November 30
When one has received the blessed gift of redemption from Christ by accepting His propitiatory life, death, and resurrection in ones own behalf, a new day dawns. Where there was once darkness, there is glorious light. Where there was once despair, there is hope. Where there was sorrow, there is joy.
The transformation is so profound that it is referred to in the scriptures as a new birth. The Lord Himself said, “You must be born again…” Indeed, without this new birth, without this awakening from the dark night of sin, one… “cannot see the Kingdom of God” John 3:3.
This new life is at once an improved version of the life one had been living all along while at the same time being a life that has transcended the temporal and reached the realm of the eternal. It is a life that requires continued attention to the needs of the physical but is now focused on God’s provision of the spiritual.
In Galatians 2:20 it says, “The life I now live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God who loves me and gave Himself for me.” Once seeing the magnitude of the provision Jesus has made for man’s eternal well-being, the Light of His love forever dispels the darkness. For the one who believes, eternity has dawned.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
November 29
We’d like to think well of ourselves but reality sometimes steps in and requires us to do a bit of reassessing. If we find ourselves to have offended several people—that just might indicate that we have behaved offensively. If we are not at the top of everyone’s ‘must invite list’ it could be because we’ve hurt others.
The consequences of our social shortcomings are not pleasant but if we’re honest with ourselves, we know they’re deserved. Jesus, however, endured much from the sinners He came to save even though He had done nothing but show them kindness and love.
Jesus healed, He delivered from demonic possession, He supplied food to nurture their bodies and spiritual food to nurture their souls, yet they found offense in Him and demanded His execution! When we face ostracism or criticism, the Word admonishes that we think of Him. His example guides us in our own endurance of hardship.
Hebrews 12:3 says, “Think of Him who endured from sinners such grievous opposition and bitter hostility against Himself so that you may not grow weary or lose heart…” When we contemplate His steadfast love for us, His sacrifice, we are encouraged by His example to go forward in our resolve to forsake our shortcomings and become like Him.
We’d like to think well of ourselves but reality sometimes steps in and requires us to do a bit of reassessing. If we find ourselves to have offended several people—that just might indicate that we have behaved offensively. If we are not at the top of everyone’s ‘must invite list’ it could be because we’ve hurt others.
The consequences of our social shortcomings are not pleasant but if we’re honest with ourselves, we know they’re deserved. Jesus, however, endured much from the sinners He came to save even though He had done nothing but show them kindness and love.
Jesus healed, He delivered from demonic possession, He supplied food to nurture their bodies and spiritual food to nurture their souls, yet they found offense in Him and demanded His execution! When we face ostracism or criticism, the Word admonishes that we think of Him. His example guides us in our own endurance of hardship.
Hebrews 12:3 says, “Think of Him who endured from sinners such grievous opposition and bitter hostility against Himself so that you may not grow weary or lose heart…” When we contemplate His steadfast love for us, His sacrifice, we are encouraged by His example to go forward in our resolve to forsake our shortcomings and become like Him.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
November 28
We tend to think we’re not too bad. Indeed by man’s standard of assessing good and evil, most of us would be placed into the ‘good’ category. We haven’t masterminded a murderous plot that brought down skyscrapers and left thousands dead and untold millions shocked and grieving.
We haven’t strapped on incendiary devices with the intention of destroying the lives of unsuspecting innocents who happen to be in the path of our convoluted emotions of hatred and blood lust and prejudice. We haven’t terrorized those around us by our words or our actions. We’re good.
But when we compare ourselves to our HOLY GOD rather than to the most depraved of fallen man, our self-assessment becomes less flattering. When held beside the pure, unadulterated goodness of God, our best attempt at that commodity is comparable to “filthy rags” Isaiah 64:6. Yet, we can be clothed in the righteousness of Christ!
He makes His purity our own! Ephesians 2:4, 5 says, “God who is rich in mercy, because of His great love for us, even when we were dead in sins has given us life through Christ, saving us by His grace.” No matter how hard, cold, evil we may be, we can be transformed by His love and salvation if we will but embrace Jesus as our Savior and Lord!
We tend to think we’re not too bad. Indeed by man’s standard of assessing good and evil, most of us would be placed into the ‘good’ category. We haven’t masterminded a murderous plot that brought down skyscrapers and left thousands dead and untold millions shocked and grieving.
We haven’t strapped on incendiary devices with the intention of destroying the lives of unsuspecting innocents who happen to be in the path of our convoluted emotions of hatred and blood lust and prejudice. We haven’t terrorized those around us by our words or our actions. We’re good.
But when we compare ourselves to our HOLY GOD rather than to the most depraved of fallen man, our self-assessment becomes less flattering. When held beside the pure, unadulterated goodness of God, our best attempt at that commodity is comparable to “filthy rags” Isaiah 64:6. Yet, we can be clothed in the righteousness of Christ!
He makes His purity our own! Ephesians 2:4, 5 says, “God who is rich in mercy, because of His great love for us, even when we were dead in sins has given us life through Christ, saving us by His grace.” No matter how hard, cold, evil we may be, we can be transformed by His love and salvation if we will but embrace Jesus as our Savior and Lord!
Friday, November 27, 2009
November 27
“Yea, though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” These words from Psalm 23:4 have perhaps lifted more people during their times of grief and loss than have any others ever penned.
The Lord’s rod protects and His staff leads the believer even through the dark tunnel we call death and His promise of salvation through Jesus’ sacrifice of Himself for our sins assures that the believer will emerge into the glorious light of Heaven’s indescribable joy on the other side.
One thing that this beautiful passage conveys when you read between the lines is the utter powerlessness of death over the one who has placed his trust in Jesus. For who could possibly fear a shadow? A shadow has no substance. It gains its presence by projecting something that blocks the LIGHT! Should the one who trusts the power of the Lord fear a mere shadow!
When we face death or any threat of danger, when we are unsettled by the long, dark shadow cast by our fear and by our sense of helplessness to overcome an intrusion into our lives that is too big for us to manage, may we look beyond the shadow and the threat that casts it to the LIGHT of Jesus that is always behind any shadow, always shining there to enable us to see His help in time of need.
“Yea, though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil for Thou art with me. Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.” These words from Psalm 23:4 have perhaps lifted more people during their times of grief and loss than have any others ever penned.
The Lord’s rod protects and His staff leads the believer even through the dark tunnel we call death and His promise of salvation through Jesus’ sacrifice of Himself for our sins assures that the believer will emerge into the glorious light of Heaven’s indescribable joy on the other side.
One thing that this beautiful passage conveys when you read between the lines is the utter powerlessness of death over the one who has placed his trust in Jesus. For who could possibly fear a shadow? A shadow has no substance. It gains its presence by projecting something that blocks the LIGHT! Should the one who trusts the power of the Lord fear a mere shadow!
When we face death or any threat of danger, when we are unsettled by the long, dark shadow cast by our fear and by our sense of helplessness to overcome an intrusion into our lives that is too big for us to manage, may we look beyond the shadow and the threat that casts it to the LIGHT of Jesus that is always behind any shadow, always shining there to enable us to see His help in time of need.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable GIFT...II Corinthians 9:15
November 26
Stewing in your own juice is a recipe for heartburn! Even if you have a justification for your irritation, it is unwise and unhealthy to indulge the kind of emotion that stirs up negativity within. The Lord’s counsel is that we love our enemies and do good to those who despitefully use us (Luke 6:27).
Before we can love our enemies, we must follow another scriptural admonition, that being, “Cease from anger and forsake wrath, fret not yourself; it tends only to evildoing” Psalm 37:8. The Lord understands our emotional make-up and He knows our proclivity to seek revenge when we feel we’ve been wronged.
He also knows that the world’s way of dealing with perceived slights and hurts is good for nothing but perpetuating anger, hard feelings, and an endless round of attempting to get even. Long after the original reason for the breach that now exists has been forgotten, the endless striving for retribution goes on.
But if we can appropriate the Lord’s counsel in the matter, we will release anger. We will not fret about the wrong that was done against us. We will not allow the anger to seethe and fester until we’re plotting revenge. Once we resolve to let go of all negativity, we can get on with the Lord’s admonition to love!
Stewing in your own juice is a recipe for heartburn! Even if you have a justification for your irritation, it is unwise and unhealthy to indulge the kind of emotion that stirs up negativity within. The Lord’s counsel is that we love our enemies and do good to those who despitefully use us (Luke 6:27).
Before we can love our enemies, we must follow another scriptural admonition, that being, “Cease from anger and forsake wrath, fret not yourself; it tends only to evildoing” Psalm 37:8. The Lord understands our emotional make-up and He knows our proclivity to seek revenge when we feel we’ve been wronged.
He also knows that the world’s way of dealing with perceived slights and hurts is good for nothing but perpetuating anger, hard feelings, and an endless round of attempting to get even. Long after the original reason for the breach that now exists has been forgotten, the endless striving for retribution goes on.
But if we can appropriate the Lord’s counsel in the matter, we will release anger. We will not fret about the wrong that was done against us. We will not allow the anger to seethe and fester until we’re plotting revenge. Once we resolve to let go of all negativity, we can get on with the Lord’s admonition to love!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
November 25
Betrayal. That word delves into the depth of who we are and pulls out fears and longings and disappointments we’ve all experienced and then submerged in our endeavor to get on with interacting with others without transferring to them the anticipation of hurt that was generated by someone else.
Often, we are unsuccessful in our resolve to get on with our lives without the encumbrance of past hurts and dashed expectations. Sometimes those negative emotions were created when we disappointed ourselves. We had high hopes and they came to far less than we wished they would.
Sometimes the sense of betrayal does not result from letting ourselves down but because someone we trust, someone to whom we made ourselves emotionally vulnerable used our trust against us. This form of hurt is grievous because we feel not only betrayed but foolish for having allowed ourselves to be gullible.
There is One, however, in whom we may place our confidence with absolute assurance that He will not fail or forsake us in any way. It is the Lord of whom we may say, “My soul, wait only upon God and submit to Him, for my hope and expectation are from Him” Psalm 62:5. He is faithful. He is steadfast. He is true.
Betrayal. That word delves into the depth of who we are and pulls out fears and longings and disappointments we’ve all experienced and then submerged in our endeavor to get on with interacting with others without transferring to them the anticipation of hurt that was generated by someone else.
Often, we are unsuccessful in our resolve to get on with our lives without the encumbrance of past hurts and dashed expectations. Sometimes those negative emotions were created when we disappointed ourselves. We had high hopes and they came to far less than we wished they would.
Sometimes the sense of betrayal does not result from letting ourselves down but because someone we trust, someone to whom we made ourselves emotionally vulnerable used our trust against us. This form of hurt is grievous because we feel not only betrayed but foolish for having allowed ourselves to be gullible.
There is One, however, in whom we may place our confidence with absolute assurance that He will not fail or forsake us in any way. It is the Lord of whom we may say, “My soul, wait only upon God and submit to Him, for my hope and expectation are from Him” Psalm 62:5. He is faithful. He is steadfast. He is true.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
November 24
If we had the foggiest notion of who God really is, of what an awesome being He is, we would not spend one moment of our lives in anxiety or fear or consternation or dread of future events. If we truly knew God, we would have no fear in life and we would have no fear of death.
We may think we know Him. We may love Him as we know Him—with the limited resources that we possess--but He desires to reveal the fullness of Himself to us by overarching our frail resources of understanding and surrender and love.
One excellent way to enable Him to deepen our trust and faith in Him is by reflecting upon the glorious feats in our behalf that He has already performed! In Isaiah 46:9, 10 it says, “Remember the former things that I have done, for I am God and there is no one else; I am God and there is none like Me. I declare the end from the beginning and from ancient times I have spoken what is yet to be. My counsel shall stand. I shall perform all My good pleasure.”
If we follow the Lord’s own counsel as He expressed it through Isaiah, we will gain in strength and in faith as we reflect upon the awesome things He has already brought to pass. We will remember the steadfast sense of the presence of His Holy Spirit when we were troubled and we will remember the deliverance that came when He comforted our hearts. We will recall the battles fought and the victories won—and we will remind ourselves that HE IS FAITHFUL!
If we had the foggiest notion of who God really is, of what an awesome being He is, we would not spend one moment of our lives in anxiety or fear or consternation or dread of future events. If we truly knew God, we would have no fear in life and we would have no fear of death.
We may think we know Him. We may love Him as we know Him—with the limited resources that we possess--but He desires to reveal the fullness of Himself to us by overarching our frail resources of understanding and surrender and love.
One excellent way to enable Him to deepen our trust and faith in Him is by reflecting upon the glorious feats in our behalf that He has already performed! In Isaiah 46:9, 10 it says, “Remember the former things that I have done, for I am God and there is no one else; I am God and there is none like Me. I declare the end from the beginning and from ancient times I have spoken what is yet to be. My counsel shall stand. I shall perform all My good pleasure.”
If we follow the Lord’s own counsel as He expressed it through Isaiah, we will gain in strength and in faith as we reflect upon the awesome things He has already brought to pass. We will remember the steadfast sense of the presence of His Holy Spirit when we were troubled and we will remember the deliverance that came when He comforted our hearts. We will recall the battles fought and the victories won—and we will remind ourselves that HE IS FAITHFUL!
Monday, November 23, 2009
November 23
Some of us don’t see ourselves as mighty men of valor in the Lord’s Army. We tend to see ourselves as sniveling cowards who want HIM to intervene in our behalf so we can be excused from service. We tend to want life to go smoothly. We want our frail bark to sail on peaceful waters.
The reality is that we are not often called upon to stand in the gap of a major spiritual conflagration, but were we to be, what would we require of ourselves? If a major spiritual set-back could occur or a remarkable advancement for the cause of Christ—depending upon which way our efforts guide the outcome—would we rise to the need?
We may not be called to go to some distant outpost of humanity to share the gospel with the lost. We may not be required to put our lives on the line to share Christ’s Truth with those who literally hate the Word of Truth. We may be allowed to simply love Him from the comfort of our secure little niche, yet there is an area of service that we are equipped to step into and fight the good fight!
In Colossians 3:15 it says, “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you are called in one body—and be ye thankful.” If we will allow ourselves to trust the Lord as His peace governs our heart, and recognize our place in His body, and rest in thanksgiving for His full supply, our lives will exude the wonder of His salvation to everyone whose life touches ours!
Some of us don’t see ourselves as mighty men of valor in the Lord’s Army. We tend to see ourselves as sniveling cowards who want HIM to intervene in our behalf so we can be excused from service. We tend to want life to go smoothly. We want our frail bark to sail on peaceful waters.
The reality is that we are not often called upon to stand in the gap of a major spiritual conflagration, but were we to be, what would we require of ourselves? If a major spiritual set-back could occur or a remarkable advancement for the cause of Christ—depending upon which way our efforts guide the outcome—would we rise to the need?
We may not be called to go to some distant outpost of humanity to share the gospel with the lost. We may not be required to put our lives on the line to share Christ’s Truth with those who literally hate the Word of Truth. We may be allowed to simply love Him from the comfort of our secure little niche, yet there is an area of service that we are equipped to step into and fight the good fight!
In Colossians 3:15 it says, “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which you are called in one body—and be ye thankful.” If we will allow ourselves to trust the Lord as His peace governs our heart, and recognize our place in His body, and rest in thanksgiving for His full supply, our lives will exude the wonder of His salvation to everyone whose life touches ours!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
November 22
Those of us who have the events of November 22, 1963 etched upon our memories know how profoundly the course of a nation can be changed by the actions of one deranged, hate-filled individual. Likewise, the evil the 9/11 hijackers set in motion was unthinkable prior to their wanton act of infamy.
Even though these acts of treachery make us aware of our vulnerability as individuals and as a nation, we also know that there is One whose overarching protection is more than adequate to guard us against the unleashed, unvarnished vitriolic hatred that confronts us.
We are reminded in Psalm 34:7 that, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and each of them, He delivers.” This makes it obvious that there is an enemy to be faced. If we are in the Lord’s Army, we will encounter battles that will be horrific because the foe we face is without redeeming qualities.
The evil entity that assails the people of God makes the hatred and violence of mere men pale in comparison to the depth and breadth of his own. Indeed, he is the author of all vile, evil acts! But when we contemplate the hedge the Lord has placed around His people, there is no need for fear, for our God is mighty to save!
Those of us who have the events of November 22, 1963 etched upon our memories know how profoundly the course of a nation can be changed by the actions of one deranged, hate-filled individual. Likewise, the evil the 9/11 hijackers set in motion was unthinkable prior to their wanton act of infamy.
Even though these acts of treachery make us aware of our vulnerability as individuals and as a nation, we also know that there is One whose overarching protection is more than adequate to guard us against the unleashed, unvarnished vitriolic hatred that confronts us.
We are reminded in Psalm 34:7 that, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and each of them, He delivers.” This makes it obvious that there is an enemy to be faced. If we are in the Lord’s Army, we will encounter battles that will be horrific because the foe we face is without redeeming qualities.
The evil entity that assails the people of God makes the hatred and violence of mere men pale in comparison to the depth and breadth of his own. Indeed, he is the author of all vile, evil acts! But when we contemplate the hedge the Lord has placed around His people, there is no need for fear, for our God is mighty to save!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
November 21
Today’s U.S. Army is the best-equipped, most technologically advanced fighting force that has ever donned a nation’s uniform, and it is all volunteer. That was not the case a few decades ago. The Army operated under a ‘lottery’ system whereby a young man of a certain age had to register. If his number ‘came up,’ he had to enlist. No option.
Being part of God’s Army bears some similarities to each of these systems. We know the Bible tells us that the Lord has chosen us to be His. I Timothy 2:4 tells us that God desires all men to be saved. Jesus came into the world to give His life as a ransom for sinners—to buy us back from the slavery of sin—and every person ever born has the option to receive this wonderful salvation.
But simultaneously, our great and mighty, all powerful God has given to each of us a free will. That means we aren’t required to receive His salvation, to serve Him or join His Army that He sends out to share the redemption story with the lost. Yet, if we do sign on with His Army, He promises to equip us to the utmost. He does not send us to fight without thoroughly training and accoutering us.
In Ephesians 6:11, He tells us to expect the battle to be heated; to know it’s essential to, “Put on the whole armor of God so you can to stand against all the fiery darts of the enemy.” We aren’t flailing the air when we fight for Jesus, we’re waging warfare against the Lord’s mortal enemy, the one who’s come to undo the purposes of God. But, with the full combat equipment of God, we will prevail!
Today’s U.S. Army is the best-equipped, most technologically advanced fighting force that has ever donned a nation’s uniform, and it is all volunteer. That was not the case a few decades ago. The Army operated under a ‘lottery’ system whereby a young man of a certain age had to register. If his number ‘came up,’ he had to enlist. No option.
Being part of God’s Army bears some similarities to each of these systems. We know the Bible tells us that the Lord has chosen us to be His. I Timothy 2:4 tells us that God desires all men to be saved. Jesus came into the world to give His life as a ransom for sinners—to buy us back from the slavery of sin—and every person ever born has the option to receive this wonderful salvation.
But simultaneously, our great and mighty, all powerful God has given to each of us a free will. That means we aren’t required to receive His salvation, to serve Him or join His Army that He sends out to share the redemption story with the lost. Yet, if we do sign on with His Army, He promises to equip us to the utmost. He does not send us to fight without thoroughly training and accoutering us.
In Ephesians 6:11, He tells us to expect the battle to be heated; to know it’s essential to, “Put on the whole armor of God so you can to stand against all the fiery darts of the enemy.” We aren’t flailing the air when we fight for Jesus, we’re waging warfare against the Lord’s mortal enemy, the one who’s come to undo the purposes of God. But, with the full combat equipment of God, we will prevail!
Friday, November 20, 2009
November 20
It is imperative that a vehicle of conveyance be worthy of its task. Having once been aboard an airplane as it flew through the severe turbulence of a typhoon to reach the calm above the storm, and having seen some of the bolts in the overhead compartment jarred loose as doors opened and discharged their contents, I could not help but be praying that the mechanical parts of the plane were more secure.
We need to be able to trust the integrity of what, of whom we trust ourselves to. Whether it’s a life partner or a physician or a tax consultant, we want to know we’ve placed ourselves in trustworthy hands. We account competence and steadfastness to be among the most desirable of traits in a professional.
God desires those things from us as well. He wants us to know Him, to know His Word, so we will fully understand Who and what we are committing ourselves to when we place our lives at His feet, and He wants us to be steadfast in our determination to remain strong in faith, even when the winds of adversity assail.
This quality, steadfastness, has been uppermost in God’s expectation of His people from the earliest scriptural references. In Genesis 15:6 we are told, “Abram believed God and it was counted to him as righteousness.” To believe Him, one must know Him and trust Him. Then it’s easy to be steadfast!
It is imperative that a vehicle of conveyance be worthy of its task. Having once been aboard an airplane as it flew through the severe turbulence of a typhoon to reach the calm above the storm, and having seen some of the bolts in the overhead compartment jarred loose as doors opened and discharged their contents, I could not help but be praying that the mechanical parts of the plane were more secure.
We need to be able to trust the integrity of what, of whom we trust ourselves to. Whether it’s a life partner or a physician or a tax consultant, we want to know we’ve placed ourselves in trustworthy hands. We account competence and steadfastness to be among the most desirable of traits in a professional.
God desires those things from us as well. He wants us to know Him, to know His Word, so we will fully understand Who and what we are committing ourselves to when we place our lives at His feet, and He wants us to be steadfast in our determination to remain strong in faith, even when the winds of adversity assail.
This quality, steadfastness, has been uppermost in God’s expectation of His people from the earliest scriptural references. In Genesis 15:6 we are told, “Abram believed God and it was counted to him as righteousness.” To believe Him, one must know Him and trust Him. Then it’s easy to be steadfast!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
November 19
We tend to have our priorities out of order. It is the nature of man, after all, to put natural or world-related matters first. The old saying, “If it quacks like a duck and walks like a duck, it’s a duck,” goes into play here. Because we’re born into the world and the world is all we see and all we know, we’re worldly.
God wants us to be different than that. It’s like the old Mission Impossible TV show that was made into a couple of movies of the same name—God poses to the natural man an option and, “Your mission, if you choose to take it…” will be fraught with difficulty and challenge.
The most daunting aspect of it is simply accepting it. That’s because in order to realize we have the option, we must have our spiritual antennae up in a world that is broadcasting primarily natural messages. We are focused on the natural, so we hear the world’s siren call much more clearly than God’s still, small voice.
But once we realize the truth of Romans 14:17-18, “The Kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink, but it is of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit which is pleasing to God,” we reorient ourselves—not just to please Him, but so the promises He gives for time and eternity can become ours.
We tend to have our priorities out of order. It is the nature of man, after all, to put natural or world-related matters first. The old saying, “If it quacks like a duck and walks like a duck, it’s a duck,” goes into play here. Because we’re born into the world and the world is all we see and all we know, we’re worldly.
God wants us to be different than that. It’s like the old Mission Impossible TV show that was made into a couple of movies of the same name—God poses to the natural man an option and, “Your mission, if you choose to take it…” will be fraught with difficulty and challenge.
The most daunting aspect of it is simply accepting it. That’s because in order to realize we have the option, we must have our spiritual antennae up in a world that is broadcasting primarily natural messages. We are focused on the natural, so we hear the world’s siren call much more clearly than God’s still, small voice.
But once we realize the truth of Romans 14:17-18, “The Kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink, but it is of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit which is pleasing to God,” we reorient ourselves—not just to please Him, but so the promises He gives for time and eternity can become ours.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
November 18
Psalm 27:5 gives us a promise we will cling to sooner or later in our life’s experiences, for here it says, “He shall hide me…in the day of trouble…” Nobody wants to see trouble come, but everyone wants to be shielded from the brunt of its power when it shows up.
Although it is a comforting thought that the Mighty One who holds all power in His little finger shall employ His great strength in our defense any time the enemy assails through his many schemes and snares, Psalm 27 goes beyond the fact that the Holy God we serve loves and protects us from evil.
In verse 6 of Psalm 27, it also says, “And my head shall be lifted up above all my enemies around me; therefore will I offer in His tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord!” The psalmist is exultant because the promise goes much further than his assurance of being shielded by God from trouble!
Here he states an expectancy that we all desire—we don’t want mere protection from the onslaught of the foe! Although it is wonderful to be shielded from any power that comes against us, we’re not satisfied to simply be hidden from the intensity of the battle! No! We want to be conquerors who hold our heads proudly—and rejoice in victory!
Psalm 27:5 gives us a promise we will cling to sooner or later in our life’s experiences, for here it says, “He shall hide me…in the day of trouble…” Nobody wants to see trouble come, but everyone wants to be shielded from the brunt of its power when it shows up.
Although it is a comforting thought that the Mighty One who holds all power in His little finger shall employ His great strength in our defense any time the enemy assails through his many schemes and snares, Psalm 27 goes beyond the fact that the Holy God we serve loves and protects us from evil.
In verse 6 of Psalm 27, it also says, “And my head shall be lifted up above all my enemies around me; therefore will I offer in His tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord!” The psalmist is exultant because the promise goes much further than his assurance of being shielded by God from trouble!
Here he states an expectancy that we all desire—we don’t want mere protection from the onslaught of the foe! Although it is wonderful to be shielded from any power that comes against us, we’re not satisfied to simply be hidden from the intensity of the battle! No! We want to be conquerors who hold our heads proudly—and rejoice in victory!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
November 17
During his many work related travels overseas a gentleman once had as a seat partner aboard a plane returning home from a European capital a young woman who had been searching through the archives of the churches of that continent to find information for her doctoral thesis at an Ivy League school on the move of the Holy Spirit in the early church.
By her account as she discussed her findings with him, there was invariably, in all the churches she investigated, an account of rich evidence of the ‘fruit of the Spirit’ when these churches were established. Their histories indicated, too, that there was invariably a falling away from implementation of the gifts or fruits of the Spirit as the churches grew and became more established.
The clear indication is that churches, people who believe in Christ, tend at the onset of their walk to be totally surrendered to the indwelling Holy Spirit. There is a cognizance of the fact that without Jesus we are helpless to be of use to the outworking of His purposes—within the community, within the church or within ourselves!
At the onset, we seem to grasp the magnitude of His Word which assures, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you and you will be My witnesses…to the ends of the earth” Acts 1:8. If we could maintain our determination to be the instruments through whom He stretches Himself over our circumstances rather than become self reliant, we could always serve Him fully!
During his many work related travels overseas a gentleman once had as a seat partner aboard a plane returning home from a European capital a young woman who had been searching through the archives of the churches of that continent to find information for her doctoral thesis at an Ivy League school on the move of the Holy Spirit in the early church.
By her account as she discussed her findings with him, there was invariably, in all the churches she investigated, an account of rich evidence of the ‘fruit of the Spirit’ when these churches were established. Their histories indicated, too, that there was invariably a falling away from implementation of the gifts or fruits of the Spirit as the churches grew and became more established.
The clear indication is that churches, people who believe in Christ, tend at the onset of their walk to be totally surrendered to the indwelling Holy Spirit. There is a cognizance of the fact that without Jesus we are helpless to be of use to the outworking of His purposes—within the community, within the church or within ourselves!
At the onset, we seem to grasp the magnitude of His Word which assures, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you and you will be My witnesses…to the ends of the earth” Acts 1:8. If we could maintain our determination to be the instruments through whom He stretches Himself over our circumstances rather than become self reliant, we could always serve Him fully!
Monday, November 16, 2009
November 16
Life can be fraught with disappointment and frustration. We aim high and fall short of the goals we have set for ourselves. We strive in relationships to please those whose lives are intertwined with our own but find the fabric of our relationships unraveling in spite of our best efforts.
Just as others have disappointed us, we, too have disappointed many of them. The entirety of human existence seems to be a journey from one empty hope to another. Whether it’s losing our bid for promotion or never buying the winning lottery ticket, we find disappointment heaped upon us most relentlessly.
If we aren’t careful, we can transfer this defeatist mentality to the spiritual realm. We can expect that although the promises of God are absolute, they will never be realized in our lives. Not that we don’t believe God is faithful! It’s more that we think He’s too busy with important things to be aware of us.
This mindset negates the words of I John 4:4 which say, “Little children, you are of God and you have already defeated and overcome evil because HE WHO IS IN YOU is greater than he who is in the world!” Jesus, the Conqueror of sin and death is within you! He lives in your heart! His intention is to guide you rightly!
Life can be fraught with disappointment and frustration. We aim high and fall short of the goals we have set for ourselves. We strive in relationships to please those whose lives are intertwined with our own but find the fabric of our relationships unraveling in spite of our best efforts.
Just as others have disappointed us, we, too have disappointed many of them. The entirety of human existence seems to be a journey from one empty hope to another. Whether it’s losing our bid for promotion or never buying the winning lottery ticket, we find disappointment heaped upon us most relentlessly.
If we aren’t careful, we can transfer this defeatist mentality to the spiritual realm. We can expect that although the promises of God are absolute, they will never be realized in our lives. Not that we don’t believe God is faithful! It’s more that we think He’s too busy with important things to be aware of us.
This mindset negates the words of I John 4:4 which say, “Little children, you are of God and you have already defeated and overcome evil because HE WHO IS IN YOU is greater than he who is in the world!” Jesus, the Conqueror of sin and death is within you! He lives in your heart! His intention is to guide you rightly!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Orchestrate your resources with those of others who desire to reach out to needy children this Christmas! Share this web site with your church or organization so your group can be used by the Lord to convey the message of Jesus and His love and salvation to children who otherwise may not hear.
You may even have the opportunity to host one of these precious little ones during this season of joy--and see first-hand the wonder and delight in the eyes of a child whose life has been transformed by the message of the gospel and the love of the Lord as it flows from His heart through His people to a child in need:
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332 .
You may even have the opportunity to host one of these precious little ones during this season of joy--and see first-hand the wonder and delight in the eyes of a child whose life has been transformed by the message of the gospel and the love of the Lord as it flows from His heart through His people to a child in need:
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332 .
November 15
Isn’t it maddening when something goes awry and you’re trying your hardest to get things straightened out, and some so-called friends take the opportunity to gloat over your discomfiture! Oh, they don’t do it overtly. They coyly feign concern and empathy, but underlying their façade is glee that you’re in a fix.
Micah 7:8 has a beautiful word of encouragement for the individual who is down and knows those around him are rejoicing in his plummet from a height of success or accomplishment. It says, “Rejoice not over me, O, mine enemy! For when I fall, I shall arise. When I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.”
The reality is that ups and downs are inevitable in life. The old saying, ‘the bigger they are, the harder they fall,’ has a lot of truth. It’s also true that the bigger they are, the more people who are hoping that they fall! Envy is often directed at those whose successes exceed our own.
But we have an assurance in Proverbs 3:26 that says, “The Lord shall be your confidence, and He shall keep your foot from being caught in a snare.” Although we cannot always depend on friends and we cannot even be confident in ourselves, we may always know beyond doubting that Jesus is there for us
Isn’t it maddening when something goes awry and you’re trying your hardest to get things straightened out, and some so-called friends take the opportunity to gloat over your discomfiture! Oh, they don’t do it overtly. They coyly feign concern and empathy, but underlying their façade is glee that you’re in a fix.
Micah 7:8 has a beautiful word of encouragement for the individual who is down and knows those around him are rejoicing in his plummet from a height of success or accomplishment. It says, “Rejoice not over me, O, mine enemy! For when I fall, I shall arise. When I sit in darkness, the Lord will be a light to me.”
The reality is that ups and downs are inevitable in life. The old saying, ‘the bigger they are, the harder they fall,’ has a lot of truth. It’s also true that the bigger they are, the more people who are hoping that they fall! Envy is often directed at those whose successes exceed our own.
But we have an assurance in Proverbs 3:26 that says, “The Lord shall be your confidence, and He shall keep your foot from being caught in a snare.” Although we cannot always depend on friends and we cannot even be confident in ourselves, we may always know beyond doubting that Jesus is there for us
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Looking for a new way to celebrate Christmas?
Tired of the focus on expensive gifts and rich foods and self-indulgence?
Perhaps you're perfectly happy with the way you celebrate this wonderful holiday but wish to expand your outreach to those who are less fortunate. The following web site can open a new avenue of joy for you, allowing you to extend the delights of the season of Christ's birth to children in unfortunate circumstances.
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332
Tired of the focus on expensive gifts and rich foods and self-indulgence?
Perhaps you're perfectly happy with the way you celebrate this wonderful holiday but wish to expand your outreach to those who are less fortunate. The following web site can open a new avenue of joy for you, allowing you to extend the delights of the season of Christ's birth to children in unfortunate circumstances.
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332
November 14
Man is always trying to ‘build a better mousetrap.’ Creativity and invention are the signature of modern western civilization. An enormous amount of progress has been made in the last 100 years or so. In fact, the world has been technologically revolutionized since the beginning of the Twentieth Century.
As long as man continues to employ his creativity toward unlocking the secrets of the mind of Christ, in Whom is hidden all the knowledge and wisdom of our Triune God, the Lord will continue to allow His supreme creation the joy of unlocking the secrets of the universe.
But, there is one thing that cannot be improved upon. Man’s inventiveness can hold no sway over the one thing that is settled in Heaven, and that is the plan of salvation. We know that when the Triune God conferred with Himself in eons past regarding the fall of His beloved creation, man, He decreed that Jesus would come as a man, live a sinless life, and pay the penalty for the sins of all mankind (Revelation 13:8).
I Corinthians 3:11 affirms the veracity of the assertion that Jesus is man’s only salvation. Here it states clearly, “For no other foundation can any man lay than that which was laid, which is Jesus Christ.” No matter how ingenious man may be, no matter how many new ideas he has or how many new gadgets he develops to make life on this planet better, there is no other way to build life for eternity than upon the shed blood of the God-Man who gave Himself for us.
Man is always trying to ‘build a better mousetrap.’ Creativity and invention are the signature of modern western civilization. An enormous amount of progress has been made in the last 100 years or so. In fact, the world has been technologically revolutionized since the beginning of the Twentieth Century.
As long as man continues to employ his creativity toward unlocking the secrets of the mind of Christ, in Whom is hidden all the knowledge and wisdom of our Triune God, the Lord will continue to allow His supreme creation the joy of unlocking the secrets of the universe.
But, there is one thing that cannot be improved upon. Man’s inventiveness can hold no sway over the one thing that is settled in Heaven, and that is the plan of salvation. We know that when the Triune God conferred with Himself in eons past regarding the fall of His beloved creation, man, He decreed that Jesus would come as a man, live a sinless life, and pay the penalty for the sins of all mankind (Revelation 13:8).
I Corinthians 3:11 affirms the veracity of the assertion that Jesus is man’s only salvation. Here it states clearly, “For no other foundation can any man lay than that which was laid, which is Jesus Christ.” No matter how ingenious man may be, no matter how many new ideas he has or how many new gadgets he develops to make life on this planet better, there is no other way to build life for eternity than upon the shed blood of the God-Man who gave Himself for us.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Please inform your pastor or organization leader about the opportunity to assist Frontier Horizon in its annual Christmas outreach to children whose lives can be transformed from darkness to the light of Jesus and His love by your concern as it is expressed at thise season of giving.
Investigate this web site for information about how you or your church or organization can help:
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332 .
Thank you.
Investigate this web site for information about how you or your church or organization can help:
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332 .
Thank you.
November 13
Our concept of victory is very temporal. We think of armies that conquer, of sports events that are won, of entrepreneurs who succeed, and relationships that flourish as victories. That concept is promoted by Hollywood movies that almost invariably depict a successful resolution to any scenario.
God doesn’t see victory in quite the same way and that is evidenced by the greatest victory that has ever been won—the death of Jesus on the cross. What appears to the world as His downfall, His utter humiliation and undoing, was seen by the Orchestrator of the scenario as the ultimate conquest of good over evil.
In the spiritual realm, when Jesus laid down His life to redeem man from the penalty of sin which is death, the scourge of humanity, the devil, was paraded before the captives in Shoal and demonstrated to be the ultimate loser in the conflict which he has chosen to wage with Almighty God. When we find ourselves engaged in conflict, we must therefore remember who the ultimate enemy is. It is the one that Jesus defeated when He went to the cross.
We must know that as with Jesus, “the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but are mighty before God to the pulling down of strongholds” II Corinthians 10:4. We must further recognize that the great battlefield of this conflict is in our minds, for if the evil one can influence the way we think, he can influence the way we comport ourselves. It is imperative that we ever be mindful that we are heirs to Christ’s victory—the only victory that is eternal in scope.
Our concept of victory is very temporal. We think of armies that conquer, of sports events that are won, of entrepreneurs who succeed, and relationships that flourish as victories. That concept is promoted by Hollywood movies that almost invariably depict a successful resolution to any scenario.
God doesn’t see victory in quite the same way and that is evidenced by the greatest victory that has ever been won—the death of Jesus on the cross. What appears to the world as His downfall, His utter humiliation and undoing, was seen by the Orchestrator of the scenario as the ultimate conquest of good over evil.
In the spiritual realm, when Jesus laid down His life to redeem man from the penalty of sin which is death, the scourge of humanity, the devil, was paraded before the captives in Shoal and demonstrated to be the ultimate loser in the conflict which he has chosen to wage with Almighty God. When we find ourselves engaged in conflict, we must therefore remember who the ultimate enemy is. It is the one that Jesus defeated when He went to the cross.
We must know that as with Jesus, “the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but are mighty before God to the pulling down of strongholds” II Corinthians 10:4. We must further recognize that the great battlefield of this conflict is in our minds, for if the evil one can influence the way we think, he can influence the way we comport ourselves. It is imperative that we ever be mindful that we are heirs to Christ’s victory—the only victory that is eternal in scope.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
November 12
“Do what’s best for # One.” The world’s counsel is that you always weigh your options and do what’s best for yourself. The world’s point of view is a selfish one and we needn’t delve very far into the outcome of such a viewpoint to discover that it has wrought havoc.
Oh, it may make sense upon casual observation. Those who place their own interests above those of everyone else often seem to be ‘sitting pretty.’ They rise like cream to the top. Their financial portfolio is enviable. They take the best vacations. They hobnob with the best people.
But if you could be a fly on the wall, see them in their private moments—when they’re alone or when they’re with those closest to them—you just might see a different picture. You might see a void in the depth of the soul, a despair that has no name, for they have achieved the prize and it leaves them hollow. They’ve tasted the sweetest that life offers and it sours upon consumption.
But the man who follows the scriptural admonition, “Trust the Lord and do good; so shall you dwell in the land and be fed” (Psalm 37:3), has the assurance that his needs are met in God! When he places his confidence in Jesus rather than in himself, his best is achieved without ‘besting’ another, for the Lord has enough to distribute true wealth, spiritual treasure, to all!
“Do what’s best for # One.” The world’s counsel is that you always weigh your options and do what’s best for yourself. The world’s point of view is a selfish one and we needn’t delve very far into the outcome of such a viewpoint to discover that it has wrought havoc.
Oh, it may make sense upon casual observation. Those who place their own interests above those of everyone else often seem to be ‘sitting pretty.’ They rise like cream to the top. Their financial portfolio is enviable. They take the best vacations. They hobnob with the best people.
But if you could be a fly on the wall, see them in their private moments—when they’re alone or when they’re with those closest to them—you just might see a different picture. You might see a void in the depth of the soul, a despair that has no name, for they have achieved the prize and it leaves them hollow. They’ve tasted the sweetest that life offers and it sours upon consumption.
But the man who follows the scriptural admonition, “Trust the Lord and do good; so shall you dwell in the land and be fed” (Psalm 37:3), has the assurance that his needs are met in God! When he places his confidence in Jesus rather than in himself, his best is achieved without ‘besting’ another, for the Lord has enough to distribute true wealth, spiritual treasure, to all!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Here's another reminder of an opportunity to make this Christmas come alive with blessings for orphan children abroad who otherwise will not hear of the great gift Jesus has brought to them.
Please check out this web site for more information and share it with your friends:
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332
Thank you for letting your heart be touched by the Father's love.
Please check out this web site for more information and share it with your friends:
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332
Thank you for letting your heart be touched by the Father's love.
November 11
Peace is an elusive entity. Nations negotiate to achieve it but don’t trust one another sufficiently to believe real peace can exist even when solemn treaties are signed. Rogue nations unsettle the peace of all others because their stated intent is to wage war against any who do not espouse their world view.
An individual longs for peace within himself but is thwarted in his yearning by the almost continual contention he must face—at work, at home, at worship, in his own mind and spirit. One who is not at peace with himself cannot find that longed-for objective with another.
So is ‘peace’ make-believe? Is ‘peace’ the ‘Santa Clause for adults’? We hope to receive it but even if we sit up all night, will we enter the morning without having encountered it? That depends on where we search. If we search between nations or among men or within our own resources, it will elude us.
If, however, we seek peace from the One who is the “Prince of Peace,” (Isaiah 9:6), the One of Whom the Psalmist wrote, “In His days shall the righteous flourish and peace shall abound as long as the moon endures” (Psalm 72:7), then, no matter how shaken the world around us may be, our peace will abide.
Peace is an elusive entity. Nations negotiate to achieve it but don’t trust one another sufficiently to believe real peace can exist even when solemn treaties are signed. Rogue nations unsettle the peace of all others because their stated intent is to wage war against any who do not espouse their world view.
An individual longs for peace within himself but is thwarted in his yearning by the almost continual contention he must face—at work, at home, at worship, in his own mind and spirit. One who is not at peace with himself cannot find that longed-for objective with another.
So is ‘peace’ make-believe? Is ‘peace’ the ‘Santa Clause for adults’? We hope to receive it but even if we sit up all night, will we enter the morning without having encountered it? That depends on where we search. If we search between nations or among men or within our own resources, it will elude us.
If, however, we seek peace from the One who is the “Prince of Peace,” (Isaiah 9:6), the One of Whom the Psalmist wrote, “In His days shall the righteous flourish and peace shall abound as long as the moon endures” (Psalm 72:7), then, no matter how shaken the world around us may be, our peace will abide.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
http://fhwishes.com/?page_id=332
The above is a link to a Christmas outreach sponsored by Frontier Horizons. It affords a wonderful opportunity to reach out to children in Russia who are less fortunate and to share the gospel of Jesus with them. If you or your church might be interested in the program, please contact Beth as directed at the end of the web site.
Thank you and God bless you for your prayers and support of this worthy outreach.
The above is a link to a Christmas outreach sponsored by Frontier Horizons. It affords a wonderful opportunity to reach out to children in Russia who are less fortunate and to share the gospel of Jesus with them. If you or your church might be interested in the program, please contact Beth as directed at the end of the web site.
Thank you and God bless you for your prayers and support of this worthy outreach.
November 10
We live in a day when there is evil on every hand. Institutions that were bulwarks of faith and hope have compromised the principles upon which they have stood for centuries. Government officials are steeped in corruption. The integrity of the law upon which our nation was founded has been challenged.
It is compelling when everything around you has gone awry to attribute great power to the enemy of your soul, to see his hand of mischief twisting and distorting truth and goodness so he can take captive unwitting souls who haven’t enough understanding of spiritual matters to recognize his deception.
But when we do that, we are giving the devil much more than ‘his due.’ The Word reinforces the fact that we are not to ponder the workings of the evil one over-much. In Ephesians 4:27, we are told, “Leave no room or foothold for the devil.” Don’t give him even a place to stand! Don’t recognize him! Look to Jesus!
And you might say something to the effect that we can’t simply ignore the evil around us. There is truth in that. But what does Jesus admonish that we do when we see sin abound? It is then, He said, that we should, “Look up and lift up our heads, for our redemption draws near,” Luke 21:28. We know the Word assures the devil and all his schemes must work to the ultimate glory of the Lord!
We live in a day when there is evil on every hand. Institutions that were bulwarks of faith and hope have compromised the principles upon which they have stood for centuries. Government officials are steeped in corruption. The integrity of the law upon which our nation was founded has been challenged.
It is compelling when everything around you has gone awry to attribute great power to the enemy of your soul, to see his hand of mischief twisting and distorting truth and goodness so he can take captive unwitting souls who haven’t enough understanding of spiritual matters to recognize his deception.
But when we do that, we are giving the devil much more than ‘his due.’ The Word reinforces the fact that we are not to ponder the workings of the evil one over-much. In Ephesians 4:27, we are told, “Leave no room or foothold for the devil.” Don’t give him even a place to stand! Don’t recognize him! Look to Jesus!
And you might say something to the effect that we can’t simply ignore the evil around us. There is truth in that. But what does Jesus admonish that we do when we see sin abound? It is then, He said, that we should, “Look up and lift up our heads, for our redemption draws near,” Luke 21:28. We know the Word assures the devil and all his schemes must work to the ultimate glory of the Lord!
Monday, November 9, 2009
November 9
Falling in love does wonders for an individual. That sense of ‘hum-drum’, ‘same old-same old’ disappears and life becomes an adventure! And it’s not possible to keep this experience a secret—no—the inner elation shows very much on the outside! You don’t care if everyone notices the ‘new’ you.
Falling in love with Jesus is even more wonderful than finding the person who lights up your life. Although Mr. or Miss Right can put a lilt in your step and a smile on your face and a joy in your heart, Jesus puts a wellspring of Himself into your spirit—and that is an incomparable, overflowing blessing!
II Corinthians 5:17 says, “If any person is in Christ, he is a new creature; behold old things are passed away; behold, all things become new.” The things that once consumed you—how successful you are, how much money you have, where you will go for your next vacation—have lost their allure.
Certainly, you know you must be a responsible, hard working individual who evidences the understanding that you labor not for yourself but for the honor of the Christ you profess to serve; but in loving Him so deeply, you desire to reflect His joy, His hope, His peace, His salvation, His love—to everyone around you.
Falling in love does wonders for an individual. That sense of ‘hum-drum’, ‘same old-same old’ disappears and life becomes an adventure! And it’s not possible to keep this experience a secret—no—the inner elation shows very much on the outside! You don’t care if everyone notices the ‘new’ you.
Falling in love with Jesus is even more wonderful than finding the person who lights up your life. Although Mr. or Miss Right can put a lilt in your step and a smile on your face and a joy in your heart, Jesus puts a wellspring of Himself into your spirit—and that is an incomparable, overflowing blessing!
II Corinthians 5:17 says, “If any person is in Christ, he is a new creature; behold old things are passed away; behold, all things become new.” The things that once consumed you—how successful you are, how much money you have, where you will go for your next vacation—have lost their allure.
Certainly, you know you must be a responsible, hard working individual who evidences the understanding that you labor not for yourself but for the honor of the Christ you profess to serve; but in loving Him so deeply, you desire to reflect His joy, His hope, His peace, His salvation, His love—to everyone around you.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
November 8
The enemy of your soul is cunning. The enemy of your soul is as subtle as a fox stealing through the night to gain entry into the hen house. Were he open and straight-forward, you would have no delusions about his evil intent. Were he not the father of lies, he would not sugar coat sin.
People would have no difficulty in averting their gaze from the consequence of sin if the consequence were what their eyes beheld at the onset. Without the veneer of loveliness, the pain and destruction of sin would be avoided at all cost.
The story is told of a young adventurer who gazed across a placid river to behold a lovely maiden bathing. It was only as his eyes focused more clearly that he realized she was a leper! That is the reality of sin. From a distance, it appears alluring but once it is held close, once it has been embraced to the bosom, its hideousness is clearly discernable.
But by the time sin’s awful side is recognized, the devil’s dupe has found himself to be his prey! He has inadvertently stumbled into the lair of wickedness where he is the one whom the enemy, “…like a roaring lion is seeking to devour” I Peter 5:8. Indeed, without repentance, sin will swallow you up. Sin always seeks to destroy the one who embraces it.
The enemy of your soul is cunning. The enemy of your soul is as subtle as a fox stealing through the night to gain entry into the hen house. Were he open and straight-forward, you would have no delusions about his evil intent. Were he not the father of lies, he would not sugar coat sin.
People would have no difficulty in averting their gaze from the consequence of sin if the consequence were what their eyes beheld at the onset. Without the veneer of loveliness, the pain and destruction of sin would be avoided at all cost.
The story is told of a young adventurer who gazed across a placid river to behold a lovely maiden bathing. It was only as his eyes focused more clearly that he realized she was a leper! That is the reality of sin. From a distance, it appears alluring but once it is held close, once it has been embraced to the bosom, its hideousness is clearly discernable.
But by the time sin’s awful side is recognized, the devil’s dupe has found himself to be his prey! He has inadvertently stumbled into the lair of wickedness where he is the one whom the enemy, “…like a roaring lion is seeking to devour” I Peter 5:8. Indeed, without repentance, sin will swallow you up. Sin always seeks to destroy the one who embraces it.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
November 7
God doesn’t want His people to put on a ‘dog and pony show.’ His intent is not that we draw attention to ourselves or have a, ‘Look at me! Aren’t I a remarkable Christian!’ kind of attitude. He doesn’t expect us to wear our religion on our sleeve. He wants us to live our religion openly but humbly.
Many of us feel a compelling drive to gain the notice of the unsaved around us. We tell ourselves that we desire them to see the Christ in us, but the reality is that as long as there is anything about us—about our ‘self’—that attracts their attention, they won’t see Jesus at all. We’ll be blocking the view of Him.
Even when we are maligned, even when our good is evil spoken of, we are to maintain the attitude that conveys to those who have misunderstood us that we are not offended in them. Is this something we can do apart from the help of the Holy Spirit? Indeed we cannot.
But if we will drink in His Word, if we will die to our pride and our desire to be recognized for the good we attempt to convey, we will live up to Ephesians 4:2 which says, “Walk in humility and meekness with patience as you bear with one another because you love one another.” Then Jesus gets the glory!
God doesn’t want His people to put on a ‘dog and pony show.’ His intent is not that we draw attention to ourselves or have a, ‘Look at me! Aren’t I a remarkable Christian!’ kind of attitude. He doesn’t expect us to wear our religion on our sleeve. He wants us to live our religion openly but humbly.
Many of us feel a compelling drive to gain the notice of the unsaved around us. We tell ourselves that we desire them to see the Christ in us, but the reality is that as long as there is anything about us—about our ‘self’—that attracts their attention, they won’t see Jesus at all. We’ll be blocking the view of Him.
Even when we are maligned, even when our good is evil spoken of, we are to maintain the attitude that conveys to those who have misunderstood us that we are not offended in them. Is this something we can do apart from the help of the Holy Spirit? Indeed we cannot.
But if we will drink in His Word, if we will die to our pride and our desire to be recognized for the good we attempt to convey, we will live up to Ephesians 4:2 which says, “Walk in humility and meekness with patience as you bear with one another because you love one another.” Then Jesus gets the glory!
Friday, November 6, 2009
November 6
It is a logical assumption that if we share an abode with someone, we will be in constant contact with them. Families share much of life together. Certainly, each member must go his separate way to his necessary task of the day, but all members come together again for dinner, for travel, for worship.
Using that same line of thinking, each of us who has the Holy Spirit dwelling within us should be in continual communion with Him. Our Heavenly Father delights in interacting with His children. This was first demonstrated in the Garden of Eden and has been a reality to those who are His throughout time.
Psalm 141:2 states the beautiful fact of our ability to commune with the Holy One thusly, “Let my prayer be set forth as incense before You, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” The incense burning represented the laying of ones life before the Lord as a sweet-smelling sacrifice in the morning.
The lifting up of ones hands at the end of the day affirmed the heart of the believer was still intent upon the Holy One. Because now the Holy Spirit dwells within us, we have not just morning and evening oblations but the joy of hearing His voice when He speaks and knowing He listens to the prayers of our heart.
It is a logical assumption that if we share an abode with someone, we will be in constant contact with them. Families share much of life together. Certainly, each member must go his separate way to his necessary task of the day, but all members come together again for dinner, for travel, for worship.
Using that same line of thinking, each of us who has the Holy Spirit dwelling within us should be in continual communion with Him. Our Heavenly Father delights in interacting with His children. This was first demonstrated in the Garden of Eden and has been a reality to those who are His throughout time.
Psalm 141:2 states the beautiful fact of our ability to commune with the Holy One thusly, “Let my prayer be set forth as incense before You, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.” The incense burning represented the laying of ones life before the Lord as a sweet-smelling sacrifice in the morning.
The lifting up of ones hands at the end of the day affirmed the heart of the believer was still intent upon the Holy One. Because now the Holy Spirit dwells within us, we have not just morning and evening oblations but the joy of hearing His voice when He speaks and knowing He listens to the prayers of our heart.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
November 5
Generally speaking, man enjoys recognition for his accomplishments, notoriety for his contribution to the well-being of people in general. We bask in the perfume of the accolades we receive for our good work. The Nobel Prize has even been conferred upon man’s ‘good intentions.’
Bill Gates, one of the world’s most successful people of all time, takes a more practical view. He is purported to have said that one should achieve something of note before having self-esteem. The Nobel Committee, by Mr. Gates’ definition, seems to have it backwards.
From a spiritual perspective, the one thing that is most amazing and noteworthy that any of us can attain is something that does not cause pride or self-esteem to well up within. Quite the contrary! It causes humility to pervade our perception of ourselves and gratitude to overflow our hearts.
I Corinthians 6:19 says, “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received from God?” We have the Holy Spirit—that same Spirit by Whom God created all things, by Whom Christ was raised from the dead—within us! Oh what cause for humble joy!
Generally speaking, man enjoys recognition for his accomplishments, notoriety for his contribution to the well-being of people in general. We bask in the perfume of the accolades we receive for our good work. The Nobel Prize has even been conferred upon man’s ‘good intentions.’
Bill Gates, one of the world’s most successful people of all time, takes a more practical view. He is purported to have said that one should achieve something of note before having self-esteem. The Nobel Committee, by Mr. Gates’ definition, seems to have it backwards.
From a spiritual perspective, the one thing that is most amazing and noteworthy that any of us can attain is something that does not cause pride or self-esteem to well up within. Quite the contrary! It causes humility to pervade our perception of ourselves and gratitude to overflow our hearts.
I Corinthians 6:19 says, “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received from God?” We have the Holy Spirit—that same Spirit by Whom God created all things, by Whom Christ was raised from the dead—within us! Oh what cause for humble joy!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
November 4
We are inspired by the story of the Spartans who, with an army that was a fraction of the size of the Persian hoard they faced, stood their ground to the last man. There is a verse in scripture that admonishes that when we have done all that we can do, we simply ‘stand’ (Ephesians 6:13).
There is a place of literally resting in the awareness that we have served His great purpose in a situation and at that juncture, we must simply leave the result with Him. Hebrews 4:3 says, “We who have believed, enter that rest.” “That rest” is the place of relinquishing all to Jesus.
When we trust Him, when we know in the depth of our spirit that He has our lives in His hand, when we believe and are sure that He is ours and we are His for time and eternity, there is a quiet peace that is ours that nothing else can afford us. It is a literal relinquishing of our entire being to His eternal purpose.
When we know in the depth of our spirit that it is His intention to do us good, when we know that we know that we are His for time and eternity, we can say like Job, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust him” (Job 13:15), and like Paul, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).
We are inspired by the story of the Spartans who, with an army that was a fraction of the size of the Persian hoard they faced, stood their ground to the last man. There is a verse in scripture that admonishes that when we have done all that we can do, we simply ‘stand’ (Ephesians 6:13).
There is a place of literally resting in the awareness that we have served His great purpose in a situation and at that juncture, we must simply leave the result with Him. Hebrews 4:3 says, “We who have believed, enter that rest.” “That rest” is the place of relinquishing all to Jesus.
When we trust Him, when we know in the depth of our spirit that He has our lives in His hand, when we believe and are sure that He is ours and we are His for time and eternity, there is a quiet peace that is ours that nothing else can afford us. It is a literal relinquishing of our entire being to His eternal purpose.
When we know in the depth of our spirit that it is His intention to do us good, when we know that we know that we are His for time and eternity, we can say like Job, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust him” (Job 13:15), and like Paul, “For me to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Philippians 1:21).
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
November 3
The world’s way is to take every advantage over a perceived adversary. In the day-to-day jostling for position and power, it is not uncommon to see those grappling for ascendancy to ‘kick a guy when he’s down.’ It’s a dog-eat-dog world and most people will do what it takes to look out for ‘Number One.”
That’s not God’s way, and He doesn’t expect it to be ours. The Word tells us that we are to “prefer others above ourselves” (Romans 12:10). To be Christ-like in our attitude toward others, we must be genuinely concerned about their well-being. We must care about the totality of their selfhood.
I Thessalonians 5:11 states the Lord’s position on how we should treat others very clearly. Here He declares, “Encourage one another and edify one another.”
‘Encourage’ and ‘edify’ are directives that take us beyond the mere provision of a hand up to one that is down. To encourage is to literally ‘give heart to’ one who is hopeless or in despair. Our resolve should be to pull the one who’s fallen out of the pit of hopelessness.
To edify is to equip with understanding, to ground in truth. That is a process that requires an investment of ourselves. It is no quick fix. In other words, the Lord wants His people to come along side those in need and walk the distance with them. Encouraging and edifying take time. As He is with us, we are to be invested in caring for them for the long haul.
The world’s way is to take every advantage over a perceived adversary. In the day-to-day jostling for position and power, it is not uncommon to see those grappling for ascendancy to ‘kick a guy when he’s down.’ It’s a dog-eat-dog world and most people will do what it takes to look out for ‘Number One.”
That’s not God’s way, and He doesn’t expect it to be ours. The Word tells us that we are to “prefer others above ourselves” (Romans 12:10). To be Christ-like in our attitude toward others, we must be genuinely concerned about their well-being. We must care about the totality of their selfhood.
I Thessalonians 5:11 states the Lord’s position on how we should treat others very clearly. Here He declares, “Encourage one another and edify one another.”
‘Encourage’ and ‘edify’ are directives that take us beyond the mere provision of a hand up to one that is down. To encourage is to literally ‘give heart to’ one who is hopeless or in despair. Our resolve should be to pull the one who’s fallen out of the pit of hopelessness.
To edify is to equip with understanding, to ground in truth. That is a process that requires an investment of ourselves. It is no quick fix. In other words, the Lord wants His people to come along side those in need and walk the distance with them. Encouraging and edifying take time. As He is with us, we are to be invested in caring for them for the long haul.
Monday, November 2, 2009
November 2
If we are truly passionate about the Christ we profess to love and serve, we will reflect that passion in our everyday lives. Psalm 9:1 states clearly the focus of its writer. Here he says, “I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart. I will show forth Your marvelous works and wonderful deeds.”
Jesus said in Luke 6:45, “…out of the abundance of his heart, a man speaks.” He is clearly stating here that the heart is the seat of the words we utter and by extrapolation, of the things we think and the things we do. The entirety of our interaction with others is rooted in what we allow to occupy our hearts.
If we allow Jesus to reign in our lives from the throne of our hearts, the preponderance of what we think and say and do will be a reflection of Him. Oh, we may indeed be a pale reflection of His light, for we do see but a dark reflection of His glory. Yet if we will allow His glory to be revealed in us as we open the dark recesses of our being to the wonders of His love and light, we will discover that His presence enhances the light we endeavor to shine.
Will we be transparent so He can shine through us? Not always, but if we are passionate about Him, we will allow our love for Him to spill over those around us as He allows His love to spill over us. Will we be free of failure in our attempt to shine His light into the darkness? Not always, but if we are passionate about Him, we will not allow our fear of imperfection to hinder us from letting His perfection and His passion to shine through us.
If we are truly passionate about the Christ we profess to love and serve, we will reflect that passion in our everyday lives. Psalm 9:1 states clearly the focus of its writer. Here he says, “I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart. I will show forth Your marvelous works and wonderful deeds.”
Jesus said in Luke 6:45, “…out of the abundance of his heart, a man speaks.” He is clearly stating here that the heart is the seat of the words we utter and by extrapolation, of the things we think and the things we do. The entirety of our interaction with others is rooted in what we allow to occupy our hearts.
If we allow Jesus to reign in our lives from the throne of our hearts, the preponderance of what we think and say and do will be a reflection of Him. Oh, we may indeed be a pale reflection of His light, for we do see but a dark reflection of His glory. Yet if we will allow His glory to be revealed in us as we open the dark recesses of our being to the wonders of His love and light, we will discover that His presence enhances the light we endeavor to shine.
Will we be transparent so He can shine through us? Not always, but if we are passionate about Him, we will allow our love for Him to spill over those around us as He allows His love to spill over us. Will we be free of failure in our attempt to shine His light into the darkness? Not always, but if we are passionate about Him, we will not allow our fear of imperfection to hinder us from letting His perfection and His passion to shine through us.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
November 1
Our God is passionate. His care for His creation is beyond the comprehension of our numbed senses. We think we care deeply about many things, but the level of our Lord’s care—of His investment of Himself into our lives, into our circumstances, into our problems, into our solutions—is beyond our ken.
Why does the One who inhabits eternity choose to involve Himself in the mundane things of human existence? How can it be that He who measured the heavens with a span and scattered the stars into the unfathomable depths of space elects to care about a student’s calculus test or a child’s earache?
Why has He promised that He’ll never let us down, that before we call to Him in prayer His answer is already being expedited into our situation? The answer to all those questions is one little word that caused Him to engrave our names on the palm of His hand (Isaiah 49:16). It’s because of His love for us. As He loves us, He desires that we love. He lives His love for us and He wants us to live His love.
His Word instructs that we are to, “…speak the truth in love that we may in all things grow into…Christ” (Ephesians 4:15). He knows that if our love matures, becomes unselfish rather than an expression of our selfhood, it will enable us to be His representatives among a world of people who are perishing for the lack of His love. He knows that as He spoke and worlds came into existence, so, too, as we speak His love, we, and those around us, shall become loving as He is.
Our God is passionate. His care for His creation is beyond the comprehension of our numbed senses. We think we care deeply about many things, but the level of our Lord’s care—of His investment of Himself into our lives, into our circumstances, into our problems, into our solutions—is beyond our ken.
Why does the One who inhabits eternity choose to involve Himself in the mundane things of human existence? How can it be that He who measured the heavens with a span and scattered the stars into the unfathomable depths of space elects to care about a student’s calculus test or a child’s earache?
Why has He promised that He’ll never let us down, that before we call to Him in prayer His answer is already being expedited into our situation? The answer to all those questions is one little word that caused Him to engrave our names on the palm of His hand (Isaiah 49:16). It’s because of His love for us. As He loves us, He desires that we love. He lives His love for us and He wants us to live His love.
His Word instructs that we are to, “…speak the truth in love that we may in all things grow into…Christ” (Ephesians 4:15). He knows that if our love matures, becomes unselfish rather than an expression of our selfhood, it will enable us to be His representatives among a world of people who are perishing for the lack of His love. He knows that as He spoke and worlds came into existence, so, too, as we speak His love, we, and those around us, shall become loving as He is.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)