the flesh. The life we live as a follower of Jesus is not lived in our own strength but in the strength of the Spirit. The Spirit who raised Christ from the dead gives us new life and helps raise us from the dead life of the flesh.
APPLICATION
It is by the Spirit that I put to death the deeds of my flesh. Shear willpower is not enough..that is trying to live by the flesh. The reality of my relationship with Christ is that he lives in me. By his death and resurrection he helps me to put to death the deeds of my flesh so I too can live a resurrected life. I only have the strength to do so much for so long. However, God's Spirit in me gives me new life and an everlasting source of strength. I need to set my mind on the Spirit and on the things of God. He brought me into a relationship with him so that I can live under a new law, the law of the Spirit, as a son and not as a slave to fear.
PRAYER
Lord, today I will face the struggle between choosing the flesh or the Spirit. Help me to focus on the Spirit and walk according to the new way of life.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
The Doubt Commission
SCRIPTURE
"Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:16-20)
OBSERVATION
This passage, commonly called "The Great Commission," was Jesus' charge to his followers just before he ascended back into heaven after his resurrection. The disciples were on the mountain and they were worshiping him. The text seems to indicate not all of them had a strong, ready to conquer the world faith at this point because "some doubted." What did they doubt? Doubted he was alive, doubted the events of the last few weeks, doubted who Jesus was. It could be all or none of these. One thing we do know is that mixed in this crowd of eleven some had doubts. Jesus reassures them by saying he has all authority in heaven and earth so what he is about to say, "Go and make disciples," has tremendous weight. What about the doubters? He says, "Don't worry, I am with you always." Those who doubted were still given the commision and were expected to be part of it.
APPLICATION
I love the way the bible portrays authentic, genuine faith. Here it doesn't gloss over the fact that even after Jesus resurrection there were some who doubted. He was standing in their midst, talking to them, and their minds were still conflicted. I can feel the same way. Doubts and questions arise. Not so much about who Jesus is but about who I am. Can I really do what he's called me to do? Namely, to go and make disciples. Yes I can. Even in the midst of doubts and uncertainties, because I know he is with me. When I doubt I can still be part of the commission to make disciples because Jesus says "I'm with you on your mission."
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your abiding presence. It is what helps give me the strength to do what you've called me to do even when I doubt my own strength.
"Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:16-20)
OBSERVATION
This passage, commonly called "The Great Commission," was Jesus' charge to his followers just before he ascended back into heaven after his resurrection. The disciples were on the mountain and they were worshiping him. The text seems to indicate not all of them had a strong, ready to conquer the world faith at this point because "some doubted." What did they doubt? Doubted he was alive, doubted the events of the last few weeks, doubted who Jesus was. It could be all or none of these. One thing we do know is that mixed in this crowd of eleven some had doubts. Jesus reassures them by saying he has all authority in heaven and earth so what he is about to say, "Go and make disciples," has tremendous weight. What about the doubters? He says, "Don't worry, I am with you always." Those who doubted were still given the commision and were expected to be part of it.
APPLICATION
I love the way the bible portrays authentic, genuine faith. Here it doesn't gloss over the fact that even after Jesus resurrection there were some who doubted. He was standing in their midst, talking to them, and their minds were still conflicted. I can feel the same way. Doubts and questions arise. Not so much about who Jesus is but about who I am. Can I really do what he's called me to do? Namely, to go and make disciples. Yes I can. Even in the midst of doubts and uncertainties, because I know he is with me. When I doubt I can still be part of the commission to make disciples because Jesus says "I'm with you on your mission."
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your abiding presence. It is what helps give me the strength to do what you've called me to do even when I doubt my own strength.
Old Age and Gray Hairs
SCRIPTURE
"For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Do not cast me off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength is spent. O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds. So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come." (Psalm 71: 5,9,17-18)
OBSERVATION
David saw the continuity of God's activity in his life...from the days of his youth he had taught him. The reason he could trust him now was because he had a history with God. He saw God's activity in his life and now he could turn to him for refuge. David's concern was not just for himself but for future generations. He wanted to proclaim God's might. Even into old age he wanted to walk close to God so he could communicate his power to those to come.
APPLICATION
There's no retirement in the kingdom of God. There will never come a day when I don't have to share who God is with others. Right now, that sounds daunting. But God will give me the strength, even when it's spent. How do I know? Because he has taught me those things about himself in my life up to this point. So even to old age and gray hairs (which seems to come faster every year) he will continue to prove himself in my life. He will be my refuge, hope, and trust.
PRAYER
Lord, my work for you will never be done. The things you have taught me you want me to share with the next generation.
"For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth. Do not cast me off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength is spent. O God, from my youth you have taught me, and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds. So even to old age and gray hairs, O God, do not forsake me, until I proclaim your might to another generation, your power to all those to come." (Psalm 71: 5,9,17-18)
OBSERVATION
David saw the continuity of God's activity in his life...from the days of his youth he had taught him. The reason he could trust him now was because he had a history with God. He saw God's activity in his life and now he could turn to him for refuge. David's concern was not just for himself but for future generations. He wanted to proclaim God's might. Even into old age he wanted to walk close to God so he could communicate his power to those to come.
APPLICATION
There's no retirement in the kingdom of God. There will never come a day when I don't have to share who God is with others. Right now, that sounds daunting. But God will give me the strength, even when it's spent. How do I know? Because he has taught me those things about himself in my life up to this point. So even to old age and gray hairs (which seems to come faster every year) he will continue to prove himself in my life. He will be my refuge, hope, and trust.
PRAYER
Lord, my work for you will never be done. The things you have taught me you want me to share with the next generation.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Who Knows?
SCRIPTURE
"Then David arose from the earth and washed and anointed himself and changed his clothes. And he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. And when he asked, they set food before him, and he ate." (2 Samuel 12:20)
OBSERVATION
David's affair with Bathsheba resulted in her pregnancy and her husband's murder (by the hand of David). As a consequence, the child died seven days after he was born. Up to the point David did not eat and was lying on the ground seeking God on behalf of the child. The servants were afraid to tell David the child had died for fear he may harm himself. However, David saw them whispering and knew what it meant. His reaction surprised them. He got up, cleaned up, and went to worship. His explanation, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept, for I said, 'Who knows whether the Lord will be gracious to me, that the child may live? But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.'" (12:22-23) David sought God in prayer until there was nothing more he could do.
APPLICATION
I need to pray as long as there is hope. Until there is nothing more that can be done. David's question is often my question, "Who knows?" Who knows if God will be gracious and grant my request? I certainly don't. That's why I need to keep praying. God's silence keeps me close to him. That sounds strange but it is true. Seeking him in prayer, in the midst of hard situations, is a way to grow in my relationship with him. My job is to pray persistently trusting God for the outcome.
PRAYER
Lord, I thank you that you allow me to wrestle with the things of life through prayer. There is always hope for you to graciously answer.
"Then David arose from the earth and washed and anointed himself and changed his clothes. And he went into the house of the Lord and worshiped. And when he asked, they set food before him, and he ate." (2 Samuel 12:20)
OBSERVATION
David's affair with Bathsheba resulted in her pregnancy and her husband's murder (by the hand of David). As a consequence, the child died seven days after he was born. Up to the point David did not eat and was lying on the ground seeking God on behalf of the child. The servants were afraid to tell David the child had died for fear he may harm himself. However, David saw them whispering and knew what it meant. His reaction surprised them. He got up, cleaned up, and went to worship. His explanation, "While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept, for I said, 'Who knows whether the Lord will be gracious to me, that the child may live? But now he is dead. Why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he will not return to me.'" (12:22-23) David sought God in prayer until there was nothing more he could do.
APPLICATION
I need to pray as long as there is hope. Until there is nothing more that can be done. David's question is often my question, "Who knows?" Who knows if God will be gracious and grant my request? I certainly don't. That's why I need to keep praying. God's silence keeps me close to him. That sounds strange but it is true. Seeking him in prayer, in the midst of hard situations, is a way to grow in my relationship with him. My job is to pray persistently trusting God for the outcome.
PRAYER
Lord, I thank you that you allow me to wrestle with the things of life through prayer. There is always hope for you to graciously answer.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Fess Up or Flee
SCRIPTURE
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way." (Psalm 139:23-24)
OBSERVATION
Psalm 139 lists things that God knows about us:
APPLICATION
God is familiar with everything about me. Even things I'm not consciously aware of. I can invite Him in to look around my heart. The invitation to houseclean is really for that reason...to see if there are any offensive ways. Then, when He reveals those things I can fess up and seek to go His way, the everlasting way, or I can flee. However, this psalm reminds me that even if I run I can't get away from God. "Where can I go to escape your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence?" (139:7) Up (heaven), down (Sheol), east, west or trying to hide in the dark, He is there. The best course of action is to let Him make the necessary changes because I can't run and hide. He knows all about me. Inside and out.
PRAYER
Lord, search me and know my heart. Lead me in the everlasting way.
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the everlasting way." (Psalm 139:23-24)
OBSERVATION
Psalm 139 lists things that God knows about us:
- When we sit down and stand up (2)
- Our thoughts from far away (2)
- Our travels and our rest (3)
- All of our ways (3)
- Our words even before we speak them (4)
- When we were formed in the womb (15)
- When we were formless before a single day began (16)
APPLICATION
God is familiar with everything about me. Even things I'm not consciously aware of. I can invite Him in to look around my heart. The invitation to houseclean is really for that reason...to see if there are any offensive ways. Then, when He reveals those things I can fess up and seek to go His way, the everlasting way, or I can flee. However, this psalm reminds me that even if I run I can't get away from God. "Where can I go to escape your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence?" (139:7) Up (heaven), down (Sheol), east, west or trying to hide in the dark, He is there. The best course of action is to let Him make the necessary changes because I can't run and hide. He knows all about me. Inside and out.
PRAYER
Lord, search me and know my heart. Lead me in the everlasting way.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Life's a Pain
SCRIPTURE
"The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you." (Psalm 9:9-10)
OBSERVATION
Oppression and trouble are facts of living in a fallen world. However, in the midst of all this, God can be a stronghold. He is the safety and stability in world that can feel out of control. But this isn't a given, something that's automatic. The Psalmist reminds us that we need to know Him (a person's name stood for the whole of the person). Only by understanding God's character and who He is will we want to put our trust in Him. He is good, trustworthy, loving, in control, etc. However, it goes one step further than just knowing Him, we have to seek Him. We look for how God is working in the middle of our trials. Here is the tremendous promise...when we seek Him, He will not forsake us, or turn his face from us, but will be there when we need Him the most.
APPLICATION
I'd prefer to have a life without trouble. Honestly it's a pain at times. There is something that is greater than my trials. That something is actually someone...God himself. He is a stronghold. I need to know Him, trust Him, and seek Him, especially in the difficult times of trouble. But I can't start knowing Him, trusting Him, and seeking Him only when times are tough. I need to do that daily, in the in between times. Then I will be prepared to seek Him when difficulties come.
PRAYER
Lord, you are the real God in the midst of the realities of life, even when it's a pain.
"The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you." (Psalm 9:9-10)
OBSERVATION
Oppression and trouble are facts of living in a fallen world. However, in the midst of all this, God can be a stronghold. He is the safety and stability in world that can feel out of control. But this isn't a given, something that's automatic. The Psalmist reminds us that we need to know Him (a person's name stood for the whole of the person). Only by understanding God's character and who He is will we want to put our trust in Him. He is good, trustworthy, loving, in control, etc. However, it goes one step further than just knowing Him, we have to seek Him. We look for how God is working in the middle of our trials. Here is the tremendous promise...when we seek Him, He will not forsake us, or turn his face from us, but will be there when we need Him the most.
APPLICATION
I'd prefer to have a life without trouble. Honestly it's a pain at times. There is something that is greater than my trials. That something is actually someone...God himself. He is a stronghold. I need to know Him, trust Him, and seek Him, especially in the difficult times of trouble. But I can't start knowing Him, trusting Him, and seeking Him only when times are tough. I need to do that daily, in the in between times. Then I will be prepared to seek Him when difficulties come.
PRAYER
Lord, you are the real God in the midst of the realities of life, even when it's a pain.
Humbling Thorn
SCRIPTURE
"So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)
OBSERVATION
Paul's thorn was a way to temper his mountain top experience of receiving revelation from God. It reminded him not to think of himself more highly than he ought. "I must be pretty great in God's sight. Look at this experience. I'm Paul and I'm entitled to a life of ease." He obviously prefered that it be taken away. It harassed him and caused him pain and frustration. He didn't say the thorn was a good thing. He did recognize the thorn was not caused by God but He was able to bring about good through it. God had a bigger purpose. He wanted Paul to rely on His grace and not obtaining a pain free life. This humbling thorn was used by God so Paul would not rely on his circumstances but on the grace of God in the midst of his circumstances. He realized he did have something to brag about and it wasn't himself or a life that was well ordered and free from pain. It was about his weaknesses because they were the very points where the power of Christ came through and if he was going to boast it was going to be about the Lord.
APPLICATION
My weaknesses, thorns, are opportunities for God's grace and power to shine. These tough situations are ways to keep me in check. When life is good I tend to take the credit or think somehow God owes me. He is supposed to remove the thorns. However, when I get stuck by a thorn I'm reminded it's not about me. It's all about Christ. Where I lack, Christ's power can be demonstrated. I can live life always looking for the elusive "someday." Someday when there's enough money, time, no stress, etc. But God wants me to look for his grace in today. Relying on his strength and power in my weakness, now that is something to brag about.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see your grace and power in my weaknesses and in spite of the thorns that stick in my life. Amen.
"So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Corinthians 12:7-9)
OBSERVATION
Paul's thorn was a way to temper his mountain top experience of receiving revelation from God. It reminded him not to think of himself more highly than he ought. "I must be pretty great in God's sight. Look at this experience. I'm Paul and I'm entitled to a life of ease." He obviously prefered that it be taken away. It harassed him and caused him pain and frustration. He didn't say the thorn was a good thing. He did recognize the thorn was not caused by God but He was able to bring about good through it. God had a bigger purpose. He wanted Paul to rely on His grace and not obtaining a pain free life. This humbling thorn was used by God so Paul would not rely on his circumstances but on the grace of God in the midst of his circumstances. He realized he did have something to brag about and it wasn't himself or a life that was well ordered and free from pain. It was about his weaknesses because they were the very points where the power of Christ came through and if he was going to boast it was going to be about the Lord.
APPLICATION
My weaknesses, thorns, are opportunities for God's grace and power to shine. These tough situations are ways to keep me in check. When life is good I tend to take the credit or think somehow God owes me. He is supposed to remove the thorns. However, when I get stuck by a thorn I'm reminded it's not about me. It's all about Christ. Where I lack, Christ's power can be demonstrated. I can live life always looking for the elusive "someday." Someday when there's enough money, time, no stress, etc. But God wants me to look for his grace in today. Relying on his strength and power in my weakness, now that is something to brag about.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to see your grace and power in my weaknesses and in spite of the thorns that stick in my life. Amen.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Good Grief
SCRIPTURE
"As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. For godly grief produces repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.'" (2 Corinthians 7:9-10).
OBSERVATION
Paul's first letter to the Corinthians obviously caused them grief because he addresses it here in Second Corinthians. In an age where no one wants to hurt someone's feelings (not on purpose but by godly confrontation), Paul's tactics seem a bit harsh. However he was more concerned about the larger spiritual issues surrounding life. He recognized two kinds of grief (godly vs. worldly) and the kind that he inflicted (godly) led them to repentance which led to salvation. Godly grief means we see our sin in light of God's holiness and respond accordingly. It leads us to repentance...a change of mind about our situation. Worldly grief can occur on many different levels. We are more sorry that we got caught than over the actual deed. We misdirect our anger to the person who challenges us. What business is it of theirs? We fall into shame. "I'm such a bad person." Each of these are unhealthy responses when we come face to face with our sin because none of them leads to repentance. They do lead to anger, frustration, or self-loathing, none of which offers life, only death, because we still haven't dealt with the issue at hand. As long as we are caught up in worldly grief, grief without God, we have not repented.
APPLICATION
I need to develop Godly grief. Grief that is actually good for me. Recognizing my sin and repenting, which brings about reconciliation with God....and others. It's easy to get caught up in worldly grief. When I do, it's all about me, not about what God wants to do in me. Only a healthy evaluation of my condition produces the change that brings about life. In order to do that I need to honestly look at my sin (without blaming others or shaming myself), take it to God and allow him to work in my life. I can spin my wheels in the mire of grief (I'm such a bad person. God doesn't love me. I'll never be useful. Why did I do such a stupid thing?). Or, I can allow the grief I experience, when confronted with the hard teachings of God's word, to motivate me to holiness and repentance. That is where I find life and freedom.
PRAYER
Lord, I need to develop godly grief, the grief that leads to repentance instead of worldly grief that leads to death. Help me to get out of my own way. Amen.
"As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. For godly grief produces repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.'" (2 Corinthians 7:9-10).
OBSERVATION
Paul's first letter to the Corinthians obviously caused them grief because he addresses it here in Second Corinthians. In an age where no one wants to hurt someone's feelings (not on purpose but by godly confrontation), Paul's tactics seem a bit harsh. However he was more concerned about the larger spiritual issues surrounding life. He recognized two kinds of grief (godly vs. worldly) and the kind that he inflicted (godly) led them to repentance which led to salvation. Godly grief means we see our sin in light of God's holiness and respond accordingly. It leads us to repentance...a change of mind about our situation. Worldly grief can occur on many different levels. We are more sorry that we got caught than over the actual deed. We misdirect our anger to the person who challenges us. What business is it of theirs? We fall into shame. "I'm such a bad person." Each of these are unhealthy responses when we come face to face with our sin because none of them leads to repentance. They do lead to anger, frustration, or self-loathing, none of which offers life, only death, because we still haven't dealt with the issue at hand. As long as we are caught up in worldly grief, grief without God, we have not repented.
APPLICATION
I need to develop Godly grief. Grief that is actually good for me. Recognizing my sin and repenting, which brings about reconciliation with God....and others. It's easy to get caught up in worldly grief. When I do, it's all about me, not about what God wants to do in me. Only a healthy evaluation of my condition produces the change that brings about life. In order to do that I need to honestly look at my sin (without blaming others or shaming myself), take it to God and allow him to work in my life. I can spin my wheels in the mire of grief (I'm such a bad person. God doesn't love me. I'll never be useful. Why did I do such a stupid thing?). Or, I can allow the grief I experience, when confronted with the hard teachings of God's word, to motivate me to holiness and repentance. That is where I find life and freedom.
PRAYER
Lord, I need to develop godly grief, the grief that leads to repentance instead of worldly grief that leads to death. Help me to get out of my own way. Amen.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Tambourines and Dancing
SCRIPTURE
"And as soon as he saw here, he tore his clothes and said, 'Alas, my daughter! You have brought me very low, and you have become the cause of great trouble for me. For I have opened my mouth to the Lord, and I cannot take back my vow.'" (Judges 11:35)
OBSERVATION
Jephthah made a vow to the Lord, to offer him the first thing that came out his door, should the Lord give him victory over the Ammonites. Israel did subdue the Ammonites, Jephthah returned home, and the first thing out of his house was his daughter, dancing with tambourines to celebrate his victory. Jephthah suddenly realized the situation he was in (probably never anticipating that his daughter may come running out). I like to think he was hoping it was the neighbor's dog or the pesky cat, but that is pure speculation. Jephthah now had a very hard decision, one that brought him "very low." He could spare the life of his daughter and renege on the vow he made to God. Or, he could keep the vow he made to God and offer his daughter. He chose the latter.
Talk can be very cheap. We can make commitments or promises, especially to God, with either no intent to fulfill them, or only keeping them if it is convenient. Jephthah kept his word, a decision that was neither easy nor convenient. He understood the seriousness of a vow that is made to God. It is not just idle words. It is a contract.
APPLICATION
God takes my commitments, promises, and vows to him very seriously. He would rather me not make a vow than to make one and not keep it. I find it is easy to make promises as a way to manipulate God. Give me this and I'll give you that. "Lord, if my car doesn't run out of gas before the next exit I promise to pray more." But there inevitably comes a time when the promise is not convenient. I don't have time to pray. Or, I don't want to pray. A time when I no longer want to fulfill the promise I made. And there will come a time when my promise is tested (thankfully, not to the degree of Jephthah's). In those moments Jephthah provides a great example of making, and keeping, a commitment to God. No matter the personal cost.
PRAYER
Lord, I want to keep my promises to you, no matter how small they may seem from my perspective. If I say I'll do it, I want to do it. Amen.
"And as soon as he saw here, he tore his clothes and said, 'Alas, my daughter! You have brought me very low, and you have become the cause of great trouble for me. For I have opened my mouth to the Lord, and I cannot take back my vow.'" (Judges 11:35)
OBSERVATION
Jephthah made a vow to the Lord, to offer him the first thing that came out his door, should the Lord give him victory over the Ammonites. Israel did subdue the Ammonites, Jephthah returned home, and the first thing out of his house was his daughter, dancing with tambourines to celebrate his victory. Jephthah suddenly realized the situation he was in (probably never anticipating that his daughter may come running out). I like to think he was hoping it was the neighbor's dog or the pesky cat, but that is pure speculation. Jephthah now had a very hard decision, one that brought him "very low." He could spare the life of his daughter and renege on the vow he made to God. Or, he could keep the vow he made to God and offer his daughter. He chose the latter.
Talk can be very cheap. We can make commitments or promises, especially to God, with either no intent to fulfill them, or only keeping them if it is convenient. Jephthah kept his word, a decision that was neither easy nor convenient. He understood the seriousness of a vow that is made to God. It is not just idle words. It is a contract.
APPLICATION
God takes my commitments, promises, and vows to him very seriously. He would rather me not make a vow than to make one and not keep it. I find it is easy to make promises as a way to manipulate God. Give me this and I'll give you that. "Lord, if my car doesn't run out of gas before the next exit I promise to pray more." But there inevitably comes a time when the promise is not convenient. I don't have time to pray. Or, I don't want to pray. A time when I no longer want to fulfill the promise I made. And there will come a time when my promise is tested (thankfully, not to the degree of Jephthah's). In those moments Jephthah provides a great example of making, and keeping, a commitment to God. No matter the personal cost.
PRAYER
Lord, I want to keep my promises to you, no matter how small they may seem from my perspective. If I say I'll do it, I want to do it. Amen.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)