“‘Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.’ Thomas said to Him, ‘Lord, we do not know where You are going, how do we know the way?’Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.’” John 14:1-6
There is something deep within the human heart that values the place called home. The crown of the gospel’s good news is that heaven is the future home of the believer. It has been, is, and forever will be the abode of God; and one day He will share His home with us.
What a home it will be. Our dream home will pale in comparison to what the Chief Cornerstone and Architect of the universe has prepared for us. Its beauty and glory will light our hearts and minds with unending joy and bliss. In our heavenly abode, all pain - emotional and physical - will be extinct. The Great Physician has washed every corner with His shed blood, eliminating any defilement of sin. We will serve the Risen Lamb with delight and find our work completely satisfying. Perhaps the most important feature of our home is the presence of the eternal King - Jesus Christ - in whose radiance we will all bask.
Heaven is worth the wait. It is where God and man will dwell together in perfect union and harmony for eternity. When things on earth seem vile, think on heaven. You will be encouraged and strengthened for today’s journey.
“But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth...” 2 Peter 3:13
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
The God of All Comfort
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ. But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; and our hope for you is firmly grounded, knowing that as you are sharers of our sufferings, so also you are sharers of our comfort.” 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
God not only stooped down from the heavens to rescue us from sin, He continues to extend His hand to us each day to soothe our damaged emotions, our frayed nerves, our broken dreams, our heartaches.
“But He seems so distant, so remote, so detached at times,” you say. While this is often how we may feel, it is not the truth. God says that He will not “in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” Hebrews 13:5 (Amplified Bible) What a promise! And God certainly keeps His Word. He performs this divine pledge through the Person of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God inside you. He is called the comforter, meaning “one called alongside to help and aid.”
When you are down, the Holy Spirit knows exactly how to encourage you. When you are grieving, the Holy Spirit knows the balance between shedding tears of grief and gently wiping them from your cheek. He is at work to comfort you through every trial and adversity.
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
God not only stooped down from the heavens to rescue us from sin, He continues to extend His hand to us each day to soothe our damaged emotions, our frayed nerves, our broken dreams, our heartaches.
“But He seems so distant, so remote, so detached at times,” you say. While this is often how we may feel, it is not the truth. God says that He will not “in any way fail you nor give you up nor leave you without support. [I will] not, [I will] not, [I will] not in any degree leave you helpless nor forsake nor let [you] down (relax My hold on you)! [Assuredly not!]” Hebrews 13:5 (Amplified Bible) What a promise! And God certainly keeps His Word. He performs this divine pledge through the Person of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God inside you. He is called the comforter, meaning “one called alongside to help and aid.”
When you are down, the Holy Spirit knows exactly how to encourage you. When you are grieving, the Holy Spirit knows the balance between shedding tears of grief and gently wiping them from your cheek. He is at work to comfort you through every trial and adversity.
“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Being Conformed to Christ
“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.” Romans 8:28-30
The compelling goal of the Christian life is to be like Christ. For some, however, that spiritual objective seems unreachable, unattainable. The harder they try, the less like Christ they become. Despair sets in and, too frequently, the Christian life is abandoned as being too difficult.Perhaps that is how you feel or may have felt. But the encouraging good news of the gospel is that God cares enough to make you like Himself.
There is only one Christ, one Savior, one Lord. You are called to be like Him, not to be Him. The wonderful news is that Christ lives within you through the Holy Spirit. Christ commits Himself through the Spirit to make you like Him. It is not a hopeless struggle but an adventure of trusting Christ and allowing Him to live through you day by day. You can be Christlike, for Christ is faithfully at work in you to conform you to His image. He will do it. Trust Him, and rely on His Spirit.
“...He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6
The compelling goal of the Christian life is to be like Christ. For some, however, that spiritual objective seems unreachable, unattainable. The harder they try, the less like Christ they become. Despair sets in and, too frequently, the Christian life is abandoned as being too difficult.Perhaps that is how you feel or may have felt. But the encouraging good news of the gospel is that God cares enough to make you like Himself.
There is only one Christ, one Savior, one Lord. You are called to be like Him, not to be Him. The wonderful news is that Christ lives within you through the Holy Spirit. Christ commits Himself through the Spirit to make you like Him. It is not a hopeless struggle but an adventure of trusting Christ and allowing Him to live through you day by day. You can be Christlike, for Christ is faithfully at work in you to conform you to His image. He will do it. Trust Him, and rely on His Spirit.
“...He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
The Good Shepherd
“The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
Psalm 23
The Scriptures furnish several tender analogies of how God relates to His people. God cares for us as a shepherd looks after his flock: “Come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand...” Psalm 95:6-7. Our God looks after His flock. He protects us, guides us, nourishes us. He comes quickly to our rescue when we are in need. He is the Good Shepherd whose eye is ever upon us and whose hand is ever ready to deliver and save.
God also cares for us as a father cares for his children: “Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him” Psalm 103:13. God is our heavenly Father. Once saved, we are adopted into His family and share in the inheritance of blessings that come from His generous, benevolent hand.
The Bible stresses both the compassion and the discipline that are ours. He relates to us as children in need of direction, understanding, and correction. Let nothing dissuade you of God’s yearning love for you.
“But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Matthew 10:30
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He restores my soul;
He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil, for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You have anointed my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
Psalm 23
The Scriptures furnish several tender analogies of how God relates to His people. God cares for us as a shepherd looks after his flock: “Come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture and the sheep of His hand...” Psalm 95:6-7. Our God looks after His flock. He protects us, guides us, nourishes us. He comes quickly to our rescue when we are in need. He is the Good Shepherd whose eye is ever upon us and whose hand is ever ready to deliver and save.
God also cares for us as a father cares for his children: “Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him” Psalm 103:13. God is our heavenly Father. Once saved, we are adopted into His family and share in the inheritance of blessings that come from His generous, benevolent hand.
The Bible stresses both the compassion and the discipline that are ours. He relates to us as children in need of direction, understanding, and correction. Let nothing dissuade you of God’s yearning love for you.
“But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” Matthew 10:30
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
God Who Relates to Us
“You are My friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you. This I command you, that you love one another.” John 15:14-17
Christianity is not a religion, a liturgy, or a creed. It is the eternal dynamic of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. You have the opportunity to spend your life on earth and in heaven in unending, progressive, deepening communion, with your personal God. As your faithful High Priest, Jesus understands the full range of your emotions, desires, and hurt. Because He became man, He can relate to every human need you experience.
Your relationship with Him can be as intensely personal as you desire. God will reveal Himself to you as you seek Him in prayer, read His Word, and set the sail of your heart toward Him. Think of it this way: You are uppermost in God’s mind today. That is a staggering thought, isn’t it? But it is true. God’s chief desire is to be glorified, and it is men and women rightly related to Him who reflect His glory most brilliantly.
Your response is simply to receive, by faith, all that God is. You can speak with Him, listen to Him through His Word, and construct an intimate relationship that will last forever. This is life’s greatest privilege. Are you pressing on to know Him?
“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13
Christianity is not a religion, a liturgy, or a creed. It is the eternal dynamic of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. You have the opportunity to spend your life on earth and in heaven in unending, progressive, deepening communion, with your personal God. As your faithful High Priest, Jesus understands the full range of your emotions, desires, and hurt. Because He became man, He can relate to every human need you experience.
Your relationship with Him can be as intensely personal as you desire. God will reveal Himself to you as you seek Him in prayer, read His Word, and set the sail of your heart toward Him. Think of it this way: You are uppermost in God’s mind today. That is a staggering thought, isn’t it? But it is true. God’s chief desire is to be glorified, and it is men and women rightly related to Him who reflect His glory most brilliantly.
Your response is simply to receive, by faith, all that God is. You can speak with Him, listen to Him through His Word, and construct an intimate relationship that will last forever. This is life’s greatest privilege. Are you pressing on to know Him?
“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Plan to Rescue
“The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners; to proclaim the favorable year of the LORD and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to grant those who mourn in Zion, giving them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting so they will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified.” Isaiah 61:1-3
Before the creation of the world and its inhabitants and the fall of man from perfect communion with Himself, God had formulated a divine rescue plan to deliver man from his helpless state. The plan was quietly launched on a still night in Bethlehem when a gentle teenager named Mary gave birth to a child. Not just an ordinary child, but a babe conceived by the power of God. His name was Jesus, Greek for the Lord saves. His full title was Jesus Christ, Christ being the Hebrew form for Messiah, the Anointed One. He was the Son of God, fully human and fully God; and it was in Him that God’s deliverance was achieved.
The rescue plan culminated with the blood, agony, and death of Christ on the cross where God placed the sin of the world upon Him, extracting the penalty of sin - death - and making forgiveness and reconciliation possible. Christ’s resurrection from the dead and ascension into heaven validated His deity and completed the rescue.
God has done His part. You can be forgiven. You can be saved from sin. All you must do is admit your sin, receive Christ’s forgiveness, and ask Him to invade your humanity with His deity.
The Hand that rescues you from sin is forever scarred.
Before the creation of the world and its inhabitants and the fall of man from perfect communion with Himself, God had formulated a divine rescue plan to deliver man from his helpless state. The plan was quietly launched on a still night in Bethlehem when a gentle teenager named Mary gave birth to a child. Not just an ordinary child, but a babe conceived by the power of God. His name was Jesus, Greek for the Lord saves. His full title was Jesus Christ, Christ being the Hebrew form for Messiah, the Anointed One. He was the Son of God, fully human and fully God; and it was in Him that God’s deliverance was achieved.
The rescue plan culminated with the blood, agony, and death of Christ on the cross where God placed the sin of the world upon Him, extracting the penalty of sin - death - and making forgiveness and reconciliation possible. Christ’s resurrection from the dead and ascension into heaven validated His deity and completed the rescue.
God has done His part. You can be forgiven. You can be saved from sin. All you must do is admit your sin, receive Christ’s forgiveness, and ask Him to invade your humanity with His deity.
The Hand that rescues you from sin is forever scarred.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
God to the Rescue
“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest. But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved)...” Ephesians 2:1-5
We ordinarily think of rescue operations occurring in distressful circumstances - a man trapped in a burning building, a child swept down a torrential stream, miners trapped and aching for breath in deep coal shafts. However, a man at work in an office, a child fishing from the creek bank, or miners routinely extracting coal from black mining veins are not typical rescue scenarios.
It is difficult for many to view man in extreme need of rescue from God. We appear to be self-sufficient and bale to muddle through even precarious situations. But that is not God’s view. From his perspective - the right one - we are in desperate need of rescue. Our wealth, position, or status in our culture cannot deliver us. Our wisdom is barren, our technology useless.
Christianity is a rescue religion. It is the hand of God reaching down and pulling man out of his helpless state of sin. The Scriptures describe the unbeliever as dead in sin, a captive of the devil, and living in spiritual darkness. Such is the helpless state of mankind apart from God. But the God who cares will not leave us in this predicament if we will but take His outstretched arm and be pulled to safety.
“Return, O LORD, rescue my soul; save me because of Your lovingkindness.” Psalm 6:4
We ordinarily think of rescue operations occurring in distressful circumstances - a man trapped in a burning building, a child swept down a torrential stream, miners trapped and aching for breath in deep coal shafts. However, a man at work in an office, a child fishing from the creek bank, or miners routinely extracting coal from black mining veins are not typical rescue scenarios.
It is difficult for many to view man in extreme need of rescue from God. We appear to be self-sufficient and bale to muddle through even precarious situations. But that is not God’s view. From his perspective - the right one - we are in desperate need of rescue. Our wealth, position, or status in our culture cannot deliver us. Our wisdom is barren, our technology useless.
Christianity is a rescue religion. It is the hand of God reaching down and pulling man out of his helpless state of sin. The Scriptures describe the unbeliever as dead in sin, a captive of the devil, and living in spiritual darkness. Such is the helpless state of mankind apart from God. But the God who cares will not leave us in this predicament if we will but take His outstretched arm and be pulled to safety.
“Return, O LORD, rescue my soul; save me because of Your lovingkindness.” Psalm 6:4
Friday, October 22, 2010
Revelation
“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures.” Romans 1:18-23
God has taken the initiative in revealing Himself to mankind in several distinct means -
First, He has revealed Himself in creation. The heavens and earth and man himself are the handiwork of God. They testify to His goodness, His provision, His power. His creations are not products of chance and time but the finely crafted masterpiece of His hand.
Second, God has revealed Himself through the Scriptures. Each verse in the sixty-six books of the Bible is God-breathed, written by man through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The Bile tells us who God is, how we can know Him, and what His expectations are.
Third and preeminently, God has revealed Himself in the Person and work of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is God in the flesh. The invisible, infinite God became visible through Christ. In Christ was God’s plan of salvation unveiled. In Christ God reconciled the world to Himself so that all might be forgiven of sin and restored to the true knowledge of the living God.
Creation, the Scriptures, Jesus Christ - in each is the revelatory work of God displayed so that we might know and enjoy the precious gift of eternal life by faith in Christ.
“...and yet He did not leave Himself without witness...” Acts 14:17
God has taken the initiative in revealing Himself to mankind in several distinct means -
First, He has revealed Himself in creation. The heavens and earth and man himself are the handiwork of God. They testify to His goodness, His provision, His power. His creations are not products of chance and time but the finely crafted masterpiece of His hand.
Second, God has revealed Himself through the Scriptures. Each verse in the sixty-six books of the Bible is God-breathed, written by man through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The Bile tells us who God is, how we can know Him, and what His expectations are.
Third and preeminently, God has revealed Himself in the Person and work of His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is God in the flesh. The invisible, infinite God became visible through Christ. In Christ was God’s plan of salvation unveiled. In Christ God reconciled the world to Himself so that all might be forgiven of sin and restored to the true knowledge of the living God.
Creation, the Scriptures, Jesus Christ - in each is the revelatory work of God displayed so that we might know and enjoy the precious gift of eternal life by faith in Christ.
“...and yet He did not leave Himself without witness...” Acts 14:17
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The God Who Cares
“God, after He spoke long ago to the fathers in the prophets in many portions and in many ways, in these last days has spoken to us in His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the world. And He is the radiance of His glory and the exact representation of His nature, and upholds all things by the word of His power When He had made purification of sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, having become as much better than the angels, as He has inherited a more excellent name than they.” Hebrews 1:1-4
Our God is an awesome God who has seized the initiative in revealing Himself to mankind. Apart from God’s revelation, man would be mired in ceaseless ignorance and frustration.
John Stott paints this awe-inspiring portrait of God in his book,
Basic Christianity:
“‘In the beginning God.’ The first four words of the Bible are more than an introduction to the creation story or to the book of Genesis. They supply the key which opens our understanding to the Bible as a whole. They tell us that the religion of the Bible is a religion of the initiative of God. Before man existed, God acted. Before man stirred himself to seek God, God has sought man. In the Bible we do not see man groping after God, we see God reaching after man. The Bible reveals a God who, long before it even occurs to man to turn to Him, while man is still lost in darkness and sunk in, takes the initiative, rises from His throne, lays aside His glory, and stoops to seek until He finds him.”
Before the foundation of the universe, God loved you and prepared a way for you to know Him. Meditate on that for a moment and spill out your gratitude in worship.
“Many people visualize a God who sits comfortable on a distant throne. Such a view is wholly false.” -John Stott
Our God is an awesome God who has seized the initiative in revealing Himself to mankind. Apart from God’s revelation, man would be mired in ceaseless ignorance and frustration.
John Stott paints this awe-inspiring portrait of God in his book,
Basic Christianity:
“‘In the beginning God.’ The first four words of the Bible are more than an introduction to the creation story or to the book of Genesis. They supply the key which opens our understanding to the Bible as a whole. They tell us that the religion of the Bible is a religion of the initiative of God. Before man existed, God acted. Before man stirred himself to seek God, God has sought man. In the Bible we do not see man groping after God, we see God reaching after man. The Bible reveals a God who, long before it even occurs to man to turn to Him, while man is still lost in darkness and sunk in, takes the initiative, rises from His throne, lays aside His glory, and stoops to seek until He finds him.”
Before the foundation of the universe, God loved you and prepared a way for you to know Him. Meditate on that for a moment and spill out your gratitude in worship.
“Many people visualize a God who sits comfortable on a distant throne. Such a view is wholly false.” -John Stott
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Building Truth Into Your Life
“First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-4
When the apostle Paul entered a city, he immediately went to the synagogue and presented the gospel message to the Jews. He then went to the Gentiles. Regardless of whether or not the Jews accepted Jesus as Savior, Paul was committed to preaching the truth of God to all men and women. However, Paul lived in a time when truth was often distorted and watered down by false teachers. Many taught only portions of God’s truth, leaving room for human interpretation. Nothing is more important to the Christian life that the truth of God’s Word.
Without His Word to guide us, we are like rudderless ships set adrift on a tempest sea. Only the truth of God’s Word can calm the storms of fear and doubt that pound our lives. Only God’s Word can chart a straight path through the fog of disillusionment and adversity. The people of Paul’s day longed for truth. Yet they rejected the only source of truth when they rejected Christ.
Are you facing a situation that seems humanly overwhelming? Turn to the truth of God’s Word, and you will find direction and help. Ask God to help you build the power of His truth into your life so that you may know His will and receive His help.
“The sum of Your word is truth...” Psalm 119:160
When the apostle Paul entered a city, he immediately went to the synagogue and presented the gospel message to the Jews. He then went to the Gentiles. Regardless of whether or not the Jews accepted Jesus as Savior, Paul was committed to preaching the truth of God to all men and women. However, Paul lived in a time when truth was often distorted and watered down by false teachers. Many taught only portions of God’s truth, leaving room for human interpretation. Nothing is more important to the Christian life that the truth of God’s Word.
Without His Word to guide us, we are like rudderless ships set adrift on a tempest sea. Only the truth of God’s Word can calm the storms of fear and doubt that pound our lives. Only God’s Word can chart a straight path through the fog of disillusionment and adversity. The people of Paul’s day longed for truth. Yet they rejected the only source of truth when they rejected Christ.
Are you facing a situation that seems humanly overwhelming? Turn to the truth of God’s Word, and you will find direction and help. Ask God to help you build the power of His truth into your life so that you may know His will and receive His help.
“The sum of Your word is truth...” Psalm 119:160
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
A Key to Hearing God
“Then the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ And Samuel said, ‘Speak, for Your servant is listening.’” 1 Samuel 3:10
After fifteen years of ministry, he was burned out. Looking out his office window, he wondered: “How can I possibly feel this tired? I’m serving You, Lord.” His wife had called earlier with a reminder of the day’s activities - his dental appointment at four, pick their son up from football practice at six, and dinner engagement at seven. A quick check of his office calendar revealed three counseling appointments scheduled for the afternoon. Hospital visitation was this morning at ten. How would he ever have time to work on Sunday’s sermon, let alone take time for personal study?
Many times life’s demands become so stressful that God gets pushed out of the lineup. We wonder why we are tired and in need of rest. Could it be God is trying to get our attention? The best way to be of spiritual value to those around us is to stay fresh and alert to God’s voice. Personal time alone with Him should be a top priority followed by time spent with family and friends.
While we all enjoy activities, some become deep hindrances to spiritual growth. Ask God to show you all that is hindering your daily walk with Him so you can reclaim your closeness with Him. One of the most precious privileges we have is to hear the voice of God.
After fifteen years of ministry, he was burned out. Looking out his office window, he wondered: “How can I possibly feel this tired? I’m serving You, Lord.” His wife had called earlier with a reminder of the day’s activities - his dental appointment at four, pick their son up from football practice at six, and dinner engagement at seven. A quick check of his office calendar revealed three counseling appointments scheduled for the afternoon. Hospital visitation was this morning at ten. How would he ever have time to work on Sunday’s sermon, let alone take time for personal study?
Many times life’s demands become so stressful that God gets pushed out of the lineup. We wonder why we are tired and in need of rest. Could it be God is trying to get our attention? The best way to be of spiritual value to those around us is to stay fresh and alert to God’s voice. Personal time alone with Him should be a top priority followed by time spent with family and friends.
While we all enjoy activities, some become deep hindrances to spiritual growth. Ask God to show you all that is hindering your daily walk with Him so you can reclaim your closeness with Him. One of the most precious privileges we have is to hear the voice of God.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Hindrances to Hearing
Now the boy Samuel was ministering to the LORD before Eli And word from the LORD was rare in those days, visions were infrequent. It happened at that time as Eli was lying down in his place (now his eyesight had begun to grow dim and he could not see well), and the lamp of God had not yet gone out, and Samuel was lying down in the temple of the LORD where the ark of God was, that the LORD called Samuel; and he said, “Here I am.”
Then he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he said, “I did not call, lie down again.” So he went and lay down. The LORD called yet again, “Samuel!” So Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he answered, “I did not call, my son, lie down again.” Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor had the word of the LORD yet been revealed to him.
So the LORD called Samuel again for the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” Then Eli discerned that the LORD was calling the boy. And Eli said to Samuel, “Go lie down, and it shall be if He calls you, that you shall say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. Then the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:1-10
Visit a major airplane construction plant and you will be amazed by two things: the size of the airplanes under construction and the noise level. Much of the machinery used to assemble aircraft is driven by air pressure devices. Because of this, a person in the assembly plant is subjected to constant noise pollution. Safety is a top concern, and workers are given earplugs and safety glasses for protection. Plant managers also have keen eyes as to potential dangers. Once the earplugs are in place and the machinery turned on, there is no way you can yell to a co-worker and be heard.
Many of God’s people are like employees in an airplane production plant. They cannot hear God’s voice because they are too busy assembling the pieces of their lives. They wear the earplugs of worldly thinking, becoming complacent toward the things of God. When the bottom drops out, they wonder why God allowed it. But in actuality, God spent months and in some cases years shouting warnings that went unheeded. In your life, is it time to take the earplugs out, turn off the machinery of the world, and listen to God’s voice?
“What hinders [us] from hearing is that [we are] taken up with other things.” -Oswald Chambers
Then he ran to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he said, “I did not call, lie down again.” So he went and lay down. The LORD called yet again, “Samuel!” So Samuel arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” But he answered, “I did not call, my son, lie down again.” Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, nor had the word of the LORD yet been revealed to him.
So the LORD called Samuel again for the third time. And he arose and went to Eli and said, “Here I am, for you called me.” Then Eli discerned that the LORD was calling the boy. And Eli said to Samuel, “Go lie down, and it shall be if He calls you, that you shall say, ‘Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening.’” So Samuel went and lay down in his place. Then the LORD came and stood and called as at other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” And Samuel said, “Speak, for Your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:1-10
Visit a major airplane construction plant and you will be amazed by two things: the size of the airplanes under construction and the noise level. Much of the machinery used to assemble aircraft is driven by air pressure devices. Because of this, a person in the assembly plant is subjected to constant noise pollution. Safety is a top concern, and workers are given earplugs and safety glasses for protection. Plant managers also have keen eyes as to potential dangers. Once the earplugs are in place and the machinery turned on, there is no way you can yell to a co-worker and be heard.
Many of God’s people are like employees in an airplane production plant. They cannot hear God’s voice because they are too busy assembling the pieces of their lives. They wear the earplugs of worldly thinking, becoming complacent toward the things of God. When the bottom drops out, they wonder why God allowed it. But in actuality, God spent months and in some cases years shouting warnings that went unheeded. In your life, is it time to take the earplugs out, turn off the machinery of the world, and listen to God’s voice?
“What hinders [us] from hearing is that [we are] taken up with other things.” -Oswald Chambers
Sunday, October 17, 2010
We Need to Listen to Others
“Jesus went away from there, and withdrew into the district of Tyre and Sidon. And a Canaanite woman from that region came out and began to cry out, saying, ‘Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is cruelly demon-possessed.’ But He did not answer her a word. And His disciples came and implored Him, saying, ‘Send her away, because she keeps shouting at us.’ But He answered and said, ‘I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.’ But she came and began to bow down before Him, saying, ‘Lord, help me!’ And He answered and said, ‘It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.’ But she said, ‘Yes, Lord; but even the dogs feed on the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table.’ Then Jesus said to her, ‘O woman, your faith is great; it shall be done for you as you wish.’ And her daughter was healed at once.” Matthew 15:21-28
One of the qualities that drew people to Jesus was His ability to listen. He listened with His entire being. That is why we see Him mingling with crowds of people and healing the sick. Jesus was the greatest communicator the world has ever known. He wasn’t worried about getting equal time in conversations or impressing those around Him. He was interested in building relationships. So He listened.
Jesus could sense the hurts and the frustrations on the faces of the people He met. He gave them freedom to express their deepest needs. Two of man’s basic needs are love and acceptance. That’s how the Savior listens to us, with eyes of acceptance and love. How do you listen to Him? Do you long to be near Him, to study His Word, and hear His heart about certain situations? Or do you rush through prayer, afraid of what He might say and require of you?
Until we learn to truly listen, first to God and then to others, we will never know the deeper side of Christ’s love. Only in listening for His voice can we truly experience the intimacy of His presence. Ask Him to help you become the kind of listener that He is to you. If you will listen, you will hear His voice.
“Love is an image of God...the living essence of the divine nature which beams full of all goodness.” -Martin Luther
One of the qualities that drew people to Jesus was His ability to listen. He listened with His entire being. That is why we see Him mingling with crowds of people and healing the sick. Jesus was the greatest communicator the world has ever known. He wasn’t worried about getting equal time in conversations or impressing those around Him. He was interested in building relationships. So He listened.
Jesus could sense the hurts and the frustrations on the faces of the people He met. He gave them freedom to express their deepest needs. Two of man’s basic needs are love and acceptance. That’s how the Savior listens to us, with eyes of acceptance and love. How do you listen to Him? Do you long to be near Him, to study His Word, and hear His heart about certain situations? Or do you rush through prayer, afraid of what He might say and require of you?
Until we learn to truly listen, first to God and then to others, we will never know the deeper side of Christ’s love. Only in listening for His voice can we truly experience the intimacy of His presence. Ask Him to help you become the kind of listener that He is to you. If you will listen, you will hear His voice.
“Love is an image of God...the living essence of the divine nature which beams full of all goodness.” -Martin Luther
Friday, October 15, 2010
We Need to Listen to God’s Word
“That day Jesus went out of the house and was sitting by the sea. And large crowds gathered to Him, so He got into a boat and sat down, and the whole crowd was standing on the beach. And He spoke many things to them in parables, saying, "Behold, the sower went out to sow; and as he sowed, some seeds fell beside the road, and the birds came and ate them up. Others fell on the rocky places, where they did not have much soil; and immediately they sprang up, because they had no depth of soil. But when the sun had risen, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Others fell among the thorns, and the thorns came up and choked them out. And others fell on the good soil and yielded a crop, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.” Matthew 13:1-9
Moses was God’s chosen spokesman. However, it took time to prepare him for the role he would play in Israel’s future. After years of banishment, Moses was finally ready to receive God’s call. The Bible says: “When the LORD saw that he turned aside to look [at the burning bush], God called to him...” (Exodus 3:4).
Moses did more than turn physically toward a burning bush. He turned his heart toward the things of God. He was ready to listen. God knows the moment we are ready to receive His message. It is then He offers His encouragement. If we are wise we will be still and listen for His voice. However, many people refuse the gospel’s message. They drift into complacency and rebellion against God. Their soil is not fertile, and the seeds of God’s truth quickly die, scorched by selfish desires.
There is never a time when the call of God is unimportant. Learning to listen for His voice and responding according to His will is highly crucial to our spiritual growth. Do you listen to God with an open and obedient heart? Obedience was the key to Moses’ success, and it is the same with us today.
To sit passively and listen to godly sermons with no response is a deadly activity.
Moses was God’s chosen spokesman. However, it took time to prepare him for the role he would play in Israel’s future. After years of banishment, Moses was finally ready to receive God’s call. The Bible says: “When the LORD saw that he turned aside to look [at the burning bush], God called to him...” (Exodus 3:4).
Moses did more than turn physically toward a burning bush. He turned his heart toward the things of God. He was ready to listen. God knows the moment we are ready to receive His message. It is then He offers His encouragement. If we are wise we will be still and listen for His voice. However, many people refuse the gospel’s message. They drift into complacency and rebellion against God. Their soil is not fertile, and the seeds of God’s truth quickly die, scorched by selfish desires.
There is never a time when the call of God is unimportant. Learning to listen for His voice and responding according to His will is highly crucial to our spiritual growth. Do you listen to God with an open and obedient heart? Obedience was the key to Moses’ success, and it is the same with us today.
To sit passively and listen to godly sermons with no response is a deadly activity.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
The Helper for the Hurting
“Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin. Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16
It is said that one of the most frightening things about summer in coastal Georgia is thunder storms. With little warning, storm clouds gather, inland water ways turn dark and angry, and enraged coastal breezes mark their path along the sand dunes and marshes. Energized by the intense heat of summer temperatures, lightening strikes and often runs rapidly across the ground. All within its path suffers.
Many times the emotional hurts we face seem just as intense and destructive as being hit by lightening. Without warning a child runs away from home, a friend intentionally hurts us, a husband or wife commits adultery, a child sexually abused, or an incurable disease shows up in our test results. Life is full of many sorrows. But we are not alone.
Jesus came to personally identify with our hurts, with our fears, our rejections, and our suffering. He is God, but often we overlook the fact that He is a personal God who wants to share in our hurts and frustrations. When we hurt, Jesus hurts. He wants us to know He understands how it feels to be mocked, forgotten, and humiliated. No storm of life is stronger than His love and understanding. Whatever you are facing, take it to Jesus. He will calm the whirlwind within you.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
It is said that one of the most frightening things about summer in coastal Georgia is thunder storms. With little warning, storm clouds gather, inland water ways turn dark and angry, and enraged coastal breezes mark their path along the sand dunes and marshes. Energized by the intense heat of summer temperatures, lightening strikes and often runs rapidly across the ground. All within its path suffers.
Many times the emotional hurts we face seem just as intense and destructive as being hit by lightening. Without warning a child runs away from home, a friend intentionally hurts us, a husband or wife commits adultery, a child sexually abused, or an incurable disease shows up in our test results. Life is full of many sorrows. But we are not alone.
Jesus came to personally identify with our hurts, with our fears, our rejections, and our suffering. He is God, but often we overlook the fact that He is a personal God who wants to share in our hurts and frustrations. When we hurt, Jesus hurts. He wants us to know He understands how it feels to be mocked, forgotten, and humiliated. No storm of life is stronger than His love and understanding. Whatever you are facing, take it to Jesus. He will calm the whirlwind within you.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Bitterness, Part 4
“The heart knows its own bitterness,
And a stranger does not share its joy.” Proverbs 14:10
There was no hint of bitterness in her life. Yet, years ago there was adequate opportunity for it to devour her soul. She and her husband were devoted missionaries to Indonesia. Both served the Lord with every ounce of energy. He greatly blessed their efforts. Many came to know Jesus through their work and testimony.
One day her husband became ill. They had noticed he had lost weight, but neither thought much about it. The work was intense and the weather hot. It was easy to pick up a few pounds and lose several more. However, a visit to the doctor revealed something they had not planned for. He had cancer. They returned to the states all the while seeking God for healing and new direction in the ministry.
God sent them to a Bible college to continue working with people - this time with future missionaries. Her husband died within two years, and she was left to raise three children. “Bitter toward God? Not me!” she beamed. “God has a plan. He knows our days, and He will take care of me.”
Our witness to God’s faithfulness is what many people need to see especially when facing overwhelming odds. Ask God to take the tragedy in your life and make it into a light of hope for others.
And a stranger does not share its joy.” Proverbs 14:10
There was no hint of bitterness in her life. Yet, years ago there was adequate opportunity for it to devour her soul. She and her husband were devoted missionaries to Indonesia. Both served the Lord with every ounce of energy. He greatly blessed their efforts. Many came to know Jesus through their work and testimony.
One day her husband became ill. They had noticed he had lost weight, but neither thought much about it. The work was intense and the weather hot. It was easy to pick up a few pounds and lose several more. However, a visit to the doctor revealed something they had not planned for. He had cancer. They returned to the states all the while seeking God for healing and new direction in the ministry.
God sent them to a Bible college to continue working with people - this time with future missionaries. Her husband died within two years, and she was left to raise three children. “Bitter toward God? Not me!” she beamed. “God has a plan. He knows our days, and He will take care of me.”
Our witness to God’s faithfulness is what many people need to see especially when facing overwhelming odds. Ask God to take the tragedy in your life and make it into a light of hope for others.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Bitterness, Part 3
He came to the sheepfolds on the way, where there was a cave; and Saul went in to relieve himself. Now David and his men were sitting in the inner recesses of the cave. The men of David said to him, “Behold, this is the day of which the LORD said to you, ‘Behold; I am about to give your enemy into your hand, and you shall do to him as it seems good to you.’” Then David arose and cut off the edge of Saul’s robe secretly. It came about afterward that David’s conscience bothered him because he had cut off the edge of Saul’s robe. So he said to his men, “Far be it from me because of the LORD that I should do this thing to my lord, the LORD’S anointed, to stretch out my hand against him, since he is the LORD’S anointed.”
David persuaded his men with these words and did not allow them to rise up against Saul. And Saul arose, left the cave, and went on his way. Now afterward David arose and went out of the cave and called after Saul, saying, “My lord the king!” And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground and prostrated himself. David said to Saul, “Why do you listen to the words of men, saying, ‘Behold, David seeks to harm you’? Behold, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD had given you today into my hand in the cave, and some said to kill you, but my eye had pity on you; and I said, ‘I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD’S anointed.’ Now, my father, see! Indeed, see the edge of your robe in my hand! For in that I cut off the edge of your robe and did not kill you, know and perceive that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands, and I have not sinned against you, though you are lying in wait for my life to take it. May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD avenge me on you; but my hand shall not be against you.” 1 Samuel 24:3-12
If anyone had a right to bitterness, it was David. Pursued relentlessly by King Saul, David was reduced to seeking refuge among thieves and common criminals. He was the anointed future king of Israel, and yet he became a cave dweller and fugitive.
How many of us, like David, have wept under the carelessness of another person’s assault? David did nothing to deserve the wrath of Saul’s anger. He was loyal to the king. In fact, had he failed to come on the scene, Goliath and the Philistines would have annihilated the armies of Israel.
Jealously and a bitter spirit took up residence in the heart of Saul. What a horrifying way to say thank you to someone who saved your life and your throne. On one occasion, God provided David easy access to the king’s stronghold. Had bitterness and retaliation been David’s goal, he could have easily slain Saul. No one would have blamed him - no one except God. In obedience and humility, David refused to touch the Lord’s anointed. A show of bitterness is never God’s way.
It takes great faith to turn a hurtful situation over to God. It was David’s way, and God called him “a man after His own heart” (1 Sam. 13:14). It should also be our way.
Bitterness refers to a settled hostility that poisons the whole inner man. -Warren Wiersbe
David persuaded his men with these words and did not allow them to rise up against Saul. And Saul arose, left the cave, and went on his way. Now afterward David arose and went out of the cave and called after Saul, saying, “My lord the king!” And when Saul looked behind him, David bowed with his face to the ground and prostrated himself. David said to Saul, “Why do you listen to the words of men, saying, ‘Behold, David seeks to harm you’? Behold, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD had given you today into my hand in the cave, and some said to kill you, but my eye had pity on you; and I said, ‘I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the LORD’S anointed.’ Now, my father, see! Indeed, see the edge of your robe in my hand! For in that I cut off the edge of your robe and did not kill you, know and perceive that there is no evil or rebellion in my hands, and I have not sinned against you, though you are lying in wait for my life to take it. May the LORD judge between you and me, and may the LORD avenge me on you; but my hand shall not be against you.” 1 Samuel 24:3-12
If anyone had a right to bitterness, it was David. Pursued relentlessly by King Saul, David was reduced to seeking refuge among thieves and common criminals. He was the anointed future king of Israel, and yet he became a cave dweller and fugitive.
How many of us, like David, have wept under the carelessness of another person’s assault? David did nothing to deserve the wrath of Saul’s anger. He was loyal to the king. In fact, had he failed to come on the scene, Goliath and the Philistines would have annihilated the armies of Israel.
Jealously and a bitter spirit took up residence in the heart of Saul. What a horrifying way to say thank you to someone who saved your life and your throne. On one occasion, God provided David easy access to the king’s stronghold. Had bitterness and retaliation been David’s goal, he could have easily slain Saul. No one would have blamed him - no one except God. In obedience and humility, David refused to touch the Lord’s anointed. A show of bitterness is never God’s way.
It takes great faith to turn a hurtful situation over to God. It was David’s way, and God called him “a man after His own heart” (1 Sam. 13:14). It should also be our way.
Bitterness refers to a settled hostility that poisons the whole inner man. -Warren Wiersbe
Monday, October 11, 2010
Bitterness, Part 2
“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:30-32
Life is full of injustices. You probably can think of several such instances in your own life. God’s Word contains its own record of those who suffered needlessly at the hands of others. David and his strife with Saul as well as Joseph and the injustice delivered to him by his bothers are but two examples.
One way to remain free of bitterness and resentment is to focus on Jesus and not the action committed against you. People are often thoughtless and careless in their words and deeds. But God uses even the worst injustice to mold and shape us into the image of His Son. However, if you allow bitterness to gain a foothold in your life, you could risk missing His best. The injustice or trial is not meant to harm you but to strengthen your faith as you trust Christ to right any wrongs.
How do you conquer bitterness? Begin by confession. Tell God all you are feeling, and ask Him to help you forgive others. Then learn to claim His promises concerning your specific situation. To David, God was a Deliverer (Psalm 18:48). To Joseph, He was the God who was constantly at his side (Gen. 39:23). Ask Jesus to magnify Himself to you today as you worship Him.
“Faith sees the bow of the covenant promise whenever sense sees the cloud of affliction.” -C.H. Sprugeon
Life is full of injustices. You probably can think of several such instances in your own life. God’s Word contains its own record of those who suffered needlessly at the hands of others. David and his strife with Saul as well as Joseph and the injustice delivered to him by his bothers are but two examples.
One way to remain free of bitterness and resentment is to focus on Jesus and not the action committed against you. People are often thoughtless and careless in their words and deeds. But God uses even the worst injustice to mold and shape us into the image of His Son. However, if you allow bitterness to gain a foothold in your life, you could risk missing His best. The injustice or trial is not meant to harm you but to strengthen your faith as you trust Christ to right any wrongs.
How do you conquer bitterness? Begin by confession. Tell God all you are feeling, and ask Him to help you forgive others. Then learn to claim His promises concerning your specific situation. To David, God was a Deliverer (Psalm 18:48). To Joseph, He was the God who was constantly at his side (Gen. 39:23). Ask Jesus to magnify Himself to you today as you worship Him.
“Faith sees the bow of the covenant promise whenever sense sees the cloud of affliction.” -C.H. Sprugeon
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Bitterness
“Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; that there be no immoral or godless person like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. For you know that even afterwards, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought for it with tears.” Hebrews 12:14-17
Physicians believe much of the depression and unresolved emotional problems we face are due to suppressed bitterness within our hearts. God is very specific in His exhortation of bitterness: “See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled” (Heb. 12:15).
One of Satan’s favorite tactics is to sow tiny seeds of bitterness in the hearts and minds of God’s people. When we become bitter, the satisfaction of “getting even” for the hurts we feel is fleeting. Bitterness leads to an endless trap of emotional ups and downs, of wondering what others are thinking, and of self-abasement. Peter tells us Satan is a persistent enemy with only one goal - to destroy, nullify, and render useless the witness and testimony of the child of God. Bitterness is a potent weapon.
If Satan can keep you at odds with others, then he has achieved his goal. No one can love the Savior in purity of heart while harboring a spirit of bitterness. When thoughts of bitterness arise, immediately place them in subjection to Jesus Christ and steep your emotions in God’s grace. Ask God to help you deal with your bitterness and set you free.
It is one thing to be angry for a moment - it is something else to allow that anger to grow.
Physicians believe much of the depression and unresolved emotional problems we face are due to suppressed bitterness within our hearts. God is very specific in His exhortation of bitterness: “See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled” (Heb. 12:15).
One of Satan’s favorite tactics is to sow tiny seeds of bitterness in the hearts and minds of God’s people. When we become bitter, the satisfaction of “getting even” for the hurts we feel is fleeting. Bitterness leads to an endless trap of emotional ups and downs, of wondering what others are thinking, and of self-abasement. Peter tells us Satan is a persistent enemy with only one goal - to destroy, nullify, and render useless the witness and testimony of the child of God. Bitterness is a potent weapon.
If Satan can keep you at odds with others, then he has achieved his goal. No one can love the Savior in purity of heart while harboring a spirit of bitterness. When thoughts of bitterness arise, immediately place them in subjection to Jesus Christ and steep your emotions in God’s grace. Ask God to help you deal with your bitterness and set you free.
It is one thing to be angry for a moment - it is something else to allow that anger to grow.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Make a Melody with Your Heart
“Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father.” Ephesians 5:19-20
Throughout church history men and women have expressed their devotion and praise to God through music. For many composers, the words and music came during times of intense trials.
- Martin Luther, after years of spiritual embattlement, wrote A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.
- John Newton, sickened by his life as a slave trader, accepted Jesus Christ. He soon penned the words, “Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see!”
- David on the run from King Saul wrote, “I love You, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies” (Psalm 18:1-3).
The next time your are confronted by disillusionment, doubt, or fear, try praising God through song. The Bible tells us God inhabits the praise of His people. You may not feel like praising Him. That’s okay. He knows you’re hurting. Ask Him to help you begin; and He will not only place a song in your heart, He will also provide comfort and hope to face the future.
“He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God...” Psalm 40:3
Throughout church history men and women have expressed their devotion and praise to God through music. For many composers, the words and music came during times of intense trials.
- Martin Luther, after years of spiritual embattlement, wrote A Mighty Fortress Is Our God.
- John Newton, sickened by his life as a slave trader, accepted Jesus Christ. He soon penned the words, “Amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me. I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see!”
- David on the run from King Saul wrote, “I love You, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies” (Psalm 18:1-3).
The next time your are confronted by disillusionment, doubt, or fear, try praising God through song. The Bible tells us God inhabits the praise of His people. You may not feel like praising Him. That’s okay. He knows you’re hurting. Ask Him to help you begin; and He will not only place a song in your heart, He will also provide comfort and hope to face the future.
“He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God...” Psalm 40:3
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Jesus is Lord!
“Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.’” Matthew 16:16
“Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” Luke 6:46
During a conversation with His disciples, Christ asked: “Who do you say I am?” (Matt. 16:15) Peter responded without hesitation : “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:16). The Greek word for Christ is translated Messiah which means anointed of God and refers to His lordship.
From this point on the disciples were never the same. The spiritual blinds that once covered their eyes rolled back, and the light of God’s truth bellowed in. Jesus was no ordinary teacher. He truly was the One the prophets had written would come.
Something remarkable happens when we confess Jesus as our Lord - bonds are broken, burdens are lifted, and our joy is made complete. When we give Him His rightful place in our lives, we are no longer left to face life alone. He is with us through the power of His Spirit.
Some say Pontius Pilate unknowingly published the first gospel tract when he wrote our Lord’s epitaph: “This is Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” It announced to the world that Jesus was not only the Savior but the ruling Lord.
Does He reign in your heart?
“Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” Luke 6:46
During a conversation with His disciples, Christ asked: “Who do you say I am?” (Matt. 16:15) Peter responded without hesitation : “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16:16). The Greek word for Christ is translated Messiah which means anointed of God and refers to His lordship.
From this point on the disciples were never the same. The spiritual blinds that once covered their eyes rolled back, and the light of God’s truth bellowed in. Jesus was no ordinary teacher. He truly was the One the prophets had written would come.
Something remarkable happens when we confess Jesus as our Lord - bonds are broken, burdens are lifted, and our joy is made complete. When we give Him His rightful place in our lives, we are no longer left to face life alone. He is with us through the power of His Spirit.
Some say Pontius Pilate unknowingly published the first gospel tract when he wrote our Lord’s epitaph: “This is Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” It announced to the world that Jesus was not only the Savior but the ruling Lord.
Does He reign in your heart?
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Be Still and Listen
“My son, give attention to my words;
incline your ear to my sayings.
Do not let them depart from your sight;
keep them in the midst of your heart.
For they are life to those who find them
and health to all their body.” Proverbs 4:20-22
“Blessed is the man who listens to me,
watching daily at my gates,
waiting at my doorposts.
For he who finds me finds life
and obtains favor from the LORD.” Proverbs 8:34-35
Probably the greatest antidote for anxiety is quiet reflection and mediation upon the Word of God - especially the passages dealing with God’s provision and power. It’s hard to hold your troubles and anxieties when the faithful and true Word of God is relaxing your grasp.
One key passage to read is Isaiah 51. What a wonderful pronouncement of God’s super ability to handle any of life’s problems. Our anxious fears melt away in light of His comforting words of assurance. That’s much of what listening to God is all about - being quiet enough to focus our attention on what the Word reveals about Him and what He has to say about our concerns.
Of course, a great hindrance to hearing God speak is our inability to set things aside long enough to get quiet, stop worrying about it, and begin to see the truth about God reflected in His Word. The next time you feel the flood of anxiety, stop. Take the time to renew your mind in the Word and reacquaint yourself with God’s viewpoint of this life.
I make the choice of whether I’ll carry my anxiety around with me or if I’ll let it slip away as I relax my grip on it and take instead God’s loving hand in mine.
“...in quietness and trust is your strength...” Isa. 30:15
incline your ear to my sayings.
Do not let them depart from your sight;
keep them in the midst of your heart.
For they are life to those who find them
and health to all their body.” Proverbs 4:20-22
“Blessed is the man who listens to me,
watching daily at my gates,
waiting at my doorposts.
For he who finds me finds life
and obtains favor from the LORD.” Proverbs 8:34-35
Probably the greatest antidote for anxiety is quiet reflection and mediation upon the Word of God - especially the passages dealing with God’s provision and power. It’s hard to hold your troubles and anxieties when the faithful and true Word of God is relaxing your grasp.
One key passage to read is Isaiah 51. What a wonderful pronouncement of God’s super ability to handle any of life’s problems. Our anxious fears melt away in light of His comforting words of assurance. That’s much of what listening to God is all about - being quiet enough to focus our attention on what the Word reveals about Him and what He has to say about our concerns.
Of course, a great hindrance to hearing God speak is our inability to set things aside long enough to get quiet, stop worrying about it, and begin to see the truth about God reflected in His Word. The next time you feel the flood of anxiety, stop. Take the time to renew your mind in the Word and reacquaint yourself with God’s viewpoint of this life.
I make the choice of whether I’ll carry my anxiety around with me or if I’ll let it slip away as I relax my grip on it and take instead God’s loving hand in mine.
“...in quietness and trust is your strength...” Isa. 30:15
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Are You Listening?
“The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of disciples,
that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word
He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple.
The Lord GOD has opened My ear;
and I was not disobedient
nor did I turn back.” Isaiah 50:4-5
How do I know that God is speaking to me? How can I be sure of God’s direction for my life? Does God “speak” to people today? And if so, how does He speak?
Those questions (and many more like them) are voiced by those who struggle to understand the Christian life. Those types of questions lead to satisfying answers and a deepened relationship with God. We know from experience and from the truth of God’s Word that God speaks most often through His word, through His people, and through the circumstances of life. The big question is: “Are we listening?” Do we have the sensitivity to hear when God speaks to us? Are we anticipating an answer, looking for God’s response?
There are many hindrances to our ability to hear when God speaks to us. We throw up a wall by known, willful sin; by quenching the Spirit; by hardening our hearts to needs around us; by being too busy to stop to listen and evaluate. Don’t let anything get in the way of your ability to hear the Lord speak to you clearly. We face immeasurable loss when God gets a “busy signal” when trying to reach us. “When God speaks, do I hear?”
To listen to God, you must tune your “receiver” to hear His voice.
that I may know how to sustain the weary one with a word
He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear to listen as a disciple.
The Lord GOD has opened My ear;
and I was not disobedient
nor did I turn back.” Isaiah 50:4-5
How do I know that God is speaking to me? How can I be sure of God’s direction for my life? Does God “speak” to people today? And if so, how does He speak?
Those questions (and many more like them) are voiced by those who struggle to understand the Christian life. Those types of questions lead to satisfying answers and a deepened relationship with God. We know from experience and from the truth of God’s Word that God speaks most often through His word, through His people, and through the circumstances of life. The big question is: “Are we listening?” Do we have the sensitivity to hear when God speaks to us? Are we anticipating an answer, looking for God’s response?
There are many hindrances to our ability to hear when God speaks to us. We throw up a wall by known, willful sin; by quenching the Spirit; by hardening our hearts to needs around us; by being too busy to stop to listen and evaluate. Don’t let anything get in the way of your ability to hear the Lord speak to you clearly. We face immeasurable loss when God gets a “busy signal” when trying to reach us. “When God speaks, do I hear?”
To listen to God, you must tune your “receiver” to hear His voice.
Monday, October 4, 2010
The Believers’ Assignment
“For the love of Christ controls us, having concluded this, that one died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf. Therefore from now on we recognize no one according to the flesh; even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him in this way no longer. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come. Now all these things are from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation, namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and He has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making an appeal through us; we beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:14-21
Have you realized that if you claim to be a Christian (a follower of Jesus Christ), others look at you as an example of what God Himself is like? Now, nobody may actually say it in those words; but in reality, you and I are representatives of God to the rest of humanity. As representatives, we are literally ambassadors for Christ.
What does an ambassador do? He or she functions as a go-between for their homeland to a foreign land. Those foreigners develop their view of the ambassador’s homeland through the attitudes and deportment of the ambassador.
As the redeemed children of God, we may be someone’s only opportunity to become acquainted with the love of God. We have been commissioned as ambassadors for Christ. Do your attitudes and deportment reflect the true character of God, or are people getting a tainted view of the One you represent?
Ambassadorship is a high calling. It is a position of great responsibility and influence. Use it to accurately represent the King of kings and Lord of lords. When the world looks at you, what do they see? Jesus?
Have you realized that if you claim to be a Christian (a follower of Jesus Christ), others look at you as an example of what God Himself is like? Now, nobody may actually say it in those words; but in reality, you and I are representatives of God to the rest of humanity. As representatives, we are literally ambassadors for Christ.
What does an ambassador do? He or she functions as a go-between for their homeland to a foreign land. Those foreigners develop their view of the ambassador’s homeland through the attitudes and deportment of the ambassador.
As the redeemed children of God, we may be someone’s only opportunity to become acquainted with the love of God. We have been commissioned as ambassadors for Christ. Do your attitudes and deportment reflect the true character of God, or are people getting a tainted view of the One you represent?
Ambassadorship is a high calling. It is a position of great responsibility and influence. Use it to accurately represent the King of kings and Lord of lords. When the world looks at you, what do they see? Jesus?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Witness of the Kingdom
“But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, ‘All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’” Matthew 28:16-20
“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matt. 24:14). This verse states the mission of the church of Jesus Christ. Every member is commissioned. How have you responded to your heavenly commission? Have you wholeheartedly embraced it and given yourself to the furtherance of the kingdom? Or have you responded with little enthusiasm? What is the mindset of the fellowship (church) you attend? Do you meet together to better carry out your commission? Is that first and foremost in the pulpit challenge from week to week? In the budget considerations? In the deacons’ meetings? In the youth activities?
We often tend to “major on the minors.” There are a lot of good and even great things that a group of believers could focus their attention upon, but have you ever considered your holy commission given by God? Then how about your personal response as an individual? Are you seeking ways to share the gospel of the kingdom in your neighborhood and among your circle of friends?
The kingdom of God is established where He rules over the human heart.
“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come” (Matt. 24:14). This verse states the mission of the church of Jesus Christ. Every member is commissioned. How have you responded to your heavenly commission? Have you wholeheartedly embraced it and given yourself to the furtherance of the kingdom? Or have you responded with little enthusiasm? What is the mindset of the fellowship (church) you attend? Do you meet together to better carry out your commission? Is that first and foremost in the pulpit challenge from week to week? In the budget considerations? In the deacons’ meetings? In the youth activities?
We often tend to “major on the minors.” There are a lot of good and even great things that a group of believers could focus their attention upon, but have you ever considered your holy commission given by God? Then how about your personal response as an individual? Are you seeking ways to share the gospel of the kingdom in your neighborhood and among your circle of friends?
The kingdom of God is established where He rules over the human heart.
Friday, October 1, 2010
The Kingdom of God
“But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’” Matthew 25:31-34
The use of the term kingdom sets in our minds the idea of rule, order, plan, organization, purpose, and authority. It was for this reason that those who penned the Scriptures used the term to indicate and illustrate the realm of God. Scripture consistently holds this though while communicating the truths concerning God.
- We are called sons (not slaves) who will inherit the kingdom.
- We are given the armor of God as a champion of God’s forces.
- We are commissioned to preach the gospel of the kingdom to the whole world.
- Jesus will return bearing the name “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
- We possess the kingdom of God within us.
In one sense, God’s kingdom is a future reality, and in another sense, it is an immediate realty - expressed in and through the lives of each child of God. Once we realize the magnificence of the kingdom of God, our present way of life mirrors what has been revealed, and those around us will become aware that our citizenship is in another place.
As the lion rules the animal kingdom, the Lion of Judah rules the Kingdom of God.
The use of the term kingdom sets in our minds the idea of rule, order, plan, organization, purpose, and authority. It was for this reason that those who penned the Scriptures used the term to indicate and illustrate the realm of God. Scripture consistently holds this though while communicating the truths concerning God.
- We are called sons (not slaves) who will inherit the kingdom.
- We are given the armor of God as a champion of God’s forces.
- We are commissioned to preach the gospel of the kingdom to the whole world.
- Jesus will return bearing the name “King of kings and Lord of lords.”
- We possess the kingdom of God within us.
In one sense, God’s kingdom is a future reality, and in another sense, it is an immediate realty - expressed in and through the lives of each child of God. Once we realize the magnificence of the kingdom of God, our present way of life mirrors what has been revealed, and those around us will become aware that our citizenship is in another place.
As the lion rules the animal kingdom, the Lion of Judah rules the Kingdom of God.
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