“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.” Ephesians 2:8-10
Bernard of Clairvaux was a twelfth-century French monk who had an appreciation and insight into the treasures of God’s grace. In his writings on The Love of God, Bernard describes the workings of grace in this manner:
“When you received your existence and when you were sanctified and when you received eternal salvation, which of these, O man, did you or could you perform? ...You did not create yourself as you were not there to do so (John 38:4). Nor in sin could you restore yourself to grace. Nor in death could you rise again.
...Who then is unaware that righteousness comes only from God? The self-righteous man. And who is he who justifies himself? It is the man who imagines that his merits come from some other source than grace.
The One Who gives rewards is He Who made them in the first place. The one on whom He bestows His favors says, ‘What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits?’ That is to say, to give back for what He has previously given? The psalmist proclaims that his existence and his righteousness belong solely to God, lest in denying their source, he lose them both...”
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father...”
Ephesians 1:2
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Embrace His Grace
“For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous man; though perhaps for the good man someone would dare even to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6-8
It was several years ago now that small Texas toddler name “baby Jessica” captured the hearts of Americans. Her plight dominated the media for days as she was trapped in a narrow, abandoned well shaft. Offers to help rescue the little girl poured in from across the nation which celebrated her subsequent deliverance.
In a striking way, all of mankind, apart from God, is in a similar predicament. Paul puts it this way: “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly” (Rom. 5:6). Baby Jessica, tightly wedged in the shaft, was utterly helpless to save herself. Left to her own devices, she would have perished. Her only hope was an able rescuer.
Hopelessly trapped in sin, man can receive salvation only through the grace of God. We are as helpless as baby Jessica to extricate ourselves from our spiritual pit of death. It is tough to admit that we are powerless, but that is our condition before a holy God.
Either we must embrace the offer of His grace through Jesus Christ, or we shall die in our sins. Have you received the offer of God’s grace, the forgiveness of your sins through His death on the cross? Only His grace can save you.
“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins.” Ephesians 2:1
It was several years ago now that small Texas toddler name “baby Jessica” captured the hearts of Americans. Her plight dominated the media for days as she was trapped in a narrow, abandoned well shaft. Offers to help rescue the little girl poured in from across the nation which celebrated her subsequent deliverance.
In a striking way, all of mankind, apart from God, is in a similar predicament. Paul puts it this way: “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly” (Rom. 5:6). Baby Jessica, tightly wedged in the shaft, was utterly helpless to save herself. Left to her own devices, she would have perished. Her only hope was an able rescuer.
Hopelessly trapped in sin, man can receive salvation only through the grace of God. We are as helpless as baby Jessica to extricate ourselves from our spiritual pit of death. It is tough to admit that we are powerless, but that is our condition before a holy God.
Either we must embrace the offer of His grace through Jesus Christ, or we shall die in our sins. Have you received the offer of God’s grace, the forgiveness of your sins through His death on the cross? Only His grace can save you.
“And you were dead in your trespasses and sins.” Ephesians 2:1
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
A Father’s Greatest Gift to His Children, Part 2
“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4
Searching for gifts for your children is a challenging task - given the unique tastes of each child and the ever-changing array of items. What if someone told you of a gift that every child is guaranteed to like, never breaks or tears, lasts almost forever, and can be given again and again? Best of all, it is free. Are you interested? Okay, here it is - time.
Investing your time in the lives of your children is the greatest gift a father can give. It is an investment of your heart, mind, and soul that brings sheer delight and can reap dividends for generations to come. When we give children our time, we share our love.
Nothing tells a child how much we love them more than spending time with them - not just quality time but quantity time. Children do not just want our presence; they want our participation. Joining with them in their activities knits the hearts of fathers and children together.
Most of all, when we give children our time, we give them ourselves. Material gifts are a poor substitute for the worth of a father’s devotion. God loves us so much that He gave Himself for us.
“Making the most of your time...” Ephesians 5:16
Searching for gifts for your children is a challenging task - given the unique tastes of each child and the ever-changing array of items. What if someone told you of a gift that every child is guaranteed to like, never breaks or tears, lasts almost forever, and can be given again and again? Best of all, it is free. Are you interested? Okay, here it is - time.
Investing your time in the lives of your children is the greatest gift a father can give. It is an investment of your heart, mind, and soul that brings sheer delight and can reap dividends for generations to come. When we give children our time, we share our love.
Nothing tells a child how much we love them more than spending time with them - not just quality time but quantity time. Children do not just want our presence; they want our participation. Joining with them in their activities knits the hearts of fathers and children together.
Most of all, when we give children our time, we give them ourselves. Material gifts are a poor substitute for the worth of a father’s devotion. God loves us so much that He gave Himself for us.
“Making the most of your time...” Ephesians 5:16
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
A Father’s Greatest Gift to His Children, Part 1
“How blessed is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. When you shall eat of the fruit of your hands, you will be happy and it will be well with you. Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine within your house, your children like olive plants around your table. Behold, for thus shall the man be blessed who fears the Lord. The Lord bless you from Zion, and may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Indeed, may you see your children’s children. Peace be upon Israel!” Psalm 128:1-6
Since almost nothing affects a child as much as how he views himself, one of the most wonderful contributions a father makes to his children is giving them a healthy biblical self-image.
First, a father needs to love his children unconditionally. Nothing hurts deeper and longer than rejection. If we love our children based on their performance or require them to live up to our perfectionistic expectations, we stunt their self-esteem. Loving unconditionally means we love our children - no matter what - because they are God’s gift to us.
Second, he must help them handle tasks that build up confidence and responsibility. Children who are not taught the value of work and are easy preys of inferiority and inadequacy. Manageable assignments from dad foster a genuine sense of competency and allow expression of each child’s God-given talents.
Third, a father needs to give his children opportunity for service. A biblical self-image blossoms when we look for opportunities to serve others. Preoccupation with self creates a distorted image.
Children who are loved in this manner have a head start in experiencing an abundant Christian life.
“Love never fails...” 1 Corinthians 13:8
Since almost nothing affects a child as much as how he views himself, one of the most wonderful contributions a father makes to his children is giving them a healthy biblical self-image.
First, a father needs to love his children unconditionally. Nothing hurts deeper and longer than rejection. If we love our children based on their performance or require them to live up to our perfectionistic expectations, we stunt their self-esteem. Loving unconditionally means we love our children - no matter what - because they are God’s gift to us.
Second, he must help them handle tasks that build up confidence and responsibility. Children who are not taught the value of work and are easy preys of inferiority and inadequacy. Manageable assignments from dad foster a genuine sense of competency and allow expression of each child’s God-given talents.
Third, a father needs to give his children opportunity for service. A biblical self-image blossoms when we look for opportunities to serve others. Preoccupation with self creates a distorted image.
Children who are loved in this manner have a head start in experiencing an abundant Christian life.
“Love never fails...” 1 Corinthians 13:8
Monday, June 25, 2012
Handing Down the Faith
“For I am mindful of the sincere faith within you, which first dwelt in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am sure that it is in you as well.” 2 Timothy 1:5
In our individualistic age, it has grown more difficult for us to see how each generation influences the next. A contemporary analogy is that of the relay race in which one member passes the baton to the next runner and he to the next until the race is finished. A runner usually takes the baton in his left hand and transfers it to his right as he runs. Similarly, a father first must make sure his faith in his own, not that of his parents or his preacher - if his children are to see genuine Christianity at work.
To win the race, each member must run well. A father’s daily walk with God - trust, prayer, study of the Scriptures, and obedience - must characterize his life. The critical point in a relay is the exchange zone, a set number of meters in which the baton must be passed. A father should begin passing along his faith to his children at an early age, the crucial “exchange zone” during which a child forms the majority of his spiritual and moral character.
Are you passing on the vitality of your faith to your children? If you have been negligent, call on the grace of God that gives you a new chance each and every day.
“...He commanded our fathers that they should teach them to their children.” Psalm 78:5
In our individualistic age, it has grown more difficult for us to see how each generation influences the next. A contemporary analogy is that of the relay race in which one member passes the baton to the next runner and he to the next until the race is finished. A runner usually takes the baton in his left hand and transfers it to his right as he runs. Similarly, a father first must make sure his faith in his own, not that of his parents or his preacher - if his children are to see genuine Christianity at work.
To win the race, each member must run well. A father’s daily walk with God - trust, prayer, study of the Scriptures, and obedience - must characterize his life. The critical point in a relay is the exchange zone, a set number of meters in which the baton must be passed. A father should begin passing along his faith to his children at an early age, the crucial “exchange zone” during which a child forms the majority of his spiritual and moral character.
Are you passing on the vitality of your faith to your children? If you have been negligent, call on the grace of God that gives you a new chance each and every day.
“...He commanded our fathers that they should teach them to their children.” Psalm 78:5
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Influence by Example
“Hear, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord is one! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Deuteronomy 6:4-9
The value of family devotions is priceless, but a father must never make the mistake of substituting evening or morning devotions for a lifestyle of devotion. That is precisely Moses’ timeless advice to parents: “...you shall...talk of them (God’s ways) when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up” (Deut. 6:7). Whether he comprehends it or not, a father is communicating something about his faith in God from the moment he awakes to the moment he rests for the night.
While children certainly do learn much about God through structured times of teaching, they often learn far more from the events that fill the majority of their time. A time in the woods is a great place for a father to communicate the greatness and wisdom of the Creator to his child. A disappointing day at school or a crushing error on the ballfield are practical springboards to let our children know God cares about their hurts, understands their heartaches, and will see them through any trouble. There are literally thousands of everyday opportunities for the father who is sensitive to the Holy Spirit to relate the principles of Scripture and the character of God to his children.
“Only give heed to yourself and keep your soul diligently, so that you do not forget the things which your eyes have seen and they do not depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your sons and your grandsons.” Deuteronomy 4:9
The value of family devotions is priceless, but a father must never make the mistake of substituting evening or morning devotions for a lifestyle of devotion. That is precisely Moses’ timeless advice to parents: “...you shall...talk of them (God’s ways) when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up” (Deut. 6:7). Whether he comprehends it or not, a father is communicating something about his faith in God from the moment he awakes to the moment he rests for the night.
While children certainly do learn much about God through structured times of teaching, they often learn far more from the events that fill the majority of their time. A time in the woods is a great place for a father to communicate the greatness and wisdom of the Creator to his child. A disappointing day at school or a crushing error on the ballfield are practical springboards to let our children know God cares about their hurts, understands their heartaches, and will see them through any trouble. There are literally thousands of everyday opportunities for the father who is sensitive to the Holy Spirit to relate the principles of Scripture and the character of God to his children.
“Only give heed to yourself and keep your soul diligently, so that you do not forget the things which your eyes have seen and they do not depart from your heart all the days of your life; but make them known to your sons and your grandsons.” Deuteronomy 4:9
Friday, June 22, 2012
What Every Father Needs to Be
“Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6
Although Proverbs 22:6 is often quoted, its underlying meaning is frequently overlooked. A Hebrew phrasing renders the passage like this: “Train up a child according to his individual bent or talent, and when he is old, he will not stray from it.” Pastor and author Larry Christenson describes this principle in his book The Christian Family:
“Every person comes into the world, and comes into the body of Christ, with ‘sealed orders’ - a unique destiny to fulfill. Part of the calling of a parent is to help the child unseal his orders - discover what it is that God means him to be and to do. We are to train up a child not simply in the way that any and every child should go but also in the (specific and unique) way he should go. That means that parents must deal with each one of their children under the creative leading of the Holy Spirit. That does not mean the family becomes a place for rampant individualism, but it does mean the differences in the character and make-up of the children betoken differences in the destiny which God has appointed for each one of them.”
Father, are you helping your child fulfill God’s plan for his life?
“Know well the condition of your flocks...” Proverbs 27:23
Although Proverbs 22:6 is often quoted, its underlying meaning is frequently overlooked. A Hebrew phrasing renders the passage like this: “Train up a child according to his individual bent or talent, and when he is old, he will not stray from it.” Pastor and author Larry Christenson describes this principle in his book The Christian Family:
“Every person comes into the world, and comes into the body of Christ, with ‘sealed orders’ - a unique destiny to fulfill. Part of the calling of a parent is to help the child unseal his orders - discover what it is that God means him to be and to do. We are to train up a child not simply in the way that any and every child should go but also in the (specific and unique) way he should go. That means that parents must deal with each one of their children under the creative leading of the Holy Spirit. That does not mean the family becomes a place for rampant individualism, but it does mean the differences in the character and make-up of the children betoken differences in the destiny which God has appointed for each one of them.”
Father, are you helping your child fulfill God’s plan for his life?
“Know well the condition of your flocks...” Proverbs 27:23
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Living the Fath in a Deceived World
“For I want you to know how great a struggle I have on your behalf and for those who are at Laodicea, and for all those who have not personally seen my face, that their hearts may be encouraged, having been knit together in love, and attaining to all the wealth that comes from the full assurance of understanding, resulting in a true knowledge of God’s mystery, that is, Christ Himself, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I say this so that no one will delude you with persuasive argument. For even though I am absent in body, nevertheless I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good discipline and the stability of your faith in Christ.
Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.” Colossians 2:1-7
Behind almost every presidential address is a skilled, polished speech writer, crafting words and stitching phrases with great persuasiveness. It is well to remember that behind many of today’s appealing philosophies and arguments is another master craftsman - the devil.
His goal - as it has been since “the Garden” when he deceived Eve - is to beguile men and women through superficially appealing reasoning such humanism and value clarification. Satan is also the invisible playwright of false religious doctrines such as legalism and asceticism.
Our guard against this deadly subterfuge is thorough acquaintance with the truths of Scripture. A recent survey revealed that twenty-eight percent of professed born-again Christians did not know the book of Jonah is in the Bible. Ignorance of what God says about the creation, salvation, the family, sexuality, finances, and other vital subjects can be fatal mistake in succumbing to the treachery of the subtle serpent. Knowledge of the Word, however, must be coupled with daily obedience to the Scriptures which cements the truth and alerts us to Satan’s deceptions.
“See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception...” Colossians 2:8
Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.” Colossians 2:1-7
Behind almost every presidential address is a skilled, polished speech writer, crafting words and stitching phrases with great persuasiveness. It is well to remember that behind many of today’s appealing philosophies and arguments is another master craftsman - the devil.
His goal - as it has been since “the Garden” when he deceived Eve - is to beguile men and women through superficially appealing reasoning such humanism and value clarification. Satan is also the invisible playwright of false religious doctrines such as legalism and asceticism.
Our guard against this deadly subterfuge is thorough acquaintance with the truths of Scripture. A recent survey revealed that twenty-eight percent of professed born-again Christians did not know the book of Jonah is in the Bible. Ignorance of what God says about the creation, salvation, the family, sexuality, finances, and other vital subjects can be fatal mistake in succumbing to the treachery of the subtle serpent. Knowledge of the Word, however, must be coupled with daily obedience to the Scriptures which cements the truth and alerts us to Satan’s deceptions.
“See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception...” Colossians 2:8
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Dealing with Immorality, Part 2
“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 4:20-24
A pilot flying a plan through a massive thunderstorm where the horizon is obscured may experience a sensation known as vertigo. Though he is upside down, he feels as if he is flying upright. Correction depends upon his reliance on his instruments which indicate otherwise.
Similarly, while we may not feel dead to sin (specifically immorality), the Word of God says we are, and His Word is always accurate - even in the midst of storms of passion. This is what the Scriptures refer to as “reckoning,” counting a fact true apart from any emotion or affection. That is why we are called to “reckon” ourselves dead to sin and alive to God (Rom. 6:11).
Successfully handling immorality begins with reckoning ourselves dead to its power, but we must continue be reckoning ourselves alive to Christ. You put on this new man - this new identity - by faith in God’s Word.
For sexual immorality, the Scripture says, “For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification” (1 Thess. 4:7). For unethical conduct, the Scripture says we should desire “to conduct ourselves honorably...” (Heb. 13:18). The believer deals with immorality by understanding his new holy nature in Christ and appropriating its transforming truth.
“...the truth will make you free.” John 8:32
A pilot flying a plan through a massive thunderstorm where the horizon is obscured may experience a sensation known as vertigo. Though he is upside down, he feels as if he is flying upright. Correction depends upon his reliance on his instruments which indicate otherwise.
Similarly, while we may not feel dead to sin (specifically immorality), the Word of God says we are, and His Word is always accurate - even in the midst of storms of passion. This is what the Scriptures refer to as “reckoning,” counting a fact true apart from any emotion or affection. That is why we are called to “reckon” ourselves dead to sin and alive to God (Rom. 6:11).
Successfully handling immorality begins with reckoning ourselves dead to its power, but we must continue be reckoning ourselves alive to Christ. You put on this new man - this new identity - by faith in God’s Word.
For sexual immorality, the Scripture says, “For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification” (1 Thess. 4:7). For unethical conduct, the Scripture says we should desire “to conduct ourselves honorably...” (Heb. 13:18). The believer deals with immorality by understanding his new holy nature in Christ and appropriating its transforming truth.
“...the truth will make you free.” John 8:32
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Dealing with Immorality
“Therefore consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. For it is because of these things that the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience, and in them you also once walked, when you were living in them. But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him.” Colossians 3:5-10
Our usual defense against immoral thoughts or actions is a recommitment to personal discipline, chastity, or holiness. Gritty determination helps stem the tide of impure thinking or actions for a season; but for those who suffer its unrelenting temptation, immoral desires seriously erode any appearance of a joyful, content Christian life. God knows the severity of such passion, and He has provided a firm defense - although a radical departure from our ordinary tactics.
Our first line of defense against the onslaught of immorality in any form is to understand our new position in Christ. Consider this example: You are asked to put together a model airplane. The box cover portrays the plane, but the pieces inside have been switched. You can imagine the frustration of trying to get the model to match the picture.
If we don’t understand our new identity in Christ, we will be flustered trying to match our behavior to this new Christlike image. Dr. Martin-Lloyd Jones, a noted British preacher, says, “You once were a child. Now you are a man. Therefore, quit acting like a baby.” Immorality can never match your new identity in Christ.
“And in Him you have been made complete...” Colossians 2:10
Our usual defense against immoral thoughts or actions is a recommitment to personal discipline, chastity, or holiness. Gritty determination helps stem the tide of impure thinking or actions for a season; but for those who suffer its unrelenting temptation, immoral desires seriously erode any appearance of a joyful, content Christian life. God knows the severity of such passion, and He has provided a firm defense - although a radical departure from our ordinary tactics.
Our first line of defense against the onslaught of immorality in any form is to understand our new position in Christ. Consider this example: You are asked to put together a model airplane. The box cover portrays the plane, but the pieces inside have been switched. You can imagine the frustration of trying to get the model to match the picture.
If we don’t understand our new identity in Christ, we will be flustered trying to match our behavior to this new Christlike image. Dr. Martin-Lloyd Jones, a noted British preacher, says, “You once were a child. Now you are a man. Therefore, quit acting like a baby.” Immorality can never match your new identity in Christ.
“And in Him you have been made complete...” Colossians 2:10
Monday, June 18, 2012
Controlling Our Thoughts, Part 2
“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. 14 Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.” Colossians 3:12-17
Reprogramming our minds (which influences our behavior) begins with a basic understanding of our new identity in Christ.
We are now holy people. We do not attain holiness by our behavior; we are holy and blameless in God’s sight now and forever through the shed blood of His Son. This truth guards us against legalism - striving for holiness through do’s and don’ts.
We are now accepted by Christ. We do not earn God’s approval. He loves us just the way we are - even when we sin (though we do reap the sorrowful consequences of our sin). This truth will guard us against false guilt and condemnation.
We are now complete in Christ. We have everything we need for life and death through the sufficiency of Jesus Christ. This truth guards us against seeking second, third, or fourth experiences. We received all of Christ at salvation. Growth comes through learning more about the ways of God and obeying Him at every turn.
Once our identity is established, our programming can proceed by the daily intake of God’s Word which declares God’s thoughts to us. God’s Word is the sole programming source for living our new life in Christ through regular study, meditation, and obedience.
“Just as He chose us in Him...that we would be holy and blameless before Him...” Ephesians 1:4
Reprogramming our minds (which influences our behavior) begins with a basic understanding of our new identity in Christ.
We are now holy people. We do not attain holiness by our behavior; we are holy and blameless in God’s sight now and forever through the shed blood of His Son. This truth guards us against legalism - striving for holiness through do’s and don’ts.
We are now accepted by Christ. We do not earn God’s approval. He loves us just the way we are - even when we sin (though we do reap the sorrowful consequences of our sin). This truth will guard us against false guilt and condemnation.
We are now complete in Christ. We have everything we need for life and death through the sufficiency of Jesus Christ. This truth guards us against seeking second, third, or fourth experiences. We received all of Christ at salvation. Growth comes through learning more about the ways of God and obeying Him at every turn.
Once our identity is established, our programming can proceed by the daily intake of God’s Word which declares God’s thoughts to us. God’s Word is the sole programming source for living our new life in Christ through regular study, meditation, and obedience.
“Just as He chose us in Him...that we would be holy and blameless before Him...” Ephesians 1:4
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Controlling 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.” Colossians 3:1-2
The computer age is here to stay and, along with it, a new dictionary of technological terms. One that we should be familiar with by now is software which is the operational basis for all computer systems. Impressive computer hardware is displayed in ads and on desks; but it is the compact, hidden software that makes the system functional.
In a sense a person receives an entirely new software package when he receives Christ as Savior, Lord, and Life. He is taken out of Adam (his old way of living) and placed into Christ (his new way of living). Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, he now has “the mind of the Lord” (1 Cor. 2:16) which allows him to align his thoughts with those of Christ and to view life from God’s perspective.
Such thoughts do not automatically register, however. Our old software package of selfishly oriented, independent thinking as made deep inroads into our personalities. We are presented daily with the mindset of a godless world and the darts of our constant adversary, the devil.
Experiencing the benefits of our new nature and our new mind is dependent upon the daily introduction of spiritual programming provided by the Father for our new life in Christ.
“...but be transformed by the renewing of your mind...” Romans 12:2
The computer age is here to stay and, along with it, a new dictionary of technological terms. One that we should be familiar with by now is software which is the operational basis for all computer systems. Impressive computer hardware is displayed in ads and on desks; but it is the compact, hidden software that makes the system functional.
In a sense a person receives an entirely new software package when he receives Christ as Savior, Lord, and Life. He is taken out of Adam (his old way of living) and placed into Christ (his new way of living). Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, he now has “the mind of the Lord” (1 Cor. 2:16) which allows him to align his thoughts with those of Christ and to view life from God’s perspective.
Such thoughts do not automatically register, however. Our old software package of selfishly oriented, independent thinking as made deep inroads into our personalities. We are presented daily with the mindset of a godless world and the darts of our constant adversary, the devil.
Experiencing the benefits of our new nature and our new mind is dependent upon the daily introduction of spiritual programming provided by the Father for our new life in Christ.
“...but be transformed by the renewing of your mind...” Romans 12:2
Friday, June 15, 2012
Our Victory in Christ
“For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, 6 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; for he who has died is freed from sin.
Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace.” Romans 6:5-14
The only means by which sin’s penalty can be satisfied and sin’s power overcome is the cross of Jesus Christ. When Jesus was crucified on a Roman cross, He died to pay sin’s penalty and thereby also to provide the power for victory over sin in our lives as Christians. Included were all who believe in Him. In other words, when Christ died, we died with Him. When He rose from the dead, we were raised up with Him. Thus, through our union with Christ on the cross, we have died to sin’s rule and reign. Its stranglehold on our lives was lifted at Calvary. We were, as Paul said, “crucified with Christ...” (Gal. 2:20).
What was crucified with Christ at Calvary was our old sin nature. We are no loner in Adam (our old sin nature) but in Christ. We are no longer sinners but saints. Since the cross has stripped away our old, dominant sin nature and given us a new identity in Christ, we can experience Christ’s victory over sin in our daily walk by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
We appropriate the victory of the cross over the power of sin just as we did for its sufficiency for the penalty of sin - by faith. We died to the rule of sin through Christ’s death on the cross, and we live in triumph over its power as He reigns in our lives.
“For sin shall not be master over you...” Romans 6:14
Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him. For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all; but the life that He lives, He lives to God. Even so consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not be master over you, for you are not under law but under grace.” Romans 6:5-14
The only means by which sin’s penalty can be satisfied and sin’s power overcome is the cross of Jesus Christ. When Jesus was crucified on a Roman cross, He died to pay sin’s penalty and thereby also to provide the power for victory over sin in our lives as Christians. Included were all who believe in Him. In other words, when Christ died, we died with Him. When He rose from the dead, we were raised up with Him. Thus, through our union with Christ on the cross, we have died to sin’s rule and reign. Its stranglehold on our lives was lifted at Calvary. We were, as Paul said, “crucified with Christ...” (Gal. 2:20).
What was crucified with Christ at Calvary was our old sin nature. We are no loner in Adam (our old sin nature) but in Christ. We are no longer sinners but saints. Since the cross has stripped away our old, dominant sin nature and given us a new identity in Christ, we can experience Christ’s victory over sin in our daily walk by the indwelling Holy Spirit.
We appropriate the victory of the cross over the power of sin just as we did for its sufficiency for the penalty of sin - by faith. We died to the rule of sin through Christ’s death on the cross, and we live in triumph over its power as He reigns in our lives.
“For sin shall not be master over you...” Romans 6:14
Thursday, June 14, 2012
In Him...
“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
If you were asked “What is the importance of the cross?,” you would probably point to Christ’s death as the only basis for the forgiveness of our sins. That certainly is the primary focus of Scripture. As we are drawn to Christ for salvation, we understand that we are sinners separated from a holy God. We realize the wages of sin is death and that Christ alone could pay that penalty. By faith we receive Christ as Savior.
That is amazingly good news, but we soon discover that forgiveness of our sins does not cancel the power of sin habits. Sin still seeks to harass us as much as ever. It is even worse now because, as God’s sons and daughters, we no longer want to sin. At this point many resign themselves to a mediocre Christian life - grateful for their new relationship with Christ but unable to enjoy His resurrection life. The only answer is found in the same means that provided God’s full, blessed pardon - the cross of Jesus Christ.
There is yet another attribute of the cross that is significant in experiencing the triumphant life found in Jesus Christ. His death on the cross paid not only the penalty of sin (death); but He also secured out dominion over sin through our identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
“For the word of the cross...is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 1:18
Colossians 2:9-17
If you were asked “What is the importance of the cross?,” you would probably point to Christ’s death as the only basis for the forgiveness of our sins. That certainly is the primary focus of Scripture. As we are drawn to Christ for salvation, we understand that we are sinners separated from a holy God. We realize the wages of sin is death and that Christ alone could pay that penalty. By faith we receive Christ as Savior.
That is amazingly good news, but we soon discover that forgiveness of our sins does not cancel the power of sin habits. Sin still seeks to harass us as much as ever. It is even worse now because, as God’s sons and daughters, we no longer want to sin. At this point many resign themselves to a mediocre Christian life - grateful for their new relationship with Christ but unable to enjoy His resurrection life. The only answer is found in the same means that provided God’s full, blessed pardon - the cross of Jesus Christ.
There is yet another attribute of the cross that is significant in experiencing the triumphant life found in Jesus Christ. His death on the cross paid not only the penalty of sin (death); but He also secured out dominion over sin through our identification with His death, burial, and resurrection.
“For the word of the cross...is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 1:18
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Life-Changing Prayer
“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.” Colossians 1:9-10
When you do not know how to pray for someone, you cannot err by praying the inerrant Scriptures. The Word of God uttered on another’s behalf is a pure petition for the pressing needs of a friend, an acquaintance, or a family member.
Paul’s prayer for the Colossians is a divine pattern of intercession that works for anyone. Pray for the individual to be “filled with the knowledge of God’s will...” The will of God is always in a person’s best interest because it is the desire of a good, loving God. Pray that he may have “spiritual wisdom and understanding...” Each of us needs to see situations and people from God’s perspective. We need his discernment to analyze problems and opportunities.
Pray that he may be pleasing to the Lord. When a man pleases God, all else will fall into place. Delighting God is the foundation for all true pleasure and happiness. Pray also that he may grow in personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Pray that the situation will drive the person closer to Jesus, causing him to rely on Christ and trust in His Word.
Would you like another to be praying the Scriptures on your behalf? Then pray the prayers of the Bible for others and watch God perform His work.
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all.” Philippians 1:3-4
When you do not know how to pray for someone, you cannot err by praying the inerrant Scriptures. The Word of God uttered on another’s behalf is a pure petition for the pressing needs of a friend, an acquaintance, or a family member.
Paul’s prayer for the Colossians is a divine pattern of intercession that works for anyone. Pray for the individual to be “filled with the knowledge of God’s will...” The will of God is always in a person’s best interest because it is the desire of a good, loving God. Pray that he may have “spiritual wisdom and understanding...” Each of us needs to see situations and people from God’s perspective. We need his discernment to analyze problems and opportunities.
Pray that he may be pleasing to the Lord. When a man pleases God, all else will fall into place. Delighting God is the foundation for all true pleasure and happiness. Pray also that he may grow in personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Pray that the situation will drive the person closer to Jesus, causing him to rely on Christ and trust in His Word.
Would you like another to be praying the Scriptures on your behalf? Then pray the prayers of the Bible for others and watch God perform His work.
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all.” Philippians 1:3-4
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The Path to Triumph
“For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want.” Romans 7:18-19
“Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind am serving the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh the law of sin.” Romans 7:24-25
In almost every instance where the Bible addresses inappropriate behavior, it is coupled with the need to know our identity in Christ. In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he reminds us that we have “laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self...” (Col. 3:9-10). What is he trying to say? We cannot halt corrupt, debilitating habits by mere self-effort or rigid discipline. That may work temporarily, but it does not strike at the root of the problem.
The path to triumph begins not by determination but by discovery of your new, radical identity in Jesus Christ. You are a new creature in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). You have died to the rule and reign of sin because of your union with Christ, and you have been raised with Him (Rom. 6). All that Christ is you have within you through the Person of the Holy Spirit. You are no longer a sinner but a saint.
The message Paul conveyed is to act like who you really are - a child of God. This truth is the key to overcoming strongholds of sin. Confess it, believe it, and the lure of sin will diminish.
“No person can consistently behave in a way that’s inconsistent with the way he perceives himself.”
-Neil T. Anderson
“Wretched man that I am! Who will set me free from the body of this death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, on the one hand I myself with my mind am serving the law of God, but on the other, with my flesh the law of sin.” Romans 7:24-25
In almost every instance where the Bible addresses inappropriate behavior, it is coupled with the need to know our identity in Christ. In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he reminds us that we have “laid aside the old self with its evil practices, and have put on the new self...” (Col. 3:9-10). What is he trying to say? We cannot halt corrupt, debilitating habits by mere self-effort or rigid discipline. That may work temporarily, but it does not strike at the root of the problem.
The path to triumph begins not by determination but by discovery of your new, radical identity in Jesus Christ. You are a new creature in Christ (2 Cor. 5:17). You have died to the rule and reign of sin because of your union with Christ, and you have been raised with Him (Rom. 6). All that Christ is you have within you through the Person of the Holy Spirit. You are no longer a sinner but a saint.
The message Paul conveyed is to act like who you really are - a child of God. This truth is the key to overcoming strongholds of sin. Confess it, believe it, and the lure of sin will diminish.
“No person can consistently behave in a way that’s inconsistent with the way he perceives himself.”
-Neil T. Anderson
Monday, June 11, 2012
Loving Through the Tough Times
“Since you have in obedience to the truth purified your souls for a sincere love of the brethren, fervently love one another from the heart, for you have been born again not of seed which is perishable but imperishable, that is, through the living and enduring word of God.” 1 Peter 1:22-23
Let’s be honest - it is difficult to love someone who has hurt us deeply. We should expect a struggle. We should anticipate a whirlwind of emotions. But our wrestlings do not negate God’s command to “love one another from the heart.”
As strenuous as it is, loving others is far superior to the alternative - bitterness, resentment, anger, hatred, jealousy. These are poisonous emotions that corrode our spirit, mind and soul, infecting us with their toxic wastefulness.
Jesus certainly understood this. He was constantly on the end of false accusations, abuse, and animosity while He ministered in the flesh. Yet we read that “while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously” (1 Peter 2:23).
We can love others who grieve us as we see their actions allowed by the providence of God. Whatever another has done to wound you has been permitted by God. Their actions may have been distasteful, injurious, and perhaps even violent; but if you entrust your circumstances to Christ, He will do what is just and right. Judgement is His, not yours.
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God...”
1 John 4:7
Let’s be honest - it is difficult to love someone who has hurt us deeply. We should expect a struggle. We should anticipate a whirlwind of emotions. But our wrestlings do not negate God’s command to “love one another from the heart.”
As strenuous as it is, loving others is far superior to the alternative - bitterness, resentment, anger, hatred, jealousy. These are poisonous emotions that corrode our spirit, mind and soul, infecting us with their toxic wastefulness.
Jesus certainly understood this. He was constantly on the end of false accusations, abuse, and animosity while He ministered in the flesh. Yet we read that “while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously” (1 Peter 2:23).
We can love others who grieve us as we see their actions allowed by the providence of God. Whatever another has done to wound you has been permitted by God. Their actions may have been distasteful, injurious, and perhaps even violent; but if you entrust your circumstances to Christ, He will do what is just and right. Judgement is His, not yours.
“Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God...”
1 John 4:7
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Our Response to Brokenness, Part 2
“The things you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. 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 4:9-13
The minute seed corn that was buried in the ground burst forth into a cornucopia of grain. Likewise, the Christian, stripped of self-sufficiency and entered into a new dimension of life in Christ, is positioned for maximum fruitfulness in the kingdom of God.
The broken man enjoys a new measure of power in the Holy Spirit of God to work in and through him, putting no confidence in the flesh. He is charged with the life and energy of the Holy Spirit.
The submitted man is joyful in the Lord. He is no longer hostage to changing circumstances, riding the ups and downs of emotions or happenings. The joy of the Lord is his strength.
The yielded man is alert to the needs of others. He is used by God to minister to other hurting people because he is not consumed with his own problems. He has wisdom and insight from the Lord to share, not his own futile reasonings.
He still must deal with the trials and ordeals of daily life; but there is a lift to his countenance, a surety about his ways. He relies wholly on Christ. There is freedom, liberty, and new devotion to Jesus and His work.
The Lord sustains all who fall and raises up all who are bowed down.” Psalm 145:14
The minute seed corn that was buried in the ground burst forth into a cornucopia of grain. Likewise, the Christian, stripped of self-sufficiency and entered into a new dimension of life in Christ, is positioned for maximum fruitfulness in the kingdom of God.
The broken man enjoys a new measure of power in the Holy Spirit of God to work in and through him, putting no confidence in the flesh. He is charged with the life and energy of the Holy Spirit.
The submitted man is joyful in the Lord. He is no longer hostage to changing circumstances, riding the ups and downs of emotions or happenings. The joy of the Lord is his strength.
The yielded man is alert to the needs of others. He is used by God to minister to other hurting people because he is not consumed with his own problems. He has wisdom and insight from the Lord to share, not his own futile reasonings.
He still must deal with the trials and ordeals of daily life; but there is a lift to his countenance, a surety about his ways. He relies wholly on Christ. There is freedom, liberty, and new devotion to Jesus and His work.
The Lord sustains all who fall and raises up all who are bowed down.” Psalm 145:14
Friday, June 8, 2012
Our Response to Brokenness
“I will bless the Lord at all times;
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul will make its boast in the Lord;
the humble will hear it and rejoice.
O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt His name together.”
Psalm 34:1-3
The process of brokenness is not interminable. God knows your frame and will not overload you or bring unnecessary sorrow. As the crushed seed erupts into bountiful life, the sweet fruits of brokenness are released during your turmoil and heartache.
Perhaps the most precious fruit is peace. You are no longer left to your own cleverness. You no longer have to rely on your strength. You are not vainly wrestling with God over who is in charge of your life. The Holy Spirit fills the broken heart with the peace of Christ. It is the peace of submission, the peace of resting in Him, the peace of knowing your times are in His wonderful hands.
There is a new intimacy with Jesus. You trust Him. You rely on Him. You look to Him. You can do nothing apart from Him. He is all you need. He is all sufficient. He understands all of your concerns and bears every burden.
The broken man or woman enters a new dimension in their relationship with Christ. It is the place of blessing, healing, and new beginnings. It is a time to rejoice in both the sovereignty and the goodness of God.
“...he who trusts in the Lord, lovingkindness shall surround him.” Psalm 32:10
His praise shall continually be in my mouth.
My soul will make its boast in the Lord;
the humble will hear it and rejoice.
O magnify the Lord with me,
and let us exalt His name together.”
Psalm 34:1-3
The process of brokenness is not interminable. God knows your frame and will not overload you or bring unnecessary sorrow. As the crushed seed erupts into bountiful life, the sweet fruits of brokenness are released during your turmoil and heartache.
Perhaps the most precious fruit is peace. You are no longer left to your own cleverness. You no longer have to rely on your strength. You are not vainly wrestling with God over who is in charge of your life. The Holy Spirit fills the broken heart with the peace of Christ. It is the peace of submission, the peace of resting in Him, the peace of knowing your times are in His wonderful hands.
There is a new intimacy with Jesus. You trust Him. You rely on Him. You look to Him. You can do nothing apart from Him. He is all you need. He is all sufficient. He understands all of your concerns and bears every burden.
The broken man or woman enters a new dimension in their relationship with Christ. It is the place of blessing, healing, and new beginnings. It is a time to rejoice in both the sovereignty and the goodness of God.
“...he who trusts in the Lord, lovingkindness shall surround him.” Psalm 32:10
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Brokenness - The Promise, Part 7
“Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.”
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
The promises of God are dear to the hearts of those who have experienced brokenness...
“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” Psalm 51:17
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Psalm 147:3
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted...” Isaiah 61:1
If you are in the midst of brokenness and bereft of hope, meditate on these Scriptures. They share the heart of our Father God Who longs to embrace and heal the pain of your brokenness. He promises to be near to you, sustain you, watch over you, and bring relief from His healing hand.
The end of brokenness is the healing touch of the Father, the touch of grace and mercy. It is the gift of His strength for your weakness, His hope for your despair, His contentment for your anxiety.
“In repentance and rest you will be saved, in quietness and trust is your strength.” Isaiah 30:15
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
The promises of God are dear to the hearts of those who have experienced brokenness...
“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.” Psalm 51:17
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.”
Psalm 147:3
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted...” Isaiah 61:1
If you are in the midst of brokenness and bereft of hope, meditate on these Scriptures. They share the heart of our Father God Who longs to embrace and heal the pain of your brokenness. He promises to be near to you, sustain you, watch over you, and bring relief from His healing hand.
The end of brokenness is the healing touch of the Father, the touch of grace and mercy. It is the gift of His strength for your weakness, His hope for your despair, His contentment for your anxiety.
“In repentance and rest you will be saved, in quietness and trust is your strength.” Isaiah 30:15
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Brokenness - The Protest, Part 6
“The word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai saying, ‘Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me.’ But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.” Jonah 1:1-3
Failure to see God at work in the circumstances that accompany brokenness can result in several self-defeating responses. Many people become bitter. Emotionally, they internalize their distress, leading to a critical and complaining spirit. Spiritually, they are turned off to God, disinterested in His Word, the church, or His people. Others explode or simmer in anger. They are disturbed that God has allowed such difficulty. They grow hostile to any mention of His name.
Some try to escape their situations. They either ignore the problem, hoping it will go away, or turn to escapist elements - drugs, immorality, fanaticism. Still others seek to manipulate their environment, hoping their cleverness can eventually solve the problem. Unfortunately, none of the above are avenues that embrace the solution God offers - entrusting ourselves and our problems to Him, depending wholly on His help and grace.
Can you identify with any of these reactions to brokenness? If so, ask God to forgive you and look anew and afresh to Him. A surrendered heart is the beginning of a new outlook based on God’s encouraging perspective.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5
Failure to see God at work in the circumstances that accompany brokenness can result in several self-defeating responses. Many people become bitter. Emotionally, they internalize their distress, leading to a critical and complaining spirit. Spiritually, they are turned off to God, disinterested in His Word, the church, or His people. Others explode or simmer in anger. They are disturbed that God has allowed such difficulty. They grow hostile to any mention of His name.
Some try to escape their situations. They either ignore the problem, hoping it will go away, or turn to escapist elements - drugs, immorality, fanaticism. Still others seek to manipulate their environment, hoping their cleverness can eventually solve the problem. Unfortunately, none of the above are avenues that embrace the solution God offers - entrusting ourselves and our problems to Him, depending wholly on His help and grace.
Can you identify with any of these reactions to brokenness? If so, ask God to forgive you and look anew and afresh to Him. A surrendered heart is the beginning of a new outlook based on God’s encouraging perspective.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding.” Proverbs 3:5
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Brokenness - The Protest, Part 5
Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him, and he cried, “Have everyone go out from me.” So there was no man with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. He wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard of it. Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence.
Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come closer to me.” And they came closer. And he said, “I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are still five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvesting. God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance. Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt. Hurry and go up to my father, and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, “God has made me lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not delay. You shall live in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me, you and your children and your children’s children and your flocks and your herds and all that you have. There I will also provide for you, for there are still five years of famine to come, and you and your household and all that you have would be impoverished.”’ Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin see, that it is my mouth which is speaking to you. Now you must tell my father of all my splendor in Egypt, and all that you have seen; and you must hurry and bring my father down here.” Then he fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. He kissed all his brothers and wept on them, and afterward his brothers talked with him.
Genesis 45:1-15
Although brokenness is a process, we can unnecessarily extend the time frame. We prolong God’s redemptive, constructive purposes when we fail to see God’s hand in our adverse circumstances. Joseph tasted the bitter fruits of unjust slavery and imprisonment for thirteen years before God elevated him to Pharaoh’s administrator. Confronting his brothers who had mistreated him, Joseph said: “Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life...Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God...” (Gen. 45:5, 8).
Do you see God in everything, understanding that He either sends or permits all circumstances, good and evil? If He is not Lord of all, then He cannot be Lord at all. He is the Sovereign of the universe. Joseph was able to see God’s hand in his brokenness.
God is working all things for good in your shattered circumstances. He knows the heartache you face and will comfort your deepest pain. His plans are unfolding, even in the dankness of your adversity. See God behind it, and you will have His light to see you through your troubles.
“Nothing is so small or trivial as to escape the attention of God’s sovereign control.” -Jerry Bridges
Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come closer to me.” And they came closer. And he said, “I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life. For the famine has been in the land these two years, and there are still five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvesting. God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant in the earth, and to keep you alive by a great deliverance. Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and He has made me a father to Pharaoh and lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt. Hurry and go up to my father, and say to him, ‘Thus says your son Joseph, “God has made me lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not delay. You shall live in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me, you and your children and your children’s children and your flocks and your herds and all that you have. There I will also provide for you, for there are still five years of famine to come, and you and your household and all that you have would be impoverished.”’ Behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin see, that it is my mouth which is speaking to you. Now you must tell my father of all my splendor in Egypt, and all that you have seen; and you must hurry and bring my father down here.” Then he fell on his brother Benjamin’s neck and wept, and Benjamin wept on his neck. He kissed all his brothers and wept on them, and afterward his brothers talked with him.
Genesis 45:1-15
Although brokenness is a process, we can unnecessarily extend the time frame. We prolong God’s redemptive, constructive purposes when we fail to see God’s hand in our adverse circumstances. Joseph tasted the bitter fruits of unjust slavery and imprisonment for thirteen years before God elevated him to Pharaoh’s administrator. Confronting his brothers who had mistreated him, Joseph said: “Now do not be grieved or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life...Now, therefore, it was not you who sent me here, but God...” (Gen. 45:5, 8).
Do you see God in everything, understanding that He either sends or permits all circumstances, good and evil? If He is not Lord of all, then He cannot be Lord at all. He is the Sovereign of the universe. Joseph was able to see God’s hand in his brokenness.
God is working all things for good in your shattered circumstances. He knows the heartache you face and will comfort your deepest pain. His plans are unfolding, even in the dankness of your adversity. See God behind it, and you will have His light to see you through your troubles.
“Nothing is so small or trivial as to escape the attention of God’s sovereign control.” -Jerry Bridges
Monday, June 4, 2012
Brokenness - The Process, Part 4
“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22:31-32
We prefer that brokenness be swift; it seldom is. Brokenness is most frequently a process, carried on over time, sometimes for many years. Rarely does it accomplish its purposes in a matter of hours or days. Why? The will is a complex component, consisting of the strong bent of human pride and self-determination. Bending the will to submit to Christ’s reign involves steady pressure from God’s firm, loving hand.
If the misuse of money is a constant area of disobedience to God, it usually takes a series of financial setbacks to gain our attention. If that fails, the Father may allow a particularly severe crises to strike, helping us to starkly realize the bankruptcy of making decisions apart from God’s counsel and without true dependence on Him.
When God allows us to reap the full fury of our rebellion, He is not punishing us by helping us understand the devastating consequences of willful sin. If you sense God steadily applying pressure in a specific area of your life, surrender quickly. Humble yourself, confess your pride, and call on His mercy and grace to rescue you.
“A bruised reed He will not break...He will faithfully bring forth justice.” Isaiah 42:3
We prefer that brokenness be swift; it seldom is. Brokenness is most frequently a process, carried on over time, sometimes for many years. Rarely does it accomplish its purposes in a matter of hours or days. Why? The will is a complex component, consisting of the strong bent of human pride and self-determination. Bending the will to submit to Christ’s reign involves steady pressure from God’s firm, loving hand.
If the misuse of money is a constant area of disobedience to God, it usually takes a series of financial setbacks to gain our attention. If that fails, the Father may allow a particularly severe crises to strike, helping us to starkly realize the bankruptcy of making decisions apart from God’s counsel and without true dependence on Him.
When God allows us to reap the full fury of our rebellion, He is not punishing us by helping us understand the devastating consequences of willful sin. If you sense God steadily applying pressure in a specific area of your life, surrender quickly. Humble yourself, confess your pride, and call on His mercy and grace to rescue you.
“A bruised reed He will not break...He will faithfully bring forth justice.” Isaiah 42:3
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Brokenness - the Process, Part 3
“Having arrested Him, they led Him away and brought Him to the house of the high priest; but Peter was following at a distance. After they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter was sitting among them. And a servant-girl, seeing him as he sat in the firelight and looking intently at him, said, ‘This man was with Him too.’ But he denied it, saying, ‘Woman, I do not know Him.’ A little later, another saw him and said, ‘You are one of them too!’ But Peter said, ‘Man, I am not!’ After about an hour had passed, another man began to insist, saying, ‘Certainly this man also was with Him, for he is a Galilean too.’ But Peter said, ‘Man, I do not know what you are talking about.’ Immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had told him, ‘Before a rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.’ And he went out and wept bitterly.” Luke 22:54-62
God deals with our pride because it is an extension of our will. A man’s will is the consummate expression of his personal preferences and the stamp of his humanity. Unlike the beast, he can choose a particular course of action, either against his own desire or in agreement with his wish. It is what theologians term “free will” - the ability to think, select, and determine a specific path.
Christians still possess this volitional element of their personalities. Although the Holy Spirit indwells them, they can ignore or reject the Spirit’s influence. Christian growth is the result of submitting our will to the will of God, choosing His ways above our own in spite of our feelings or inclinations. Brokenness is God’s prime method to subdue our often stubborn, rebellious wills and align us with His loving desire.
Is your will surrendered to Jesus Christ? Are you lord of your own ring or have you acknowledged Christ as Master? God does not want to cripple your spirit. He only wants you to recognize His lordship and yield to Him. In surrender of the will, there is amazing victory.
“The king’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the Lord...” Proverbs 21:1
God deals with our pride because it is an extension of our will. A man’s will is the consummate expression of his personal preferences and the stamp of his humanity. Unlike the beast, he can choose a particular course of action, either against his own desire or in agreement with his wish. It is what theologians term “free will” - the ability to think, select, and determine a specific path.
Christians still possess this volitional element of their personalities. Although the Holy Spirit indwells them, they can ignore or reject the Spirit’s influence. Christian growth is the result of submitting our will to the will of God, choosing His ways above our own in spite of our feelings or inclinations. Brokenness is God’s prime method to subdue our often stubborn, rebellious wills and align us with His loving desire.
Is your will surrendered to Jesus Christ? Are you lord of your own ring or have you acknowledged Christ as Master? God does not want to cripple your spirit. He only wants you to recognize His lordship and yield to Him. In surrender of the will, there is amazing victory.
“The king’s heart is like channels of water in the hand of the Lord...” Proverbs 21:1
Friday, June 1, 2012
Brokenness - The Purpose, Part 2
“Now it came about in those days, when Moses had grown up, that he went out to his brethren and looked on their hard labors; and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his brethren. So he looked this way and that, and when he saw there was no one around, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. He went out the next day, and behold, two Hebrews were fighting with each other; and he said to the offender, ‘Why are you striking your companion?’ But he said, ‘Who made you a prince or a judge over us? Are you intending to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?’ Then Moses was afraid and said, ‘Surely the matter has become known.’ When Pharaoh heard of this matter, he tried to kill Moses. But Moses fled from the presence of Pharaoh and settled in the land of Midian, and he sat down by a well.” Exodus 2:11-15
God never acts capriciously. He does not sit in heaven thinking of ways to confuse or frustrate us. He always works with a specific purpose in mind, achieving it by precise, custom-tailored means. His purpose in brokenness is this: to bring us to the end of reliance on self and a new trust and confidence in God.
Like Moses, we are thoroughly trained in the “ways of the Egyptians.” Our personality, training, and thinking are greatly influenced by our culture and upbringing. God’s ways do not automatically become ours. They must be learned.
Even when we want to please God, our actions and thought processes are filtered through a mental and emotional mindset that is not necessarily compatible with God’s Word. Brokenness reveals the futility of our misdirected, if well–intentioned, efforts and replaces the unfruitful and misguided energies of the flesh with the wisdom and power of God.
Have you arrived at a dead end regarding a particular problem? Have you exhausted your resources? Do you have nowhere else to turn? God is leading you to Himself. He is the answer, and He will heal your brokenness.
“...I shall seek You earnestly...” Psalm 63:1
God never acts capriciously. He does not sit in heaven thinking of ways to confuse or frustrate us. He always works with a specific purpose in mind, achieving it by precise, custom-tailored means. His purpose in brokenness is this: to bring us to the end of reliance on self and a new trust and confidence in God.
Like Moses, we are thoroughly trained in the “ways of the Egyptians.” Our personality, training, and thinking are greatly influenced by our culture and upbringing. God’s ways do not automatically become ours. They must be learned.
Even when we want to please God, our actions and thought processes are filtered through a mental and emotional mindset that is not necessarily compatible with God’s Word. Brokenness reveals the futility of our misdirected, if well–intentioned, efforts and replaces the unfruitful and misguided energies of the flesh with the wisdom and power of God.
Have you arrived at a dead end regarding a particular problem? Have you exhausted your resources? Do you have nowhere else to turn? God is leading you to Himself. He is the answer, and He will heal your brokenness.
“...I shall seek You earnestly...” Psalm 63:1
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