“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.” John 5:24
God calls us to serve Him out of love and devotion, not out of work or obligation. The Pharisees prided themselves in the fact that they kept the whole law. They believed this would please God and secure their salvation. The sad point of all of this is whenever you base anything - a marriage, a friendship, a job, or more importantly our relationship to God - on works, you never know where you stand. There is always a degree of doubt involved because you are driven to achieve standards set by yourself and others.
Jesus set a new standard for our relationship with God: “For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). God never meant for the Jews to view the Law as a pathway to salvation. Instead, it was given as preparation for the coming of Christ.
We can be sure of our salvation because we are secured by Christ and not by our performance. Some people say salvation by grace alone is “cheap talk.” But there is nothing cheap about the Cross. Jesus Christ, the most valuable Person who has ever lived, loves you so much that He willingly laid His life down that you might experience eternal life with Him. It is His gift of love to you.
“...a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus...” Galatians 2:16
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
That You May Know
“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13
The reason many Christians lack joy is because they are not sure of their relationship with Christ. The Jews of Jesus’ day believed the only way they could be sure of their standing with God was by keeping the Law. It provided measurable evidence of their devotion.
However, Jesus offered a new theology, one based on God’s unconditional love and acceptance. The Jewish leaders were bound by the Law and refused to accept salvation as being a gift of grace. Imagine their dismay when Jesus told them that He was fulfillment of the Law.
Through Christ we have personal access to God the Father without bearing the burden of the Law and its consequences. Only grace secures our position with God. Jesus told Nicodemus: “You must be born again” (John 3:7). His words indicated a need for spiritual rebirth or regeneration. It is something human hands cannot achieve. There is nothing we can do to earn salvation. Salvation equals grace plus nothing.
The next time you are tempted to doubt your salvation, think of the Cross where grace paid the eternal price for all our sins. We are saved and sure by the power of His grace - nothing more, nothing less.
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1
The reason many Christians lack joy is because they are not sure of their relationship with Christ. The Jews of Jesus’ day believed the only way they could be sure of their standing with God was by keeping the Law. It provided measurable evidence of their devotion.
However, Jesus offered a new theology, one based on God’s unconditional love and acceptance. The Jewish leaders were bound by the Law and refused to accept salvation as being a gift of grace. Imagine their dismay when Jesus told them that He was fulfillment of the Law.
Through Christ we have personal access to God the Father without bearing the burden of the Law and its consequences. Only grace secures our position with God. Jesus told Nicodemus: “You must be born again” (John 3:7). His words indicated a need for spiritual rebirth or regeneration. It is something human hands cannot achieve. There is nothing we can do to earn salvation. Salvation equals grace plus nothing.
The next time you are tempted to doubt your salvation, think of the Cross where grace paid the eternal price for all our sins. We are saved and sure by the power of His grace - nothing more, nothing less.
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1
Monday, November 28, 2011
Christ, Our Advocate
“My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.” 1 John 2:1-2
Christians often become discouraged when tempted by sinful habits they thought were eliminated at the point of their salvation. The truth is we still live in a fallen world under the influence of Satan. As a child of God, the enemy no longer holds the title to your life. Spiritually, you are seated in heaven with Christ (Col. 3:3).
However, this does not free you from the strife of Satan’s disastrous intentions. Salvation only shifts his goal for your life from one of eternal death to one of ineffectiveness. The enemy wants to render you useless in your witness and testimony for Jesus Christ. Sin is his favorite weapon because he knows it fogs our relationship with God.
However, the power of sin was eternally broken at the cross. We no longer have to yield to its temptation. The only way to handle sin is to put it in subjection to the Lord Jesus Christ. The key to overcoming it lies in living daily in the light of God’s Word.
When temptations come, remember the enemy’s power has been broken. Jesus is your strong advocate before the Father. Confess your sins, claim His forgiveness, and continue your life in the light of His grace.
Remember, Satan wants to enslave you; Jesus died to free you!
“...our old self was crucified with Him...that we would no longer be slaves to sin.” Romans 6:6
Christians often become discouraged when tempted by sinful habits they thought were eliminated at the point of their salvation. The truth is we still live in a fallen world under the influence of Satan. As a child of God, the enemy no longer holds the title to your life. Spiritually, you are seated in heaven with Christ (Col. 3:3).
However, this does not free you from the strife of Satan’s disastrous intentions. Salvation only shifts his goal for your life from one of eternal death to one of ineffectiveness. The enemy wants to render you useless in your witness and testimony for Jesus Christ. Sin is his favorite weapon because he knows it fogs our relationship with God.
However, the power of sin was eternally broken at the cross. We no longer have to yield to its temptation. The only way to handle sin is to put it in subjection to the Lord Jesus Christ. The key to overcoming it lies in living daily in the light of God’s Word.
When temptations come, remember the enemy’s power has been broken. Jesus is your strong advocate before the Father. Confess your sins, claim His forgiveness, and continue your life in the light of His grace.
Remember, Satan wants to enslave you; Jesus died to free you!
“...our old self was crucified with Him...that we would no longer be slaves to sin.” Romans 6:6
Sunday, November 27, 2011
The Power of the Gospel
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘But the righteous man shall live by faith.’” Romans 1:16-17
People often wonder what happened to the disciples after the resurrection. Many became our first missionaries. Much of Peter’s work was with the Jews in Jerusalem; Philip went to Samaria, as did John. Later Paul traveled extensively carrying the gospel throughout Asia Minor, Syria, Macedonia, and Achaia. Those who traveled with him, Timothy, Titus, Luke, and Silas, also joined the missionary troop.
One might think the thrust of their message was complicated, but it wasn’t. They simply told others what Jesus had done for them and mankind through His life, death, and resurrection. The message of the gospel was so powerful that by the end of Nero’s life and rule in A.D. 68, Christianity was a movement that forcibly challenged all other religions.
Judaism, the Mosaic Law, and the worship of false gods were no match for the gospel message - neither are the false religions of today. Only a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ has the power to break the stronghold of sin, guilt, and legalism.
The most effective tool we have apart from the Word of God is our Christian testimony. When you tell others what Jesus has done in your own life, you join the ranks of members of the early church.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation...” Romans 1:16
People often wonder what happened to the disciples after the resurrection. Many became our first missionaries. Much of Peter’s work was with the Jews in Jerusalem; Philip went to Samaria, as did John. Later Paul traveled extensively carrying the gospel throughout Asia Minor, Syria, Macedonia, and Achaia. Those who traveled with him, Timothy, Titus, Luke, and Silas, also joined the missionary troop.
One might think the thrust of their message was complicated, but it wasn’t. They simply told others what Jesus had done for them and mankind through His life, death, and resurrection. The message of the gospel was so powerful that by the end of Nero’s life and rule in A.D. 68, Christianity was a movement that forcibly challenged all other religions.
Judaism, the Mosaic Law, and the worship of false gods were no match for the gospel message - neither are the false religions of today. Only a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ has the power to break the stronghold of sin, guilt, and legalism.
The most effective tool we have apart from the Word of God is our Christian testimony. When you tell others what Jesus has done in your own life, you join the ranks of members of the early church.
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation...” Romans 1:16
Friday, November 25, 2011
Triumph Through Trouble
“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
When Jesus saw that His disciples truly understood who He was, He made a startling statement. It was one they were not prepared to hear: “Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me” (John 16:32).
God’s plan for redemption did not include lifting the disciples out of their immediate surroundings. The pain and stress of facing life as children of God would never deliver them from the earthly reality of trouble. Jesus made that clear when He said: “In the world you have tribulation” (John 16:33).
Soon after these words, the agony of the cross was His to bear. How did He withstand such tribulation? Christ’s life was anchored in the plan of the Father, not in the things of the world. Jesus was not worried about men and their false accusations, nor was He overwhelmed by trials or earthly tribulations. He had overcome the world.
What is His personal word to you when trials come without warning? “These things I [share with] you, so that in Me you may have [a] peace [that passes all human understanding]. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
“...I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
When Jesus saw that His disciples truly understood who He was, He made a startling statement. It was one they were not prepared to hear: “Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me” (John 16:32).
God’s plan for redemption did not include lifting the disciples out of their immediate surroundings. The pain and stress of facing life as children of God would never deliver them from the earthly reality of trouble. Jesus made that clear when He said: “In the world you have tribulation” (John 16:33).
Soon after these words, the agony of the cross was His to bear. How did He withstand such tribulation? Christ’s life was anchored in the plan of the Father, not in the things of the world. Jesus was not worried about men and their false accusations, nor was He overwhelmed by trials or earthly tribulations. He had overcome the world.
What is His personal word to you when trials come without warning? “These things I [share with] you, so that in Me you may have [a] peace [that passes all human understanding]. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
“...I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving
“I will give You thanks with all my heart;
I will sing praises to You before the gods.
I will bow down toward Your holy temple
and give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
for You have magnified Your word according to all Your name.
On the day I called, You answered me;
You made me bold with strength in my soul.” Psalm 138:1-3
“How to Observe Thanksgiving”
Count your blessings instead of your crosses
Count your grains instead of your losses
Count your joys instead of your woes
Count your friends instead of your foes
Count your full years instead of your lean
Count your kind deeds instead of your mean
Count your health instead of your wealth
Count on God instead of yourself
-Author Unknown
Be grateful...Give thanks with a grateful heart!
I will sing praises to You before the gods.
I will bow down toward Your holy temple
and give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
for You have magnified Your word according to all Your name.
On the day I called, You answered me;
You made me bold with strength in my soul.” Psalm 138:1-3
“How to Observe Thanksgiving”
Count your blessings instead of your crosses
Count your grains instead of your losses
Count your joys instead of your woes
Count your friends instead of your foes
Count your full years instead of your lean
Count your kind deeds instead of your mean
Count your health instead of your wealth
Count on God instead of yourself
-Author Unknown
Be grateful...Give thanks with a grateful heart!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
He Calms Your Storms
“When He got into the boat, His disciples followed Him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being covered with the waves; but Jesus Himself was asleep. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, ‘Save us, Lord; we are perishing!’ He said to them, ‘Why are you afraid, you men of little faith?’ Then He got up and rebuked the winds and the sea, and it became perfectly calm. The men were amazed, and said, ‘What kind of a man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?’” Matthew 8:23-27
Jesus came to earth as God in the flesh. He didn’t have to take on the form of humanity, but did. He momentarily laid aside His eternal glory in order to identify with the needs of sinful man. No one knows the personal loss nor the private pain that Jesus suffered. Wherever He traveled, storm clouds gathered. Wherever He spoke, political unrest ensued. For every person that joined His fleeting band of disciples, hundreds more turned against Him.
Christ could have focused on the storms that tore at His mind and heart. Instead, He chose to calm the stormy lives of others - a Roman centurion whose servant was dying, a young man bound by demonic oppression, a woman caught in adultery, a crippled beggar, a man born blind, and a Pharisee who came to Him hidden by night’s cover.
Even when the storms grew to overwhelming proportions, Jesus did not waver in His faith. He never lost sight of His eternal purpose. Dying on the cross, He offered salvation to the thief being crucified beside Him. When the storm clouds gather in your life, remember Jesus personally understands your pain and suffering. And there is never a time when you are beyond His loving grasp.
“Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but...to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28
Jesus came to earth as God in the flesh. He didn’t have to take on the form of humanity, but did. He momentarily laid aside His eternal glory in order to identify with the needs of sinful man. No one knows the personal loss nor the private pain that Jesus suffered. Wherever He traveled, storm clouds gathered. Wherever He spoke, political unrest ensued. For every person that joined His fleeting band of disciples, hundreds more turned against Him.
Christ could have focused on the storms that tore at His mind and heart. Instead, He chose to calm the stormy lives of others - a Roman centurion whose servant was dying, a young man bound by demonic oppression, a woman caught in adultery, a crippled beggar, a man born blind, and a Pharisee who came to Him hidden by night’s cover.
Even when the storms grew to overwhelming proportions, Jesus did not waver in His faith. He never lost sight of His eternal purpose. Dying on the cross, He offered salvation to the thief being crucified beside Him. When the storm clouds gather in your life, remember Jesus personally understands your pain and suffering. And there is never a time when you are beyond His loving grasp.
“Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but...to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
When the Storms Come
“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. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’” Matthew 14:22-33
Jesus knew a storm was coming. Yet he watched passively as His ambling disciples push away from the shoreline and began rowing into deeper water. Finally, the sails caught the wind and the oars were pulled inside the boat.
From a Galilean hillside, Christ continued to study their obedient journey. Perhaps Peter was manning the rudder; John and Bartholomew, in deep conversation, rested against the bow; and Matthew, serious in thought, appeared caught up in Thomas’ animated words.
By the evening’s fourth watch, the scene was dramatically different. The sea had turned into a fierce enemy, and fear filled the hearts of the disciples. Swamped by elevating waves, the tiny boat listed in its struggle to stay afloat. There was no mistake - Jesus had deliberately sent the disciples into the path of the storm.
Some of life’s stormiest moment are found at the heart of obedience. While the storms of life are not easy, they are necessary. Jesus used this one as a catalyst to refine the disciples’ faith. He did not leave them alone. The moment all hope in human help had faded, Jesus came to them. Whatever you’re facing today, Christ is in it with you. And just as He came to rescue His disciples, He will come to help you.
“...Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Matthew 14:27
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. And those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’” Matthew 14:22-33
Jesus knew a storm was coming. Yet he watched passively as His ambling disciples push away from the shoreline and began rowing into deeper water. Finally, the sails caught the wind and the oars were pulled inside the boat.
From a Galilean hillside, Christ continued to study their obedient journey. Perhaps Peter was manning the rudder; John and Bartholomew, in deep conversation, rested against the bow; and Matthew, serious in thought, appeared caught up in Thomas’ animated words.
By the evening’s fourth watch, the scene was dramatically different. The sea had turned into a fierce enemy, and fear filled the hearts of the disciples. Swamped by elevating waves, the tiny boat listed in its struggle to stay afloat. There was no mistake - Jesus had deliberately sent the disciples into the path of the storm.
Some of life’s stormiest moment are found at the heart of obedience. While the storms of life are not easy, they are necessary. Jesus used this one as a catalyst to refine the disciples’ faith. He did not leave them alone. The moment all hope in human help had faded, Jesus came to them. Whatever you’re facing today, Christ is in it with you. And just as He came to rescue His disciples, He will come to help you.
“...Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid.” Matthew 14:27
Monday, November 21, 2011
Facing Life’s Obstacles, Part 2
“You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul; and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall teach them to your sons, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates, so that your days and the days of your sons may be multiplied on the land which the Lord swore to your fathers to give them, as long as the heavens remain above the earth. For if you are careful to keep all this commandment which I am commanding you to do, to love the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and hold fast to Him, then the Lord will drive out all these nations from before you, and you will dispossess nations greater and mightier than you.” Deuteronomy 11:18-23
Joshua and the nation of Israel were preparing to enter the Promised Land. Moses would not go with them. His last responsibility as their leader would be to issue a charge concerning the land they were about to enter. He explained that if they would keep the commandments of the Law then God would drive out their enemies before them. Often we find ourselves wondering why God does not remove all the obstacle after He blesses us.
The excitement of a new job turns sour the moment we find out our boss has a dark side. The dream house becomes a nightmare when we find out the roof leaks and the water heater needs replacing. Many times God places obstacles in our lives to keep us humble and dependent on Him. The very name God gave the Promised Land, Canaan, means “a place of humility.” Israelites longed to enter the Land of Promise. Yet they realized along with the promise came the tests and trails of life.
There will be time when you feel as though you have run into a brick wall. The obstacle facing you may seem overwhelming, but take heart. These are the times when God wants you to true to Him and trust Him to remove the obstacle blocking your path.
“...the Lord will drive out all these nations from before you...” Deut. 11:23
Joshua and the nation of Israel were preparing to enter the Promised Land. Moses would not go with them. His last responsibility as their leader would be to issue a charge concerning the land they were about to enter. He explained that if they would keep the commandments of the Law then God would drive out their enemies before them. Often we find ourselves wondering why God does not remove all the obstacle after He blesses us.
The excitement of a new job turns sour the moment we find out our boss has a dark side. The dream house becomes a nightmare when we find out the roof leaks and the water heater needs replacing. Many times God places obstacles in our lives to keep us humble and dependent on Him. The very name God gave the Promised Land, Canaan, means “a place of humility.” Israelites longed to enter the Land of Promise. Yet they realized along with the promise came the tests and trails of life.
There will be time when you feel as though you have run into a brick wall. The obstacle facing you may seem overwhelming, but take heart. These are the times when God wants you to true to Him and trust Him to remove the obstacle blocking your path.
“...the Lord will drive out all these nations from before you...” Deut. 11:23
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Facing Life’s Obstacles
“Now Jericho was tightly shut because of the sons of Israel; no one went out and no one came in. The LORD said to Joshua, ‘See, I have given Jericho into your hand, with its king and the valiant warriors. You shall march around the city, all the men of war circling the city once. You shall do so for six days. Also seven priests shall carry seven trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark; then on the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets. It shall be that when they make a long blast with the ram’s horn, and when you hear the sound of the trumpet, all the people shall shout with a great shout; and the wall of the city will fall down flat, and the people will go up every man straight ahead.’” Joshua 6:1-5
Each of us has faced obstacles in life that seemed overwhelming. When the nation of Israel came to the city of Jericho, God gave the people one objective and that was to remain firmly focused on Him and His Word. They were not to calculate the fortification of the city walls, the aggressiveness of the inhabitants, or the numerous enemies living within the land. Nor were they to view the conquest of Jericho in light of their own strength.
One reason God commanded them to circle the walls in silence was to maintain their focus. The more we talk about and calculate the outcome of a situation, the less likely we are to follow God in faithful obedience. Jericho was a divinely planned obstacle. The outcome of the battle would bring glory to God and provide conclusive evidence to Israel that He was doing exactly what He had promised He would do.
Every single obstacle you face is subject to the supernatural power of God. So don’t allow your vision to be narrowed to the obstacle. Instead, learn to view it from the background of His power and infinite resources.
Each of us has faced obstacles in life that seemed overwhelming. When the nation of Israel came to the city of Jericho, God gave the people one objective and that was to remain firmly focused on Him and His Word. They were not to calculate the fortification of the city walls, the aggressiveness of the inhabitants, or the numerous enemies living within the land. Nor were they to view the conquest of Jericho in light of their own strength.
One reason God commanded them to circle the walls in silence was to maintain their focus. The more we talk about and calculate the outcome of a situation, the less likely we are to follow God in faithful obedience. Jericho was a divinely planned obstacle. The outcome of the battle would bring glory to God and provide conclusive evidence to Israel that He was doing exactly what He had promised He would do.
Every single obstacle you face is subject to the supernatural power of God. So don’t allow your vision to be narrowed to the obstacle. Instead, learn to view it from the background of His power and infinite resources.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Forgive Freely
When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph bears a grudge against us and pays us back in full for all the wrong which we did to him!” So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, “Your father charged before he died, saying, ‘Thus you shall say to Joseph, “Please forgive, I beg you, the transgression of your brothers and their sin, for they did you wrong.”’ And now, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” And Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Then his brothers also came and fell down before him and said, “Behold, we are your servants.” But Joseph said to them, “Do not be afraid, for am I in God’s place? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good in order to bring about this present result, to preserve many people alive. So therefore, do not be afraid; I will provide for you and your little ones.” So he comforted them and spoke kindly to them. Genesis 50:15-21
When a person hurts us deeply, forgiveness can be obscured by the intensity of the pain: “How could that person do that to me?” “How can I possibly forgive them for what they have done?” Only when our focus shifts from a damage assessment to the sovereign hand of God at work in our lives can we genuinely forgive.
When Jacob died, Joseph’s brothers were afraid he would take revenge: “What if Joseph decides to punish us now?” Trembling, they asked Joseph’s forgiveness. His response echoes his confidence in God’s guidance and provision in the face of injustice: “...you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good...” (Gen. 50:20).
Even the deliberate wounds of another cannot foil God’s purposes for your life. He can integrate even the worst pain of betrayal into rich fabric of His plan. When you freely forgive another, you cultivate the fruitful soil of God’s blessing. You are free to experience His love, grace, and mercy. Focus your attention on God’s sufficiency for your hurt. He can use it to bring good in your life if you allow Him to forgive others through you as He has forgiven you.
“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other...” Ephesians 4:32
When a person hurts us deeply, forgiveness can be obscured by the intensity of the pain: “How could that person do that to me?” “How can I possibly forgive them for what they have done?” Only when our focus shifts from a damage assessment to the sovereign hand of God at work in our lives can we genuinely forgive.
When Jacob died, Joseph’s brothers were afraid he would take revenge: “What if Joseph decides to punish us now?” Trembling, they asked Joseph’s forgiveness. His response echoes his confidence in God’s guidance and provision in the face of injustice: “...you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good...” (Gen. 50:20).
Even the deliberate wounds of another cannot foil God’s purposes for your life. He can integrate even the worst pain of betrayal into rich fabric of His plan. When you freely forgive another, you cultivate the fruitful soil of God’s blessing. You are free to experience His love, grace, and mercy. Focus your attention on God’s sufficiency for your hurt. He can use it to bring good in your life if you allow Him to forgive others through you as He has forgiven you.
“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other...” Ephesians 4:32
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Forgiving One Another
“But Jesus was saying, ‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves.” Luke 23:34
Jesus’ cry of pardon for those who nailed Him to an agonizing cross rings through the centuries: “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). In our humanity we wonder how even the divine Christ could think of such forgiveness for the scornful lot of Pharisees, soldiers, and those who jeered on the hill of Golgotha. Yet we, as disciples of Christ, are called by the Scriptures to be like our Teacher. Is there anything more difficult? Perhaps not. But are our circumstances any worse than the darkness of Calvary?
If forgiveness can be extended in the blackness of the cross, we can offer it in our shadows of hurt through Christ’s example. Jesus forgave because He knew sin’s deceit was at work in His persecutors. When people offend us, they do not fully understand the folly of their ways, the deceitfulness of sin, and the consequences of their actions.
Christ forgave because He had come to die for the sins of all men, including those who nailed Him to a tree. We forgive because we are called to love all men - even our enemies - knowing they too are objects of God’s seeking love. We can forgive because the forgiving Christ is within us.
“...forgive, if you have anything against anyone...” Mark 11:25
Jesus’ cry of pardon for those who nailed Him to an agonizing cross rings through the centuries: “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). In our humanity we wonder how even the divine Christ could think of such forgiveness for the scornful lot of Pharisees, soldiers, and those who jeered on the hill of Golgotha. Yet we, as disciples of Christ, are called by the Scriptures to be like our Teacher. Is there anything more difficult? Perhaps not. But are our circumstances any worse than the darkness of Calvary?
If forgiveness can be extended in the blackness of the cross, we can offer it in our shadows of hurt through Christ’s example. Jesus forgave because He knew sin’s deceit was at work in His persecutors. When people offend us, they do not fully understand the folly of their ways, the deceitfulness of sin, and the consequences of their actions.
Christ forgave because He had come to die for the sins of all men, including those who nailed Him to a tree. We forgive because we are called to love all men - even our enemies - knowing they too are objects of God’s seeking love. We can forgive because the forgiving Christ is within us.
“...forgive, if you have anything against anyone...” Mark 11:25
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Confession and Fellowship
“What we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. These things we write, so that our joy may be made complete.” 1 John 1:3-4
A son engages his father in a heated argument. Upset, the son slams the door to his room and remains there for hours. Days later the son still refuses to talk to his father. Finally, one evening the father and son are reconciled - their differences resolved.
When a person receives Christ as his Savior, his sins are no longer counted against him. In the fullest sense he has been pardoned. However, that is not all that salvation secures. Christ comes to make His home in the heart of the believer through the Holy Spirit, and God becomes the believer’s heavenly Father. One of the greatest privileges the Christian has in this new relationship is fellowship with the Father.
However, when we sin our intimacy is broken. Like the angry son, our relationship with our Father is affected by our selfish behavior. Confession is vital because it is the means by which God restores our close communion. When we live with open, unconfessed sin, our ability to enjoy God is diminished. God is not waiting for our sacrifice to renew His fellowship with us. He waits for our humble confession.
“This is eternal life, that they may know You...” John 17:3
A son engages his father in a heated argument. Upset, the son slams the door to his room and remains there for hours. Days later the son still refuses to talk to his father. Finally, one evening the father and son are reconciled - their differences resolved.
When a person receives Christ as his Savior, his sins are no longer counted against him. In the fullest sense he has been pardoned. However, that is not all that salvation secures. Christ comes to make His home in the heart of the believer through the Holy Spirit, and God becomes the believer’s heavenly Father. One of the greatest privileges the Christian has in this new relationship is fellowship with the Father.
However, when we sin our intimacy is broken. Like the angry son, our relationship with our Father is affected by our selfish behavior. Confession is vital because it is the means by which God restores our close communion. When we live with open, unconfessed sin, our ability to enjoy God is diminished. God is not waiting for our sacrifice to renew His fellowship with us. He waits for our humble confession.
“This is eternal life, that they may know You...” John 17:3
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
If We Confess...
“This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.” 1 John 1:5-10
When Christ died on the cross, He was crucified for all the sins of the world. That means He died for your sins of yesterday. All of a believer’s past transgressions are forgiven through the cross. That means He died for your sins of today. Wherever a believer violates the Word of God or grieves the Spirit of God, he is forgiven through the cross. That also means He died for your sins of tomorrow. Regardless of future sins, the believer is forgiven through Christ.
Because of the totality of His forgiveness, confession takes on a different meaning than many Christians assign it. Since Christ has died for all of our sins - past, present, and future - we do not confess our sins in order to be forgiven. We are already forgiven.
The Greek word for confess, which is used by the apostle John, means “to agree.” Confession means we agree with God concerning our disobedience and His hatred of sin. Our confession aligns our hearts with God’s perspective and restores our fellowship. He has forgiven us. Our sin disrupts our communion with Him, not our standing before Him.
“If I regard wickedness in my heart, the Lord will not hear.” Psalm 66:18
When Christ died on the cross, He was crucified for all the sins of the world. That means He died for your sins of yesterday. All of a believer’s past transgressions are forgiven through the cross. That means He died for your sins of today. Wherever a believer violates the Word of God or grieves the Spirit of God, he is forgiven through the cross. That also means He died for your sins of tomorrow. Regardless of future sins, the believer is forgiven through Christ.
Because of the totality of His forgiveness, confession takes on a different meaning than many Christians assign it. Since Christ has died for all of our sins - past, present, and future - we do not confess our sins in order to be forgiven. We are already forgiven.
The Greek word for confess, which is used by the apostle John, means “to agree.” Confession means we agree with God concerning our disobedience and His hatred of sin. Our confession aligns our hearts with God’s perspective and restores our fellowship. He has forgiven us. Our sin disrupts our communion with Him, not our standing before Him.
“If I regard wickedness in my heart, the Lord will not hear.” Psalm 66:18
Monday, November 14, 2011
A God of Mercy and Grace
But when he came to his senses, he said, “How many of my father’s hired men have more than enough bread, but I am dying here with hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and will say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me as one of your hired men.’” So he got up and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion for him, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.” But the father said to his slaves, “Quickly bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet; and bring the fattened calf, kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.” And they began to celebrate. Luke 15:17-24
God is under no obligation to mankind. As Creator, Lord, and sovereign Judge, He can make any decisions He desires which conforms to His holy character. Thus, when man sinned and incurred His judgement, God could have closed down planet Earth and annihilated man. But He did not, and that is what makes forgiveness so amazing.
He is a God of unconditional love. His love for man cannot be cancelled by our rejection, unbelief, or disdain. He loves us with an everlasting love, and He has demonstrated that love through that sacrifice of His Son Jesus.
Our Lord is a God of amazing grace which means He bestows His goodness upon us despite our unworthiness. Grace means God gives and gives and gives without ceasing. Salvation is the noblest gift of that grace.
He is a God of infinite mercy. While His grace gives us what we do not deserve, His mercy withholds what we do deserve. Because of the cross, God is merciful to man, refusing to treat us according to our sins.
Forgiveness flows from the heart of a loving, merciful, and gracious Father who patiently seeks to bring the lost into His waiting arms.
“...Your lovingkindness, O Lord, is everlasting...” Psalm 138:8
God is under no obligation to mankind. As Creator, Lord, and sovereign Judge, He can make any decisions He desires which conforms to His holy character. Thus, when man sinned and incurred His judgement, God could have closed down planet Earth and annihilated man. But He did not, and that is what makes forgiveness so amazing.
He is a God of unconditional love. His love for man cannot be cancelled by our rejection, unbelief, or disdain. He loves us with an everlasting love, and He has demonstrated that love through that sacrifice of His Son Jesus.
Our Lord is a God of amazing grace which means He bestows His goodness upon us despite our unworthiness. Grace means God gives and gives and gives without ceasing. Salvation is the noblest gift of that grace.
He is a God of infinite mercy. While His grace gives us what we do not deserve, His mercy withholds what we do deserve. Because of the cross, God is merciful to man, refusing to treat us according to our sins.
Forgiveness flows from the heart of a loving, merciful, and gracious Father who patiently seeks to bring the lost into His waiting arms.
“...Your lovingkindness, O Lord, is everlasting...” Psalm 138:8
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Choose Life
“But now having been freed from sin and enslaved to God, you derive your benefit, resulting in sanctification, and the outcome, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:22-23
Life and death struggles were commonplace in our country’s formative years. A child with an infection usually died for lack of antibiotics. A drought or crop disease meant that some would die of malnourishment. Today such problems are solved without much difficulty. An infection can be treated with any of dozens of medicines, and a bad crop year is managed with increased exports or the release of stored reserves.
Forgiveness of sin, however, remains the ultimate life and death issue. God decreed the penalty for sin as eternal death, everlasting separation from the presence of a holy, loving God. The punishment is not a temporary assignment in some unknown world or a permanent unconsciousness or destruction of mind, soul, and body.
Made in the image of God, our soul is immortal - to dwell either in God’s presence (heaven) or away from His presence (hell). God wants us to choose life which He gives through faith in His Son who paid sin’s price on our behalf. He has done all He can to keep us from the place of torment (2 Pet. 3:9).
What decision have you made? Life or death hangs in the balance.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
Life and death struggles were commonplace in our country’s formative years. A child with an infection usually died for lack of antibiotics. A drought or crop disease meant that some would die of malnourishment. Today such problems are solved without much difficulty. An infection can be treated with any of dozens of medicines, and a bad crop year is managed with increased exports or the release of stored reserves.
Forgiveness of sin, however, remains the ultimate life and death issue. God decreed the penalty for sin as eternal death, everlasting separation from the presence of a holy, loving God. The punishment is not a temporary assignment in some unknown world or a permanent unconsciousness or destruction of mind, soul, and body.
Made in the image of God, our soul is immortal - to dwell either in God’s presence (heaven) or away from His presence (hell). God wants us to choose life which He gives through faith in His Son who paid sin’s price on our behalf. He has done all He can to keep us from the place of torment (2 Pet. 3:9).
What decision have you made? Life or death hangs in the balance.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
Friday, November 11, 2011
Understanding God’s Grace
“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
When convicted serial murderer Ted Bundy publicly shared his religious beliefs days before his execution, many Christians doubted the reality of his conversion. Their reasoning is not necessarily based on his lack of sincerity or on erroneous doctrine but on the repulsiveness of Bundy’s crimes. How could someone who perpetrated such murders possibly by forgiven? - is their fundamental question.
This thinking fails to understand the complete inability of man to receive God’s forgiveness apart from a personal faith in Christ’s work on the cross. Mankind’s greatest need is forgiveness of sin because all men are lost. Moral men are guilty; immoral men are guilty.
When Christ died as our Substitute at Calvary and paid sin’s penalty, which is death, our righteous Judge was free to forgive men based on Christ’s full payment. With the sin debt paid, mankind can receive God’s pardon and gift of eternal life based completely and solely on Christ’s redeeming work.
God saves a Ted Bundy or a Good Sam on the same grounds: personal faith in Jesus Christ who shed His blood for the forgiveness of our sins - no matter how despicable they may be. The questions is not - is God able to save the worst of sinners?...But did the sinner genuinely receive Christ?
“...Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
When convicted serial murderer Ted Bundy publicly shared his religious beliefs days before his execution, many Christians doubted the reality of his conversion. Their reasoning is not necessarily based on his lack of sincerity or on erroneous doctrine but on the repulsiveness of Bundy’s crimes. How could someone who perpetrated such murders possibly by forgiven? - is their fundamental question.
This thinking fails to understand the complete inability of man to receive God’s forgiveness apart from a personal faith in Christ’s work on the cross. Mankind’s greatest need is forgiveness of sin because all men are lost. Moral men are guilty; immoral men are guilty.
When Christ died as our Substitute at Calvary and paid sin’s penalty, which is death, our righteous Judge was free to forgive men based on Christ’s full payment. With the sin debt paid, mankind can receive God’s pardon and gift of eternal life based completely and solely on Christ’s redeeming work.
God saves a Ted Bundy or a Good Sam on the same grounds: personal faith in Jesus Christ who shed His blood for the forgiveness of our sins - no matter how despicable they may be. The questions is not - is God able to save the worst of sinners?...But did the sinner genuinely receive Christ?
“...Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Man’s Greatest Need
“Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, ‘Brethren, what shall we do?’ Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.’” Acts 2:37-39
What would you say is mankind’s greatest need? There are many people living in war-torn countries who would reply: “World peace.” There are others who inhabit famine-stricken regions who would respond: “An adequate food and water supply.” There are others who live in substandard housing or rural poverty who would answer: “Improved economic conditions.”
Perhaps you have your own answer in mind. It may be “family harmony” or “racial equality” or “a stable work environment.” Suppose each of these problems was somehow eliminated - peace came to nations, the hungry were fed, the poor were elevated. What then would be mankind’s greatest need?
The Bible declares the timeless answer. Mankind’s greatest problem - for every age, for every culture, for ever man and woman - is the forgiveness of sin. Every conceivable burden is the result of sin, beginning with Adam and Eve’s transgression and polluting each succeeding generation with its poison. Worse yet, each member of the human race is a sinner - guilty before a just, holy God with the terrible judgement of eternal death.
“...through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.” Acts 13:38
What would you say is mankind’s greatest need? There are many people living in war-torn countries who would reply: “World peace.” There are others who inhabit famine-stricken regions who would respond: “An adequate food and water supply.” There are others who live in substandard housing or rural poverty who would answer: “Improved economic conditions.”
Perhaps you have your own answer in mind. It may be “family harmony” or “racial equality” or “a stable work environment.” Suppose each of these problems was somehow eliminated - peace came to nations, the hungry were fed, the poor were elevated. What then would be mankind’s greatest need?
The Bible declares the timeless answer. Mankind’s greatest problem - for every age, for every culture, for ever man and woman - is the forgiveness of sin. Every conceivable burden is the result of sin, beginning with Adam and Eve’s transgression and polluting each succeeding generation with its poison. Worse yet, each member of the human race is a sinner - guilty before a just, holy God with the terrible judgement of eternal death.
“...through Him forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.” Acts 13:38
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
The God of Hope
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13
Richards continues his wonderful summary on the powerful biblical concept of hope with this inspiring summary:
“In what do we hope?...It is God who is the focus and object - and ultimate guarantee - of our hope. Everything you and I hope for is wrapped up in Jesus. He is the power who works our present transformation. He is the one whose return marks history’s furthest horizon. He is the one thorough whom each believer will experience both the resurrection of the body and the future’s full expression of eternal life.
Like the OT saints, you and I will know hurt and uncertain tomorrows. We may suffer and experience tragedy, yet we can face the future expectantly. We may have to wait a while for the full experience of the good that God intends for us, but God is fully committed to everyone who makes a faith commitment to Him. ‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope’ (Jeremiah 29:11).”
He is the hope of the hopeless, and He is all-sufficient for every burden. Hope in God and He will sustain you.
“Instruct those...rich in this present world not to...fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches...” 1 Timothy 6:17
Richards continues his wonderful summary on the powerful biblical concept of hope with this inspiring summary:
“In what do we hope?...It is God who is the focus and object - and ultimate guarantee - of our hope. Everything you and I hope for is wrapped up in Jesus. He is the power who works our present transformation. He is the one whose return marks history’s furthest horizon. He is the one thorough whom each believer will experience both the resurrection of the body and the future’s full expression of eternal life.
Like the OT saints, you and I will know hurt and uncertain tomorrows. We may suffer and experience tragedy, yet we can face the future expectantly. We may have to wait a while for the full experience of the good that God intends for us, but God is fully committed to everyone who makes a faith commitment to Him. ‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope’ (Jeremiah 29:11).”
He is the hope of the hopeless, and He is all-sufficient for every burden. Hope in God and He will sustain you.
“Instruct those...rich in this present world not to...fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches...” 1 Timothy 6:17
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Our Hope
“Who is there to harm you if you prove zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed. And do not fear their intimidation, and do not be troubled, but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence; and keep a good conscience so that in the thing in which you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ will be put to shame.” 1 Peter 3:13-16
In his book, Expository Dictionary of Bible Words, Lawrence O. Richards defines the exciting, encouraging meaning of the New Testament word hope:
“In the New Testament (NT), hope is always the expectation of something good,” writes Richards. “It is also something we must wait for. In the NT unlike the OT [Old Testament], just what we hope for is carefully explained...Resurrection is a reality...Because believers will be raised to be with the Lord, we do ‘grieve like the rest of men who hope’ when death invades our circle of friends (1 Thess. 4:13).
The NT also associate hope with character. In the NT, character development is linked with patient endurance: doing the right thing despite delays in reaching goals or receiving rewards. So it is particularly significant when we are told that ‘endurance [is] inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ' (1 Thess. 1:3; Rom. 5:4-5). We are exhorted to ‘hold on to our courage the hope of which we boast’ (Heb. 3:6) and to make our hope sure showing ‘diligence to the very end’ (Heb. 6:11)....With hope we can maintain an optimistic outlook, even when things go wrong.”
“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul...enters within the veil.” Hebrews 6:19
In his book, Expository Dictionary of Bible Words, Lawrence O. Richards defines the exciting, encouraging meaning of the New Testament word hope:
“In the New Testament (NT), hope is always the expectation of something good,” writes Richards. “It is also something we must wait for. In the NT unlike the OT [Old Testament], just what we hope for is carefully explained...Resurrection is a reality...Because believers will be raised to be with the Lord, we do ‘grieve like the rest of men who hope’ when death invades our circle of friends (1 Thess. 4:13).
The NT also associate hope with character. In the NT, character development is linked with patient endurance: doing the right thing despite delays in reaching goals or receiving rewards. So it is particularly significant when we are told that ‘endurance [is] inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ' (1 Thess. 1:3; Rom. 5:4-5). We are exhorted to ‘hold on to our courage the hope of which we boast’ (Heb. 3:6) and to make our hope sure showing ‘diligence to the very end’ (Heb. 6:11)....With hope we can maintain an optimistic outlook, even when things go wrong.”
“This hope we have as an anchor of the soul...enters within the veil.” Hebrews 6:19
Monday, November 7, 2011
Put on the New Self
“So this I say, and affirm together with the Lord, that you walk no longer just as the Gentiles also walk, in the futility of their mind, being darkened in their understanding, excluded from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardness of their heart; and they, having become callous, have given themselves over to sensuality for the practice of every kind of impurity with greediness. But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus, that, in reference to your former manner of life, you lay aside the old self, which is being corrupted in accordance with the lusts of deceit, and that you be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:17-24
Once you realize your new identity and position in Christ, obedience to God’s Word takes on new dynamics. You do not have to be frightened or discouraged by biblical terms such as holiness. You can be holy because you are holy. Obeying the Scriptures can become an adventure and delight, not drudgery. We can experience the joy of following God as we embrace the following principles of our new identity.
First, know the truth. We can only obey what we know. That is why Paul wrote to the Romans: “Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin” (Rom.6:6). Rehearse daily who you are in Christ so that you might intimately know the truth.
Second, believe the truth. You cannot let feelings be your emotional or spiritual rudder. What God says about you as a new creature is true, no matter how you perceive yourself.
Third, act on the truth. Put into practice what God says. If God says to speak in such a way to bless others, do so.
There will be plenty of stumbling, but go on in Christ. Believe and practice what you know to be true, and the truth will set you free.
“And put on the new self, which...has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:24
Once you realize your new identity and position in Christ, obedience to God’s Word takes on new dynamics. You do not have to be frightened or discouraged by biblical terms such as holiness. You can be holy because you are holy. Obeying the Scriptures can become an adventure and delight, not drudgery. We can experience the joy of following God as we embrace the following principles of our new identity.
First, know the truth. We can only obey what we know. That is why Paul wrote to the Romans: “Knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin” (Rom.6:6). Rehearse daily who you are in Christ so that you might intimately know the truth.
Second, believe the truth. You cannot let feelings be your emotional or spiritual rudder. What God says about you as a new creature is true, no matter how you perceive yourself.
Third, act on the truth. Put into practice what God says. If God says to speak in such a way to bless others, do so.
There will be plenty of stumbling, but go on in Christ. Believe and practice what you know to be true, and the truth will set you free.
“And put on the new self, which...has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.” Ephesians 4:24
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Know Who You Are!
“So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’” John 8:31-32
It is God’s truth - eternal reality - that sets men free. When the truth of the gospel was presented concerning salvation, you believed its veracity and were liberated from the penalty of sin - death - and given eternal life. Now that you are a Christian, it is through your understanding of the truth of your new identity in Christ that you gain freedom and triumph over sin and entrenched patterns of destructive behavior.
In his book, Lifetime Guarantee, author Dr. Bill Gillham provides and extensive description of our new identity. Here is a partial list:
“You are accepted.” (Rom. 15:7)
“You are always led in His triumph.” (2 Cor. 2:14)
“You have boldness and confident access to God.” (Eph. 3:12)
“You were formerly dankness, but are now light. (Eph. 5:8)
“You have all your needs (not greeds) supplied.” (Phil. 4:19)
“You are a son and an heir.” (Gal. 4:7)
“You are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus.” (Eph. 1:3)
Meditate on these truths. Think of their wonderful implications. God has set you free to enjoy an abundant life through your new identity in Him.
“Having been buried with Him in baptism...you were also raised up with Him...” Colossians 2:12
It is God’s truth - eternal reality - that sets men free. When the truth of the gospel was presented concerning salvation, you believed its veracity and were liberated from the penalty of sin - death - and given eternal life. Now that you are a Christian, it is through your understanding of the truth of your new identity in Christ that you gain freedom and triumph over sin and entrenched patterns of destructive behavior.
In his book, Lifetime Guarantee, author Dr. Bill Gillham provides and extensive description of our new identity. Here is a partial list:
“You are accepted.” (Rom. 15:7)
“You are always led in His triumph.” (2 Cor. 2:14)
“You have boldness and confident access to God.” (Eph. 3:12)
“You were formerly dankness, but are now light. (Eph. 5:8)
“You have all your needs (not greeds) supplied.” (Phil. 4:19)
“You are a son and an heir.” (Gal. 4:7)
“You are blessed with every spiritual blessing in Christ Jesus.” (Eph. 1:3)
Meditate on these truths. Think of their wonderful implications. God has set you free to enjoy an abundant life through your new identity in Him.
“Having been buried with Him in baptism...you were also raised up with Him...” Colossians 2:12
Friday, November 4, 2011
Live Like Who You Are!
“For in Him all the fullness of Deity dwells in bodily form, and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority; and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. When He had disarmed the rulers and authorities, He made a public display of them, having triumphed over them through Him.
Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day - things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ.” Colossians 2:9-17
The reason a Christian can think like a new man and, therefore, act like a new man is because he is a new man in Christ Jesus. We tend to view the Christian life like a patched tire. We think of salvation as something added to our lives when we accepted Christ, repairing the puncture of sin but still leaving us damaged. That is not the biblical version at all. When we accepted Christ, we were given a new nature, Christ’s nature. We were give a brand new tire so to speak, not a retread.
You are no longer in Adam but in Christ. You are not partly in Christ and partly in Adam but completely in Christ (Col. 2:9). You have exchanged your old corrupt sin nature for Christ’s holy nature. This happened at the cross. You were crucified with Christ, buried with Christ, and risen with Christ. God did it, placing you in Christ and Christ in you (1 Cor. 1:30).
The life of Christ is your life. You can conquer any sin habit because you are now a slave of righteousness, not a slave of sin. As a new creature in Christ, you are free to serve Christ. You still may choose to sin, but you don’t have to for you have died to sin and are fully alive to God in Christ (Rom. 6:6-11).
“...our old self was crucified with Him, in order that...we would no longer be slaves to sin.” Romans 6:6
Therefore no one is to act as your judge in regard to food or drink or in respect to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath day - things which are a mere shadow of what is to come; but the substance belongs to Christ.” Colossians 2:9-17
The reason a Christian can think like a new man and, therefore, act like a new man is because he is a new man in Christ Jesus. We tend to view the Christian life like a patched tire. We think of salvation as something added to our lives when we accepted Christ, repairing the puncture of sin but still leaving us damaged. That is not the biblical version at all. When we accepted Christ, we were given a new nature, Christ’s nature. We were give a brand new tire so to speak, not a retread.
You are no longer in Adam but in Christ. You are not partly in Christ and partly in Adam but completely in Christ (Col. 2:9). You have exchanged your old corrupt sin nature for Christ’s holy nature. This happened at the cross. You were crucified with Christ, buried with Christ, and risen with Christ. God did it, placing you in Christ and Christ in you (1 Cor. 1:30).
The life of Christ is your life. You can conquer any sin habit because you are now a slave of righteousness, not a slave of sin. As a new creature in Christ, you are free to serve Christ. You still may choose to sin, but you don’t have to for you have died to sin and are fully alive to God in Christ (Rom. 6:6-11).
“...our old self was crucified with Him, in order that...we would no longer be slaves to sin.” Romans 6:6
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Control Your Thoughts
“Therefore if you have been raised up with Christ, keep seeking the things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Colossians 3:1-3
As we looked yesterday, Paul reminded the Corinthians of their position in Christ - holy, righteous, and blameless - because he knew their thinking must change before their behavior could be altered. Here is where many fail to overcome unwanted habits. We try to change our actions without our thinking being conformed to God’s truth. We inevitably act the way we perceive ourselves. If we feel like unworthy sinners, then we will usually act like one - guilt-ridden, erratic, and unhappy. Satan points his dirty finger at our actions and accuses us as vile sinners until we finally believe him.
Don’t believe a lie! Don’t yield to the father of lies and the accuser of the brethren who has no truth in him. This is the truth: You are a saint who occasionally sins. However, nothing you did yesterday, today, or tomorrow can change your position in Christ.
When you do sin, even habitually, you are not acting according to your true desires or identity as God’s holy one. You are acting inconsistently with your new nature in Christ. God says you are a saint now that you have received Christ. That is why you can experience victory over all sin. Christ is in you. He will make you more than a conqueror as you know the truth that sets you free.
“...Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me...” Matthew 16:23
As we looked yesterday, Paul reminded the Corinthians of their position in Christ - holy, righteous, and blameless - because he knew their thinking must change before their behavior could be altered. Here is where many fail to overcome unwanted habits. We try to change our actions without our thinking being conformed to God’s truth. We inevitably act the way we perceive ourselves. If we feel like unworthy sinners, then we will usually act like one - guilt-ridden, erratic, and unhappy. Satan points his dirty finger at our actions and accuses us as vile sinners until we finally believe him.
Don’t believe a lie! Don’t yield to the father of lies and the accuser of the brethren who has no truth in him. This is the truth: You are a saint who occasionally sins. However, nothing you did yesterday, today, or tomorrow can change your position in Christ.
When you do sin, even habitually, you are not acting according to your true desires or identity as God’s holy one. You are acting inconsistently with your new nature in Christ. God says you are a saint now that you have received Christ. That is why you can experience victory over all sin. Christ is in you. He will make you more than a conqueror as you know the truth that sets you free.
“...Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me...” Matthew 16:23
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Your Identity in Christ
“Paul, called as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, to the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling, with all who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and all knowledge, even as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you, so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
You are locked into a bad habit you cannot seem to lick. The more you try to do what God says is right, the tighter the vise. You struggle - for months, for years. There is some measure of release at times, but you still feel captive to the problem.
If that sounds like a familiar scenario to you, don’t give up. God has provided a way of escape, no matter how deep the bondage. He is the Rescuer. There is help in the battle. Knowing the truth, not struggling against the lie, is what sets you free. Receiving the victory, not trying to attain it, is Christ’s liberating message.
When the apostle Paul penned his first epistle to the Corinthians the church was a mess. The people lived in immorality, were involved in idol worship, and quarreled about their leadership. You would think Paul would immediately berate the Corinthians. Instead, he begins his letter with a remarkable description of their identity in Christ. He calls them “saints” or “holy ones.” He says they “have been sanctified,” not “will be sanctified.” He continues to remind them of the grace richly available to them.
Paul spoke the truth that sets men free - knowing you are in Christ will change your behavior.
“For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:6
You are locked into a bad habit you cannot seem to lick. The more you try to do what God says is right, the tighter the vise. You struggle - for months, for years. There is some measure of release at times, but you still feel captive to the problem.
If that sounds like a familiar scenario to you, don’t give up. God has provided a way of escape, no matter how deep the bondage. He is the Rescuer. There is help in the battle. Knowing the truth, not struggling against the lie, is what sets you free. Receiving the victory, not trying to attain it, is Christ’s liberating message.
When the apostle Paul penned his first epistle to the Corinthians the church was a mess. The people lived in immorality, were involved in idol worship, and quarreled about their leadership. You would think Paul would immediately berate the Corinthians. Instead, he begins his letter with a remarkable description of their identity in Christ. He calls them “saints” or “holy ones.” He says they “have been sanctified,” not “will be sanctified.” He continues to remind them of the grace richly available to them.
Paul spoke the truth that sets men free - knowing you are in Christ will change your behavior.
“For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” Romans 8:6
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Christ our Peace
“These things I have spoken to you while abiding with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” John 14:25-27
The key to peace is learning to focus on one thing - Jesus Christ. The enemy knows if we learn this secret, we will hold the truth to prevailing peace and nothing he throws our way will shatter our inner strength. Prevailing peace is the peace Christ experienced in the garden the night of His arrest. It is the same peace God offers us through our relationship with Jesus Christ. It is internal, not external. It is not based on our circumstances. We live in a world of conflict and strife, but prevailing peace surpasses the world’s strife.
How do we learn to focus on Christ as our peace, especially when facing doubts and fears? Recall His words of love to you. Repeat His promises from His Word, and ask Him to give you and inner ability to lay your spirit down within His arms of love. Peace comes when you let go of yourself and let Christ hold you.
Prevailing peace is not a passive peace. It is peace in action. It speaks of hope, of victory, and of triumph. It is a peace that cannot be defeated because it is founding in God. As the Prince of Peace, Jesus has promised to place Satan and all his forces under your feet.
Claim God’s peace as your and rest in the fact that He is your prevailing peace.
“The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3
The key to peace is learning to focus on one thing - Jesus Christ. The enemy knows if we learn this secret, we will hold the truth to prevailing peace and nothing he throws our way will shatter our inner strength. Prevailing peace is the peace Christ experienced in the garden the night of His arrest. It is the same peace God offers us through our relationship with Jesus Christ. It is internal, not external. It is not based on our circumstances. We live in a world of conflict and strife, but prevailing peace surpasses the world’s strife.
How do we learn to focus on Christ as our peace, especially when facing doubts and fears? Recall His words of love to you. Repeat His promises from His Word, and ask Him to give you and inner ability to lay your spirit down within His arms of love. Peace comes when you let go of yourself and let Christ hold you.
Prevailing peace is not a passive peace. It is peace in action. It speaks of hope, of victory, and of triumph. It is a peace that cannot be defeated because it is founding in God. As the Prince of Peace, Jesus has promised to place Satan and all his forces under your feet.
Claim God’s peace as your and rest in the fact that He is your prevailing peace.
“The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3
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