Good Morning,
2 Timothy 1:6-7 (NIV)
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.
Each of us has a gift given by God. Some of us use that gift and others, for whatever reasons, allow their gift to lie fallow in the soil of their lives. Today, we read words from the Apostle Paul to Timothy about using his, Timothy's, gift, "I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God..." and not allow that gift to go unused. These very words should echo today in our minds and hearts, as well. Most of us are aware of some special talent or ability that we have within. Some of us, however, don't feel that capability we have inside is worth being used, or, perhaps, not worthy of being used in God's service. How sad when that happens. I say that because I can speak from experience in this area. Not only do we cheat God by not using what He has so generously and lovingly given, we cheat our fellow Christians, we cheat the world, and...maybe the worst of all...we cheat ourselves. You see, when your gift, your talent, your very special ability is used, then you become a much, much more complete human being.
Paul goes on to tell Timothy something that those of us who are allowing our skills and capabilities to go unused need to be reminded of, as well. He says, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self discipline." The Amplified Bible translates this way, "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control." These are some strong words. But then, strong words are needed sometimes in order to cajole people into doing something that they might otherwise not do.
The fact is, when we take the step (some might say it's a leap!), go ahead and use the special ability given us by God, then we show God that we not only love Him, but we also trust Him to allow our gift to be used in His service and for His glory. We read here that we have been given "a spirit of power, of love, and of self discipline" and not a spirit of "timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing fear" and we are to put into use that very power, and love, and self discipline that are additional gifts from God.
How very distressing it is when we see obviously talented and gifted people who simply cannot bring themselves to do the things we know they can do. I cannot imagine how much greater the Church would be if every person in it would simply use, without any "timidity", the gifts they've been given. It goes beyond our human minds to be able to envision the Church where ALL are doing their utmost for God; a Church, I think, that God wants us to be.
Look inside today and see if there are unique gifts that are not being used. Search diligently to find talents that are just waiting to come out and glorify God. Then, when you find them...and YOU WILL!...put them to use. Don't hesitate! Do NOT allow the enemy to come and place doubts into your mind or lie to you about the fact that you do have this talent, ability, or skill. Then, go out and put those gifts to use. Remember, not only will those around you benefit, but you will also be blessed by becoming the complete person God wants you to be. Not to mention the glory you can give to God by using what He's provided to you.
As the Nike people like to say, "JUST DO IT!"
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Serve?
Good Morning,
Matthew 20:25-28 (NIV)
Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Today we read verses that are extremely difficult for many...because of the way we've been raised up in this world. Now, I would say this because of the way we've been raised up in "today's" world, but I would venture to guess that people have been raised up pretty much the same way since the beginning of time. That is, the world tells us we need to put ourselves first and foremost, above everyone and everything else. You know, the "me, me, me" kind of thinking. In the world, it's who's "first" that is important and has power, fame, and money.
Jesus, however, gives us a different point of view and tells us that he who wishes to be great must first be a servant and he who wishes to be first must be a slave. Uh, oh! This does NOT sit well with those of the world and who have a worldly attitude. The challenge here is the fact that even many Christians cannot bear to think of being a servant, but would rather be the one served. However, even Jesus did NOT come to be served...the King of kings and Lord of lords...but He came to serve all of mankind and give up His very life as a ransom for us.
That brings us to the difficult decisions we have to make about serving one another. They are difficult because we've not been raised to even THINK about serving, let alone actually DOING the serving. So, it's a change of mind set; a change of attitude; a change of perception for us if we wish to be obedient to what Jesus tells us in these verses. For many of us it is, will be, extremely difficult. Unfortunately, there are those of us who will miss out on so many blessings because we simply cannot have the change of mind that we need and will not be able to be a true servant. Yes, sometimes the truth is a difficult thing to face.
So, how do we go about this "serving" thing? I would say that the first thing we need to do is some self examination on how we see those who serve. What do we think about servants? Here is where we'll find the changes we might have to make in both our thought processes and the way we go about living our lives. If we see servants as people who are "below" us in any way, well, we've got to change how we think in that area. Anyone who finds himself/herself with this kind of perception about servants will have a most difficult time making that change of mind. But, it's necessary if we're to actually change what we've been taught and go about taking action on what Jesus tells us. The good news here is that if we CAN change how we think in this area, then the DOING will be much easier. The logical progression of thinking a certain way and then carrying out that thought process into action is not difficult. It pretty much all boils down to our minds.
Here's where we need much prayer and we need the Holy Spirit to help us. Most of us can't change our minds as easily as it sounds. I don't think that many of us can do this on our own. We need God to help us and guide us through what could be a difficult time. It is a process here that we're talking about, not a single action to just do. It may take some time. We've got to be open to God's leading and direction. We will have to listen and pay attention to that "still small voice" which will tell us whether we're making progress or not. However, no matter how difficult, it is worth it. Just think about the possible rewards. That should give us some motivation.
Serving isn't easy. I don't think it's meant to be. But, it IS what we're supposed to do and it IS how we're supposed to live our lives.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Matthew 20:25-28 (NIV)
Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Today we read verses that are extremely difficult for many...because of the way we've been raised up in this world. Now, I would say this because of the way we've been raised up in "today's" world, but I would venture to guess that people have been raised up pretty much the same way since the beginning of time. That is, the world tells us we need to put ourselves first and foremost, above everyone and everything else. You know, the "me, me, me" kind of thinking. In the world, it's who's "first" that is important and has power, fame, and money.
Jesus, however, gives us a different point of view and tells us that he who wishes to be great must first be a servant and he who wishes to be first must be a slave. Uh, oh! This does NOT sit well with those of the world and who have a worldly attitude. The challenge here is the fact that even many Christians cannot bear to think of being a servant, but would rather be the one served. However, even Jesus did NOT come to be served...the King of kings and Lord of lords...but He came to serve all of mankind and give up His very life as a ransom for us.
That brings us to the difficult decisions we have to make about serving one another. They are difficult because we've not been raised to even THINK about serving, let alone actually DOING the serving. So, it's a change of mind set; a change of attitude; a change of perception for us if we wish to be obedient to what Jesus tells us in these verses. For many of us it is, will be, extremely difficult. Unfortunately, there are those of us who will miss out on so many blessings because we simply cannot have the change of mind that we need and will not be able to be a true servant. Yes, sometimes the truth is a difficult thing to face.
So, how do we go about this "serving" thing? I would say that the first thing we need to do is some self examination on how we see those who serve. What do we think about servants? Here is where we'll find the changes we might have to make in both our thought processes and the way we go about living our lives. If we see servants as people who are "below" us in any way, well, we've got to change how we think in that area. Anyone who finds himself/herself with this kind of perception about servants will have a most difficult time making that change of mind. But, it's necessary if we're to actually change what we've been taught and go about taking action on what Jesus tells us. The good news here is that if we CAN change how we think in this area, then the DOING will be much easier. The logical progression of thinking a certain way and then carrying out that thought process into action is not difficult. It pretty much all boils down to our minds.
Here's where we need much prayer and we need the Holy Spirit to help us. Most of us can't change our minds as easily as it sounds. I don't think that many of us can do this on our own. We need God to help us and guide us through what could be a difficult time. It is a process here that we're talking about, not a single action to just do. It may take some time. We've got to be open to God's leading and direction. We will have to listen and pay attention to that "still small voice" which will tell us whether we're making progress or not. However, no matter how difficult, it is worth it. Just think about the possible rewards. That should give us some motivation.
Serving isn't easy. I don't think it's meant to be. But, it IS what we're supposed to do and it IS how we're supposed to live our lives.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Do What Is Right
Good Morning,
Genesis 4:6-7 (NIV)
Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it."
We read this morning advice from God to Cain. Well, rather, I think, we might call it a warning. Because God wasn't thrilled with Cain's sacrifice, Cain was upset. God, in His infinite wisdom, went to Cain to give him some good, solid advice about his feelings and what might come from them.
"But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you, but you must master it." These words from God to Cain echo just as true this morning as they did many thousands of years ago. They are fairly simple and really pretty clear. God gives us, through the Bible, some advice about avoiding sin in our lives. That would be, to avoid the clutches of the devil as he and his minions attempt to ambush us even in the world now.
"...if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door..." You see, when we take the wrong path down a road that we know we ought not to be on, the enemy...and his temptations to sin...come right along with us, knowing that we shall be vulnerable to his temptations. It's really very clear, don't you think? I mean, if we knowingly don't to the right things, which thereby means we'll be doing the wrong things, then our minds are much more open to listening to the great deceiver as he puts sinful thoughts into our minds. Perhaps we had no thought about committing any sin at all. Maybe we really don't want to even consider sinning against God. But, when we put ourselves into a position susceptible to him, then Satan will quickly pounce upon us and gleefully lead us directly into sin.
If we read on here we see that God tells us, "...sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you..." As the saying goes, "Misery loves company!" And just as that is true, well, sin loves company as well. There are evil forces out there that seek to have us join them in a sinful lifestyle...or even, perhaps, just one sin that will eat at our minds and dig into our very souls. Sin, it seems, enjoys being around sin. So, if we aren't doing what is right and sin grabs us by the nape of the neck to drag us down to that sinful level and we give in to it, well then, one sin just seems to lead to another, then another, and yet another, until we find ourselves leading a life filled with sin. Pretty scary concept, isn't it?
God then tells us, again extremely clearly in His words, "...but you must master it." That is, we must master the sinful temptations that come our way. Yes, we have God to call on for His strength to help us, of course. But, if we don't find ourselves in the position of "not doing what is right" in the first place, then our mastery over sin will be that much easier. God's words are unmistakable and very explicit here. "If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?" Right at the start, we need to be doing the right things and traveling along the right paths as we walk in this world. That's the beginning of living a good life that is NOT beset by temptation at every turn.
What we need to do then, is to simply do what is right. Then, we have much less chance of being led astray. God says so!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Genesis 4:6-7 (NIV)
Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it."
We read this morning advice from God to Cain. Well, rather, I think, we might call it a warning. Because God wasn't thrilled with Cain's sacrifice, Cain was upset. God, in His infinite wisdom, went to Cain to give him some good, solid advice about his feelings and what might come from them.
"But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you, but you must master it." These words from God to Cain echo just as true this morning as they did many thousands of years ago. They are fairly simple and really pretty clear. God gives us, through the Bible, some advice about avoiding sin in our lives. That would be, to avoid the clutches of the devil as he and his minions attempt to ambush us even in the world now.
"...if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door..." You see, when we take the wrong path down a road that we know we ought not to be on, the enemy...and his temptations to sin...come right along with us, knowing that we shall be vulnerable to his temptations. It's really very clear, don't you think? I mean, if we knowingly don't to the right things, which thereby means we'll be doing the wrong things, then our minds are much more open to listening to the great deceiver as he puts sinful thoughts into our minds. Perhaps we had no thought about committing any sin at all. Maybe we really don't want to even consider sinning against God. But, when we put ourselves into a position susceptible to him, then Satan will quickly pounce upon us and gleefully lead us directly into sin.
If we read on here we see that God tells us, "...sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you..." As the saying goes, "Misery loves company!" And just as that is true, well, sin loves company as well. There are evil forces out there that seek to have us join them in a sinful lifestyle...or even, perhaps, just one sin that will eat at our minds and dig into our very souls. Sin, it seems, enjoys being around sin. So, if we aren't doing what is right and sin grabs us by the nape of the neck to drag us down to that sinful level and we give in to it, well then, one sin just seems to lead to another, then another, and yet another, until we find ourselves leading a life filled with sin. Pretty scary concept, isn't it?
God then tells us, again extremely clearly in His words, "...but you must master it." That is, we must master the sinful temptations that come our way. Yes, we have God to call on for His strength to help us, of course. But, if we don't find ourselves in the position of "not doing what is right" in the first place, then our mastery over sin will be that much easier. God's words are unmistakable and very explicit here. "If you do what is right, will you not be accepted?" Right at the start, we need to be doing the right things and traveling along the right paths as we walk in this world. That's the beginning of living a good life that is NOT beset by temptation at every turn.
What we need to do then, is to simply do what is right. Then, we have much less chance of being led astray. God says so!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Monday, April 27, 2009
Obey Jesus
Good Morning,
Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV)
"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift."
Matthew 5:23-24 (MSG)
"This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God."
Now, I know that I'm probably addressing a very small number of us with this message today. You know, those who might have done something that would cause a brother or sister to have some grudge or grievance against us in some way. Um, that wouldn't be you, would it? Possibly me? Maybe, just perhaps, more than a couple of us? I think that if we will all take a good, hard, close look at our lives, almost all of us will come up with something that we've said or done that has caused harm to someone in some way. After all, we ARE human...aren't we? If so, then, without a doubt, we aren't perfect. And, if we aren't perfect, then we've probably hurt someone and have caused some gulf between that person and us.
Jesus is pretty clear in His message that we read today. I find it astounding that in over 2,000 years not much has changed about human behavior...both our thought processes and our actions. Jesus knew that He was speaking to almost ever person within the sound of His voice on the day He spoke these words. Now, remember that He is also God, so He knew that His words would be written down and remembered...for all time. Just as He voiced these words for the people of His physical time, He was also proclaiming them to every one who would ever have the opportunity to read them...including you and me.
So, did you go to church over the weekend and have the honor of leaving your gift at the alter? Didn't we all? So, the question is: Did we do this knowing that we had caused some grievance with a brother or sister that still exists?
The answer, I believe, for almost all of us would be, "Yes." Almost all of us can dig into our hearts and minds and find the memory of something that we've done that we know wasn't exactly a good, Christian thing to do to someone. We can think, most of us, of a time when we've said something that was less than uplifting to someone, even something very hurtful. These, I belive, words and actions, are what Jesus was speaking of. He was telling us that we need to do all we can to heal those wounds that we've caused, before we leave our gifts at the alter. We should be obedient in this as much as is in our power to be. Yes, I know, there will be some of us who simply cannot...for whatever reasons...physically go to that grieved person and do our best to make amends for the wrong we've done. We might not be able to financially give what we should to someone that we may owe in some way. Of course, there are a myriad of reasons that we can't actually carry out our obedience to Jesus' words in this matter.
Here's the rub, though...: Don't let excuses for not being obedient take the place of well founded reasons! We are an "excuses" kind of society in today's world. Well, I suppose that could be said for the societies of all people in all of history, couldn't it? That's kind of the difficult part for many of us. We will, as we've been taught all our lives, make some excuse for not obeying God's words to us in this. Let's be careful about that. Excuses are NOT reasons. We should be wise enough and smart enough to understand the difference.
I guess what we're supposed to get from this today is to search ourselves deeply, in heart and mind, to find out where we've caused harm. Then, once we discover what might be even a very hidden memory, we need to do all we can to make things right. In Jesus' words, "Go and be reconciled to your brother." The Message translation says it this way, "Go to this friend and make things right." It can be, will probably be, difficult. It will be harder for some than for others. I may seem an impossible task to a few. I suggest that we go to the Lord in prayer and ask Him to help us in this; have the Holy Spirit come and guide us to do what we know we must.
Okay. Now........
If, for any reason, I've ever harmed anyone who reads these words the Lord has given me, PLEASE let me know so I CAN BE OBEDIENT as I'm suggesting for you. (I'll be in touch with a few of you soon.)
Point being on that is the fact that NONE of us is exempt and NONE of us can claim perfection about this. Let us obey Jesus.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV)
"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift."
Matthew 5:23-24 (MSG)
"This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God."
Now, I know that I'm probably addressing a very small number of us with this message today. You know, those who might have done something that would cause a brother or sister to have some grudge or grievance against us in some way. Um, that wouldn't be you, would it? Possibly me? Maybe, just perhaps, more than a couple of us? I think that if we will all take a good, hard, close look at our lives, almost all of us will come up with something that we've said or done that has caused harm to someone in some way. After all, we ARE human...aren't we? If so, then, without a doubt, we aren't perfect. And, if we aren't perfect, then we've probably hurt someone and have caused some gulf between that person and us.
Jesus is pretty clear in His message that we read today. I find it astounding that in over 2,000 years not much has changed about human behavior...both our thought processes and our actions. Jesus knew that He was speaking to almost ever person within the sound of His voice on the day He spoke these words. Now, remember that He is also God, so He knew that His words would be written down and remembered...for all time. Just as He voiced these words for the people of His physical time, He was also proclaiming them to every one who would ever have the opportunity to read them...including you and me.
So, did you go to church over the weekend and have the honor of leaving your gift at the alter? Didn't we all? So, the question is: Did we do this knowing that we had caused some grievance with a brother or sister that still exists?
The answer, I believe, for almost all of us would be, "Yes." Almost all of us can dig into our hearts and minds and find the memory of something that we've done that we know wasn't exactly a good, Christian thing to do to someone. We can think, most of us, of a time when we've said something that was less than uplifting to someone, even something very hurtful. These, I belive, words and actions, are what Jesus was speaking of. He was telling us that we need to do all we can to heal those wounds that we've caused, before we leave our gifts at the alter. We should be obedient in this as much as is in our power to be. Yes, I know, there will be some of us who simply cannot...for whatever reasons...physically go to that grieved person and do our best to make amends for the wrong we've done. We might not be able to financially give what we should to someone that we may owe in some way. Of course, there are a myriad of reasons that we can't actually carry out our obedience to Jesus' words in this matter.
Here's the rub, though...: Don't let excuses for not being obedient take the place of well founded reasons! We are an "excuses" kind of society in today's world. Well, I suppose that could be said for the societies of all people in all of history, couldn't it? That's kind of the difficult part for many of us. We will, as we've been taught all our lives, make some excuse for not obeying God's words to us in this. Let's be careful about that. Excuses are NOT reasons. We should be wise enough and smart enough to understand the difference.
I guess what we're supposed to get from this today is to search ourselves deeply, in heart and mind, to find out where we've caused harm. Then, once we discover what might be even a very hidden memory, we need to do all we can to make things right. In Jesus' words, "Go and be reconciled to your brother." The Message translation says it this way, "Go to this friend and make things right." It can be, will probably be, difficult. It will be harder for some than for others. I may seem an impossible task to a few. I suggest that we go to the Lord in prayer and ask Him to help us in this; have the Holy Spirit come and guide us to do what we know we must.
Okay. Now........
If, for any reason, I've ever harmed anyone who reads these words the Lord has given me, PLEASE let me know so I CAN BE OBEDIENT as I'm suggesting for you. (I'll be in touch with a few of you soon.)
Point being on that is the fact that NONE of us is exempt and NONE of us can claim perfection about this. Let us obey Jesus.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Sunday, April 26, 2009
A Firm Place to Stand
Good Morning,
Psalm 40:1-5 (NIV)
I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.
Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.
So, someone asks you, "And, if I DO accept Jesus as Savior, as you're saying I should, what benefits do I get from that decision?" You know, "What's in it for me?" kind of thinking. It permeates our society, doesn't it? I mean, everywhere we turn and in almost everything we see and hear, there's someone looking for that little "something for me" that will have them lean toward one thing or another. So, we shouldn't be surprised when a person might ask, "What's in it for me?" when we witness the Gospel of Jesus. It's pretty normal, actually. I might even wonder if someone DIDN'T ask something along those lines and express some desire for a here and now benefit from such a major life decision.
So, what do we tell them? They garner the unbelievable benefit of an eternity with God? I'd say that's a pretty darn good perk, wouldn't you? That their sins would be forgiven and they wouldn't have to face the gates of hell when this life is over? Well, that's another of those huge, almost unexplainable benefits, isn't it? But, what do those things do in their lives today? What can we say about what blessings will they receive right now?
Today's verses are a pretty good answer to those difficult questions, I think. What David sang of those thousands of years ago are still true and can be sung today by those who have accepted God into their lives through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Now, these may not be things that one normally might expect as the "it" in the "What's in it for me" question and mind set, but after consideration, these are things that will fill a person's life and bring true joy and happiness.
Now, I ask you, what better day than Sunday to read these words and allow them to resound in our hearts? This day that most of us gather together for corporate worship, let us have these beautiful words from David to sing out in our minds and show in our attitudes. These verses which prove the benefits of accepting Jesus into our lives as Lord and Savior and allowing God to rule over our every day.
Let's keep these verses in our minds when we get that inevitable question, "What's in it for me?" as we present the Gospel message. This may be the very answer that someone is looking for. This may be what is needed in that person's life right at that moment in time.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Psalm 40:1-5 (NIV)
I waited patiently for the LORD;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear
and put their trust in the LORD.
Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.
Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.
So, someone asks you, "And, if I DO accept Jesus as Savior, as you're saying I should, what benefits do I get from that decision?" You know, "What's in it for me?" kind of thinking. It permeates our society, doesn't it? I mean, everywhere we turn and in almost everything we see and hear, there's someone looking for that little "something for me" that will have them lean toward one thing or another. So, we shouldn't be surprised when a person might ask, "What's in it for me?" when we witness the Gospel of Jesus. It's pretty normal, actually. I might even wonder if someone DIDN'T ask something along those lines and express some desire for a here and now benefit from such a major life decision.
So, what do we tell them? They garner the unbelievable benefit of an eternity with God? I'd say that's a pretty darn good perk, wouldn't you? That their sins would be forgiven and they wouldn't have to face the gates of hell when this life is over? Well, that's another of those huge, almost unexplainable benefits, isn't it? But, what do those things do in their lives today? What can we say about what blessings will they receive right now?
Today's verses are a pretty good answer to those difficult questions, I think. What David sang of those thousands of years ago are still true and can be sung today by those who have accepted God into their lives through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Now, these may not be things that one normally might expect as the "it" in the "What's in it for me" question and mind set, but after consideration, these are things that will fill a person's life and bring true joy and happiness.
Now, I ask you, what better day than Sunday to read these words and allow them to resound in our hearts? This day that most of us gather together for corporate worship, let us have these beautiful words from David to sing out in our minds and show in our attitudes. These verses which prove the benefits of accepting Jesus into our lives as Lord and Savior and allowing God to rule over our every day.
Let's keep these verses in our minds when we get that inevitable question, "What's in it for me?" as we present the Gospel message. This may be the very answer that someone is looking for. This may be what is needed in that person's life right at that moment in time.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Help from the LORD
Good Morning,
Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)
I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
Isaiah 43:1-3 (NIV)
But now, this is what the LORD says—
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the LORD, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...
Two seemingly unrelated sections of Scripture crossed my desk this morning. Then, as I thought about them and re-read them, the correlation between them became clear. I don't know who needs these verses today, but I know there IS someone who does. I know that without a doubt. So, how do I know it? I know it because that still, small voice that speaks to me said so. And, when I hear that voice, I obey. Well, most times anyway.
All of us need help from time to time. We all have gone through times we wish had never happened. Many of us are going through such times right now. We seem to be up to our necks in the water of troubles. We seem to be afire in the blaze of problems. Nothing seems to be working. Everything seems to be going from bad to worse.
So, what do we do? The Psalmist tells us that our real help comes "...from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." That's where we turn when the world seems to be falling down around us and everything we've tried hasn't worked. God is there. Count on it. He's the one to whom we need to turn. Now, I could say that we shouldn't wait until things are bad to go to God, but, well, I suppose we all know that, don't we? Point here is, we can't go back and change the ways we've done what we've done. We can't go back and turn to God BEFORE troubles, if we didn't. But, we CAN...and we should!...turn to Him now. He is our help in good times and bad.
God clearly tells us in the verses from Isaiah that we are not to fear. I read them and saw that through even the toughest of times God will not allow us to sink in the waters of our troubles nor be consumed by the fires of problems. Maybe these verses don't say that word for word, but it is surely what I heard this morning when I read them. What I got were assurances from God that backed up what is told to us in the verses from Psalms.
We are to turn to God and He will protect us. After all, He says to us directly, "For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." How much more do we need to hear?
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV)
I lift up my eyes to the hills—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the LORD,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
Isaiah 43:1-3 (NIV)
But now, this is what the LORD says—
he who created you, O Jacob,
he who formed you, O Israel:
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the LORD, your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior...
Two seemingly unrelated sections of Scripture crossed my desk this morning. Then, as I thought about them and re-read them, the correlation between them became clear. I don't know who needs these verses today, but I know there IS someone who does. I know that without a doubt. So, how do I know it? I know it because that still, small voice that speaks to me said so. And, when I hear that voice, I obey. Well, most times anyway.
All of us need help from time to time. We all have gone through times we wish had never happened. Many of us are going through such times right now. We seem to be up to our necks in the water of troubles. We seem to be afire in the blaze of problems. Nothing seems to be working. Everything seems to be going from bad to worse.
So, what do we do? The Psalmist tells us that our real help comes "...from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth." That's where we turn when the world seems to be falling down around us and everything we've tried hasn't worked. God is there. Count on it. He's the one to whom we need to turn. Now, I could say that we shouldn't wait until things are bad to go to God, but, well, I suppose we all know that, don't we? Point here is, we can't go back and change the ways we've done what we've done. We can't go back and turn to God BEFORE troubles, if we didn't. But, we CAN...and we should!...turn to Him now. He is our help in good times and bad.
God clearly tells us in the verses from Isaiah that we are not to fear. I read them and saw that through even the toughest of times God will not allow us to sink in the waters of our troubles nor be consumed by the fires of problems. Maybe these verses don't say that word for word, but it is surely what I heard this morning when I read them. What I got were assurances from God that backed up what is told to us in the verses from Psalms.
We are to turn to God and He will protect us. After all, He says to us directly, "For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." How much more do we need to hear?
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Friday, April 24, 2009
Matthew 6:24-34
Good Morning,
Matthew 6:24-34 (The Message)
"You can't worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you'll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can't worship God and Money both.
"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes."
I don't often read much in The Message version of the Bible. I guess, I'm still among the "Old Folks" who favor the translations along the lines of New King James, New International Version, King James, and some of the more "established" versions. Having said that, I was led to these verses...familiar to most, if not all, of us...in The Message today. As I read them, I seemed to gain new insight, meaning, and a fuller understanding of what Jesus was talking about...as if He was here today and talking directly to us. After reading these verses a couple of times, it became apparent that they should be sent along just on the outside chance that someone may not have seen them in this particular translation. I think they speak to us clearly...and even MORE clearly...when we read this translation along side one of the more popular and more well used translations.
Also, and this is why I do what I do, I feel that God wanted these verses sent along for our enlightenment and, perhaps, to speak more clearly to a few of us who haven't fully garnered the meaning and intention of them. So, I'm being obedient today and just sending them along. Allow them to speak to you. Allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in you through these verses that God given us.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Matthew 6:24-34 (The Message)
"You can't worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you'll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can't worship God and Money both.
"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.
"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? All this time and money wasted on fashion—do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.
"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes."
I don't often read much in The Message version of the Bible. I guess, I'm still among the "Old Folks" who favor the translations along the lines of New King James, New International Version, King James, and some of the more "established" versions. Having said that, I was led to these verses...familiar to most, if not all, of us...in The Message today. As I read them, I seemed to gain new insight, meaning, and a fuller understanding of what Jesus was talking about...as if He was here today and talking directly to us. After reading these verses a couple of times, it became apparent that they should be sent along just on the outside chance that someone may not have seen them in this particular translation. I think they speak to us clearly...and even MORE clearly...when we read this translation along side one of the more popular and more well used translations.
Also, and this is why I do what I do, I feel that God wanted these verses sent along for our enlightenment and, perhaps, to speak more clearly to a few of us who haven't fully garnered the meaning and intention of them. So, I'm being obedient today and just sending them along. Allow them to speak to you. Allow the Holy Spirit to do His work in you through these verses that God given us.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Things of the Flesh
Good Morning,
Romans 8:5-8 (NSRV)
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For this reason the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law--indeed it cannot, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Where, exactly, is your mind today? On what things is your mind set upon? What thoughts occupy your mind most?
These questions are sometimes difficult to answer for many of us. No, not that we can't figure out the answers, but the fact that we don't like the answers we find. We don't care for the honest answers because, if we will be truthful, our minds are set on "the things of the flesh" that we read of today. This is true even though we know that we ought to have our minds set on Spiritual things and the things of God rather than those "things of the flesh."
I once had a conversation with someone about various "things of the flesh" and that person said something like, "Well, as long as I'm not hurting anyone and if it gives me pleasure, then what harm is there?" We took the conversation further and spoke about actions which eventuated out of the thoughts in the mind and the comment was, "God wouldn't have made these things feel so good if He didn't want us to do them." You see where this goes, don't you? Our thoughts of a carnal, earthly nature, and the actions that occur because of those thoughts, may, indeed, not be "hurting" anyone and they truly may bring a great deal of pleasure. I can't argue that. But, what I can argue is that these earthly thoughts of fleshly matters are against what God would have in our minds.
The fact is, my friend is right...if we think only in the mind set of our physical and give no thought to the Spiritual.
Clearly, we read today a simple and straight forward reasoning about where our minds ought to be. "The mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law." Our minds can be in only one place at any one time, you see. The human brain can't maintain two divergent thoughts simultaneously. That's a fact. Paul says that if our minds are thinking about the flesh, then that mind is hostile to God because it will not submit to God's laws. Nothing difficult about understanding that, is there? We go on to read, "...and those who are in the flesh cannot please God." Now here's where the rubber meets the road, so to speak. When we think in ways that are of the flesh...only about our human pleasures and desires...then we simply cannot please God because our minds are not on Him and what we should be doing in service to Him and for Him.
I guess we'll have this argument about "flesh" vs "Spirit" until Jesus comes back and makes things right on this planet. There will always be those who will justify thoughts and actions with the "it doesn't hurt anyone" argument and claim "it's really no big deal anyway." It is a big deal. These are the arguments and thoughts that come from the enemy so as to keep our minds away from, and off of, those Spiritual things of God. We cannot be effective in doing God's work when we are submitting to our carnal nature.
If we wish to be productive children of God, then we've got to be able to get control of our minds and the thoughts therein, which will lead to control over our overt actions and those sinful acts we commit. Yes, mind over matter, I guess we'd have to say. When our minds are occupied with Spiritual things, then we will tend much more to do those things which will glorify God and expand His kingdom.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Romans 8:5-8 (NSRV)
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For this reason the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law--indeed it cannot, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Where, exactly, is your mind today? On what things is your mind set upon? What thoughts occupy your mind most?
These questions are sometimes difficult to answer for many of us. No, not that we can't figure out the answers, but the fact that we don't like the answers we find. We don't care for the honest answers because, if we will be truthful, our minds are set on "the things of the flesh" that we read of today. This is true even though we know that we ought to have our minds set on Spiritual things and the things of God rather than those "things of the flesh."
I once had a conversation with someone about various "things of the flesh" and that person said something like, "Well, as long as I'm not hurting anyone and if it gives me pleasure, then what harm is there?" We took the conversation further and spoke about actions which eventuated out of the thoughts in the mind and the comment was, "God wouldn't have made these things feel so good if He didn't want us to do them." You see where this goes, don't you? Our thoughts of a carnal, earthly nature, and the actions that occur because of those thoughts, may, indeed, not be "hurting" anyone and they truly may bring a great deal of pleasure. I can't argue that. But, what I can argue is that these earthly thoughts of fleshly matters are against what God would have in our minds.
The fact is, my friend is right...if we think only in the mind set of our physical and give no thought to the Spiritual.
Clearly, we read today a simple and straight forward reasoning about where our minds ought to be. "The mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God's law." Our minds can be in only one place at any one time, you see. The human brain can't maintain two divergent thoughts simultaneously. That's a fact. Paul says that if our minds are thinking about the flesh, then that mind is hostile to God because it will not submit to God's laws. Nothing difficult about understanding that, is there? We go on to read, "...and those who are in the flesh cannot please God." Now here's where the rubber meets the road, so to speak. When we think in ways that are of the flesh...only about our human pleasures and desires...then we simply cannot please God because our minds are not on Him and what we should be doing in service to Him and for Him.
I guess we'll have this argument about "flesh" vs "Spirit" until Jesus comes back and makes things right on this planet. There will always be those who will justify thoughts and actions with the "it doesn't hurt anyone" argument and claim "it's really no big deal anyway." It is a big deal. These are the arguments and thoughts that come from the enemy so as to keep our minds away from, and off of, those Spiritual things of God. We cannot be effective in doing God's work when we are submitting to our carnal nature.
If we wish to be productive children of God, then we've got to be able to get control of our minds and the thoughts therein, which will lead to control over our overt actions and those sinful acts we commit. Yes, mind over matter, I guess we'd have to say. When our minds are occupied with Spiritual things, then we will tend much more to do those things which will glorify God and expand His kingdom.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Patience...Forgiveness
Good Morning,
Proverbs 19:11, 27 (NIV)
A man's wisdom gives him patience;
it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Stop listening to instruction, my son,
and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
Verse 11 in Proverbs 19 was the original verse that came my way this morning. Then, in reading all of the chapter, I realized that there is a way in which we gain the wisdom needed in order to have the patience necessary to garner the glory spoken of today.
What I saw...so clear when we take the few moments to read what God has put down for us in the Bible...is the fact that we must listen to His instruction. In that way, when we are inclined to dutifully read and think about what God has set down for us, is that we will NOT stray from His words of knowledge. Then, by being diligent in our reading and studying of His instructions, we gain not just knowledge, but also the wisdom that can come from having that knowledge.
Back to that original verse I noticed...
..."it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Now, this certainly is something that Solomon is saying about forgiveness and the wisdom of forgiving. This is also one of the most difficult things that we have to do in our walk with the Lord. At least it certainly is for me. I guess that I don't have the patiences necessary to be able to gain the glory that comes from overlooking some of the offenses that have been done to me in my life. To take that just a step further, I guess I've simply not listened closely enough to God's instruction and have strayed from His words of knowledge.
I mean, it seems to be a valid process that goes from instruction, to knowledge, to patience, and finally to forgiveness...overlooking an offense, or offenses. Therefore, it is obvious that when we lack something along the way, we can look back to see where we may have fallen short in the process. I believe that this is true for many of us. I don't think I'm the only one who needs further instruction in order to gain better knowledge which will lead to more patience and, therefore, allow me to be a more forgiving person. Does this make sense to you?
Some may not see the inevitable progression from instruction finally to forgiveness. However, I believe that if we look more closely at what God has given us as His book of instruction, we will find that it is really obvious that one can, and does, lead to another and another and another.
That's one of the amazing wonders of the Bible. The answers are there...if we will take the time and the effort to find them. God has given us all the instruction we need in order to lead a more Christ like life. What we have to do is to put those instructions into action and live out what they tell us we should do. Not really complicated, also not easy to actually do. But, well worth all of the effort.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Proverbs 19:11, 27 (NIV)
A man's wisdom gives him patience;
it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Stop listening to instruction, my son,
and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
Verse 11 in Proverbs 19 was the original verse that came my way this morning. Then, in reading all of the chapter, I realized that there is a way in which we gain the wisdom needed in order to have the patience necessary to garner the glory spoken of today.
What I saw...so clear when we take the few moments to read what God has put down for us in the Bible...is the fact that we must listen to His instruction. In that way, when we are inclined to dutifully read and think about what God has set down for us, is that we will NOT stray from His words of knowledge. Then, by being diligent in our reading and studying of His instructions, we gain not just knowledge, but also the wisdom that can come from having that knowledge.
Back to that original verse I noticed...
..."it is to his glory to overlook an offense." Now, this certainly is something that Solomon is saying about forgiveness and the wisdom of forgiving. This is also one of the most difficult things that we have to do in our walk with the Lord. At least it certainly is for me. I guess that I don't have the patiences necessary to be able to gain the glory that comes from overlooking some of the offenses that have been done to me in my life. To take that just a step further, I guess I've simply not listened closely enough to God's instruction and have strayed from His words of knowledge.
I mean, it seems to be a valid process that goes from instruction, to knowledge, to patience, and finally to forgiveness...overlooking an offense, or offenses. Therefore, it is obvious that when we lack something along the way, we can look back to see where we may have fallen short in the process. I believe that this is true for many of us. I don't think I'm the only one who needs further instruction in order to gain better knowledge which will lead to more patience and, therefore, allow me to be a more forgiving person. Does this make sense to you?
Some may not see the inevitable progression from instruction finally to forgiveness. However, I believe that if we look more closely at what God has given us as His book of instruction, we will find that it is really obvious that one can, and does, lead to another and another and another.
That's one of the amazing wonders of the Bible. The answers are there...if we will take the time and the effort to find them. God has given us all the instruction we need in order to lead a more Christ like life. What we have to do is to put those instructions into action and live out what they tell us we should do. Not really complicated, also not easy to actually do. But, well worth all of the effort.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Peace
Good Morning,
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I don't know how things are going for you right now, you know...in this time we're living through...but I would venture a guess that you, like just about everyone today, has concerns that bother you. For many of us those concerns turn into worry and true anxiety in our lives. So, I thought that we should all revisit these verses of Scripture and allow them to speak to us. Through this process of meditating on God's words to us, I would pray for us all that we would, truly, find that peace which is spoken of in them.
Worry and anxiety, lest we forget, are useless emotions. We've spoken about it in this forum many times, I know. Perhaps we need to be reminded periodically about it, though, because too many of us fall back into that same old "worry" trap that bogs us down and causes so many different problems. Paul reminds us here that IN EVERYTHING we need to go to God in our prayers and let Him know what is in our hearts that we need right at that time. Paul also tells us how we are to go to God: With thanksgiving. You see, no matter where we find ourselves today, we all pretty much have to admit that we're probably better off than about 90 % of the people in other places on this planet.
"...in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Yes, of course God knows what we truly need in our lives. But, He also wants to hear from us. And, I truly believe that when we go to Him with thanksgiving in our hearts, it causes the anxiety and worry in our lives to lessen. It's one of the many benefits of prayer, you see.
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
When we are obedient to what God is telling us to do in these verses, we have a benefit that comes from that obedience. That would be the "peace" that we read of here. Peace which we cannot even comprehend. Peace that perhaps we've not felt in a long time...or even ever. True peace. Peace in our hearts and minds. Peace even though the things around us are anything but peaceful. "...the peace of God, which transcends all understanding..." And, I can't put it any better no matter how hard I might try.
Peace we need in order to live our lives to the fullest and to do as we've been commanded: Presenting the Gospel to the lost.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I don't know how things are going for you right now, you know...in this time we're living through...but I would venture a guess that you, like just about everyone today, has concerns that bother you. For many of us those concerns turn into worry and true anxiety in our lives. So, I thought that we should all revisit these verses of Scripture and allow them to speak to us. Through this process of meditating on God's words to us, I would pray for us all that we would, truly, find that peace which is spoken of in them.
Worry and anxiety, lest we forget, are useless emotions. We've spoken about it in this forum many times, I know. Perhaps we need to be reminded periodically about it, though, because too many of us fall back into that same old "worry" trap that bogs us down and causes so many different problems. Paul reminds us here that IN EVERYTHING we need to go to God in our prayers and let Him know what is in our hearts that we need right at that time. Paul also tells us how we are to go to God: With thanksgiving. You see, no matter where we find ourselves today, we all pretty much have to admit that we're probably better off than about 90 % of the people in other places on this planet.
"...in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
Yes, of course God knows what we truly need in our lives. But, He also wants to hear from us. And, I truly believe that when we go to Him with thanksgiving in our hearts, it causes the anxiety and worry in our lives to lessen. It's one of the many benefits of prayer, you see.
"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
When we are obedient to what God is telling us to do in these verses, we have a benefit that comes from that obedience. That would be the "peace" that we read of here. Peace which we cannot even comprehend. Peace that perhaps we've not felt in a long time...or even ever. True peace. Peace in our hearts and minds. Peace even though the things around us are anything but peaceful. "...the peace of God, which transcends all understanding..." And, I can't put it any better no matter how hard I might try.
Peace we need in order to live our lives to the fullest and to do as we've been commanded: Presenting the Gospel to the lost.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Monday, April 20, 2009
According to His Good Purpose
Good Morning,
Philippians 2:12-16 (NIV)
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.
Just as I read these verses today I thought, "YES!!! That's exactly what I want for my life!" Specifically that I would truly "shine like a star in the universe as I hold out the word of life" every day that I live.
Paul gives us some advice here, though, that we need to take to heart and remember. He reminds everyone that we need to be obedient and continue to work on our own lives every day. We need to be paying attention to the details, I think. It isn't just a "good thing" to be reading the Bible and other spiritual works, it is NECESSARY to be doing it. It isn't just a "good idea" to have close fellowship with our Christian brothers and sisters, it is NECESSARY to be doing it. In this way we are being obedient to what Paul is telling us and what God wants for us to do.
He says that we need to lead our lives "without complaining or arguing" in order that we "may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation" and in this way we will "shine like stars" as we live our lives "holding out the word of life"...that is, sharing the Gospel to the lost.
Here's the rub though. Without our normal and almost continual complaining? Without arguing about things that make no difference? I mean, these two...argument and complaint...almost seem to have become a birthright to many of us. It's, well, it's natural! Well, maybe not natural...maybe it's been learned and ingrained into the way we live our lives because it's what we see others doing all the time. But, you see, if we live lives that are NOT ones filled with arguing and complaining, we truly WILL stand out in the world (believe me, if we can do this, people will notice...they'll think it just isn't natural!). In this way we can, indeed, become like shining stars that will light the way for people to listen to us as we present the Gospel message, "the word of life." Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that the goal we should aspire to? Wouldn't that truly please God?
Remember what we read early in this section of Scripture, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose." If we get the arguing and complaining out of our lives, then that allows us truly seem to be much more blameless and pure and real children of the living God. Especially in the warped and perverse world in which we live. When we are living in this way, then it does allow God to work even more in our lives..."to His good purpose."
Hey! I'll help you if you'll help me!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Philippians 2:12-16 (NIV)
Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.
Just as I read these verses today I thought, "YES!!! That's exactly what I want for my life!" Specifically that I would truly "shine like a star in the universe as I hold out the word of life" every day that I live.
Paul gives us some advice here, though, that we need to take to heart and remember. He reminds everyone that we need to be obedient and continue to work on our own lives every day. We need to be paying attention to the details, I think. It isn't just a "good thing" to be reading the Bible and other spiritual works, it is NECESSARY to be doing it. It isn't just a "good idea" to have close fellowship with our Christian brothers and sisters, it is NECESSARY to be doing it. In this way we are being obedient to what Paul is telling us and what God wants for us to do.
He says that we need to lead our lives "without complaining or arguing" in order that we "may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation" and in this way we will "shine like stars" as we live our lives "holding out the word of life"...that is, sharing the Gospel to the lost.
Here's the rub though. Without our normal and almost continual complaining? Without arguing about things that make no difference? I mean, these two...argument and complaint...almost seem to have become a birthright to many of us. It's, well, it's natural! Well, maybe not natural...maybe it's been learned and ingrained into the way we live our lives because it's what we see others doing all the time. But, you see, if we live lives that are NOT ones filled with arguing and complaining, we truly WILL stand out in the world (believe me, if we can do this, people will notice...they'll think it just isn't natural!). In this way we can, indeed, become like shining stars that will light the way for people to listen to us as we present the Gospel message, "the word of life." Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that the goal we should aspire to? Wouldn't that truly please God?
Remember what we read early in this section of Scripture, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose." If we get the arguing and complaining out of our lives, then that allows us truly seem to be much more blameless and pure and real children of the living God. Especially in the warped and perverse world in which we live. When we are living in this way, then it does allow God to work even more in our lives..."to His good purpose."
Hey! I'll help you if you'll help me!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Parables?
Good Morning,
Matthew 13:10-17 (NIV)
The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?"
He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. This is why I speak to them in parables:
"Though seeing, they do not see;
though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
" 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.' But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.
Do you see the parallels that I do, even from those days over 2,000 years ago until this very day and age? Jesus talks to His disciples and explains why people don't see what is right before their eyes nor do they hear the loud voice speaking directly to them and their hearts simply refuse to comprehend or perceive or understand what is so clearly being explained to them.
So, I would ask: What's changed from those days when Jesus walked and spoke until today? My answer is: Not much!
Those very same kinds of people that were alive then are still around today. Those whose hearts have become hardened, who cannot hear what's being said, and refuse to see what is right before their eyes. However, let's not overlook what Jesus DOES offer to them when He says that if they would see and hear and understand, He would heal them. Pretty simple isn't it? I mean, to you and I, perhaps, who are among the blessed because we see and hear and are willing to understand. Not so simple or easy to understand to those who will simply NOT pay attention to what we have in our lives and how much it could also mean to them in theirs.
Yes, we are among the very, very blessed. We have made the choice to accept Jesus into our lives and our hearts and our minds as Lord and Savior. In this, we are able to see clearly, hear what is being said, and to understand it in ways that the "people" simply do not...cannot...because of their refusal to be open to the calling of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
One last thing. Just because we read here that there are those who simply refuse to see, hear, and understand, that does NOT mean that we who DO understand shouldn't continue trying to reach them. Remember, there are some who will, by the grace of God, open their eyes and ears and understand in their hearts what is being offered from a loving, caring God. Let's don't give up in our efforts to reach the lost.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Matthew 13:10-17 (NIV)
The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?"
He replied, "The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him. This is why I speak to them in parables:
"Though seeing, they do not see;
though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:
" 'You will be ever hearing but never understanding;
you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears,
and they have closed their eyes.
Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
hear with their ears,
understand with their hearts
and turn, and I would heal them.' But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.
Do you see the parallels that I do, even from those days over 2,000 years ago until this very day and age? Jesus talks to His disciples and explains why people don't see what is right before their eyes nor do they hear the loud voice speaking directly to them and their hearts simply refuse to comprehend or perceive or understand what is so clearly being explained to them.
So, I would ask: What's changed from those days when Jesus walked and spoke until today? My answer is: Not much!
Those very same kinds of people that were alive then are still around today. Those whose hearts have become hardened, who cannot hear what's being said, and refuse to see what is right before their eyes. However, let's not overlook what Jesus DOES offer to them when He says that if they would see and hear and understand, He would heal them. Pretty simple isn't it? I mean, to you and I, perhaps, who are among the blessed because we see and hear and are willing to understand. Not so simple or easy to understand to those who will simply NOT pay attention to what we have in our lives and how much it could also mean to them in theirs.
Yes, we are among the very, very blessed. We have made the choice to accept Jesus into our lives and our hearts and our minds as Lord and Savior. In this, we are able to see clearly, hear what is being said, and to understand it in ways that the "people" simply do not...cannot...because of their refusal to be open to the calling of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
One last thing. Just because we read here that there are those who simply refuse to see, hear, and understand, that does NOT mean that we who DO understand shouldn't continue trying to reach them. Remember, there are some who will, by the grace of God, open their eyes and ears and understand in their hearts what is being offered from a loving, caring God. Let's don't give up in our efforts to reach the lost.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Righteousness
Good Morning,
2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (NIV)
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
I awoke this morning with an song in my head that I learned when I was about 6 years old and first learning about Jesus and what He meant in my life. Now, I'm not going to tell you that I remember the exact words, but I will tell you that I definitely remember the melody, and these are the words I heard today (I hope someone will correct my memory errors on this chorus):
Oh, Lord I am not worthy,
That Thou should come to me,
But speak Thy words of comfort,
My spirit will be healed.
The song, of course, played about in my head and what came after was so very simple. Of course I'm not worthy! But, I don't have to be! Praise God, I can call on the righteousness granted to me through Jesus Christ alive in me and in my life! This thought caused me to smile and be so very grateful to God that, in and of myself, I don't have to depend on being truly "righteous"...because there's no way I can. That goes without saying. So, I had just this marvelous feeling about the whole matter as I came in to see what awaited as far as Scripture verses.
God is so marvelous! The first verse I came across was, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." To say that my thoughts and feelings were backed up by Scripture would be a huge understatement. You see, in my thoughts about being so "unworthy" in my own mind, I have the righteousness of Jesus Christ in the eyes and mind of God.
So do you.
None of us can claim to be totally righteous or sinless in our lives. We are all human beings with human faults and frailties. We all fall and fail from time to time...(sometimes too often?). We all sin. Paul wrote in Romans, "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Rom. 3:23) But, lest we be unforgiving of ourselves and forget to whom we give our hope and trust and faith and love, Paul also tells us, "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe...and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (vv 22, 24)
I guess the point here this morning is that God wants us all to realize that, although we cannot achieve righteousness in our own efforts nor in any way on our own behalf, we DO have the righteousness granted to us by God through our faith in, and acceptance of, Jesus as Lord and Savior in our lives.
I can't say how much I love to have those thoughts that have been put into my head (and the music that is there, as well) backed up by what crosses my desk as I search Scripture. Today, exactly that happened. Today, I am more than just a little grateful. I wish I had better words to express my thanks to God. Well, He certainly knows my heart.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
2 Corinthians 5:18-21 (NIV)
All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
I awoke this morning with an song in my head that I learned when I was about 6 years old and first learning about Jesus and what He meant in my life. Now, I'm not going to tell you that I remember the exact words, but I will tell you that I definitely remember the melody, and these are the words I heard today (I hope someone will correct my memory errors on this chorus):
Oh, Lord I am not worthy,
That Thou should come to me,
But speak Thy words of comfort,
My spirit will be healed.
The song, of course, played about in my head and what came after was so very simple. Of course I'm not worthy! But, I don't have to be! Praise God, I can call on the righteousness granted to me through Jesus Christ alive in me and in my life! This thought caused me to smile and be so very grateful to God that, in and of myself, I don't have to depend on being truly "righteous"...because there's no way I can. That goes without saying. So, I had just this marvelous feeling about the whole matter as I came in to see what awaited as far as Scripture verses.
God is so marvelous! The first verse I came across was, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." To say that my thoughts and feelings were backed up by Scripture would be a huge understatement. You see, in my thoughts about being so "unworthy" in my own mind, I have the righteousness of Jesus Christ in the eyes and mind of God.
So do you.
None of us can claim to be totally righteous or sinless in our lives. We are all human beings with human faults and frailties. We all fall and fail from time to time...(sometimes too often?). We all sin. Paul wrote in Romans, "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Rom. 3:23) But, lest we be unforgiving of ourselves and forget to whom we give our hope and trust and faith and love, Paul also tells us, "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe...and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." (vv 22, 24)
I guess the point here this morning is that God wants us all to realize that, although we cannot achieve righteousness in our own efforts nor in any way on our own behalf, we DO have the righteousness granted to us by God through our faith in, and acceptance of, Jesus as Lord and Savior in our lives.
I can't say how much I love to have those thoughts that have been put into my head (and the music that is there, as well) backed up by what crosses my desk as I search Scripture. Today, exactly that happened. Today, I am more than just a little grateful. I wish I had better words to express my thanks to God. Well, He certainly knows my heart.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Friday, April 17, 2009
A Reminder
Good Morning,
2 Peter 1:1-12 (NIV)
Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours:
Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.
Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have.
Each morning I come here to the computer and look to see what Scriptures have come for me to read and then wait to hear what God wants me to send along to you...and to others who might read these words. Sometimes, as is God's plan, the very same verse or verses come to me from very different and divergent sources. It's those times that make it so very easy to know for sure what it is that God wants us to read, to understand, and to put to use in our lives. Today is just such a day.
Peter tells us that the divine power of Jesus Christ "has given us everything we need for life and godliness" and that this is done "through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness"...Jesus, Himself. The very next verse is one that many of us need to place closely in our hearts and etch permanently into our brains. "Through these (the glory and goodness of Jesus) he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you (we) may participate in the divine nature and ...(now here's the important part, I think)... escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." Do you see it? I know I certainly do!
How often do we ask how in the world we are to "escape the corruption" that we see in the world? It's something that's on my mind almost daily, it seems. I look about and see this "corruption" at every turn. Now, it's not necessary, I don't think, to point out every corrupt thing in the world in these remarks, but we certainly know what they are. Don't we? So, when we ask ourselves how to escape this corruption, we have an answer in today's Scripture verses. We escape it by our very close and personal knowledge of Jesus Christ and calling on His glory and goodness. He HAS given these to us to use in order that we might not get caught up in the corruption and evil that we see and experience all around us. Here's the rub, however. If we DON'T have the knowledge that comes from knowing Jesus Christ, then we cannot call on His glory and goodness, which then keeps us from escaping the corruption and evil that surrounds. You see what I mean here?
Peter doesn't leave us sort of just wondering on the "how" to use the glory and goodness of Jesus, though. He gives us some practical steps we can take to become not merely readers of this Scripture from God, but ways to put these thoughts into use in our lives...TODAY! "Add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." Goodness, knowledge, self control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, love. These are the marks and traits of a Christian. These are what set us aside. These are what will bring us into closer relationship with, and knowledge of, Jesus Christ. Lest we forget or disregard, however, let's see what Peter tells us next: "But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins." Nearsighted, blind, and forgetful of what God has done in our lives. Not pleasant thoughts.
The last thing that we read about what will occur in our lives when we follow this Godly instruction is that, if we do these things Peter has penned for us, then "you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that what accepting Jesus as Savior is all about? I know that I certainly want to have a "rich welcome" when I get into heaven! I certainly want to hear those words, "'Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Mat. 25:21), when I enter into His presence.
The last verse is something that tugged at my heart. I thought it was speaking to me in a personal manner. "I will remind you of these things, even though you know them...", and this helps me, maybe, to better understand why I sit here each day to listen to what God has for us, and then to do my best to put my thoughts into words for you to read. We all need to be reminded, don't we? We all sort of forget things sometimes. Not just us "old folks" now, but ALL of us. Truly, these words about reminding give me sustenance and, to be honest, they give me a reason.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
2 Peter 1:1-12 (NIV)
Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ, To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours:
Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.
Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have.
Each morning I come here to the computer and look to see what Scriptures have come for me to read and then wait to hear what God wants me to send along to you...and to others who might read these words. Sometimes, as is God's plan, the very same verse or verses come to me from very different and divergent sources. It's those times that make it so very easy to know for sure what it is that God wants us to read, to understand, and to put to use in our lives. Today is just such a day.
Peter tells us that the divine power of Jesus Christ "has given us everything we need for life and godliness" and that this is done "through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness"...Jesus, Himself. The very next verse is one that many of us need to place closely in our hearts and etch permanently into our brains. "Through these (the glory and goodness of Jesus) he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you (we) may participate in the divine nature and ...(now here's the important part, I think)... escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." Do you see it? I know I certainly do!
How often do we ask how in the world we are to "escape the corruption" that we see in the world? It's something that's on my mind almost daily, it seems. I look about and see this "corruption" at every turn. Now, it's not necessary, I don't think, to point out every corrupt thing in the world in these remarks, but we certainly know what they are. Don't we? So, when we ask ourselves how to escape this corruption, we have an answer in today's Scripture verses. We escape it by our very close and personal knowledge of Jesus Christ and calling on His glory and goodness. He HAS given these to us to use in order that we might not get caught up in the corruption and evil that we see and experience all around us. Here's the rub, however. If we DON'T have the knowledge that comes from knowing Jesus Christ, then we cannot call on His glory and goodness, which then keeps us from escaping the corruption and evil that surrounds. You see what I mean here?
Peter doesn't leave us sort of just wondering on the "how" to use the glory and goodness of Jesus, though. He gives us some practical steps we can take to become not merely readers of this Scripture from God, but ways to put these thoughts into use in our lives...TODAY! "Add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." Goodness, knowledge, self control, perseverance, godliness, kindness, love. These are the marks and traits of a Christian. These are what set us aside. These are what will bring us into closer relationship with, and knowledge of, Jesus Christ. Lest we forget or disregard, however, let's see what Peter tells us next: "But if anyone does not have them, he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins." Nearsighted, blind, and forgetful of what God has done in our lives. Not pleasant thoughts.
The last thing that we read about what will occur in our lives when we follow this Godly instruction is that, if we do these things Peter has penned for us, then "you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." Isn't that what we all want? Isn't that what accepting Jesus as Savior is all about? I know that I certainly want to have a "rich welcome" when I get into heaven! I certainly want to hear those words, "'Well done, good and faithful servant!" (Mat. 25:21), when I enter into His presence.
The last verse is something that tugged at my heart. I thought it was speaking to me in a personal manner. "I will remind you of these things, even though you know them...", and this helps me, maybe, to better understand why I sit here each day to listen to what God has for us, and then to do my best to put my thoughts into words for you to read. We all need to be reminded, don't we? We all sort of forget things sometimes. Not just us "old folks" now, but ALL of us. Truly, these words about reminding give me sustenance and, to be honest, they give me a reason.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The End Will Come
Good Morning,
1 Corinthians 15:24 (NIV)
Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power.
Would only that "the end" which we read about in this Scripture verse would come soon. Even today? Tomorrow? Well, soon anyway. Very, very soon.
But, of course, there must also be the time, before "the end" when Jesus takes the time to destroy "all dominion, authority and power." These words make me wonder a bit. Will we, those who have accepted Jesus into our lives as Lord and Savior, will we be able to see Him as He goes about the destruction we read about today? Will we, as we watch, rejoice in seeing the evil doers and the greedy powers being demolished by Jesus? Now, of course, these are my human thoughts about the days that are to come and I hope not sinful ones. Yes, I suppose there is a bit of, well, I guess vengeance would be a word close to what I think I might feel.
Then, after Jesus does as He will, we get to live in a world that has NONE of what we see in the world today. Imagine such a world if you can. A world that doesn't have greed and the lust for money seemingly ruling day by day. A world that has no war and senseless killing of innocents. A world where there are no leaders who wish to dominate their own citizens and even other countries. A world where there is no hate, no racism, no prejudicial thought. A world where there is no hunger; where no one goes without adequate shelter and clothing. A world where children are not afraid; where adults are not afraid.
Now, imagine in the place of all the evil we now see around us each day, that we have a world filled with love, compassion, and understanding. A world where God rules and all are overjoyed to worship Him and praise the very moments, hours, and days that we are allowed to spend in His presence. A world where smiles take the place of tears. A world where children run free in the land in play and gladness. A world where there is no worry and no pain. A world where all are accepted and loved by all others. A world where sleep comes easily because of the peace we all will feel and understand.
Yes, imagine such a world if you will, if you can. It's difficult to get our minds around, isn't it? After living through all we have lived through and knowing all that has transpired in all of the millennia past. But, thanks be to God, there WILL come such a world! Whether we are still here in our human bodies or if we are in heaven watching, we will get to see and experience such a marvelous world.
Oh, that "the end" would come soon!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
1 Corinthians 15:24 (NIV)
Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power.
Would only that "the end" which we read about in this Scripture verse would come soon. Even today? Tomorrow? Well, soon anyway. Very, very soon.
But, of course, there must also be the time, before "the end" when Jesus takes the time to destroy "all dominion, authority and power." These words make me wonder a bit. Will we, those who have accepted Jesus into our lives as Lord and Savior, will we be able to see Him as He goes about the destruction we read about today? Will we, as we watch, rejoice in seeing the evil doers and the greedy powers being demolished by Jesus? Now, of course, these are my human thoughts about the days that are to come and I hope not sinful ones. Yes, I suppose there is a bit of, well, I guess vengeance would be a word close to what I think I might feel.
Then, after Jesus does as He will, we get to live in a world that has NONE of what we see in the world today. Imagine such a world if you can. A world that doesn't have greed and the lust for money seemingly ruling day by day. A world that has no war and senseless killing of innocents. A world where there are no leaders who wish to dominate their own citizens and even other countries. A world where there is no hate, no racism, no prejudicial thought. A world where there is no hunger; where no one goes without adequate shelter and clothing. A world where children are not afraid; where adults are not afraid.
Now, imagine in the place of all the evil we now see around us each day, that we have a world filled with love, compassion, and understanding. A world where God rules and all are overjoyed to worship Him and praise the very moments, hours, and days that we are allowed to spend in His presence. A world where smiles take the place of tears. A world where children run free in the land in play and gladness. A world where there is no worry and no pain. A world where all are accepted and loved by all others. A world where sleep comes easily because of the peace we all will feel and understand.
Yes, imagine such a world if you will, if you can. It's difficult to get our minds around, isn't it? After living through all we have lived through and knowing all that has transpired in all of the millennia past. But, thanks be to God, there WILL come such a world! Whether we are still here in our human bodies or if we are in heaven watching, we will get to see and experience such a marvelous world.
Oh, that "the end" would come soon!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
A Broken Spirit?
Good Morning,
Proverbs 18:14 (NKJ)
The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness,
But who can bear a broken spirit?
It seems that this verse is appropriate for our times, I think. Yesterday we read Psalm 62 and were reminded that we are to put our trust in God during these difficult and trying days we face. That, of course, is so very true. Today we are reminded that even when we DO begin to place our trust and our hopes in God, we still have the challenge of dealing with what the Bible calls a broken spirit.
(First, please!...Let's not get into the "finger pointing" and "blame game" about who or what has caused the current tribulations in our world. It doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things as to the "who" or "whom" is at "fault" in where we find ourselves. We spend entirely too much time in this negative activity. What does matter is the fact that we are where we are and we need to get beyond it! OK, enough political comments.)
Many of us find ourselves these days with somewhat broken spirits. We are there because of the many situations that have occurred in our lives that are, often, beyond our control. I'm sure that we are all cognizant of the seemingly unavoidable fact that one bad thing seems to lead to yet another...and on and on and on. When things go not so great in our lives, then we see other things doing exactly the same. This is what leads to a broken spirit that we have to fight our way out of. I would contend that the best way of dealing with the broken spirit that we read of in today's Scripture is to turn to God and to our families and to our friends and to our local congregations.
It is positive relationship, along with some other simple things, that can lift us up above a broken spirit. First and foremost is a positive relationship with God; with Jesus Christ. This is most certainly where we must begin in order to turn a broken spirit into a spirit that has begun to be repaired. Without this personal, positive relationship with God, we will have great difficulty in any other area of our lives. Next is to get into closer relationship with family. Yes, sometimes it seems almost impossible for various reasons, but unless we can get good, positive reinforcement of ourselves from those closest to us, well, it becomes even more difficult to change a broken spirit into one on the mend. Third, I would say, is to have good, positive, uplifting relationships with close and caring friends. If we find ourselves in a place where we lack these friendships, then we need to be proactive in seeking them out. Remember, as someone much smarter than me once said, "In order to have a friend, one must first be a friend." The last area that I see as extremely important is to have a good, positive relationship with whatever local congregation we attend. Now, if we are NOT attending a local church at this time, I think it's time to change that. We need to be active in our congregation, not just "attendees" who don't take part in the many activities and serve opportunities that are present in our local churches. Being actively involved brings positive relationships.
Of course there are other things we can do to lift up a broken spirit and begin to mend that spirit. I received the following list as some other areas where we can begin to heal:
1. Set aside time for vigorous physical exercise. Walk 3 miles each day -- it will help wash away anger and stimulate positive creativity. Smile while you walk -- and notice all birds, trees and children.
2. Seek out a Godly mentor. Much of the success of AA has been in having another person to call in the lowest times. Don't isolate yourself. Maintain strong family and friend relationships.
3. Reduce TV watching and instead read or listen to inspirational material at least 2 hours daily.
4. Volunteer for a worthy cause. Helping someone else in need is a great way to ease the inward pain.
5. Forgive everyone in your life. Make peace with your past. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
6. Get a job (if you've lost one recently) -- even if it's not your dream job or a great career move. Deliver pizzas or work in the garden department at Home Depot to get moving in a positive direction while you continue to build for long term success.
At the end of each day, complete these two sentences:
"Today I am thankful for......"
"Today my most significant accomplishment was......." From Mr. Dan Miller
However, no matter what things we do in order to take positive steps forward in healing a broken spirit, it still remains that the most effective ways will always be in the relationships that we have now or that we will actively seek to form. Relationships are what life is all about and positive ones will do the most to lift us above the troubles we face.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Proverbs 18:14 (NKJ)
The spirit of a man will sustain him in sickness,
But who can bear a broken spirit?
It seems that this verse is appropriate for our times, I think. Yesterday we read Psalm 62 and were reminded that we are to put our trust in God during these difficult and trying days we face. That, of course, is so very true. Today we are reminded that even when we DO begin to place our trust and our hopes in God, we still have the challenge of dealing with what the Bible calls a broken spirit.
(First, please!...Let's not get into the "finger pointing" and "blame game" about who or what has caused the current tribulations in our world. It doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things as to the "who" or "whom" is at "fault" in where we find ourselves. We spend entirely too much time in this negative activity. What does matter is the fact that we are where we are and we need to get beyond it! OK, enough political comments.)
Many of us find ourselves these days with somewhat broken spirits. We are there because of the many situations that have occurred in our lives that are, often, beyond our control. I'm sure that we are all cognizant of the seemingly unavoidable fact that one bad thing seems to lead to yet another...and on and on and on. When things go not so great in our lives, then we see other things doing exactly the same. This is what leads to a broken spirit that we have to fight our way out of. I would contend that the best way of dealing with the broken spirit that we read of in today's Scripture is to turn to God and to our families and to our friends and to our local congregations.
It is positive relationship, along with some other simple things, that can lift us up above a broken spirit. First and foremost is a positive relationship with God; with Jesus Christ. This is most certainly where we must begin in order to turn a broken spirit into a spirit that has begun to be repaired. Without this personal, positive relationship with God, we will have great difficulty in any other area of our lives. Next is to get into closer relationship with family. Yes, sometimes it seems almost impossible for various reasons, but unless we can get good, positive reinforcement of ourselves from those closest to us, well, it becomes even more difficult to change a broken spirit into one on the mend. Third, I would say, is to have good, positive, uplifting relationships with close and caring friends. If we find ourselves in a place where we lack these friendships, then we need to be proactive in seeking them out. Remember, as someone much smarter than me once said, "In order to have a friend, one must first be a friend." The last area that I see as extremely important is to have a good, positive relationship with whatever local congregation we attend. Now, if we are NOT attending a local church at this time, I think it's time to change that. We need to be active in our congregation, not just "attendees" who don't take part in the many activities and serve opportunities that are present in our local churches. Being actively involved brings positive relationships.
Of course there are other things we can do to lift up a broken spirit and begin to mend that spirit. I received the following list as some other areas where we can begin to heal:
1. Set aside time for vigorous physical exercise. Walk 3 miles each day -- it will help wash away anger and stimulate positive creativity. Smile while you walk -- and notice all birds, trees and children.
2. Seek out a Godly mentor. Much of the success of AA has been in having another person to call in the lowest times. Don't isolate yourself. Maintain strong family and friend relationships.
3. Reduce TV watching and instead read or listen to inspirational material at least 2 hours daily.
4. Volunteer for a worthy cause. Helping someone else in need is a great way to ease the inward pain.
5. Forgive everyone in your life. Make peace with your past. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
6. Get a job (if you've lost one recently) -- even if it's not your dream job or a great career move. Deliver pizzas or work in the garden department at Home Depot to get moving in a positive direction while you continue to build for long term success.
At the end of each day, complete these two sentences:
"Today I am thankful for......"
"Today my most significant accomplishment was......." From Mr. Dan Miller
However, no matter what things we do in order to take positive steps forward in healing a broken spirit, it still remains that the most effective ways will always be in the relationships that we have now or that we will actively seek to form. Relationships are what life is all about and positive ones will do the most to lift us above the troubles we face.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
In God Alone...
Good Morning,
Psalm 62 (NIV)
My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
How long will you assault a man? Would all of you throw him down—this leaning wall, this tottering fence?
They fully intend to topple him from his lofty place they take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts they curse. Selah
Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God ; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Selah
Lowborn men are but a breath, the highborn are but a lie; if weighed on a balance, they are nothing; together they are only a breath.
Do not trust in extortion or take pride in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.
One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong,
and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
(All Emphasis Is Mine...DRB)
Many of us are going through troubles and trials at this particular point in time. Some have lost employment. Others have seen their incomes drop drastically because of lost business. Many have had to sit by and watch as family members...sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, aunt, uncles, brothers and sisters...have had their homes taken away in foreclosure because of greedy bankers making ridiculous loans. This is, truly, a most difficult and trying time in which we live. I have no idea where all of this greed and what has happened to the economy of the world will lead. It's impossible to tell who might be affected tomorrow, or the next day, or maybe the day after that. We cannot fathom the depths of what will happen in the final analysis of these days, weeks, months, and years. I wish that I could offer a "fix" for everyone who suffers at this time; one that would bring us all out of this terrible predicament in which we find ourselves. You know, some concrete answer that we could hold in our hands and cause all of the troubles to be fixed once and for all. You and I both know that I cannot do that.
However, what I CAN do is to offer these words from Scripture that we read today. David wrote them some thousands of years ago, but they ring just as true and real now as they did when he penned them (his pen...God's words!). I've take the liberty of highlighting some of the verses for us to contemplate and think about. I hope that we will take some time today, even in the face of whatever trouble we find in our lives, and see that these thoughts and words can be, truly, a comfort to our hearts and minds and souls.
God alone is our rest and our salvation and our hope. Only He can be the true rock and foundation of our lives. In Him we find our fortress, our strength to face the evils and difficulties that are now among us. When we're going through whatever problems come our way, we can find refuge in the arms of a loving and caring God. It is in God that we can put our total and complete trust...even when men have failed us. We can take true comfort in the words that close this Psalm:
One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
Let us allow this strong and loving God we serve to comfort us and lend us His strength. Let us find peace in the absolute truth that God will reward all in accord to their deeds.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Psalm 62 (NIV)
My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.
How long will you assault a man? Would all of you throw him down—this leaning wall, this tottering fence?
They fully intend to topple him from his lofty place they take delight in lies. With their mouths they bless, but in their hearts they curse. Selah
Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God ; he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. Selah
Lowborn men are but a breath, the highborn are but a lie; if weighed on a balance, they are nothing; together they are only a breath.
Do not trust in extortion or take pride in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.
One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong,
and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
(All Emphasis Is Mine...DRB)
Many of us are going through troubles and trials at this particular point in time. Some have lost employment. Others have seen their incomes drop drastically because of lost business. Many have had to sit by and watch as family members...sons, daughters, fathers, mothers, aunt, uncles, brothers and sisters...have had their homes taken away in foreclosure because of greedy bankers making ridiculous loans. This is, truly, a most difficult and trying time in which we live. I have no idea where all of this greed and what has happened to the economy of the world will lead. It's impossible to tell who might be affected tomorrow, or the next day, or maybe the day after that. We cannot fathom the depths of what will happen in the final analysis of these days, weeks, months, and years. I wish that I could offer a "fix" for everyone who suffers at this time; one that would bring us all out of this terrible predicament in which we find ourselves. You know, some concrete answer that we could hold in our hands and cause all of the troubles to be fixed once and for all. You and I both know that I cannot do that.
However, what I CAN do is to offer these words from Scripture that we read today. David wrote them some thousands of years ago, but they ring just as true and real now as they did when he penned them (his pen...God's words!). I've take the liberty of highlighting some of the verses for us to contemplate and think about. I hope that we will take some time today, even in the face of whatever trouble we find in our lives, and see that these thoughts and words can be, truly, a comfort to our hearts and minds and souls.
God alone is our rest and our salvation and our hope. Only He can be the true rock and foundation of our lives. In Him we find our fortress, our strength to face the evils and difficulties that are now among us. When we're going through whatever problems come our way, we can find refuge in the arms of a loving and caring God. It is in God that we can put our total and complete trust...even when men have failed us. We can take true comfort in the words that close this Psalm:
One thing God has spoken, two things have I heard: that you, O God, are strong, and that you, O Lord, are loving. Surely you will reward each person according to what he has done.
Let us allow this strong and loving God we serve to comfort us and lend us His strength. Let us find peace in the absolute truth that God will reward all in accord to their deeds.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Monday, April 13, 2009
The Folded Napkin
Good Morning,
John 20:7 (Young's Literal Translation)
and the napkin that was upon his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but apart, having been folded up, in one place.
I received the following message and it reminded me and pointed out to me that Jesus resurrection is NOT the end of the story! Yes, we celebrate His glorious resurrection and defeat over death, of course. But, lest we forget, this short verse of Scripture also tells us something else. It gives us a clear message...if we're wise enough and knowledgeable enough to see it. Please look carefully at what this unknown author tells us about the folded napkin. I surely love to learn something that I was not aware of before and this definately does that.
Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection?
(Author unknown)
The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin. Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, 'They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and I don't know where they have put him!' Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side. Was that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the master was finished. Now if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, 'I'm done'. But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because............
The folded napkin meant, 'I'm coming back!' **He is Coming Back!!**
Now, I don't know about you, but this sure gives me even more assurance that Jesus IS coming back!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
John 20:7 (Young's Literal Translation)
and the napkin that was upon his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but apart, having been folded up, in one place.
I received the following message and it reminded me and pointed out to me that Jesus resurrection is NOT the end of the story! Yes, we celebrate His glorious resurrection and defeat over death, of course. But, lest we forget, this short verse of Scripture also tells us something else. It gives us a clear message...if we're wise enough and knowledgeable enough to see it. Please look carefully at what this unknown author tells us about the folded napkin. I surely love to learn something that I was not aware of before and this definately does that.
Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection?
(Author unknown)
The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin. Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, 'They have taken the Lord's body out of the tomb, and I don't know where they have put him!' Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn't go in. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side. Was that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes! In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the master was finished. Now if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, 'I'm done'. But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because............
The folded napkin meant, 'I'm coming back!' **He is Coming Back!!**
Now, I don't know about you, but this sure gives me even more assurance that Jesus IS coming back!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Sunday, April 12, 2009
He Has Risen
Good Morning,
John 20:1-18 (NIV)
The Empty Tomb
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"
So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.
They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"
"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?"
Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."
Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.
Resurrection Sunday! Hallelujah! I pray that we all have the opportunity to celebrate and worship with our various congregations on this glorious day. If, for whatever reasons, there are those who cannot attend a service today, I leave these verses to read and contemplate.
We HAVE a risen Lord! Yes! He is alive!
Let us all rejoice with even Heaven and all the angels that we do, indeed, serve a risen Savior! Let us all show our gratitude this day for what the Lord has done and for the fact that He now sits with the Father.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
John 20:1-18 (NIV)
The Empty Tomb
Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"
So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.)
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.
They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?"
"They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus.
"Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?"
Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him."
Jesus said to her, "Mary." She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher).
Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "
Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her.
Resurrection Sunday! Hallelujah! I pray that we all have the opportunity to celebrate and worship with our various congregations on this glorious day. If, for whatever reasons, there are those who cannot attend a service today, I leave these verses to read and contemplate.
We HAVE a risen Lord! Yes! He is alive!
Let us all rejoice with even Heaven and all the angels that we do, indeed, serve a risen Savior! Let us all show our gratitude this day for what the Lord has done and for the fact that He now sits with the Father.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Willing to Share?
Good Morning,
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NIV)
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
In these verses Paul is giving direction and instruction to Timothy on some things that he ought to be doing as a leader in the Church; as one who will preach and teach the Word and words of God. Maybe we don't remember this fact, I don't know for sure. But it seems that many of us who have been given the task of presenting the Gospels and the Epistles have glossed over a few of the things which are in them.
So, Paul tells Timothy that he, Timothy, is to "command" (... you notice he didn't say 'suggest' or 'consider' or any other less forceful word here ...) folks who are what Paul called rich, those better off financially than the common people, not to be arrogant and not to put their hopes in their wealth. He points out that earthly wealth is uncertain (did he know about this time we're going through, I wonder?). He tells Timothy to remind them to "put their hope in God."
Now, Paul goes on to issue another "command" in these verses. Those wealthy people are commanded to do good and to be generous and to be "willing to share." Unfortunately, those to whom these words are most directed...those leaders, preachers, teachers, and such in the Church...seem to have forgotten to issue said commands. But then, well, perhaps it's not politically correct to do such things in this day and age maybe? Maybe, it's not such a good idea to speak to the wealthy among us in such ways (I mean, SHARE the wealth??? Come on!) But, look, here it is in the Bible. It's not like someone has made it up out of thin air. These are God's words to us, written by the pen of Paul. So, I guess we really should pay attention when we see the word "command", don't you think?
Paul also mentions that this doing of good, generosity, and willingness to share do NOT go unrewarded. Paul tells us "In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." These are strong words. This is a huge and great reward for doing the right things. What greater "wealth" or "riches" could someone want that to be assured of the treasure that awaits obedient servants in heaven?
Yes, these really are pretty strong words that Paul penned. He sent the letter to Timothy so he would be sure to preach that which God set down through Paul, yes, but these words, I believe, were also meant for all the ages to come, as well. Let's don't shirk our responsibilities in this area of direction and correction. I know that these kinds of thoughts and teachings are not popular to some. I'm aware that being reminded of these kinds of ideas will anger others. Yes, there are those who will take offense and tell us to mind our own business about their affairs. All I can say about these reactions and the problems that may arise because of them is, when we obey, there are always consequences. Some are very, very good...being obedient to God is ALWAYS a good thing and is ALWAYS rewarded. Some of them...not so much, as happens when one upsets folks. Especially in their pocketbooks. Kind of goes with the territory, you know?
Let none of us ever be afraid to teach what God put into His Word. It is what we're supposed to do.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NIV)
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.
In these verses Paul is giving direction and instruction to Timothy on some things that he ought to be doing as a leader in the Church; as one who will preach and teach the Word and words of God. Maybe we don't remember this fact, I don't know for sure. But it seems that many of us who have been given the task of presenting the Gospels and the Epistles have glossed over a few of the things which are in them.
So, Paul tells Timothy that he, Timothy, is to "command" (... you notice he didn't say 'suggest' or 'consider' or any other less forceful word here ...) folks who are what Paul called rich, those better off financially than the common people, not to be arrogant and not to put their hopes in their wealth. He points out that earthly wealth is uncertain (did he know about this time we're going through, I wonder?). He tells Timothy to remind them to "put their hope in God."
Now, Paul goes on to issue another "command" in these verses. Those wealthy people are commanded to do good and to be generous and to be "willing to share." Unfortunately, those to whom these words are most directed...those leaders, preachers, teachers, and such in the Church...seem to have forgotten to issue said commands. But then, well, perhaps it's not politically correct to do such things in this day and age maybe? Maybe, it's not such a good idea to speak to the wealthy among us in such ways (I mean, SHARE the wealth??? Come on!) But, look, here it is in the Bible. It's not like someone has made it up out of thin air. These are God's words to us, written by the pen of Paul. So, I guess we really should pay attention when we see the word "command", don't you think?
Paul also mentions that this doing of good, generosity, and willingness to share do NOT go unrewarded. Paul tells us "In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." These are strong words. This is a huge and great reward for doing the right things. What greater "wealth" or "riches" could someone want that to be assured of the treasure that awaits obedient servants in heaven?
Yes, these really are pretty strong words that Paul penned. He sent the letter to Timothy so he would be sure to preach that which God set down through Paul, yes, but these words, I believe, were also meant for all the ages to come, as well. Let's don't shirk our responsibilities in this area of direction and correction. I know that these kinds of thoughts and teachings are not popular to some. I'm aware that being reminded of these kinds of ideas will anger others. Yes, there are those who will take offense and tell us to mind our own business about their affairs. All I can say about these reactions and the problems that may arise because of them is, when we obey, there are always consequences. Some are very, very good...being obedient to God is ALWAYS a good thing and is ALWAYS rewarded. Some of them...not so much, as happens when one upsets folks. Especially in their pocketbooks. Kind of goes with the territory, you know?
Let none of us ever be afraid to teach what God put into His Word. It is what we're supposed to do.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Friday, April 10, 2009
Good Friday
Good Morning,
Luke 23:26-43 (NIV)
As they led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. Jesus turned and said to them, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. For the time will come when you will say, 'Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!' Then " 'they will say to the mountains, "Fall on us!" and to the hills, "Cover us!" ' For if men do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?"
Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One."
The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself."
There was a written notice above him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."
It is a day of reflection, I think. We need to simply meditate on what the crucifixion of Jesus means to us...as individuals, not as a "community" of believers. Today is a day that we should remember what He said to the "good thief" who was there with Him and realized exactly Who Jesus was. Jesus made Him a promise, a promise to a dying man and by a dying man (for they both knew their fate that day)..."I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." That same promise comes from the lips of Jesus to you and I and to everyone who believes on the name of Jesus as Lord and Savior in a personal way.
THIS, my friends, is what we should have our minds on this day: "While we still were sinners Christ died for us." (Rom. 5:8)
Let's do as we should today and sit a while quietly in reflection of Who Jesus is to us (personally and individually) and also of what He did for us on that day (His suffering and death for the sin of the world).
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Luke 23:26-43 (NIV)
As they led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus. A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. Jesus turned and said to them, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. For the time will come when you will say, 'Blessed are the barren women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!' Then " 'they will say to the mountains, "Fall on us!" and to the hills, "Cover us!" ' For if men do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?"
Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals—one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing." And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.
The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Christ of God, the Chosen One."
The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar and said, "If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself."
There was a written notice above him, which read: THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"
But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise."
It is a day of reflection, I think. We need to simply meditate on what the crucifixion of Jesus means to us...as individuals, not as a "community" of believers. Today is a day that we should remember what He said to the "good thief" who was there with Him and realized exactly Who Jesus was. Jesus made Him a promise, a promise to a dying man and by a dying man (for they both knew their fate that day)..."I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise." That same promise comes from the lips of Jesus to you and I and to everyone who believes on the name of Jesus as Lord and Savior in a personal way.
THIS, my friends, is what we should have our minds on this day: "While we still were sinners Christ died for us." (Rom. 5:8)
Let's do as we should today and sit a while quietly in reflection of Who Jesus is to us (personally and individually) and also of what He did for us on that day (His suffering and death for the sin of the world).
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Gethsemane
Good Morning,
Matthew 26:36-46 (NIV)
Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done."
When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
Just in case there might be some who have a bit of doubt or wonder about Jesus' being a real human being, all we have to do is to read these verses. "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death." He was letting His deepest feelings be known to His friends in that statement, don't you think? His humanity cried out to His friends for their comfort. He then went a short way, fell to the ground in prayer..."My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me." After all, He knew what was to come, because...in addition to being a human being, He was also God. He then calls out once again for the Father to take away what was to come; His horrible death on the cross. But, He knew that it was the Father's will that had to be done and not His human feelings about it.
He let his displeasure be known to the disciples with Him, as well, when He said, "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" Then, He again asked them, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation." You see, because He was truly human, He knew what could happen in men's weaknesses; He knew that temptations could and would easily come to have them go astray. He told them, knowing the human feelings, "The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
Yes, Jesus was...IS...truly God. But, He was also a man when He came to fulfill God's plan. He was a man who knew and understood our failings and faults. Just in case we sort of forget this fact from time to time, it would be good to remember these verses and think about the Man that Jesus was and what He had to face in these moments at Gethsemane. A Man who gave His life that we might live.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Matthew 26:36-46 (NIV)
Then Jesus went with his disciples to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to them, "Sit here while I go over there and pray." He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be sorrowful and troubled. Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me."
Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."
Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter. "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
He went away a second time and prayed, "My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done."
When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. So he left them and went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing.
Then he returned to the disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Look, the hour is near, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go! Here comes my betrayer!"
Just in case there might be some who have a bit of doubt or wonder about Jesus' being a real human being, all we have to do is to read these verses. "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death." He was letting His deepest feelings be known to His friends in that statement, don't you think? His humanity cried out to His friends for their comfort. He then went a short way, fell to the ground in prayer..."My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me." After all, He knew what was to come, because...in addition to being a human being, He was also God. He then calls out once again for the Father to take away what was to come; His horrible death on the cross. But, He knew that it was the Father's will that had to be done and not His human feelings about it.
He let his displeasure be known to the disciples with Him, as well, when He said, "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" Then, He again asked them, "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation." You see, because He was truly human, He knew what could happen in men's weaknesses; He knew that temptations could and would easily come to have them go astray. He told them, knowing the human feelings, "The spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
Yes, Jesus was...IS...truly God. But, He was also a man when He came to fulfill God's plan. He was a man who knew and understood our failings and faults. Just in case we sort of forget this fact from time to time, it would be good to remember these verses and think about the Man that Jesus was and what He had to face in these moments at Gethsemane. A Man who gave His life that we might live.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Evidence of God
Good Morning,
Psalm 19 (NIV)
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,
which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.
The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
Who can discern his errors?
Forgive my hidden faults.
Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then will I be blameless,
innocent of great transgression.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
I often wonder why certain verses or sections of Scripture come my way on any particular day. I mean, there are so many days that I simply cannot understand the reason, or reasons, that some particular portion of God's Holy Bible cross my desk and I hear that "still, small voice" in my head telling me to send it along to you...and to whomever else might have the privilege of reading the words...especially the words that come directly from God in the Bible. Today is just such a day. I've simply basked in the beauty and clear meaning of what the Psalmist's pen produced that surely came from God Himself.
I guess that's often the reason, isn't it? Simply that God wants us to see His words as the wonder and marvel that they truly are. He is here and He is all around us. His glory and works are evident for us to see. All I can say is, "Thank you, Lord!" And, to repeat the words of the prophet:
"He who forms the mountains,
creates the wind,
and reveals his thoughts to man,
he who turns dawn to darkness,
and treads the high places of the earth—
the LORD God Almighty is his name." (Amos 4:13)
Hallelujah!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Psalm 19 (NIV)
The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,
which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.
The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
Who can discern his errors?
Forgive my hidden faults.
Keep your servant also from willful sins;
may they not rule over me.
Then will I be blameless,
innocent of great transgression.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.
I often wonder why certain verses or sections of Scripture come my way on any particular day. I mean, there are so many days that I simply cannot understand the reason, or reasons, that some particular portion of God's Holy Bible cross my desk and I hear that "still, small voice" in my head telling me to send it along to you...and to whomever else might have the privilege of reading the words...especially the words that come directly from God in the Bible. Today is just such a day. I've simply basked in the beauty and clear meaning of what the Psalmist's pen produced that surely came from God Himself.
I guess that's often the reason, isn't it? Simply that God wants us to see His words as the wonder and marvel that they truly are. He is here and He is all around us. His glory and works are evident for us to see. All I can say is, "Thank you, Lord!" And, to repeat the words of the prophet:
"He who forms the mountains,
creates the wind,
and reveals his thoughts to man,
he who turns dawn to darkness,
and treads the high places of the earth—
the LORD God Almighty is his name." (Amos 4:13)
Hallelujah!
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Ruin and Destruction
Good Morning,
1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
We're all familiar with the verse that says, "For the love of money is a rood of all kinds of evil," but we don't often look at the verses surrounding those more famous words. And, if truth be told, way too many people misquote the Bible and say, "Money IS the root of evil." Now, I hope we all know and understand that money, in and of itself, isn't evil...nor is it the root of evil. However, of course, it can...and often does...lead to many kinds of evil in people's lives.
In these verses Paul talks to Timothy about being content before he speaks of the evil and temptations that money and riches often bring. I suppose then, as Paul wrote about several times in his epistles, we should grasp the true meaning of being content and examine ourselves to see what being content is to us as individual human beings. But, that's another message that we've spoken about in the past.
Today the verse that struck me in this section of Scripture is one that precedes the "love of money" words that Paul wrote. He tells Timothy, and us, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction." I guess if we want to use an example of the truth of these words all we've got to do is to look at the world around us and some of the individuals in the news. Does the name Madoff come to mind, perhaps? Does the unmitigated greed that we've seen for so many years make an impact on your thinking?
THIS, I think, is exactly the kind of world that Paul could see when he wrote the words that God gave him in these verses. Maybe he didn't foresee exactly what's occurring in today's day and age, but he certainly was given the Godly wisdom to see the consequences of the desire to be rich and what uncontrolled greed could bring to men...and to the world.
The sad thing in all of this is that so many of the people, those who have sought to be rich and who succumbed to greed in their lives, is the fact that they attended good Christian congregations each week. They professed a love of God and said that they are believers in Jesus Christ. The claimed to be living a Christian lifestyle. Yet, "the love of money" and the "want to get rich" proved the rule that Paul wrote as a warning to all people for all time. I truly believe that the problems and challenges that face the world in our financial markets today can go back, very simply, to what Paul wrote and one word...greed.
I know that at this point in time many are saying, "Oh, we've learned now from the mistakes that people have made. Yes, we know that we need to make changes in the ways that we do business so this can never happen again." I certainly agree that these statements are true. BUT...I also believe that if we don't heed the warnings that God gave us through Paul in these verses, well, we're destined to repeat the behaviors that have gotten into this mess.
I hope we all see that we need to change our mind set about money and the desire for riches. I pray that we all will listen to God and what He has to say to us about this.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
1 Timothy 6:6-10 (NIV)
But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.
We're all familiar with the verse that says, "For the love of money is a rood of all kinds of evil," but we don't often look at the verses surrounding those more famous words. And, if truth be told, way too many people misquote the Bible and say, "Money IS the root of evil." Now, I hope we all know and understand that money, in and of itself, isn't evil...nor is it the root of evil. However, of course, it can...and often does...lead to many kinds of evil in people's lives.
In these verses Paul talks to Timothy about being content before he speaks of the evil and temptations that money and riches often bring. I suppose then, as Paul wrote about several times in his epistles, we should grasp the true meaning of being content and examine ourselves to see what being content is to us as individual human beings. But, that's another message that we've spoken about in the past.
Today the verse that struck me in this section of Scripture is one that precedes the "love of money" words that Paul wrote. He tells Timothy, and us, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction." I guess if we want to use an example of the truth of these words all we've got to do is to look at the world around us and some of the individuals in the news. Does the name Madoff come to mind, perhaps? Does the unmitigated greed that we've seen for so many years make an impact on your thinking?
THIS, I think, is exactly the kind of world that Paul could see when he wrote the words that God gave him in these verses. Maybe he didn't foresee exactly what's occurring in today's day and age, but he certainly was given the Godly wisdom to see the consequences of the desire to be rich and what uncontrolled greed could bring to men...and to the world.
The sad thing in all of this is that so many of the people, those who have sought to be rich and who succumbed to greed in their lives, is the fact that they attended good Christian congregations each week. They professed a love of God and said that they are believers in Jesus Christ. The claimed to be living a Christian lifestyle. Yet, "the love of money" and the "want to get rich" proved the rule that Paul wrote as a warning to all people for all time. I truly believe that the problems and challenges that face the world in our financial markets today can go back, very simply, to what Paul wrote and one word...greed.
I know that at this point in time many are saying, "Oh, we've learned now from the mistakes that people have made. Yes, we know that we need to make changes in the ways that we do business so this can never happen again." I certainly agree that these statements are true. BUT...I also believe that if we don't heed the warnings that God gave us through Paul in these verses, well, we're destined to repeat the behaviors that have gotten into this mess.
I hope we all see that we need to change our mind set about money and the desire for riches. I pray that we all will listen to God and what He has to say to us about this.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Our Gentleness
Good Morning,
Philippians 4:5 (NIV)
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
What better season of the year could there be to have this verse of Scripture etched upon our hearts and minds?
As we approach Easter, let us remember that this is exactly what we need to be and to show all of those around us during this coming week. Yes, we should show our gentleness and have it be part of our lives all the time, but now? During Easter Week? When we think of the death and resurrection of Jesus? Now we should all have His sacrifice on our minds and we should truly show our Christian gentleness to the world. Our lives, as we read in this short verse, should be evidential of our Christianity and in that, our gentleness should shine through.
I think that contemplation about, and meditation upon, this verse is enough.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Philippians 4:5 (NIV)
Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.
What better season of the year could there be to have this verse of Scripture etched upon our hearts and minds?
As we approach Easter, let us remember that this is exactly what we need to be and to show all of those around us during this coming week. Yes, we should show our gentleness and have it be part of our lives all the time, but now? During Easter Week? When we think of the death and resurrection of Jesus? Now we should all have His sacrifice on our minds and we should truly show our Christian gentleness to the world. Our lives, as we read in this short verse, should be evidential of our Christianity and in that, our gentleness should shine through.
I think that contemplation about, and meditation upon, this verse is enough.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Strong? Self Sufficient?
Good Morning,
2 Corinthians 12:7-9 (NIV)
To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." These are, truly, powerful words that should also give us great peace and comfort. I say that because we've been taught, most of us, throughout our entire lives, that we are to be "strong and self sufficient" as we live our lives on this planet. Now, even though we show the world that face of strength and self sufficiency, deep down inside we know that we are (again, most of us) anything BUT the strong, self sufficient person shown to the world.
But, the good news is that God knows us...the real and true persons we are...and He knows our weaknesses and failures. I would say, after reading Paul's words, God even sort of takes delight in these weaknesses and failures. I say that because of what God told Paul about His grace being Paul's sufficiency and His power being shown in Paul's weaknesses. You see, the same is true for us. God makes His power known through, and because of, our weaknesses. So, Paul figured that it would be best if he simply talked about (he says gladly boasts) of his weaknesses so the power of Jesus could be shown in and by way of him...the weak and needy Paul.
So, what "weaknesses" do we have that we need the strength of Christ to show through? Where is it that we need Jesus to help us to be more secure because we are so NOT self sufficient? These are areas we need to humble ourselves before God and pray about. These are areas in our lives where we need to have true and trusted brothers and sisters in Christ to talk to about...because they will know exactly what we're going through. Mostly, we need to admit to ourselves that we are, indeed, weak and needy. That might be the hard part.
God shows His strength through and because of our weaknesses. It's as simple as that.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
2 Corinthians 12:7-9 (NIV)
To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." These are, truly, powerful words that should also give us great peace and comfort. I say that because we've been taught, most of us, throughout our entire lives, that we are to be "strong and self sufficient" as we live our lives on this planet. Now, even though we show the world that face of strength and self sufficiency, deep down inside we know that we are (again, most of us) anything BUT the strong, self sufficient person shown to the world.
But, the good news is that God knows us...the real and true persons we are...and He knows our weaknesses and failures. I would say, after reading Paul's words, God even sort of takes delight in these weaknesses and failures. I say that because of what God told Paul about His grace being Paul's sufficiency and His power being shown in Paul's weaknesses. You see, the same is true for us. God makes His power known through, and because of, our weaknesses. So, Paul figured that it would be best if he simply talked about (he says gladly boasts) of his weaknesses so the power of Jesus could be shown in and by way of him...the weak and needy Paul.
So, what "weaknesses" do we have that we need the strength of Christ to show through? Where is it that we need Jesus to help us to be more secure because we are so NOT self sufficient? These are areas we need to humble ourselves before God and pray about. These are areas in our lives where we need to have true and trusted brothers and sisters in Christ to talk to about...because they will know exactly what we're going through. Mostly, we need to admit to ourselves that we are, indeed, weak and needy. That might be the hard part.
God shows His strength through and because of our weaknesses. It's as simple as that.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Friday, April 3, 2009
Why Forgive?
Good Morning,
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
I have a question for all of us this morning. Are we carrying around something, some wrong that's been done to us? I'm pretty sure that almost every one of us has that burden. That particular burden leads to the feelings that we read in today's Scripture verses. When we carry that around we have in our lives "bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." That's what wrongs done to someone bring about, in almost every case.
Anger and bitterness and rage and the such that we have from being hurt or wronged in some way really only hurts ourselves. Those ugly feelings that we carry do no good whatever. The cannot be used in any kind of a positive or uplifting way. All they ever do is to cause us further, and even more painful, feelings as time goes on.
Paul tells us in the next verse how to get rid of these feelings, or at least to lessen them to the point that they don't drag us down and keep our minds in places they shouldn't be. Simply put, "Be kind and compassionate...forgiving each other..."
You see, when we truly do forgive a wrong that we've done it not only can give the wrongdoer some peace, by showing compassion and kindness, but it also gives us...the one forgiving...peace in our lives, as well.
So, if we wish to rid our lives of these negative emotions and feelings that cause us so much more hurt (because hurt causes the feelings, and then having the feelings causes more hurt, which causes more of the feelings...you see the point, I'm sure, as it's a never ending cycle) if we wish to get these things out of our lives, then we need to truly forgive the wrong or wrongs that have been done. I would venture to say that most of us...all of us?...have something that needs forgiving in our lives.
One last thing. Forgiveness is MUCH more than simply saying the words. Don't forget that. Real forgiveness doesn't come from the lips, it comes from the heart and soul. That's how God has forgiven us and that's how we need to approach forgiving. Let's not dishonor God, and even ourselves, by simply saying the words, "I forgive you," without truly having the feeling in our hearts. That's the only way it really works. Just as hurt causes ugly emotion and ugly emotion causes hurt, and so on, so also forgiving causes these ugly feelings to diminish and the diminishing feelings allow us to be more forgiving...and it goes on, as well.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
Ephesians 4:31-32 (NIV)
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
I have a question for all of us this morning. Are we carrying around something, some wrong that's been done to us? I'm pretty sure that almost every one of us has that burden. That particular burden leads to the feelings that we read in today's Scripture verses. When we carry that around we have in our lives "bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." That's what wrongs done to someone bring about, in almost every case.
Anger and bitterness and rage and the such that we have from being hurt or wronged in some way really only hurts ourselves. Those ugly feelings that we carry do no good whatever. The cannot be used in any kind of a positive or uplifting way. All they ever do is to cause us further, and even more painful, feelings as time goes on.
Paul tells us in the next verse how to get rid of these feelings, or at least to lessen them to the point that they don't drag us down and keep our minds in places they shouldn't be. Simply put, "Be kind and compassionate...forgiving each other..."
You see, when we truly do forgive a wrong that we've done it not only can give the wrongdoer some peace, by showing compassion and kindness, but it also gives us...the one forgiving...peace in our lives, as well.
So, if we wish to rid our lives of these negative emotions and feelings that cause us so much more hurt (because hurt causes the feelings, and then having the feelings causes more hurt, which causes more of the feelings...you see the point, I'm sure, as it's a never ending cycle) if we wish to get these things out of our lives, then we need to truly forgive the wrong or wrongs that have been done. I would venture to say that most of us...all of us?...have something that needs forgiving in our lives.
One last thing. Forgiveness is MUCH more than simply saying the words. Don't forget that. Real forgiveness doesn't come from the lips, it comes from the heart and soul. That's how God has forgiven us and that's how we need to approach forgiving. Let's not dishonor God, and even ourselves, by simply saying the words, "I forgive you," without truly having the feeling in our hearts. That's the only way it really works. Just as hurt causes ugly emotion and ugly emotion causes hurt, and so on, so also forgiving causes these ugly feelings to diminish and the diminishing feelings allow us to be more forgiving...and it goes on, as well.
Love, peace, and blessings,
David
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