“The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:
To know wisdom and instruction,
To discern the sayings of understanding,
To receive instruction in wise behavior,
Righteousness, justice and equity;
To give prudence to the naive,
To the youth knowledge and discretion,
A wise man will hear and increase in learning,
And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,
To understand a proverb and a figure,
The words of the wise and their riddles.
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge;
Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” Proverbs 1:1-7
The Apostle Paul made a clear distinction between the learned wisdom of his time and the wisdom of God. Such a difference still exists in the so-called “intellectual age.” As we send men into space and harness the atom, we still must be sure to lock our doors at night. The wisdom of God is a superior to the wisdom of men as a star is to a sixty-watt bulb. Man’s wisdom is knowledge and utilization of data. God’s wisdom is strength, wisdom, God’s guidance, and a right course for every man in every age in every circumstance.
Perhaps the best definition of wisdom is “viewing life from God’s perspective.” That means sifting our ambitions, challenges, problems, and tasks though the filter of God’s eternal truth - the Scriptures. God’s wisdom can never be achieved through some mechanical formula. If that were the case, then any person - wicked or righteous - could enjoy its benefits. Receiving God’s wisdom involves developing a growing, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ Who is our wisdom (1 Cor. 1:30). That’s what Solomon meant when he said, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Prov. 1:7). As we seek and worship God and submit to His will, we increasingly become the repository of His wisdom.
“Wisdom strengthens a wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city.” Ecclesiastes 7:19
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
The Key to Servanthood
“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” Philippians 2:5-8
Philip Yancy, an insightful Christian author, reflected in a Christianity Today article on the discrepancy between those who bask in the limelight and those who toil in seeming obscurity:
“My career as a journalist has afforded me opportunities to interview diverse people. Looking back, I can roughly divide them into two types - servants and stars. The stars include NFL football greats, movie actors, music performers, famous authors, TV personalities, and the like. These are the ones who dominate our magazines and our television programs.
I have also spent time with servants. People like Dr. Paul Brand who worked for twenty years among outcasts - leprosy patients, the poorest of the poor in rural India. Or the health workers who left high-paying jobs to serve with Mendenhall Ministries...Or relief workers in Somalia, the Sudan, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, or other such repositories of world-class suffering.
...But as I now reflect on the two groups - stars and servants - the servants clearly emerge as the favored ones, the graced ones. They work for low pay, long hours, and no applause - ‘wasting’ their talents and skills among the poor. But somehow in the process of losing their lives, they have found them. They have received ‘the peace that is not of this world.’”
Philip Yancy, an insightful Christian author, reflected in a Christianity Today article on the discrepancy between those who bask in the limelight and those who toil in seeming obscurity:
“My career as a journalist has afforded me opportunities to interview diverse people. Looking back, I can roughly divide them into two types - servants and stars. The stars include NFL football greats, movie actors, music performers, famous authors, TV personalities, and the like. These are the ones who dominate our magazines and our television programs.
I have also spent time with servants. People like Dr. Paul Brand who worked for twenty years among outcasts - leprosy patients, the poorest of the poor in rural India. Or the health workers who left high-paying jobs to serve with Mendenhall Ministries...Or relief workers in Somalia, the Sudan, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, or other such repositories of world-class suffering.
...But as I now reflect on the two groups - stars and servants - the servants clearly emerge as the favored ones, the graced ones. They work for low pay, long hours, and no applause - ‘wasting’ their talents and skills among the poor. But somehow in the process of losing their lives, they have found them. They have received ‘the peace that is not of this world.’”
Friday, May 28, 2010
On Being a Servant
“Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came to Jesus with her sons, bowing down and making a request of Him. And He said to her, ‘What do you wish?’ She said to Him, ‘Command that in Your kingdom these two sons of mine may sit one on Your right and one on Your left.’ But Jesus answered, ‘You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink?’ They said to Him, ‘We are able.’ He said to them, ‘My cup you shall drink; but to sit on My right and on My left, this is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by My Father.’
And hearing this, the ten became indignant with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to Himself and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.’” Matthew 20:20-28
The most striking feature about Jesus during His earthly ministry was His unceasing servanthood mindset. Though He was full of deity, His life was pure reflection of a humble servant. Since we are created to be conformed to the image of Christ, we should increasingly demonstrate the attributes of a genuine servant. That will occur as we take on the following characteristics:
Awareness - Are we alert to the needs of others around us? Are we sensitive to their hurts, dreams, problems?
Availability - Do we take so much time meeting our own needs that we have no time for others? We have to make time to serve.
Acceptance - One reason we don’t serve lovingly is because we have a hard time accepting others. We look at their faults instead of seeing them through the eyes of the Father.
Abiding - If we are to serve others, we must have something to give. We can give time and love to others only as we depend on Jesus daily and draw our strength and wisdom from Him.
Abandonment - Jesus says if man is to find his life, he must lose it (Matthew 10:39). What He means is that we should cease trying to call attention to ourselves and instead concentrate our concern on others.
And hearing this, the ten became indignant with the two brothers. But Jesus called them to Himself and said, ‘You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant, and whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.’” Matthew 20:20-28
The most striking feature about Jesus during His earthly ministry was His unceasing servanthood mindset. Though He was full of deity, His life was pure reflection of a humble servant. Since we are created to be conformed to the image of Christ, we should increasingly demonstrate the attributes of a genuine servant. That will occur as we take on the following characteristics:
Awareness - Are we alert to the needs of others around us? Are we sensitive to their hurts, dreams, problems?
Availability - Do we take so much time meeting our own needs that we have no time for others? We have to make time to serve.
Acceptance - One reason we don’t serve lovingly is because we have a hard time accepting others. We look at their faults instead of seeing them through the eyes of the Father.
Abiding - If we are to serve others, we must have something to give. We can give time and love to others only as we depend on Jesus daily and draw our strength and wisdom from Him.
Abandonment - Jesus says if man is to find his life, he must lose it (Matthew 10:39). What He means is that we should cease trying to call attention to ourselves and instead concentrate our concern on others.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
What’s God Up To?
“Then David said to himself, ‘Now I will perish one day by the hand of Saul. There is nothing better for me than to escape into the land of the Philistines. Saul then will despair of searching for me anymore in all the territory of Israel, and I will escape from his hand.’ So David arose and crossed over, he and the six hundred men who were with him, to Achish the son of Maoch, king of Gath. And David lived with Achish at Gath, he and his men, each with his household, even David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal's widow. Now it was told Saul that David had fled to Gath, so he no longer searched for him.”
1 Samuel 27:1-4
David was told he was going to be king of Israel, but he spent most of the next ten years on the lam. Joseph had a dream in which he ruled over his brothers, but he spent the next thirteen years as a slave and a prisoner. It almost sounds like God was perpetrating some cruel joke on a couple of trusting teenagers, doesn’t it?
While we do know the outcome in the above cases, of course, we cannot foresee our own future. Yet we can trust God to operate on the same principles.
Foremost is that God is in control. Your life is not in a tailspin - controlled by fate or circumstance. An omniscient, sovereign God is ruling over everything. There are no accidents. He is never surprised.
Second, the God Who is in control is working for your good and His glory. He never promotes or fosters evil. He is always looking out for your best interests. The conflict comes because what He sees as working for our good is not what we desire. God uses adversity, dryness, temptation, and testing for our welfare.
Third, God will bless others through your wilderness. He is not working for your good only but for the benefit of all His people.
1 Samuel 27:1-4
David was told he was going to be king of Israel, but he spent most of the next ten years on the lam. Joseph had a dream in which he ruled over his brothers, but he spent the next thirteen years as a slave and a prisoner. It almost sounds like God was perpetrating some cruel joke on a couple of trusting teenagers, doesn’t it?
While we do know the outcome in the above cases, of course, we cannot foresee our own future. Yet we can trust God to operate on the same principles.
Foremost is that God is in control. Your life is not in a tailspin - controlled by fate or circumstance. An omniscient, sovereign God is ruling over everything. There are no accidents. He is never surprised.
Second, the God Who is in control is working for your good and His glory. He never promotes or fosters evil. He is always looking out for your best interests. The conflict comes because what He sees as working for our good is not what we desire. God uses adversity, dryness, temptation, and testing for our welfare.
Third, God will bless others through your wilderness. He is not working for your good only but for the benefit of all His people.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Price for Success
“So David went out wherever Saul sent him, and prospered; and Saul set him over the men of war. And it was pleasing in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul's servants. It happened as they were coming, when David returned from killing the Philistine, that the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with joy and with musical instruments.
The women sang as they played, and said,
‘Saul has slain his thousands,
And David his ten thousands.’
Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.
Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul's hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice. Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul. Therefore Saul removed him from his presence and appointed him as his commander of a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people. David was prospering in all his ways for the LORD was with him. When Saul saw that he was prospering greatly, he dreaded him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, and he went out and came in before them.” 1 Samuel 18:5-16
You’ve worked for this promotion for years. You’ve studied, learned, applied your skills, and prayed for God’s best. Finally you’ve got it; it’s yours. But something else can also accompany your prize - the proverbial cold shoulder from those you thought were your closest friends. Such is sometimes the price for success. We may gain the admiration and congratulations of some - but also the envy, jealousy, and suspicion of others. How do we respond in such a situation so that our testimony for the Savior shines through?
First, we remain thoroughly humble. Though David had slain “his ten thousands” and Saul only “his thousands” (verse 7), there is never any haughty air about David. He never brags on himself or flaunts his triumphs. You never read of David handing out his business cards that say, “King David G.G.K.” (Great Giant Killer). We can remain humble as we give the credit for our success to God, recognizing Him as the Source of our blessings. Yes, we work hard; but we understand that He alone is the Giver of all good gifts.
Second, we remain thoroughly committed to servanthood. The greater our popularity and authority, the deeper our obligations to serve. If we work to encourage and promote those in our care, then we are truly successful.
Remember - “...And a man is tested by the praise accorded him.” Proverbs 27:21
The women sang as they played, and said,
‘Saul has slain his thousands,
And David his ten thousands.’
Then Saul became very angry, for this saying displeased him; and he said, ‘They have ascribed to David ten thousands, but to me they have ascribed thousands. Now what more can he have but the kingdom?’ Saul looked at David with suspicion from that day on.
Now it came about on the next day that an evil spirit from God came mightily upon Saul, and he raved in the midst of the house, while David was playing the harp with his hand, as usual; and a spear was in Saul's hand. Saul hurled the spear for he thought, ‘I will pin David to the wall.’ But David escaped from his presence twice. Now Saul was afraid of David, for the LORD was with him but had departed from Saul. Therefore Saul removed him from his presence and appointed him as his commander of a thousand; and he went out and came in before the people. David was prospering in all his ways for the LORD was with him. When Saul saw that he was prospering greatly, he dreaded him. But all Israel and Judah loved David, and he went out and came in before them.” 1 Samuel 18:5-16
You’ve worked for this promotion for years. You’ve studied, learned, applied your skills, and prayed for God’s best. Finally you’ve got it; it’s yours. But something else can also accompany your prize - the proverbial cold shoulder from those you thought were your closest friends. Such is sometimes the price for success. We may gain the admiration and congratulations of some - but also the envy, jealousy, and suspicion of others. How do we respond in such a situation so that our testimony for the Savior shines through?
First, we remain thoroughly humble. Though David had slain “his ten thousands” and Saul only “his thousands” (verse 7), there is never any haughty air about David. He never brags on himself or flaunts his triumphs. You never read of David handing out his business cards that say, “King David G.G.K.” (Great Giant Killer). We can remain humble as we give the credit for our success to God, recognizing Him as the Source of our blessings. Yes, we work hard; but we understand that He alone is the Giver of all good gifts.
Second, we remain thoroughly committed to servanthood. The greater our popularity and authority, the deeper our obligations to serve. If we work to encourage and promote those in our care, then we are truly successful.
Remember - “...And a man is tested by the praise accorded him.” Proverbs 27:21
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Facing Life’s Foes
“When the words which David spoke were heard, they told them to Saul, and he sent for him. David said to Saul, ‘Let no man’s heart fail on account of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.’ Then Saul said to David, ‘You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are but a youth while he has been a warrior from his youth.’ But David said to Saul, ‘Your servant was tending his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I went out after him and attacked him, and rescued it from his mouth; and when he rose up against me, I seized him by his beard and struck him and killed him. Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; and this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, since he has taunted the armies of the living God.’
And David said, ‘The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.’ And Saul said to David, ‘Go, and may the LORD be with you.’ Then Saul clothed David with his garments and put a bronze helmet on his head, and he clothed him with armor. David girded his sword over his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. So David said to Saul, ‘I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them.’ And David took them off.
He took his stick in his hand and chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the shepherd’s bag which he had, even in his pouch, and his sling was in his hand; and he approached the Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:31-40
“And David put his hand into his bag and took from it a stone and slung it, and struck the Philistine on his forehead. And the stone sank into his forehead, so that he fell on his face to the ground.”
1 Samuel 17:49
In the life of each person are taunting, towering giants - looming like Paul Bunyan before us, mocking our faith in Christ. Giants, however, are made to be stoned. Our enemies can be vanquished as we learn the biblical techniques of giant-killing.
First, we must confront the giant. While Israeli soldiers hunkered down in fear, David rose up to meet Goliath (verse 32). No victory is possible until we quit compromising, rationalizing, or excusing our ongoing defeat.
Second, identify your giant as a foe of God. Your sin is a greater abomination to God than it is to you. What you hate, He hates. Goliath wasn’t just David’s adversary; he was one who “taunted the armies of the living God” (verse 36).
Third, since your giant is God’s enemy, the battle is His and, therefore, must be fought with His weapons. Determination, resolution, weeping, and religion won’t do. David won with his slingshot. You will win with the armor of God - His word, your faith in Him, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Though they may seem as unlikely to conquer giants as “five smooth stones” (verse 40), they will - in God’s power - overcome your Goliath and give you the joy of victory.
“Daring sees God, not the giants...the promises, not the impossibilities.” - V. Raymond Edman
And David said, ‘The LORD who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.’ And Saul said to David, ‘Go, and may the LORD be with you.’ Then Saul clothed David with his garments and put a bronze helmet on his head, and he clothed him with armor. David girded his sword over his armor and tried to walk, for he had not tested them. So David said to Saul, ‘I cannot go with these, for I have not tested them.’ And David took them off.
He took his stick in his hand and chose for himself five smooth stones from the brook, and put them in the shepherd’s bag which he had, even in his pouch, and his sling was in his hand; and he approached the Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:31-40
“And David put his hand into his bag and took from it a stone and slung it, and struck the Philistine on his forehead. And the stone sank into his forehead, so that he fell on his face to the ground.”
1 Samuel 17:49
In the life of each person are taunting, towering giants - looming like Paul Bunyan before us, mocking our faith in Christ. Giants, however, are made to be stoned. Our enemies can be vanquished as we learn the biblical techniques of giant-killing.
First, we must confront the giant. While Israeli soldiers hunkered down in fear, David rose up to meet Goliath (verse 32). No victory is possible until we quit compromising, rationalizing, or excusing our ongoing defeat.
Second, identify your giant as a foe of God. Your sin is a greater abomination to God than it is to you. What you hate, He hates. Goliath wasn’t just David’s adversary; he was one who “taunted the armies of the living God” (verse 36).
Third, since your giant is God’s enemy, the battle is His and, therefore, must be fought with His weapons. Determination, resolution, weeping, and religion won’t do. David won with his slingshot. You will win with the armor of God - His word, your faith in Him, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Though they may seem as unlikely to conquer giants as “five smooth stones” (verse 40), they will - in God’s power - overcome your Goliath and give you the joy of victory.
“Daring sees God, not the giants...the promises, not the impossibilities.” - V. Raymond Edman
Monday, May 24, 2010
Looking Through God’s Eyes
“Now the LORD said to Samuel, ‘How long will you grieve over Saul, since I have rejected him from being king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and go; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have selected a king for Myself among his sons.’” 1 Samuel 16:1
“When they entered, he looked at Eliab and thought, ‘Surely the LORD'S anointed is before Him.’ But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.’ Then Jesse called Abinadab and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, ‘The LORD has not chosen this one either.’ Next Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, ‘The LORD has not chosen this one either.’ Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, ‘The LORD has not chosen these.’ And Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Are these all the children?’ And he said, ‘There remains yet the youngest, and behold, he is tending the sheep.’ Then Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.’
So he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance And the LORD said, ‘Arise, anoint him; for this is he.’ Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon David from that day forward. And Samuel arose and went to Ramah." 1 Samuel 16:6-13
Let’s admit it. The majority of believers today are intimidated by the preeminence of evangelical “stars.” Ever so nimbly, the church has adopted the mindset of the jetset for Christian service, distorting God’s criteria for gainful ministry.
After the physically imposing Saul had been rejected as king, the prophet Samuel was still looking for similar qualities for a replacement. Samuel was wrong. God had chosen an obscure boy named David - handsome but young, inexperienced, and a rural shepherd - not exactly a glowing resume for a king. Why? Because “...the Lord looks at the heart” (verse 7). Appearance, education, prominence, affluence, and heritage are nonessentials when it comes to serving God. His requirements are willingness, humility, obedience, and devotion - the noble places of the heart.
God wants servants, not stars. He can work His wonderful will through you right where you are. Get your heart right with Him; submit to Him wholly; and you will be one of His foolish ones that “shame the wise” (1Cor. 1:27).
“...for God sees not as man sees...” Samuel 16:7
“When they entered, he looked at Eliab and thought, ‘Surely the LORD'S anointed is before Him.’ But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.’ Then Jesse called Abinadab and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, ‘The LORD has not chosen this one either.’ Next Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, ‘The LORD has not chosen this one either.’ Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, ‘The LORD has not chosen these.’ And Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Are these all the children?’ And he said, ‘There remains yet the youngest, and behold, he is tending the sheep.’ Then Samuel said to Jesse, ‘Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.’
So he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance And the LORD said, ‘Arise, anoint him; for this is he.’ Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon David from that day forward. And Samuel arose and went to Ramah." 1 Samuel 16:6-13
Let’s admit it. The majority of believers today are intimidated by the preeminence of evangelical “stars.” Ever so nimbly, the church has adopted the mindset of the jetset for Christian service, distorting God’s criteria for gainful ministry.
After the physically imposing Saul had been rejected as king, the prophet Samuel was still looking for similar qualities for a replacement. Samuel was wrong. God had chosen an obscure boy named David - handsome but young, inexperienced, and a rural shepherd - not exactly a glowing resume for a king. Why? Because “...the Lord looks at the heart” (verse 7). Appearance, education, prominence, affluence, and heritage are nonessentials when it comes to serving God. His requirements are willingness, humility, obedience, and devotion - the noble places of the heart.
God wants servants, not stars. He can work His wonderful will through you right where you are. Get your heart right with Him; submit to Him wholly; and you will be one of His foolish ones that “shame the wise” (1Cor. 1:27).
“...for God sees not as man sees...” Samuel 16:7
Sunday, May 23, 2010
I Am With You!
“But when Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul began devoting himself completely to the word, solemnly testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ. But when they resisted and blasphemed, he shook out his garments and said to them, ‘Your blood be on your own heads! I am clean From now on I will go to the Gentiles.’ Then he left there and went to the house of a man named Titius Justus, a worshiper of God, whose house was next to the synagogue. Crispus, the leader of the synagogue, believed in the Lord with all his household, and many of the Corinthians when they heard were believing and being baptized. And the Lord said to Paul in the night by a vision, ‘Do not be afraid any longer, but go on speaking and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man will attack you in order to harm you, for I have many people in this city.’ And he settled there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.” Acts 18:5-11
One of the most debilitating emotions is loneliness. Maybe you’ve felt that way in a hospital or emergency room; in a strange, new city or job; or even in the midst of friends and family. Feeling as if there is no one to care or share with is a terrifying sensations. It can even be deadly.
That is why one of the most comforting names given to our Savior is Immanuel - God with us. Because of the indwelling Christ, the believer is never separated from His permanent presence. We are in Christ, and He is in us. What an encouragement! What a comfort! What an assurance! We always have a shoulder to lean on - the broad shoulders of Immanuel. We always have Someone to listen to our heartache - our constant Companion, Friend Jesus.
The gods of other religions are usually in some far-off, remote corner, stoically seated in a seat of perfection. Not so with our Creator and Redeemer. Once in us, He will never leave us, abandon us, or forget us. Don’t let our adversary and accuser rob you of the peace and joy that comes from experiencing and enjoying the sweet presence of our God. No sin, no deed, no trial can ever diminish the full presence and acceptance of Christ once you have become His child through faith.
God is with you. God is for you. God loves you. Allow His presence to fill any void.
One of the most debilitating emotions is loneliness. Maybe you’ve felt that way in a hospital or emergency room; in a strange, new city or job; or even in the midst of friends and family. Feeling as if there is no one to care or share with is a terrifying sensations. It can even be deadly.
That is why one of the most comforting names given to our Savior is Immanuel - God with us. Because of the indwelling Christ, the believer is never separated from His permanent presence. We are in Christ, and He is in us. What an encouragement! What a comfort! What an assurance! We always have a shoulder to lean on - the broad shoulders of Immanuel. We always have Someone to listen to our heartache - our constant Companion, Friend Jesus.
The gods of other religions are usually in some far-off, remote corner, stoically seated in a seat of perfection. Not so with our Creator and Redeemer. Once in us, He will never leave us, abandon us, or forget us. Don’t let our adversary and accuser rob you of the peace and joy that comes from experiencing and enjoying the sweet presence of our God. No sin, no deed, no trial can ever diminish the full presence and acceptance of Christ once you have become His child through faith.
God is with you. God is for you. God loves you. Allow His presence to fill any void.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Guarding Against Greed
Someone in the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me.” But He said to him, “Man, who appointed Me a judge or arbitrator over you?” Then He said to them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.” And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ Then he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’”
Luke 12:13-20
Regardless of our age, money is a prominent issue. Teenagers are told that they must be seen in the best jackets, jeans, and trendy shoes, Young adults and college students are bombarded by the need to live to the hilt. Young married couples are enticed to accumulate the best of everything in order to keep up with their friends and neighbors.
These materialistic ideas are planted in our minds as the way to happiness and contentment. However, these covetous attitudes more closely define greed, not biblical well-being. We will never be completely satisfied with the world’s value system. There will always be something else we need.
The best investment we can make is to learn God’s principles of finances, making decisions based on God’s Word. We must become acquainted with God’s economic plan if we are to resist the impulses of our culture.
It has been said,
“Money will buy:
A bed but not sleep;
Books but not brains;
Food but not an appetite;
A house but not a home;
Medicine but not health;
Luxuries but not culture;
Amusement but not happiness;
A crucifix but not a Savior.”
Luke 12:13-20
Regardless of our age, money is a prominent issue. Teenagers are told that they must be seen in the best jackets, jeans, and trendy shoes, Young adults and college students are bombarded by the need to live to the hilt. Young married couples are enticed to accumulate the best of everything in order to keep up with their friends and neighbors.
These materialistic ideas are planted in our minds as the way to happiness and contentment. However, these covetous attitudes more closely define greed, not biblical well-being. We will never be completely satisfied with the world’s value system. There will always be something else we need.
The best investment we can make is to learn God’s principles of finances, making decisions based on God’s Word. We must become acquainted with God’s economic plan if we are to resist the impulses of our culture.
It has been said,
“Money will buy:
A bed but not sleep;
Books but not brains;
Food but not an appetite;
A house but not a home;
Medicine but not health;
Luxuries but not culture;
Amusement but not happiness;
A crucifix but not a Savior.”
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Enjoying God’s Gifts
“Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat, to drink and enjoy oneself in all one's labor in which he toils under the sun during the few years of his life which God has given him; for this is his reward. Furthermore, as for every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, He has also empowered him to eat from them and to receive his reward and rejoice in his labor; this is the gift of God. For he will not often consider the years of his life, because God keeps him occupied with the gladness of his heart.”
Ecclesiastes 5:18-20
The word prosperity can mean different things to different people. But it is safe to say that a majority of us quickly define prosperity in terms of monetary wealth. Many feel that material prosperity is a key factor to happiness. Such is not the case. This is evident by observing the lives of the rich we read and hear about every day. Though money abounds, peace and contentment are often gone.
According to The Bible Knowledge Commentary by Walvoord and Zuck, Ecclesiastes 5:19 implies that: “everyone who is given wealth and possessions is also ‘empowered’ to enjoy them...It emphasizes enjoyment as a gift.”
It was John D. Rockefeller, one of America’s wealthiest men, who received this gift of enjoyment late in his life. Ill and near death, he made the decision to give away millions of dollars. Until that time, nothing had given him any true happiness or enjoyment. Within twelve months of his philanthropic decision, he was completely recovered and lived for another thirty-five years.
Whether you are the keeper of millions or of hundreds, you can find yourself in the same sinking sand as Rockefeller until you understand God’s idea of prosperity - enjoying God’s gifts and sharing them with others.
Ecclesiastes 5:18-20
The word prosperity can mean different things to different people. But it is safe to say that a majority of us quickly define prosperity in terms of monetary wealth. Many feel that material prosperity is a key factor to happiness. Such is not the case. This is evident by observing the lives of the rich we read and hear about every day. Though money abounds, peace and contentment are often gone.
According to The Bible Knowledge Commentary by Walvoord and Zuck, Ecclesiastes 5:19 implies that: “everyone who is given wealth and possessions is also ‘empowered’ to enjoy them...It emphasizes enjoyment as a gift.”
It was John D. Rockefeller, one of America’s wealthiest men, who received this gift of enjoyment late in his life. Ill and near death, he made the decision to give away millions of dollars. Until that time, nothing had given him any true happiness or enjoyment. Within twelve months of his philanthropic decision, he was completely recovered and lived for another thirty-five years.
Whether you are the keeper of millions or of hundreds, you can find yourself in the same sinking sand as Rockefeller until you understand God’s idea of prosperity - enjoying God’s gifts and sharing them with others.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
My God Will...
“Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction. You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:14-19
The church in Philippi was very dear to Paul. It was the first church he established in Europe. The city itself was small, but the hearts of its Christian community were of grand proportions. Their mutual love for Paul led them to support his missionary efforts abroad. Their gifts did not come from their surplus, nor the minimum amount of a tithe. They gave a sacrificial amount.
Though bound by prison walls, Paul’s joy came from thinking about the blessings that would be the Philippians because of their generous hearts: “Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account” (Philippians 4:17). Paul reassured the citizens of Philippi that God would surely supply all of their needs because their hearts first sought to meet the needs of His missionary. Their focus was on doing God’s will.
As we give in a pleasing and acceptable way to God, we can then claim the promise of Philippians 4:19: “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Isn’t it wonderful to know that we have such a bold promise to rest in as we focus on meeting the needs of those He places on our hearts? It frees us to enjoy all that God has planned for us.
Philippians 4:14-19
The church in Philippi was very dear to Paul. It was the first church he established in Europe. The city itself was small, but the hearts of its Christian community were of grand proportions. Their mutual love for Paul led them to support his missionary efforts abroad. Their gifts did not come from their surplus, nor the minimum amount of a tithe. They gave a sacrificial amount.
Though bound by prison walls, Paul’s joy came from thinking about the blessings that would be the Philippians because of their generous hearts: “Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account” (Philippians 4:17). Paul reassured the citizens of Philippi that God would surely supply all of their needs because their hearts first sought to meet the needs of His missionary. Their focus was on doing God’s will.
As we give in a pleasing and acceptable way to God, we can then claim the promise of Philippians 4:19: “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Isn’t it wonderful to know that we have such a bold promise to rest in as we focus on meeting the needs of those He places on our hearts? It frees us to enjoy all that God has planned for us.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
On Being a Steward
“Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.”
1 Corinthians 4:1-2
To be a successful money manager, you must believe wholeheartedly and with much conviction that you are managing someone else’s possessions; for the Christian, that someone is God. The Bible does not lightly address the issue of stewardship. The Greek word for stewardship is oikonomia, meaning management of a household, not ownership of a household.
Harold L. Dayton explains it this way in his book, Your Money: Frustration Or Freedom?: “In Scripture the position of a steward is one of great responsibility. He is the supreme authority under his master and has full responsibility for all his master’s possessions, household affairs, and rasing of children.”
This is not to say that God is watching every dime as it leaves your hands, making sure you do not spend it on goals, vacations, or hobbies. A careful manager invests his time and money wisely. Spend time with God regarding your money. If your decisions are made prayerfully, then you can feel assured that you are using the money to accomplish what God has in mind for you. After all, of all the wonderful things that God owns, His most precious commodity is you.
1 Corinthians 4:1-2
To be a successful money manager, you must believe wholeheartedly and with much conviction that you are managing someone else’s possessions; for the Christian, that someone is God. The Bible does not lightly address the issue of stewardship. The Greek word for stewardship is oikonomia, meaning management of a household, not ownership of a household.
Harold L. Dayton explains it this way in his book, Your Money: Frustration Or Freedom?: “In Scripture the position of a steward is one of great responsibility. He is the supreme authority under his master and has full responsibility for all his master’s possessions, household affairs, and rasing of children.”
This is not to say that God is watching every dime as it leaves your hands, making sure you do not spend it on goals, vacations, or hobbies. A careful manager invests his time and money wisely. Spend time with God regarding your money. If your decisions are made prayerfully, then you can feel assured that you are using the money to accomplish what God has in mind for you. After all, of all the wonderful things that God owns, His most precious commodity is you.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Watch This for Me
“The earth is the LORD'S, and all it contains,
The world, and those who dwell in it.” Psalm 24:1
Have you ever been asked to watch over something valuable that belonged to a relative or close friend? Perhaps you kept your neighbors’ pet while they went on vacation, or your aunt and uncle asked you to baby-sit their newborn for an evening. Or perhaps your son brought you his car to drive while yours was in the shop.
Anytime we are asked to take care of something valuable that belongs to another, our sense of responsibility is heightened dramatically. We tend to keep a watchful eye on the pet. We park the car in the safest parking space, not the most convenient one. And if the baby experiences any signs of illness, we take prompt action. None of us want to let others down when they entrust us with their possessions. And those times when we do blunder, a pit can grow in our stomachs that seems unbearable.
Do you realize that all you have, including your money, is owned by God? Since God made the world and everything in it, all belongs to Him. He asks us to be diligent stewards of what He has given us. The next time you open your wallet or examine your checkbook, remember that God has said to you: “Dear friend, can you take care of this for Me?”
The world, and those who dwell in it.” Psalm 24:1
Have you ever been asked to watch over something valuable that belonged to a relative or close friend? Perhaps you kept your neighbors’ pet while they went on vacation, or your aunt and uncle asked you to baby-sit their newborn for an evening. Or perhaps your son brought you his car to drive while yours was in the shop.
Anytime we are asked to take care of something valuable that belongs to another, our sense of responsibility is heightened dramatically. We tend to keep a watchful eye on the pet. We park the car in the safest parking space, not the most convenient one. And if the baby experiences any signs of illness, we take prompt action. None of us want to let others down when they entrust us with their possessions. And those times when we do blunder, a pit can grow in our stomachs that seems unbearable.
Do you realize that all you have, including your money, is owned by God? Since God made the world and everything in it, all belongs to Him. He asks us to be diligent stewards of what He has given us. The next time you open your wallet or examine your checkbook, remember that God has said to you: “Dear friend, can you take care of this for Me?”
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Call Out to Him!
“Immediately He made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He sent the crowds away. After He had sent the crowds away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray; and when it was evening, He was there alone. But the boat was already a long distance from the land, battered by the waves; for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified, and said, ‘It is a ghost!’ And they cried out in fear. But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.’ Peter said to Him, ‘Lord, if it is You, command me to come to You on the water.’ And He said, ‘Come!’ And Peter got out of the boat, and walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But seeing the wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, ‘Lord, save me!’ Immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and took hold of him, and said to him, ‘You of little faith, why did you doubt?’ When they got into the boat, the wind stopped.” Matthew 14:22-32
Many remember watching the news coverage of a young Olympic runner who fell as he came out of the backstretch before the final curve. Wrenching in pain, he tried to stand but collapsed back on to the track’s surface. A hush enveloped the crowd as eyes turned from the race’s victor to the lone runner struggling to his feet at the far end of the stadium. Suddenly, he was joined by an older man who eluded Olympic guards and jumped onto the track. It was the runner’s father. Together, arm in arm, they pressed toward the finish line. He may have fallen, but he was not defeated.
When Peter stepped out of the boat and began to walk on the water to Jesus, his one goal was to reach the Savior. And through the darkened waters caused his heart to momentarily doubt, Peter would not settle for defeat and called out, “Lord, save me!” This is not an account of faithless peril. Had Peter truly doubted Jesus’ power He never would have gotten out of the boat.
Never allow the enemy to tell you that you are worthless and defeated because you stumbled in your race to the finish line. Just like the loving father who ran to his son’s side, Jesus runs to be near you and to carry you to victory. Call out to Him as Peter did, and He will save you.
Many remember watching the news coverage of a young Olympic runner who fell as he came out of the backstretch before the final curve. Wrenching in pain, he tried to stand but collapsed back on to the track’s surface. A hush enveloped the crowd as eyes turned from the race’s victor to the lone runner struggling to his feet at the far end of the stadium. Suddenly, he was joined by an older man who eluded Olympic guards and jumped onto the track. It was the runner’s father. Together, arm in arm, they pressed toward the finish line. He may have fallen, but he was not defeated.
When Peter stepped out of the boat and began to walk on the water to Jesus, his one goal was to reach the Savior. And through the darkened waters caused his heart to momentarily doubt, Peter would not settle for defeat and called out, “Lord, save me!” This is not an account of faithless peril. Had Peter truly doubted Jesus’ power He never would have gotten out of the boat.
Never allow the enemy to tell you that you are worthless and defeated because you stumbled in your race to the finish line. Just like the loving father who ran to his son’s side, Jesus runs to be near you and to carry you to victory. Call out to Him as Peter did, and He will save you.
Friday, May 14, 2010
The Risk of Obeying God
“Now it happened that while the crowd was pressing around Him and listening to the word of God, He was standing by the lake of Gennesaret; and He saw two boats lying at the edge of the lake; but the fishermen had gotten out of them and were washing their nets. And He got into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to put out a little way from the land. And He sat down and began teaching the people from the boat. When He had finished speaking, He said to Simon, ‘Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch.’ Simon answered and said, ‘Master, we worked hard all night and caught nothing, but I will do as You say and let down the nets.’ When they had done this, they enclosed a great quantity of fish, and their nets began to break; so they signaled to their partners in the other boat for them to come and help them. And they came and filled both of the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw that, he fell down at Jesus’ feet, saying, ‘Go away from me Lord, for I am a sinful man!’ For amazement had seized him and all his companions because of the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, ‘Do not fear, from now on you will be catching men.’ When they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed Him.” Luke 5:1-11
Once Jesus finished speaking to the crowd from the bow of Peter’s boat, He turned to the brawny fisherman and said: “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch” (Luke 5:4). Certainly, the idea seemed intriguing to Peter, but was it plausible? He was a leader - a man others turned to for wisdom concerning the sea. Jesus’ request appeared preposterous, if not crazy. No one fished in the Sea of Galilee during daytime. It was done at night and in shallow water.
Yet Peter obediently responded: “Master...I will do as You say and let down the nets.” Disregarding the questionable looks of his peers, Peter raised the ship’s sails and headed out into deep water. The result of his obedience was a great abundance of fish, so many that the nets began to break and the boat began to sink.
What has God placed His finger on in your life that requires you to launch out into the deep? Is it a new job, a relationship that needs healing, and unmet goal? Remember, Peter wasn’t alone in the boat and neither are you. Jesus sailed out there with him. So raise the sails of you life, put out into the deep, and prepare for a huge catch.
Once Jesus finished speaking to the crowd from the bow of Peter’s boat, He turned to the brawny fisherman and said: “Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch” (Luke 5:4). Certainly, the idea seemed intriguing to Peter, but was it plausible? He was a leader - a man others turned to for wisdom concerning the sea. Jesus’ request appeared preposterous, if not crazy. No one fished in the Sea of Galilee during daytime. It was done at night and in shallow water.
Yet Peter obediently responded: “Master...I will do as You say and let down the nets.” Disregarding the questionable looks of his peers, Peter raised the ship’s sails and headed out into deep water. The result of his obedience was a great abundance of fish, so many that the nets began to break and the boat began to sink.
What has God placed His finger on in your life that requires you to launch out into the deep? Is it a new job, a relationship that needs healing, and unmet goal? Remember, Peter wasn’t alone in the boat and neither are you. Jesus sailed out there with him. So raise the sails of you life, put out into the deep, and prepare for a huge catch.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
When the Odds are Against You
“Then Jerubbaal (that is, Gideon) and all the people who were with him, rose early and camped beside the spring of Harod; and the camp of Midian was on the north side of them by the hill of Moreh in the valley. The LORD said to Gideon, ‘The people who are with you are too many for Me to give Midian into their hands, for Israel would become boastful, saying, “My own power has delivered me.” Now therefore come, proclaim in the hearing of the people, saying, “Whoever is afraid and trembling, let him return and depart from Mount Gilead.”’ So 22,000 people returned, but 10,000 remained.
Then the LORD said to Gideon, ‘The people are still too many; bring them down to the water and I will test them for you there. Therefore it shall be that he of whom I say to you, “This one shall go with you,” he shall go with you; but everyone of whom I say to you, “This one shall not go with you,” he shall not go.’
So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, ‘You shall separate everyone who laps the water with his tongue as a dog laps, as well as everyone who kneels to drink.’ Now the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was 300 men; but all the rest of the people kneeled to drink water.
The LORD said to Gideon, ‘I will deliver you with the 300 men who lapped and will give the Midianites into your hands; so let all the other people go, each man to his home.’ So the 300 men took the people’s provisions and their trumpets into their hands. And Gideon sent all the other men of Israel, each to his tent, but retained the 300 men; and the camp of Midian was below him in the valley.” Judges 7:1-8
“Now the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the sons of the east were lying in the valley as numerous as locusts; and their camels were without number, as numerous as the sand on the seashore. When Gideon came, behold, a man was relating a dream to his friend. And he said, ‘Behold, I had a dream; a loaf of barley bread was tumbling into the camp of Midian, and it came to the tent and struck it so that it fell, and turned it upside down so that the tent lay flat.’ His friend replied, ‘This is nothing less than the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel; God has given Midian and all the camp into his hand.’” Judges 7:12-14
“When they blew 300 trumpets, the LORD set the sword of one against another even throughout the whole army; and the army fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the edge of Abel-meholah, by Tabbath. The men of Israel were summoned from Naphtali and Asher and all Manasseh, and they pursued Midian.” Judges 7:22-23
There are six biblical truths that can lead to victory in impossible situations...
1. God uses difficulties to build our faith. He wants to strip us of our dependence on anything other than Him. We are to fix our focus on Christ - the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
2. At times, God may require the unreasonable. Gideon was allowed to take only 300 men into battle with him - a fraction of the size of the enemy’s army.
3. The Lord always leads us to do what will bring Him glory. Had Israel won the battle in their own strength - the credit would have gone to them and not to God.
4. God sends encouragement when we need it the most. He is sensitive to our weaknesses and knows the proper time to send help and an encouraging word.
5. The Lord always works behind the scenes on our behalf. The night before Gideon marched into battle, God instilled confusion in the hearts of the enemy. The enemy fled in fear.
6. God provides specific instructions for victory. If we will rely on Him, He will lead us through every trial we face, step by step, according to His plan for our lives.
Bring your foe before God. There is no enemy too great for Him.
Then the LORD said to Gideon, ‘The people are still too many; bring them down to the water and I will test them for you there. Therefore it shall be that he of whom I say to you, “This one shall go with you,” he shall go with you; but everyone of whom I say to you, “This one shall not go with you,” he shall not go.’
So he brought the people down to the water. And the LORD said to Gideon, ‘You shall separate everyone who laps the water with his tongue as a dog laps, as well as everyone who kneels to drink.’ Now the number of those who lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, was 300 men; but all the rest of the people kneeled to drink water.
The LORD said to Gideon, ‘I will deliver you with the 300 men who lapped and will give the Midianites into your hands; so let all the other people go, each man to his home.’ So the 300 men took the people’s provisions and their trumpets into their hands. And Gideon sent all the other men of Israel, each to his tent, but retained the 300 men; and the camp of Midian was below him in the valley.” Judges 7:1-8
“Now the Midianites and the Amalekites and all the sons of the east were lying in the valley as numerous as locusts; and their camels were without number, as numerous as the sand on the seashore. When Gideon came, behold, a man was relating a dream to his friend. And he said, ‘Behold, I had a dream; a loaf of barley bread was tumbling into the camp of Midian, and it came to the tent and struck it so that it fell, and turned it upside down so that the tent lay flat.’ His friend replied, ‘This is nothing less than the sword of Gideon the son of Joash, a man of Israel; God has given Midian and all the camp into his hand.’” Judges 7:12-14
“When they blew 300 trumpets, the LORD set the sword of one against another even throughout the whole army; and the army fled as far as Beth-shittah toward Zererah, as far as the edge of Abel-meholah, by Tabbath. The men of Israel were summoned from Naphtali and Asher and all Manasseh, and they pursued Midian.” Judges 7:22-23
There are six biblical truths that can lead to victory in impossible situations...
1. God uses difficulties to build our faith. He wants to strip us of our dependence on anything other than Him. We are to fix our focus on Christ - the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2).
2. At times, God may require the unreasonable. Gideon was allowed to take only 300 men into battle with him - a fraction of the size of the enemy’s army.
3. The Lord always leads us to do what will bring Him glory. Had Israel won the battle in their own strength - the credit would have gone to them and not to God.
4. God sends encouragement when we need it the most. He is sensitive to our weaknesses and knows the proper time to send help and an encouraging word.
5. The Lord always works behind the scenes on our behalf. The night before Gideon marched into battle, God instilled confusion in the hearts of the enemy. The enemy fled in fear.
6. God provides specific instructions for victory. If we will rely on Him, He will lead us through every trial we face, step by step, according to His plan for our lives.
Bring your foe before God. There is no enemy too great for Him.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Great is Thy Faithfulness
“The LORD'S lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘Therefore I have hope in Him.’
The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,
To the person who seeks Him.
It is good that he waits silently
For the salvation of the LORD.” Lamentations 3:22-26
The question always comes up - is God’s love limited? Will there ever be a time when I can do something that will cause the Lord not to love me? The answer is absolutely not! There may be times when He is not pleased with what we do, but His love is unconditional. He cannot love you more than He loves you right now. Note our text - His lovingkindnesses never cease, and His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness! The question is not - is God faithful, but - are we? But I’m learning that the more I realize and rest in His love, the more I want to be faithful and follow after Him.
For His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.
‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘Therefore I have hope in Him.’
The LORD is good to those who wait for Him,
To the person who seeks Him.
It is good that he waits silently
For the salvation of the LORD.” Lamentations 3:22-26
The question always comes up - is God’s love limited? Will there ever be a time when I can do something that will cause the Lord not to love me? The answer is absolutely not! There may be times when He is not pleased with what we do, but His love is unconditional. He cannot love you more than He loves you right now. Note our text - His lovingkindnesses never cease, and His compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness! The question is not - is God faithful, but - are we? But I’m learning that the more I realize and rest in His love, the more I want to be faithful and follow after Him.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The Key to Blessings
“If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.” John 15:7-11
A scene from a children’s musical depicts a group of angels discussing the believers on earth. One angel turns and asks the others, “Do they know how much the Father loves them? Do they realize how much He cares?”
God promises to eternally provide for you. Yet there is one condition He places before us: obedience. Every need Adam had was attended to, but he disobeyed God. All that Israel could ever dream of obtaining was theirs - yet they abandoned the ways of God, and disobedience ruled their hearts.
Throughout history, a discomforting glitch has remained in the heart of mankind. We have continued to seek the pleasures of other gods while pushing away what God offers so freely - His love and devotion. We have ignored the fact that we are His redeemed - purchased at Calvary’s cross.
The guarantee He offers us is the same one He gave to Abraham, Isaac, David, Mary, and the disciples: “Come unto Me...Drink My living water and find refreshment for your souls.” Trace His provision through the Bible. Start with Genesis and follow it through to Revelation. All that you need He will provide, if you will place your trust in Him.
A scene from a children’s musical depicts a group of angels discussing the believers on earth. One angel turns and asks the others, “Do they know how much the Father loves them? Do they realize how much He cares?”
God promises to eternally provide for you. Yet there is one condition He places before us: obedience. Every need Adam had was attended to, but he disobeyed God. All that Israel could ever dream of obtaining was theirs - yet they abandoned the ways of God, and disobedience ruled their hearts.
Throughout history, a discomforting glitch has remained in the heart of mankind. We have continued to seek the pleasures of other gods while pushing away what God offers so freely - His love and devotion. We have ignored the fact that we are His redeemed - purchased at Calvary’s cross.
The guarantee He offers us is the same one He gave to Abraham, Isaac, David, Mary, and the disciples: “Come unto Me...Drink My living water and find refreshment for your souls.” Trace His provision through the Bible. Start with Genesis and follow it through to Revelation. All that you need He will provide, if you will place your trust in Him.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Jesus Loves All of You!
“And a woman who had a hemorrhage for twelve years, and could not be healed by anyone, came up behind Him and touched the fringe of His cloak, and immediately her hemorrhage stopped. And Jesus said, "Who is the one who touched Me?" And while they were all denying it, Peter said, ‘Master, the people are crowding and pressing in on You.’ But Jesus said, ‘Someone did touch Me, for I was aware that power had gone out of Me.’ When the woman saw that she had not escaped notice, she came trembling and fell down before Him, and declared in the presence of all the people the reason why she had touched Him, and how she had been immediately healed. And He said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.’” Luke 8:43-48
Jesus is very holistic in His approach to mankind. A good example of this is found in Luke 8, when He heals a woman who was hemorrhaged for twelve years. It’s hard to imagine how she maintained her hope for healing, especially with the stigma that accompanied her illness. Unclean according to Jewish law, she probably was forced to live outside the city gates - away from family and friends.
Her need for love and acceptance was overshadowed by the cruelty of Jewish tradition. Anyone who touched her was in turn considered unclean. The portrait Christ gives us is one of abundant mercy and grace. Not only did He heal her physical disease, He healed her spiritually and emotionally as well. In no way was He repulsed by her sickness.
No matter how complex and disillusioning life may appear, Jesus refuses to turn His back on you. The woman in the above text believed if she could stretch out her hand far enough to touch the hem of His outer garment, she would be healed. What faith she had! In His compassion, Christ turned to her and said: “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” Jesus met her deepest need, and He will do the same for you.
God isn’t just interested in our salvation - He is interested in our wholeness.
Jesus is very holistic in His approach to mankind. A good example of this is found in Luke 8, when He heals a woman who was hemorrhaged for twelve years. It’s hard to imagine how she maintained her hope for healing, especially with the stigma that accompanied her illness. Unclean according to Jewish law, she probably was forced to live outside the city gates - away from family and friends.
Her need for love and acceptance was overshadowed by the cruelty of Jewish tradition. Anyone who touched her was in turn considered unclean. The portrait Christ gives us is one of abundant mercy and grace. Not only did He heal her physical disease, He healed her spiritually and emotionally as well. In no way was He repulsed by her sickness.
No matter how complex and disillusioning life may appear, Jesus refuses to turn His back on you. The woman in the above text believed if she could stretch out her hand far enough to touch the hem of His outer garment, she would be healed. What faith she had! In His compassion, Christ turned to her and said: “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace.” Jesus met her deepest need, and He will do the same for you.
God isn’t just interested in our salvation - He is interested in our wholeness.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Her Worth is Far Above Jewels
“An excellent wife, who can find?
For her worth is far above jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her,
And he will have no lack of gain.
She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
She looks for wool and flax
And works with her hands in delight.
She is like merchant ships;
She brings her food from afar.
She rises also while it is still night
And gives food to her household
And portions to her maidens.
She considers a field and buys it;
From her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She girds herself with strength
And makes her arms strong.
She senses that her gain is good;
Her lamp does not go out at night.
She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hands grasp the spindle.
She extends her hand to the poor,
And she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household,
For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
She makes coverings for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies belts to the tradesmen.
Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.
She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
She looks well to the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying:
‘Many daughters have done nobly,
But you excel them all.’
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.” Proverbs 31:10-31
Thank you, mothers! Have a wonderful day!
For her worth is far above jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her,
And he will have no lack of gain.
She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life.
She looks for wool and flax
And works with her hands in delight.
She is like merchant ships;
She brings her food from afar.
She rises also while it is still night
And gives food to her household
And portions to her maidens.
She considers a field and buys it;
From her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She girds herself with strength
And makes her arms strong.
She senses that her gain is good;
Her lamp does not go out at night.
She stretches out her hands to the distaff,
And her hands grasp the spindle.
She extends her hand to the poor,
And she stretches out her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid of the snow for her household,
For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
She makes coverings for herself;
Her clothing is fine linen and purple.
Her husband is known in the gates,
When he sits among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies belts to the tradesmen.
Strength and dignity are her clothing,
And she smiles at the future.
She opens her mouth in wisdom,
And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.
She looks well to the ways of her household,
And does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children rise up and bless her;
Her husband also, and he praises her, saying:
‘Many daughters have done nobly,
But you excel them all.’
Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
Give her the product of her hands,
And let her works praise her in the gates.” Proverbs 31:10-31
Thank you, mothers! Have a wonderful day!
Friday, May 7, 2010
Your True Identity
“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who reside as aliens, scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood: May grace and peace be yours in the fullest measure. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...” 1 Peter 1:1-3
Researchers say that a lack of true identity is the reason for the high suicide rate among young adults. Many spend a lifetime trying to gain recognition and a sense of belonging and accomplishment. As Christians, our identity is found only in Jesus Christ. Searching for it in another person or thing brings disappointment, insecurity, frustration, and anxiety.
Far too often those who profess Jesus as Lord are entrapped by the same things enslaving our world - pride, selfishness, and materialism. Jesus said that in order to save your life, you must be willing to lose it unto Him (Luke 9:24). We cannot experience the freedom and purity of our identity in Christ if we are sill longing to be identified with the things of this world.
In reminding the early church of their identity, Peter told them: Yes, it was true; they were aliens - strangers to this world. Yet they had been chosen by God to know and experience all the wonder and goodness of His glory and grace. Therefore, their identity was secure in Christ.
Have you settled the need for identity in your own life? If so, rest in the power of His embrace.
Researchers say that a lack of true identity is the reason for the high suicide rate among young adults. Many spend a lifetime trying to gain recognition and a sense of belonging and accomplishment. As Christians, our identity is found only in Jesus Christ. Searching for it in another person or thing brings disappointment, insecurity, frustration, and anxiety.
Far too often those who profess Jesus as Lord are entrapped by the same things enslaving our world - pride, selfishness, and materialism. Jesus said that in order to save your life, you must be willing to lose it unto Him (Luke 9:24). We cannot experience the freedom and purity of our identity in Christ if we are sill longing to be identified with the things of this world.
In reminding the early church of their identity, Peter told them: Yes, it was true; they were aliens - strangers to this world. Yet they had been chosen by God to know and experience all the wonder and goodness of His glory and grace. Therefore, their identity was secure in Christ.
Have you settled the need for identity in your own life? If so, rest in the power of His embrace.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Let God Meet Your Needs!
“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful...” Hebrews 10:23
He had decided to buy the new car regardless of his financial state. He also tried to forget the fact that his wife had just had a baby. He refused to consider a nice, affordable, used car.
God is committed to meeting our needs. However, He is not committed to meeting all our wants. Several things work against God’s desire to meet our needs:
> Disobedience - When we disobey God, we face the consequences of our sin. Often that means waiting for the things He wants to build into our lives.
> Doubt - It defuses God’s plan for us. It also signal a lack of faith in His ability to provide for us.
> Manipulation - Trying to meet your needs your way leads to spiritual fraud. God sees through manipulation. He wants your life to be sincerely obedient before Him.
> Wrong motivation - Motives that are not God-centered never yield lasting peace. Set your focus on God, not the things of this world.
> Ignoring our responsibilities - When we ignore our God-given responsibilities - family, friends, and jobs - our fellowship with God becomes clouded and we struggle spiritually.
Let Christ by your Provider, and He will meet your needs perfectly.
He had decided to buy the new car regardless of his financial state. He also tried to forget the fact that his wife had just had a baby. He refused to consider a nice, affordable, used car.
God is committed to meeting our needs. However, He is not committed to meeting all our wants. Several things work against God’s desire to meet our needs:
> Disobedience - When we disobey God, we face the consequences of our sin. Often that means waiting for the things He wants to build into our lives.
> Doubt - It defuses God’s plan for us. It also signal a lack of faith in His ability to provide for us.
> Manipulation - Trying to meet your needs your way leads to spiritual fraud. God sees through manipulation. He wants your life to be sincerely obedient before Him.
> Wrong motivation - Motives that are not God-centered never yield lasting peace. Set your focus on God, not the things of this world.
> Ignoring our responsibilities - When we ignore our God-given responsibilities - family, friends, and jobs - our fellowship with God becomes clouded and we struggle spiritually.
Let Christ by your Provider, and He will meet your needs perfectly.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Our Unmet Needs
“This was in accordance with the eternal purpose which He carried out in Christ Jesus our Lord, in whom we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him. Therefore I ask you not to lose heart at my tribulations on your behalf, for they are your glory. For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name, that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with power through His Spirit in the inner man, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; and that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ which surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled up to all the fullness of God. Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:11-21
The youngster ran out the door to join his friends at the playground. Twenty minutes later he was back. “I thought you went to play with your friends?” his mom asked. He looked up from where he had been scuffing his shoes along the ground. She immediately saw the disappointment on his face. “Honey, what happened?” “Mom, they didn’t choose me to play on their softball teams.”
Disappointments like this one can seem small from an adult’s perspective, but they’re not. They are the very things that help shape our personality and self-image.
“I’m sorry you were not chosen,” his mother said. “But this doesn’t mean you are unworthy of their friendship. Sometimes things happen that hurt us, but always remember you mean a great deal to your dad and me.”
One of the greatest needs of our society is the need to be accepted. All of us want to know we matter to someone else. How we choose to meet this need is critical to our sense of self-worth and to our relationship with God. Jesus Christ holds the greatest amount of acceptance we could ever hope to find. No matter what your life has brought or who has rejected you, He promises love and acceptance when you come to Him.
God said He would meet all our needs, and He has never broken a promise.
The youngster ran out the door to join his friends at the playground. Twenty minutes later he was back. “I thought you went to play with your friends?” his mom asked. He looked up from where he had been scuffing his shoes along the ground. She immediately saw the disappointment on his face. “Honey, what happened?” “Mom, they didn’t choose me to play on their softball teams.”
Disappointments like this one can seem small from an adult’s perspective, but they’re not. They are the very things that help shape our personality and self-image.
“I’m sorry you were not chosen,” his mother said. “But this doesn’t mean you are unworthy of their friendship. Sometimes things happen that hurt us, but always remember you mean a great deal to your dad and me.”
One of the greatest needs of our society is the need to be accepted. All of us want to know we matter to someone else. How we choose to meet this need is critical to our sense of self-worth and to our relationship with God. Jesus Christ holds the greatest amount of acceptance we could ever hope to find. No matter what your life has brought or who has rejected you, He promises love and acceptance when you come to Him.
God said He would meet all our needs, and He has never broken a promise.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Who Will Meet My Needs?
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
She broke down and cried as she finished folding her husband’s shirts. They had been married for twenty-five years and raised two children. Somewhere in between the little league baseball games, drama rehearsals, and hours spent late at the office, they had lost one another. Her children always filled the void in her life. Now that they were gone, she realized she barely knew her husband.
Her pastor lovingly listened as she told of her heartache. “God created each of us with certain needs,” he began, “needs for significance, security, acceptance, love, and discipline.” “However,” he said, “no person can meet all your needs. And it’s unfair to request that of anyone. The good news is that with help and time God can restore your marriage.”
Many try to take control of a bad situation by filling their lives with material possessions and other people. However, when needs are not met in the proper way, emotional unrest and discontentment ensue. Only Jesus Christ is capable of meeting your every need. If you are faced with a situation that has left you feeling lonely and insignificant, be assured He wants to and can fill the void in your life. The greatest need a person can have is to know Jesus Christ.
She broke down and cried as she finished folding her husband’s shirts. They had been married for twenty-five years and raised two children. Somewhere in between the little league baseball games, drama rehearsals, and hours spent late at the office, they had lost one another. Her children always filled the void in her life. Now that they were gone, she realized she barely knew her husband.
Her pastor lovingly listened as she told of her heartache. “God created each of us with certain needs,” he began, “needs for significance, security, acceptance, love, and discipline.” “However,” he said, “no person can meet all your needs. And it’s unfair to request that of anyone. The good news is that with help and time God can restore your marriage.”
Many try to take control of a bad situation by filling their lives with material possessions and other people. However, when needs are not met in the proper way, emotional unrest and discontentment ensue. Only Jesus Christ is capable of meeting your every need. If you are faced with a situation that has left you feeling lonely and insignificant, be assured He wants to and can fill the void in your life. The greatest need a person can have is to know Jesus Christ.
Monday, May 3, 2010
The Promise of a Resurrection
“Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen Me, and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. This is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.’” John 6:35-40
“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day.” Passage John 6:44
“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:54
When Rajiv Gandhi was killed years ago, his Hindu burial was described in this manner in an Associated Press article: “Gandhi’s son, Rahul, was to perform the rites at the cremation ground along the Jamuma River, lighting the pyre and smashing the skull with a cudgel to release the soul of the departed.”
All religions of the world - except Christianity - teach confusing, uncertain, and complex concepts of life and death. It is the Christian faith alone than teaches, professes, and focuses on the surety of the believer’s resurrection. Because Jesus rose from the dead, proving His deity, you can be assured of your personal resurrection. The grave is not a dead end. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was crucified for our sins and rose again from the tomb just as He promised.
When you die, your spirit is immediately with the Lord. When the Lord returns, our bodies will be joined with our spirits. It is clear we will have bodies like Christ’s after His resurrection (Philippians 3:21). The burial of a Christian is but a formality. He is already with the Savior, tasting the delights of heaven, seeing God face to face.
“we...prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.” 2 Cor. 5:8
“No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day.” Passage John 6:44
“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.” John 6:54
When Rajiv Gandhi was killed years ago, his Hindu burial was described in this manner in an Associated Press article: “Gandhi’s son, Rahul, was to perform the rites at the cremation ground along the Jamuma River, lighting the pyre and smashing the skull with a cudgel to release the soul of the departed.”
All religions of the world - except Christianity - teach confusing, uncertain, and complex concepts of life and death. It is the Christian faith alone than teaches, professes, and focuses on the surety of the believer’s resurrection. Because Jesus rose from the dead, proving His deity, you can be assured of your personal resurrection. The grave is not a dead end. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was crucified for our sins and rose again from the tomb just as He promised.
When you die, your spirit is immediately with the Lord. When the Lord returns, our bodies will be joined with our spirits. It is clear we will have bodies like Christ’s after His resurrection (Philippians 3:21). The burial of a Christian is but a formality. He is already with the Savior, tasting the delights of heaven, seeing God face to face.
“we...prefer rather to be absent from the body and to be at home with the Lord.” 2 Cor. 5:8
Sunday, May 2, 2010
After Death, What Then?
“According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each man's work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man's work. If any man's work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man's work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.” 1 Corinthians 3:10-15
The believer will live in heaven, the perfect glory and expression of a perfect God. He will live forever in the brightness, goodness, and purity of God his Father, his sins judged by God on the cross (Isaiah 53). Those who reject Christ as Savior, who fail to receive His offer of forgiveness of sin, will live forever in hell - darkness, torment, pain - completely absent from the presence of God.
You did not get to earth on your own steam. Man was God’s idea. Everyone has life because the Creator gives it. We have spirit that is either made alive by Christ or that is dead in sin and dead to God. After physical death, the believer eventually will be judged for the purpose of rewards. He will be rewarded by God for his deeds and motives on earth. His salvation is not in question. The unbeliever will also be judged by Christ after physical death. He will be judged for his sins. With no Advocate and no forgiveness, he will be sent away from God’s presence forever.
Your eternal future can be decided today if you have not yet accepted Christ. Admit your sins, realize your alienation from God, believe in Christ’s work on the cross, and receive His everlasting life.
The believer will live in heaven, the perfect glory and expression of a perfect God. He will live forever in the brightness, goodness, and purity of God his Father, his sins judged by God on the cross (Isaiah 53). Those who reject Christ as Savior, who fail to receive His offer of forgiveness of sin, will live forever in hell - darkness, torment, pain - completely absent from the presence of God.
You did not get to earth on your own steam. Man was God’s idea. Everyone has life because the Creator gives it. We have spirit that is either made alive by Christ or that is dead in sin and dead to God. After physical death, the believer eventually will be judged for the purpose of rewards. He will be rewarded by God for his deeds and motives on earth. His salvation is not in question. The unbeliever will also be judged by Christ after physical death. He will be judged for his sins. With no Advocate and no forgiveness, he will be sent away from God’s presence forever.
Your eternal future can be decided today if you have not yet accepted Christ. Admit your sins, realize your alienation from God, believe in Christ’s work on the cross, and receive His everlasting life.
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