“Now there came a day when Elisha passed over to Shunem, where there was a prominent woman, and she persuaded him to eat food. And so it was, as often as he passed by, he turned in there to eat food. She said to her husband, ‘Behold now, I perceive that this is a holy man of God passing by us continually. Please, let us make a little walled upper chamber and let us set a bed for him there, and a table and a chair and a lampstand; and it shall be, when he comes to us, that he can turn in there.’ One day he came there and turned in to the upper chamber and rested.” 2 Kings 4:8-11
“And he went up and lay on the child, and put his mouth on his mouth and his eyes on his eyes and his hands on his hands, and he stretched himself on him; and the flesh of the child became warm. Then he returned and walked in the house once back and forth, and went up and stretched himself on him; and the lad sneezed seven times and the lad opened his eyes. He called Gehazi and said, ‘Call this Shunammite.’ So he called her. And when she came in to him, he said, ‘Take up your son.’ Then she went in and fell at his feet and bowed herself to the ground, and she took up her son and went out.” 2 Kings 4:34-37
There must have been many days when the prophet Elisha rejoiced in the hospitality ministry of the Shunammite woman. At first she prepared meals for him as he passed by, but then later she and her husband added an upstairs room where he could rest when he was weary. Little did she know that her generosity would lay the groundwork for Elisha to bring her son back from the dead.
As we participate in a lifestyle of selfless giving, we too are preparing the way for God to work His miracles in our lives - be they financial, spiritual, or emotional. Such preparation, however, can begin only as we take on the characteristics of the Shunammite woman.
We must be sensitive to the needs of others. No one told the Shunammite woman to feed and house Elisha. She observed his journeying and knew his needs.
We must be willing to sacrifice if necessary. Giving does not come naturally nor does it come easily. The Shunammite woman had to sacrifice some of their time and plans to accommodate Elisha.
We must have a servant spirit for agape giving to work. A servant is bent of meeting the needs of others.
“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” -Jim Elliot
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
God’s Formula for Blessing
“Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.” Luke 6:38
Like the farmer in the Bible who hoarded his grain, the world seeks to accumulate wealth. God’s way is opposed to the world’s ways. With God, the formula for blessing is summed up in one fundamental word - give.
To the logical, earth-bound mind, that is nonsense. How can you gain by giving away what you have? But in God’s eyes giving is the basic principle of true prosperity.
Giving is first and foremost the way to blessing because it declares our allegiance to and dependence upon God as our Source. The person who greedily gathers his goods around him almost always sees his stockpile as his resource. The giving person must look to God.
Also giving is God’s way to success because it imitates God Himself. God is always giving - food, air, goods, love, peace - all that is necessary for life to the fullest. When we give of our time, money, or love, we reflect the image of the One from Whom all blessings flow.
Then giving is God’s plan for our wallet and our walk because it keeps our focus on the needs and problems of others instead of just ourselves. God wants us to look upon the fields of humanity that He longs to bring into His storehouse.
“All that was ever ours is ours forever.” -Amy Carmichael
Like the farmer in the Bible who hoarded his grain, the world seeks to accumulate wealth. God’s way is opposed to the world’s ways. With God, the formula for blessing is summed up in one fundamental word - give.
To the logical, earth-bound mind, that is nonsense. How can you gain by giving away what you have? But in God’s eyes giving is the basic principle of true prosperity.
Giving is first and foremost the way to blessing because it declares our allegiance to and dependence upon God as our Source. The person who greedily gathers his goods around him almost always sees his stockpile as his resource. The giving person must look to God.
Also giving is God’s way to success because it imitates God Himself. God is always giving - food, air, goods, love, peace - all that is necessary for life to the fullest. When we give of our time, money, or love, we reflect the image of the One from Whom all blessings flow.
Then giving is God’s plan for our wallet and our walk because it keeps our focus on the needs and problems of others instead of just ourselves. God wants us to look upon the fields of humanity that He longs to bring into His storehouse.
“All that was ever ours is ours forever.” -Amy Carmichael
Monday, October 29, 2012
God’s Perspective About Money, Part 2
And He told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man was very productive. And he began reasoning to himself, saying, ‘What shall I do, since I have no place to store my crops?’ Then he said, ‘This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years to come; take your ease, eat, drink and be merry.”’ But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your soul is required of you; and now who will own what you have prepared?’ So is the man who stores up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” Luke 12:16-21
In her book Discipline, the Glad Surrender Elisabeth Elliot reveals four meaningful lessons to be learned from the discipline of our possessions:
“The first lesson is that all things are given by God...Because God gives us things indirectly by enabling us to make them with our own hands (out of things He has made, of course) or to earn the money to buy them...we are prone to forget that He gave them to us.
...We should be thankful. Thanksgiving requires the recognition of the Source. It implies contentment with what is given, not complain...It excludes covetousness.
...The third lesson is that things can be material for sacrifice. ...The father pours out His blessings on us; we, His creatures, receive them with open hands, give thanks, and lift them up as an offering back to Him...
...This lesson leads naturally to the fourth which is that things are given to us to enjoy for awhile...What is not at all fitting or proper is that we should set our hearts on them. Temporal things must be treated as temporal things - received, given thanks for, offered back but enjoyed.”
“...For all things come from You, and from Your hand we have given You.” 1 Chronicles 29:14
In her book Discipline, the Glad Surrender Elisabeth Elliot reveals four meaningful lessons to be learned from the discipline of our possessions:
“The first lesson is that all things are given by God...Because God gives us things indirectly by enabling us to make them with our own hands (out of things He has made, of course) or to earn the money to buy them...we are prone to forget that He gave them to us.
...We should be thankful. Thanksgiving requires the recognition of the Source. It implies contentment with what is given, not complain...It excludes covetousness.
...The third lesson is that things can be material for sacrifice. ...The father pours out His blessings on us; we, His creatures, receive them with open hands, give thanks, and lift them up as an offering back to Him...
...This lesson leads naturally to the fourth which is that things are given to us to enjoy for awhile...What is not at all fitting or proper is that we should set our hearts on them. Temporal things must be treated as temporal things - received, given thanks for, offered back but enjoyed.”
“...For all things come from You, and from Your hand we have given You.” 1 Chronicles 29:14
Sunday, October 28, 2012
God’s Perspective About Money
Now He was also saying to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and this manager was reported to him as squandering his possessions. And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this I hear about you? Give an accounting of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ The manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig; I am ashamed to beg. I know what I shall do, so that when I am removed from the management people will welcome me into their homes.’ And he summoned each one of his master’s debtors, and he began saying to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ And he said, ‘A hundred measures of oil.’ And he said to him, ‘Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.’ Then he said to another, ‘And how much do you owe?’ And he said, ‘A hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and write eighty.’ And his master praised the unrighteous manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the sons of this age are more shrewd in relation to their own kind than the sons of light. And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by means of the wealth of unrighteousness, so that when it fails, they will receive you into the eternal dwellings. He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you?” Luke 16:1-11
If you’re teaching a teenager to drive, you don’t start him off in a Ferrari. If you’re teaching a youngster about hunting, you don’t give him a twelve-gauge shotgun. Instead you start at a beginner’s level with compatible equipment.
For the Christian, money, plays a similar role. God has much He wants to entrust to us: effective ministry to others, evangelization of the unredeemed, and influential leadership in our families and the body of Christ. However, God is careful to distribute the stewardship of His spiritual treasures to those who have proven faithful in a much more common endeavor - the management of their financial resources.
Money is a tool God uses to develop the disciplines of self-control, contentment, and giving. To check your progress in this area, answer the following questions: Do you view money as your rightful recompense or as God’s blessing? Do you seek God’s will and wisdom in your spending, or do your pleasures and preferences rule? Are you giving at least a tenth of your income to God’s work?
As God witnesses your diligence and faithfulness in the use of money, He is eager to bestow far greater riches upon you.
“He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much...” Luke 16:10
If you’re teaching a teenager to drive, you don’t start him off in a Ferrari. If you’re teaching a youngster about hunting, you don’t give him a twelve-gauge shotgun. Instead you start at a beginner’s level with compatible equipment.
For the Christian, money, plays a similar role. God has much He wants to entrust to us: effective ministry to others, evangelization of the unredeemed, and influential leadership in our families and the body of Christ. However, God is careful to distribute the stewardship of His spiritual treasures to those who have proven faithful in a much more common endeavor - the management of their financial resources.
Money is a tool God uses to develop the disciplines of self-control, contentment, and giving. To check your progress in this area, answer the following questions: Do you view money as your rightful recompense or as God’s blessing? Do you seek God’s will and wisdom in your spending, or do your pleasures and preferences rule? Are you giving at least a tenth of your income to God’s work?
As God witnesses your diligence and faithfulness in the use of money, He is eager to bestow far greater riches upon you.
“He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much...” Luke 16:10
Friday, October 26, 2012
More is Caught than Taught
"In the same way, you wives, be submissive to your own husbands so that even if any of them are disobedient to the word, they may be won without a word by the behavior of their wives, as they observe your chaste and respectful behavior. Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the
hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle
and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. For in this way in former times the holy women also, who hoped in God, used to adorn themselves, being submissive to their own husbands; just as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, and you have become her children if you do what is right without being frightened by any fear." 1 Peter 3:1-6
One of the most significant ways a mother influences her children is the manner in which she relates to her husband. Since the majority of our sons and daughters will grow up to be husbands and wives, their view of marriage is learned primarily in their own household. Thus, a son will discern much about his future wife's role and a daughter her place as a wife from their mothers' example.
Above all, a woman is to be submissive to God. Her personal relationship to Jesus Christ permeates everything she does. As she submits to Christ, her children understand the importance of a godly mother. In addition, a woman should submit willingly to her mate. By coming under the servant-headship of her husband, a woman provides a biblical role model for her children.
A woman should support her husband emotionally and spiritually. She undergirds him in prayer - even when his judgement is questionable. Also a woman must respect her mate. She must express a sense of dignity and honor for her husband - bother verbally and non-verbally. Children are profoundly impacted for godly living when a woman creates and atmosphere of respect, encouragement, and service in their homes.
"...and the wife must see to it that she respects her husband." Eph. 5:33
Thursday, October 25, 2012
If You Love Them...
“She made a vow and said, ‘O Lord of hosts, if You will indeed look on the affliction of Your maidservant and remember me, and not forget Your maidservant, but will give Your maidservant a son, then I will give him to the Lord all the days of his life, and a razor shall never come on his head.’” 1 Samuel 1:11
“Now when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with a three-year-old bull and one ephah of flour and a jug of wine, and brought him to the house of the Lord in Shiloh, although the child was young. Then they slaughtered the bull, and brought the boy to Eli. She said, ‘Oh, my lord! As your soul lives, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you, praying to the Lord. For this boy I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him. So I have also dedicated him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the Lord.’ And he worshiped the Lord there.”
1 Samuel 1:24-28
A popular expression is “Have you hugged your child today?” Certainly no one would argue with the need for parental affection, but hugging must be done in moderation. Perhaps more than any other trait, overprotectiveness by mothers of their children stands out. Children need love, but they also have an increasing need for independence, responsibility, and personal discipline.
While progressively letting go of our children can be traumatic, it is a vital step for the development of our offspring. Moses’ mother had to release her child before Moses could lead the Israelites of slavery. Hannah had to part with Samuel before he could become Israel’s judge.
Two principles can help the mother who loves her children passionately but who wants God’s best for them. Children are a gift, not a possession. Your sons or daughters are entrusted to you, not owned by you. When we let go of our children, we are giving them back to God. Neither Moses nor Samuel were abandoned; they were, by faith, placed in God’s hands.
Love your child deeply. But remember that possessive love is selfish, while God’s love is always giving and trusting.
“Behold, children are a gift of the Lord...” Psalm 127:3
“Now when she had weaned him, she took him up with her, with a three-year-old bull and one ephah of flour and a jug of wine, and brought him to the house of the Lord in Shiloh, although the child was young. Then they slaughtered the bull, and brought the boy to Eli. She said, ‘Oh, my lord! As your soul lives, my lord, I am the woman who stood here beside you, praying to the Lord. For this boy I prayed, and the Lord has given me my petition which I asked of Him. So I have also dedicated him to the Lord; as long as he lives he is dedicated to the Lord.’ And he worshiped the Lord there.”
1 Samuel 1:24-28
A popular expression is “Have you hugged your child today?” Certainly no one would argue with the need for parental affection, but hugging must be done in moderation. Perhaps more than any other trait, overprotectiveness by mothers of their children stands out. Children need love, but they also have an increasing need for independence, responsibility, and personal discipline.
While progressively letting go of our children can be traumatic, it is a vital step for the development of our offspring. Moses’ mother had to release her child before Moses could lead the Israelites of slavery. Hannah had to part with Samuel before he could become Israel’s judge.
Two principles can help the mother who loves her children passionately but who wants God’s best for them. Children are a gift, not a possession. Your sons or daughters are entrusted to you, not owned by you. When we let go of our children, we are giving them back to God. Neither Moses nor Samuel were abandoned; they were, by faith, placed in God’s hands.
Love your child deeply. But remember that possessive love is selfish, while God’s love is always giving and trusting.
“Behold, children are a gift of the Lord...” Psalm 127:3
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Healing Broken Relationships, Part 2
“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.” 2 Corinthians 5:14-18
There was one event that could bring about a reconciliation between God and man - Christ’s death on the cross. Similarly, there is a singular, decisive act that must occur if a wounded relationship is to be healed - death to self. Someone must always choose to die when a friendship or an association has been damaged.
We must die to self-protection. A broken relationship bruises our emotions. A natural response is to withdraw physically and psychologically. God calls us, however, to take the risk of reaching out.
We must die to self-justification. Whenever a relationship is severed, we usually think of ourselves in the right and the other in the wrong. Reconciliation works when one lays down his or her right to self-justification and initiates healing.
Our ingrained tendency to self-assertion, however, is a strong ally of discord. Such denial is possible only through a deep experience of the cross and extension of God’s love. Jesus, though perfect, died for us. We, though perhaps deeply wronged, must take up that cross daily and die to self.
Because we have received the unmerited love of Jesus - expressed by Him for us on the cross - we now must extend God’s love to those who have hurt us.
“For the love of Christ controls us...” 2 Cor. 5:14
There was one event that could bring about a reconciliation between God and man - Christ’s death on the cross. Similarly, there is a singular, decisive act that must occur if a wounded relationship is to be healed - death to self. Someone must always choose to die when a friendship or an association has been damaged.
We must die to self-protection. A broken relationship bruises our emotions. A natural response is to withdraw physically and psychologically. God calls us, however, to take the risk of reaching out.
We must die to self-justification. Whenever a relationship is severed, we usually think of ourselves in the right and the other in the wrong. Reconciliation works when one lays down his or her right to self-justification and initiates healing.
Our ingrained tendency to self-assertion, however, is a strong ally of discord. Such denial is possible only through a deep experience of the cross and extension of God’s love. Jesus, though perfect, died for us. We, though perhaps deeply wronged, must take up that cross daily and die to self.
Because we have received the unmerited love of Jesus - expressed by Him for us on the cross - we now must extend God’s love to those who have hurt us.
“For the love of Christ controls us...” 2 Cor. 5:14
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Healing Broken Relationships
“For it was the Father’s good pleasure for all the fullness to dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile all things to Himself, having made peace through the blood of His cross; through Him, I say, whether things on earth or things in heaven. And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, engaged in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach— if indeed you continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel that you have heard, which was proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, was made a minister.” Colossians 1:19-23
John Stott, the former rector of All Souls Church in London said that sin causes conflict in three areas - with God, with others, and with self. When we receive the forgiveness of our sins through Christ, our conflict with God is ended. “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:1).
However, our conflict with others is still very real. Because of the presence and power of sin, relationships can still bring hurt, bitterness, anger, and rejection. In fact, it is such relational discord that brings so much frustration and pain to our Christian walk. We know God is for us, but we are not at all sure about anyone else. Disharmony with others continues to plague us because there is still conflict with self. Even after salvation, the internal battle over who will rule our lives rages.
Will we submit to Christ’s reign or our own? That is the pivotal question, and the answer colors every aspect of our relationship to one another. Surrendering our wills to Christ’s lordship to bring His peace into our affairs with men can only mean one thing - daily dying to self.
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love...”
Romans 12:10
John Stott, the former rector of All Souls Church in London said that sin causes conflict in three areas - with God, with others, and with self. When we receive the forgiveness of our sins through Christ, our conflict with God is ended. “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom. 5:1).
However, our conflict with others is still very real. Because of the presence and power of sin, relationships can still bring hurt, bitterness, anger, and rejection. In fact, it is such relational discord that brings so much frustration and pain to our Christian walk. We know God is for us, but we are not at all sure about anyone else. Disharmony with others continues to plague us because there is still conflict with self. Even after salvation, the internal battle over who will rule our lives rages.
Will we submit to Christ’s reign or our own? That is the pivotal question, and the answer colors every aspect of our relationship to one another. Surrendering our wills to Christ’s lordship to bring His peace into our affairs with men can only mean one thing - daily dying to self.
“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love...”
Romans 12:10
Monday, October 22, 2012
The Power of Intercession
“For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.” Colossians 1:9-12
Usually the last thing we do for individuals who rub us the wrong way is to pray for them. We would rather gossip, grumble, or backbite in such instances. Have you ever thought why that is true?
Of course, the power of sin within us is one culprit; but there is an even more ominous perpetrator at work. Our crafty and deadly adversary, the devil, busily plies his trade in such strained relationships, realizing that intercessory prayer on behalf of others is the one supernatural ingredient that can tear down his stronghold.
Without Christ, the unbeliever is in the terminal death grip of Satan and sin. With Christ, the believer is freed from the devil’s mastery but is susceptible to his evil influence. Behind the behavior of those who offend you is “the deceiver” at work. As long as we refuse or resist to pray on their behalf, it is unlikely we will see real change in them or in us.
Rather than verbally or mentally slur or badge those who irritate us, we must mount an assault on the evil open through regular, sincere intercession. Your petitions can spell the difference between freedom and bondage - for you and them.
“The Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends...” Job 42:10
Usually the last thing we do for individuals who rub us the wrong way is to pray for them. We would rather gossip, grumble, or backbite in such instances. Have you ever thought why that is true?
Of course, the power of sin within us is one culprit; but there is an even more ominous perpetrator at work. Our crafty and deadly adversary, the devil, busily plies his trade in such strained relationships, realizing that intercessory prayer on behalf of others is the one supernatural ingredient that can tear down his stronghold.
Without Christ, the unbeliever is in the terminal death grip of Satan and sin. With Christ, the believer is freed from the devil’s mastery but is susceptible to his evil influence. Behind the behavior of those who offend you is “the deceiver” at work. As long as we refuse or resist to pray on their behalf, it is unlikely we will see real change in them or in us.
Rather than verbally or mentally slur or badge those who irritate us, we must mount an assault on the evil open through regular, sincere intercession. Your petitions can spell the difference between freedom and bondage - for you and them.
“The Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he prayed for his friends...” Job 42:10
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Finding the Will of God
“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth.” Colossians 1:1-6
Finding the will of God for your life is often portrayed as walking a spiritual highwire - one misstep and disaster awaits. Haven’t you felt that way as you sought God’s purpose for your job or marriage or any number of other complex and difficult decisions - “How do I know whether to go to college here or there? Should I buy this house or that one?”
Anxiety over discerning God’s seemingly inscrutable ways can create terrific tension and even generate fear. Is this God’s intention? Certainly no one in the Bible is cast in such a light. We never see Paul biting his nails - despite his worldwide ministry responsibilities.
Rather than focusing completely on the need for guidance, we need to more clearly see our Guide. Even after studying and meditating on the Scriptures, seeking counsel, and gathering facts, we are incapable of forecasting the future consequences. Our sovereign God alone knows what those will be.
We must view God’s will primarily in the context of our relationship with Christ. We are to seek Jesus in daily obedience and dependence, trusting Him as our Source and Sustenance. As we draw nearer to our constant Guide and Companion, we will find direction and wisdom sufficient for every demand.
“For such is God, our God forever and ever;
He will guide us until death.” Psalm 48:14
Finding the will of God for your life is often portrayed as walking a spiritual highwire - one misstep and disaster awaits. Haven’t you felt that way as you sought God’s purpose for your job or marriage or any number of other complex and difficult decisions - “How do I know whether to go to college here or there? Should I buy this house or that one?”
Anxiety over discerning God’s seemingly inscrutable ways can create terrific tension and even generate fear. Is this God’s intention? Certainly no one in the Bible is cast in such a light. We never see Paul biting his nails - despite his worldwide ministry responsibilities.
Rather than focusing completely on the need for guidance, we need to more clearly see our Guide. Even after studying and meditating on the Scriptures, seeking counsel, and gathering facts, we are incapable of forecasting the future consequences. Our sovereign God alone knows what those will be.
We must view God’s will primarily in the context of our relationship with Christ. We are to seek Jesus in daily obedience and dependence, trusting Him as our Source and Sustenance. As we draw nearer to our constant Guide and Companion, we will find direction and wisdom sufficient for every demand.
“For such is God, our God forever and ever;
He will guide us until death.” Psalm 48:14
Friday, October 19, 2012
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.” Romans 1:16
We are a power-conscious people. Businessmen meet for “power lunches.” Politicians strive to gain ever increasing legislative power. Individuals with common causes group together to wield more clout. The military spends billions to develop and deploy Armageddon-scale weaponry. But there has never been - and will never be - anything that rivals the awesome power of the Gospel.
The Gospel has the power to deliver from death. Because Christ paid the penalty of sin - which is death - and emerged from the tomb, the Gospel is the only power that can liberate mankind from the horror of eternal, spiritual death. The Gospel alone can transfer a man from the domain of death and darkness into the kingdom of life and light (Col. 1:13).
It has the power to liberate from sin’s bondage. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, the power of the Gospel transforms our behavior, unchanging us from the grip of habits and passions. We are free to obey a new Master.
The Gospel also has the power to radically alter every relationship. Rather than striving for self-dominance or self-protection, the Gospel empowers man to reorient his life toward selfless giving, living, loving, and serving.
“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18
We are a power-conscious people. Businessmen meet for “power lunches.” Politicians strive to gain ever increasing legislative power. Individuals with common causes group together to wield more clout. The military spends billions to develop and deploy Armageddon-scale weaponry. But there has never been - and will never be - anything that rivals the awesome power of the Gospel.
The Gospel has the power to deliver from death. Because Christ paid the penalty of sin - which is death - and emerged from the tomb, the Gospel is the only power that can liberate mankind from the horror of eternal, spiritual death. The Gospel alone can transfer a man from the domain of death and darkness into the kingdom of life and light (Col. 1:13).
It has the power to liberate from sin’s bondage. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, the power of the Gospel transforms our behavior, unchanging us from the grip of habits and passions. We are free to obey a new Master.
The Gospel also has the power to radically alter every relationship. Rather than striving for self-dominance or self-protection, the Gospel empowers man to reorient his life toward selfless giving, living, loving, and serving.
“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Follow for the Right Reasons
“As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore. So Jesus said to the twelve, ‘You do not want to go away also, do you?’ Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.’”
John 6:66-69
In the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, many people surrounded the Messiah as He preached and ministered. As His date with the cross neared, however, only a few remained by His side. Those who had initially thronged to His presence eventually returned to their everyday routines because they had sought Him for selfish motives - for healed bodies and full stomachs - hoping Jesus would become “a shining knight” to deliver them from Rome.
Jesus did heal bodies, but the real healing was effected as He was torn on the cross. Jesus did feed the hungry, but His ultimate purpose was to satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst. Jesus did come to deliver - but from Satan’s grip, not Caesar’s.
If we are following Christ today for His blessings only or for His power or His provisions, we will eventually be disillusioned. There will come a time when there will be no visible sign of blessing - when every single comfort will be removed. If you have followed Christ for any other reason than loving, loyal obedience, you will be sorely disappointed.
We follow Christ for one foundational reason - He is Lord and King of all, and our allegiance is due Him. That is all that will sustain you when the fish and loaves have ceased.
“‘Do you love Me?’...‘Follow Me!’” John 21:17, 19
John 6:66-69
In the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, many people surrounded the Messiah as He preached and ministered. As His date with the cross neared, however, only a few remained by His side. Those who had initially thronged to His presence eventually returned to their everyday routines because they had sought Him for selfish motives - for healed bodies and full stomachs - hoping Jesus would become “a shining knight” to deliver them from Rome.
Jesus did heal bodies, but the real healing was effected as He was torn on the cross. Jesus did feed the hungry, but His ultimate purpose was to satisfy our spiritual hunger and thirst. Jesus did come to deliver - but from Satan’s grip, not Caesar’s.
If we are following Christ today for His blessings only or for His power or His provisions, we will eventually be disillusioned. There will come a time when there will be no visible sign of blessing - when every single comfort will be removed. If you have followed Christ for any other reason than loving, loyal obedience, you will be sorely disappointed.
We follow Christ for one foundational reason - He is Lord and King of all, and our allegiance is due Him. That is all that will sustain you when the fish and loaves have ceased.
“‘Do you love Me?’...‘Follow Me!’” John 21:17, 19
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Some Good News
“Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11
A casual reading of this passage in 1 Corinthians can be frightening. Paul seemingly says that anyone who commits idolatry, who steals, or is immoral cannot make it to heaven. Does that mean we who have embraced Christ as Savior and succumbed to the above sins have our eternal destiny changed? Not at all.
Paul is careful to ascribe this behavior to “the unrighteous” who have yet to receive Christ’s forgiveness and His gift of righteousness which can never be diminished or deleted by our behavior. In Christ, we have been changed.
Once we, by faith, acknowledge our sin and turn to Christ for His pardon, we are no longer “in Adam.” We are eternally secure “in Christ,” that is, guilty before God and dead in our sins but “righteous” - in right standing with God and spiritual alive.
If you are a Christian, you have been “washed” - born again by God’s Spirit and cleansed from the penalty of sin. You are “sanctified” - set apart from sin to God for His purposes. You are “justified” - no longer under condemnation but pardoned by the Judge of all men. If you sin, you will still reap the sorrow it brings; but your membership in the family of God is unchanged.
But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us...righteousness...” 1 Corinthians 1:30
A casual reading of this passage in 1 Corinthians can be frightening. Paul seemingly says that anyone who commits idolatry, who steals, or is immoral cannot make it to heaven. Does that mean we who have embraced Christ as Savior and succumbed to the above sins have our eternal destiny changed? Not at all.
Paul is careful to ascribe this behavior to “the unrighteous” who have yet to receive Christ’s forgiveness and His gift of righteousness which can never be diminished or deleted by our behavior. In Christ, we have been changed.
Once we, by faith, acknowledge our sin and turn to Christ for His pardon, we are no longer “in Adam.” We are eternally secure “in Christ,” that is, guilty before God and dead in our sins but “righteous” - in right standing with God and spiritual alive.
If you are a Christian, you have been “washed” - born again by God’s Spirit and cleansed from the penalty of sin. You are “sanctified” - set apart from sin to God for His purposes. You are “justified” - no longer under condemnation but pardoned by the Judge of all men. If you sin, you will still reap the sorrow it brings; but your membership in the family of God is unchanged.
But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us...righteousness...” 1 Corinthians 1:30
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Settle it Biblically
“Does any one of you, when he has a case against his neighbor, dare to go to law before the unrighteous and not before the saints? Or do you not know that the saints will judge the world? If the world is judged by you, are you not competent to constitute the smallest law courts? Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more matters of this life? So if you have law courts dealing with matters of this life, do you appoint them as judges who are of no account in the church? I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not among you one wise man who will be able to decide between his brethren, but brother goes to law with brother, and that before unbelievers? Actually, then, it is already a defeat for you, that you have lawsuits with one another. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be defrauded?” 1 Corinthians 6:1-7
Let me ask you a question - Can you think of a country where there are more lawsuits filed than America? Our bent toward legal action has skyrocketed insurance costs for most professions and impacted the pocketbook of each citizen. Over and above the legal ramifications, however, is the extraordinary emphasis that has been placed on individual rights. Such a mindset has made deep inroads - even into the Christian community. We are often just as quick to pursue court action as the unbelieving world around us.
This notion horrified Paul in his day. The thought of believers settling their disputes against one another before pagan judges was a black eye for the Christian witness - and still is. As Christians, we have yielded our rights to Jesus Christ. We have died to our selfish ways of living. Going to court against our fellow Christians is the antithesis of our call - to love one another unconditionally, to go the second mile.
If you have been wronged by a believer, seek to settle your disagreement through Christian meditation, or choose to be “defrauded” rather than mar your testimony before an unbelieving world.
“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders...” Colossians 4:5
Let me ask you a question - Can you think of a country where there are more lawsuits filed than America? Our bent toward legal action has skyrocketed insurance costs for most professions and impacted the pocketbook of each citizen. Over and above the legal ramifications, however, is the extraordinary emphasis that has been placed on individual rights. Such a mindset has made deep inroads - even into the Christian community. We are often just as quick to pursue court action as the unbelieving world around us.
This notion horrified Paul in his day. The thought of believers settling their disputes against one another before pagan judges was a black eye for the Christian witness - and still is. As Christians, we have yielded our rights to Jesus Christ. We have died to our selfish ways of living. Going to court against our fellow Christians is the antithesis of our call - to love one another unconditionally, to go the second mile.
If you have been wronged by a believer, seek to settle your disagreement through Christian meditation, or choose to be “defrauded” rather than mar your testimony before an unbelieving world.
“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders...” Colossians 4:5
Monday, October 15, 2012
Understanding Contentment
“Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:11-13
A contented Christian is one who has discovered...
1. ...that God has already provided all we need for a fulfilled life. God is the “giver” of all good things. Wanting more is the incurable dimension of pursuing happiness. How much money? How many things? What is enough?
Contentment in the Christian perspective realizes that God has, is, and will always supply all of my essential needs. I have Christ, the Source of all, and that is enough.
2. ...that meaning and purpose is internal, not external. Happiness works when we feel good. We feel good when things are going right. But what happens when the money isn’t in the checkbook, when the vacation ends, when the job turns sour? Happiness vanishes.
Contentment is regulated by the indwelling, steadfast presence of Christ. It is internal, a peace and harmony that cannot be disturbed by fluctuating circumstances.
3. ...that life on earth is not as good as it gets. The pursuit of happiness is so intense because those who chase it have little or no vision of eternity.
A contented Christian understands that the best is yet to come. Sorrow will always be mingled with joy on earth, but one day pain and tears will be eliminated.
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
A contented Christian is one who has discovered...
1. ...that God has already provided all we need for a fulfilled life. God is the “giver” of all good things. Wanting more is the incurable dimension of pursuing happiness. How much money? How many things? What is enough?
Contentment in the Christian perspective realizes that God has, is, and will always supply all of my essential needs. I have Christ, the Source of all, and that is enough.
2. ...that meaning and purpose is internal, not external. Happiness works when we feel good. We feel good when things are going right. But what happens when the money isn’t in the checkbook, when the vacation ends, when the job turns sour? Happiness vanishes.
Contentment is regulated by the indwelling, steadfast presence of Christ. It is internal, a peace and harmony that cannot be disturbed by fluctuating circumstances.
3. ...that life on earth is not as good as it gets. The pursuit of happiness is so intense because those who chase it have little or no vision of eternity.
A contented Christian understands that the best is yet to come. Sorrow will always be mingled with joy on earth, but one day pain and tears will be eliminated.
“And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Sunday, October 14, 2012
Happiness = Being Content
“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness.”
1 Timothy 6:6-11
Written into our country’s famous Declaration of Independence is the noble idea that each citizen possesses inalienable rights, among which are “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” In the past few decades, that pursuit has become more frenzied than ever. We, a nation of millions who seek the good life, “grab all the gusto” we can.
The framers of our document of freedom did not explain that while we may have a right to happiness, finding it and maintaining it is another matter altogether. The more we look, the more elusive happiness seems.
Moses endured millions of Israelites who were anything but “happy campers.” Jeremiah and Noah preached for a lifetime under oppressive conditions with little effectiveness. Paul’s home was the inside of jail cells for several years. Yet we cannot say these and other Bible personalities were sad, disillusioned men. Anything but that. Despite their conditions, they radiated joy. Perhaps it is because they defined happiness differently. “Contentment” would best describe them.
Searching for happiness is a roller coaster experience. Contentment, however, is one thing we can consistently attain.
“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above...” James 1:17
1 Timothy 6:6-11
Written into our country’s famous Declaration of Independence is the noble idea that each citizen possesses inalienable rights, among which are “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” In the past few decades, that pursuit has become more frenzied than ever. We, a nation of millions who seek the good life, “grab all the gusto” we can.
The framers of our document of freedom did not explain that while we may have a right to happiness, finding it and maintaining it is another matter altogether. The more we look, the more elusive happiness seems.
Moses endured millions of Israelites who were anything but “happy campers.” Jeremiah and Noah preached for a lifetime under oppressive conditions with little effectiveness. Paul’s home was the inside of jail cells for several years. Yet we cannot say these and other Bible personalities were sad, disillusioned men. Anything but that. Despite their conditions, they radiated joy. Perhaps it is because they defined happiness differently. “Contentment” would best describe them.
Searching for happiness is a roller coaster experience. Contentment, however, is one thing we can consistently attain.
“Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above...” James 1:17
Friday, October 12, 2012
Need Wisdom? - Ask!
“But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind. For that man ought not to expect that he will receive anything from the Lord, being a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.” James 1:5-8
Once we move from generalities to specifics in our prayers, the Scriptures instruct us to “ask in faith.” A faithless prayer is like an arrow released from a slackened bow - it seldom hits its target.
Suppose your son asked you for a bicycle to ride to and from school. The bicycle was a genuine need and you were more than able to fulfill his request. The next day you purchased a bicycle and presented it to your son only to discover that he had bought a new pair of walking shoes to walk to school. “Son, why did you buy the shoes?” you inquire. “Well, dad, I just figured you wouldn’t get me a bike, so I bought the shoes.”
This is the way our actions appear to God when we do not ask in faith, relying on His provision. We must believe He will do what we ask. His answer may not meet our deadline. It may not be what we expected. But His response will always be according to His perfect wisdom, bountiful love, His power, and His sovereign plan. He will give us His best which is always for our highest good.
When you pray, pray in faith, sincerely relying on a faithful God, and expecting His perfect answer.
“And without faith it is impossible to please Him...” Hebrews 11:6
Once we move from generalities to specifics in our prayers, the Scriptures instruct us to “ask in faith.” A faithless prayer is like an arrow released from a slackened bow - it seldom hits its target.
Suppose your son asked you for a bicycle to ride to and from school. The bicycle was a genuine need and you were more than able to fulfill his request. The next day you purchased a bicycle and presented it to your son only to discover that he had bought a new pair of walking shoes to walk to school. “Son, why did you buy the shoes?” you inquire. “Well, dad, I just figured you wouldn’t get me a bike, so I bought the shoes.”
This is the way our actions appear to God when we do not ask in faith, relying on His provision. We must believe He will do what we ask. His answer may not meet our deadline. It may not be what we expected. But His response will always be according to His perfect wisdom, bountiful love, His power, and His sovereign plan. He will give us His best which is always for our highest good.
When you pray, pray in faith, sincerely relying on a faithful God, and expecting His perfect answer.
“And without faith it is impossible to please Him...” Hebrews 11:6
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Be Specific
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man is there among you who, when his son asks for a loaf, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, he will not give him a snake, will he? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him!” Matthew 7:7-11
The word “generic” has entered the mainstream of our language. We can buy generic drugs at the pharmacy and walk over to the supermarket to buy a wide array of generic foods. The dictionary defines generic as “applicable or referring to all members of a genus or class.” In other words, generic is a term that can refer to a multitude of products in a category.
Could the term also describe your prayer life? Do you pray generically, “Lord, please bless my family, business, and relationships today. Amen.” What if you handled your other transactions in that manner? That’s like bringing your car into the mechanic’s shop and telling him to fix your car without identifying the problem.
We have to be detail oriented in our business and family affairs in order to be successful. Likewise, God expects us to be specific in our prayer life. If we are not specific, we may not even know if God has answered because we have not presented our petitions before Him.
A growing relationship with Christ is cultivated when He specifically answers our requests. It builds our trust and confidence and reveals His intimate care for us.
“...let your requests be made known to God.”
Philippians 4:6
The word “generic” has entered the mainstream of our language. We can buy generic drugs at the pharmacy and walk over to the supermarket to buy a wide array of generic foods. The dictionary defines generic as “applicable or referring to all members of a genus or class.” In other words, generic is a term that can refer to a multitude of products in a category.
Could the term also describe your prayer life? Do you pray generically, “Lord, please bless my family, business, and relationships today. Amen.” What if you handled your other transactions in that manner? That’s like bringing your car into the mechanic’s shop and telling him to fix your car without identifying the problem.
We have to be detail oriented in our business and family affairs in order to be successful. Likewise, God expects us to be specific in our prayer life. If we are not specific, we may not even know if God has answered because we have not presented our petitions before Him.
A growing relationship with Christ is cultivated when He specifically answers our requests. It builds our trust and confidence and reveals His intimate care for us.
“...let your requests be made known to God.”
Philippians 4:6
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Learn to Forgive Yourself
“Remember my affliction and my wandering,
the wormwood and bitterness.
Surely my soul remembers
and is bowed down within me.
This I recall to my mind,
therefore I have hope.
The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
for His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is Your faithfulness.
‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘Therefore I have hope in Him.’
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him,
to the person who seeks Him.” Lamentations 3:19-25
How can we forgive ourselves? How can we stop the pain that comes from knowing we have injured others? Here is the key. We can forgive ourselves because Christ has forgiven us. If Jesus Christ, the most stringent Judge, has declared your sin forgiven through His death on the cross, how can you not forgive yourself?
If we believe He can forgive even the most nightmarish sins of another, why do we feel He cannot forgive us? One reason is a false sense of pride. Somehow we feel more spiritual if we continually berate ourselves. We feel badly if we can feel good. That sort of self-abasement was condemned by Paul. We can no more earn God’s forgiveness than we can earn our salvation. Both are a gift from God.
Another reason is an erroneous view of repentance. Repentance does mean saying we’re sorry, but its ultimate meaning lies in a change of behavior. Repentance doesn’t mean we grovel in self-pity, but deliberately trust God to transform our conduct through His Spirit.
Christ has forgiven you. He loves you as you are. Let Christ handle your past and revolutionize your today and tomorrow.
“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
the wormwood and bitterness.
Surely my soul remembers
and is bowed down within me.
This I recall to my mind,
therefore I have hope.
The Lord’s lovingkindnesses indeed never cease,
for His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is Your faithfulness.
‘The Lord is my portion,’ says my soul,
‘Therefore I have hope in Him.’
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him,
to the person who seeks Him.” Lamentations 3:19-25
How can we forgive ourselves? How can we stop the pain that comes from knowing we have injured others? Here is the key. We can forgive ourselves because Christ has forgiven us. If Jesus Christ, the most stringent Judge, has declared your sin forgiven through His death on the cross, how can you not forgive yourself?
If we believe He can forgive even the most nightmarish sins of another, why do we feel He cannot forgive us? One reason is a false sense of pride. Somehow we feel more spiritual if we continually berate ourselves. We feel badly if we can feel good. That sort of self-abasement was condemned by Paul. We can no more earn God’s forgiveness than we can earn our salvation. Both are a gift from God.
Another reason is an erroneous view of repentance. Repentance does mean saying we’re sorry, but its ultimate meaning lies in a change of behavior. Repentance doesn’t mean we grovel in self-pity, but deliberately trust God to transform our conduct through His Spirit.
Christ has forgiven you. He loves you as you are. Let Christ handle your past and revolutionize your today and tomorrow.
“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Forgiveness and God’s Grace
“I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all. Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:12-16
“Be easy on others and hard on yourself” is an old saying. To a degree, that common-sense proverb rings true. But when it comes to forgiveness, it can be misapplied. What if we are the ones responsible for a divorce? What if we are the ones who spread malicious gossip about another - gossip that proved false? What if we lost our tempers and struck our mates? An inability to forgive ourselves can lead to severe character disorders, plunging us ever deeper into discouragement, bitterness, and hopelessness.
If anyone had a reason to judge himself harshly, it was the Apostle Paul. He was a killer, persecutor, and enemy of the church. What if Paul had allowed his past to haunt him after his dramatic conversion to Christ? Could he possibly have shared Christ so boldly and persistently? And remember David’s sin. What if he had dwelt on his sin with Bathsheba? Could he have been a “man after God’s own heart?”
In each case, their refusal to forgive themselves would have damaged their lives and ministry. Being hard on yourself when it comes to forgiveness is a setup for a lifetime of self-inflicted pain.
“And their sins and their lawless deeds
I will remember no more.” Hebrews 10:17
“Be easy on others and hard on yourself” is an old saying. To a degree, that common-sense proverb rings true. But when it comes to forgiveness, it can be misapplied. What if we are the ones responsible for a divorce? What if we are the ones who spread malicious gossip about another - gossip that proved false? What if we lost our tempers and struck our mates? An inability to forgive ourselves can lead to severe character disorders, plunging us ever deeper into discouragement, bitterness, and hopelessness.
If anyone had a reason to judge himself harshly, it was the Apostle Paul. He was a killer, persecutor, and enemy of the church. What if Paul had allowed his past to haunt him after his dramatic conversion to Christ? Could he possibly have shared Christ so boldly and persistently? And remember David’s sin. What if he had dwelt on his sin with Bathsheba? Could he have been a “man after God’s own heart?”
In each case, their refusal to forgive themselves would have damaged their lives and ministry. Being hard on yourself when it comes to forgiveness is a setup for a lifetime of self-inflicted pain.
“And their sins and their lawless deeds
I will remember no more.” Hebrews 10:17
Monday, October 8, 2012
Have a Forgiving Spirit
“For if you forgive others for their transgressions, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, then your Father will not forgive your transgressions.” Matthew 6:14-15
God has so arranged the Christian life that our relationship with Him is inseparably linked with our relationships to others. That is especially evident in His criteria for our prayer lives: “Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there...and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering” (Matthew 5:23-24).
God wants His people to demonstrate a forgiving spirit because of its influence on our relationship with Him. Keeping our hearts right with our Heavenly Father, thus, involves cultivating honest and loving relationships with one another. There will be some who simply refuse our offer of reconciliation. If that is true, we must trust God for the outcome while maintaining our willingness for restoration.
This aspect of prayer also helps ensure that we are expressing and living our faith in a practical way. We cannot shut ourselves in the prayer closet and then treat others badly who are made in the image of God. Keeping a forgiving spirit is a source of accountability before God as well as an instrument of peace with man.
“...be at peace with all men.” Romans 12:18
God has so arranged the Christian life that our relationship with Him is inseparably linked with our relationships to others. That is especially evident in His criteria for our prayer lives: “Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there...and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering” (Matthew 5:23-24).
God wants His people to demonstrate a forgiving spirit because of its influence on our relationship with Him. Keeping our hearts right with our Heavenly Father, thus, involves cultivating honest and loving relationships with one another. There will be some who simply refuse our offer of reconciliation. If that is true, we must trust God for the outcome while maintaining our willingness for restoration.
This aspect of prayer also helps ensure that we are expressing and living our faith in a practical way. We cannot shut ourselves in the prayer closet and then treat others badly who are made in the image of God. Keeping a forgiving spirit is a source of accountability before God as well as an instrument of peace with man.
“...be at peace with all men.” Romans 12:18
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Bitterness Affects Life
“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.” Hebrews 12:14-15
A financial planning corporation was closed by officials after investors reported losing enormous sums. One retired investor lost his life savings - $200,000. Both he and his wife were forced into the work force to cover their living expenses. In an interview he remarked that his anger had not subsided, and he would remain mad “until the day I die.”
His bitterness not only will affect him, but it will impact those touched by his life. The venom of bitterness is contagious. A bitter man can infect his family; a bitter employee can communicate hostility to his fellow workers. That is what makes forgiveness so essential - regardless of the nature of the offense.
However cruel and unwarranted your pain may be, forgiveness based on Christ’s unconditional love is the most effective healing agent. For the sake of Christ, your sake, and the sake of those you love, choose by an act of your will to allow the Lord to forgive through you those who have mistreated either you or a loved one.
Christ won our forgiveness by dying on a cross. We forgive by dying to self and becoming an agent for agape love.
“...‘how often shall...I forgive him?’....‘up to seventy times seven.’” Matthew 18:21-22
A financial planning corporation was closed by officials after investors reported losing enormous sums. One retired investor lost his life savings - $200,000. Both he and his wife were forced into the work force to cover their living expenses. In an interview he remarked that his anger had not subsided, and he would remain mad “until the day I die.”
His bitterness not only will affect him, but it will impact those touched by his life. The venom of bitterness is contagious. A bitter man can infect his family; a bitter employee can communicate hostility to his fellow workers. That is what makes forgiveness so essential - regardless of the nature of the offense.
However cruel and unwarranted your pain may be, forgiveness based on Christ’s unconditional love is the most effective healing agent. For the sake of Christ, your sake, and the sake of those you love, choose by an act of your will to allow the Lord to forgive through you those who have mistreated either you or a loved one.
Christ won our forgiveness by dying on a cross. We forgive by dying to self and becoming an agent for agape love.
“...‘how often shall...I forgive him?’....‘up to seventy times seven.’” Matthew 18:21-22
Friday, October 5, 2012
Beware of Bitterness
“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.” Colossians 3:12-14
A city police officer was severely wounded in the line of duty. After months of rehabilitation, he was still in a wheelchair where he very likely will spend the rest of his life. A local television station interviewed the officer during a fund raising drive to help cover his high medical expenses. The reporter asked, “Are you bitter at what has happened to you?” His response was firm: “I do not have any time to waste on feeling bitter.”
A bitter spirit does not profit its host; it destroys him. A man or woman who refuses to forgive another has created the ideal climate for the growth of bitterness. The bitter person can harbor a grudge against his offender for years, a decade, a lifetime - and have nothing to gain but anger and frustration. Attempts at retaliation only tighten the grip of bitterness.
Forgiveness is the only antidote for a bitter heart. Healing and restoration begin when we release the one who hurts us from our judgement. Are you bitter toward someone? Have you been unable to forgive? Today, by God’s enabling, forgive the offender and remove the emotional parasite of bitterness from your heart.
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” Philemon 1:25
A city police officer was severely wounded in the line of duty. After months of rehabilitation, he was still in a wheelchair where he very likely will spend the rest of his life. A local television station interviewed the officer during a fund raising drive to help cover his high medical expenses. The reporter asked, “Are you bitter at what has happened to you?” His response was firm: “I do not have any time to waste on feeling bitter.”
A bitter spirit does not profit its host; it destroys him. A man or woman who refuses to forgive another has created the ideal climate for the growth of bitterness. The bitter person can harbor a grudge against his offender for years, a decade, a lifetime - and have nothing to gain but anger and frustration. Attempts at retaliation only tighten the grip of bitterness.
Forgiveness is the only antidote for a bitter heart. Healing and restoration begin when we release the one who hurts us from our judgement. Are you bitter toward someone? Have you been unable to forgive? Today, by God’s enabling, forgive the offender and remove the emotional parasite of bitterness from your heart.
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” Philemon 1:25
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Freely Forgive
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 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 the 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 a He has forgiven you.
“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other...” Ephesians 4:32
When a person hurts 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 the 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 a He has forgiven you.
“Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other...” Ephesians 4:32
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Called to Forgive
“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 by following 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 by following 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
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Confession is Good
“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.” 1 John 1:3
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, and the gift of salvation is forever his. But that is not all that salvation secures. Christ becomes to make His home in the heart of the believer through the Holy Spirit, and God comes the believer’s Heavenly Father. He is a new member of God’s earthly family. One of the greatest privileges the Christian has in this new relationship is fellowship with the Father.
But when we sin our intimacy is broken. Like the angry son, our relationship with our Father is strained by our abnormal 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, and the gift of salvation is forever his. But that is not all that salvation secures. Christ becomes to make His home in the heart of the believer through the Holy Spirit, and God comes the believer’s Heavenly Father. He is a new member of God’s earthly family. One of the greatest privileges the Christian has in this new relationship is fellowship with the Father.
But when we sin our intimacy is broken. Like the angry son, our relationship with our Father is strained by our abnormal 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
Monday, October 1, 2012
Keeping the Lines Open
“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 his sins in the future, 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 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 and souls 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
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 his sins in the future, 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 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 and souls 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
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