Friday, September 30, 2011
The Former Things Are Passed Away
September 30
Though it is wonderful to contemplate the glories of Heaven, though it captures our imagination to ponder the ways the Lord will enable us to fill eternity with the joys of discovering distant worlds, and pondering the depth of His being, and unfolding the delights of reigning as co-heirs of all that is Christ’s, there is one thing about Heaven that will forever extinguish the memory of the sorrow that’s been endured here.
We know we walk a thin line here between wholeness and brokenness, between health and sickness, between prosperity and poverty, between hope and despair. We know nothing is certain while we dwell in a tabernacle of flesh—except as the old saying goes, ‘Nothing is certain but death and taxes.’
Yet, our promises of Heaven ease our pain when we suffer and assuage our sorrows when we anguish, for those glimpses of hope that the Lord has shared with us are the ‘earnest’ of all that is to come when we are with Him forever (Ephesians 1:13, 14). And the promise that perhaps gives us most hope once we are saved by His blood, is that found in Revelation 21:4.
In this amazing Book that unfolds the secrets of the God of the Universe to those whom He has ordained to understand them, is the very clear promise that anyone who has ever suffered will gladly grasp. Here John the Beloved reveals, “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying; neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things will be passed away.”
Though it is wonderful to contemplate the glories of Heaven, though it captures our imagination to ponder the ways the Lord will enable us to fill eternity with the joys of discovering distant worlds, and pondering the depth of His being, and unfolding the delights of reigning as co-heirs of all that is Christ’s, there is one thing about Heaven that will forever extinguish the memory of the sorrow that’s been endured here.
We know we walk a thin line here between wholeness and brokenness, between health and sickness, between prosperity and poverty, between hope and despair. We know nothing is certain while we dwell in a tabernacle of flesh—except as the old saying goes, ‘Nothing is certain but death and taxes.’
Yet, our promises of Heaven ease our pain when we suffer and assuage our sorrows when we anguish, for those glimpses of hope that the Lord has shared with us are the ‘earnest’ of all that is to come when we are with Him forever (Ephesians 1:13, 14). And the promise that perhaps gives us most hope once we are saved by His blood, is that found in Revelation 21:4.
In this amazing Book that unfolds the secrets of the God of the Universe to those whom He has ordained to understand them, is the very clear promise that anyone who has ever suffered will gladly grasp. Here John the Beloved reveals, “God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying; neither shall there be any more pain, for the former things will be passed away.”
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Dwell With Me
September 29
Who doesn’t enjoy flipping through the pages of BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS? Such magazines give us a glimpse into the latest architectural and design schemes and afford us some good ideas about how to decorate our own living space. We also like perusing the articles that give us a snippet of how the rich and famous live.
Paging through the photos of their spacious and beautiful homes tantalizes us with a bit of longing for what might be ours if we, too, get lucky, as well as with a dose of reality regarding the contrast between our simple existence and their extravagant ones.
But even the most humble of believers in Jesus have a promise from our Lord and Savior that transcends the ordinariness of our temporal existence with the regal extravagance of the lavish future home we will share with Him eternally. We know that HE is King of Glory (Psalm 24: 7-10 and John 1:1-12) and the wonder of His presence illumines Heaven (Hebrews 1:3).
The promise of the glorious One who inhabits eternity is, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you…and I will come back and take you to be with Me so you may dwell with Me there forever,” John 14:2,3. Our abode here may be humble, but our home in heaven will be the most glorious of mansions!
Who doesn’t enjoy flipping through the pages of BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS? Such magazines give us a glimpse into the latest architectural and design schemes and afford us some good ideas about how to decorate our own living space. We also like perusing the articles that give us a snippet of how the rich and famous live.
Paging through the photos of their spacious and beautiful homes tantalizes us with a bit of longing for what might be ours if we, too, get lucky, as well as with a dose of reality regarding the contrast between our simple existence and their extravagant ones.
But even the most humble of believers in Jesus have a promise from our Lord and Savior that transcends the ordinariness of our temporal existence with the regal extravagance of the lavish future home we will share with Him eternally. We know that HE is King of Glory (Psalm 24: 7-10 and John 1:1-12) and the wonder of His presence illumines Heaven (Hebrews 1:3).
The promise of the glorious One who inhabits eternity is, “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you…and I will come back and take you to be with Me so you may dwell with Me there forever,” John 14:2,3. Our abode here may be humble, but our home in heaven will be the most glorious of mansions!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
The Same
September 28
The debate—God does/God does not—heal today may continue until, “… the trumpet sounds and the dead in Christ arise and we who are alive and remain are caught up to meet Him in the air,” I Thessalonians 4:16, 17. While the early church believed in the healing ministry of the Holy Spirit, since then, there has been no consensus.
Perhaps one must be the recipient of a miraculous healing in order to believe in them. One young lady was confirmed in her faith when her obstetrician told her she had a kidney disorder that would require immediate surgery to correct. Unfortunately, the necessary surgery would take the life of the unborn child she was carrying.
Her husband did not accept this prognosis but went immediately to prayer in the behalf of his wife and unborn child. The Lord spoke to his heart and assured him that both the mother and the unborn baby would be totally well. The word given to him was proven several months later when a healthy baby boy was placed in the arms of two believing parents…and when a second opinion regarding the mother’s kidney disorder showed it to be functioning properly.
Decades later, the mother and child are still well and alive and serving the living Christ who manifested His changeless power in their behalf at the time of their grievous need! Decades later, this family is still praising God together, along with more members who have been added since that long ago time when God’s promise that He is, “the same yesterday, today, and forever,” (Hebrews 13:8) proved true for them! They are still rejoicing that, “…my God, I called to You for help and You healed me” Psalm 30:2.
The debate—God does/God does not—heal today may continue until, “… the trumpet sounds and the dead in Christ arise and we who are alive and remain are caught up to meet Him in the air,” I Thessalonians 4:16, 17. While the early church believed in the healing ministry of the Holy Spirit, since then, there has been no consensus.
Perhaps one must be the recipient of a miraculous healing in order to believe in them. One young lady was confirmed in her faith when her obstetrician told her she had a kidney disorder that would require immediate surgery to correct. Unfortunately, the necessary surgery would take the life of the unborn child she was carrying.
Her husband did not accept this prognosis but went immediately to prayer in the behalf of his wife and unborn child. The Lord spoke to his heart and assured him that both the mother and the unborn baby would be totally well. The word given to him was proven several months later when a healthy baby boy was placed in the arms of two believing parents…and when a second opinion regarding the mother’s kidney disorder showed it to be functioning properly.
Decades later, the mother and child are still well and alive and serving the living Christ who manifested His changeless power in their behalf at the time of their grievous need! Decades later, this family is still praising God together, along with more members who have been added since that long ago time when God’s promise that He is, “the same yesterday, today, and forever,” (Hebrews 13:8) proved true for them! They are still rejoicing that, “…my God, I called to You for help and You healed me” Psalm 30:2.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
New E-Mail Address For Your Responses To This Blog
Please post questions or comments to the following e-mail address:
askinghim@hotmail.com
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In Spite Of Our Perception
September 27
The concept of physical healing being available today by the power of the Holy Spirit at work through the prayers of the faithful is a stumbling block to the faith of many people. Some, in fact, dismiss the idea as religious hog wash. They refuse to even consider the possibility that Jesus might respond by healing someone who is sick, because of prayer.
Even Pentecostal people, the people whose denomination maintains healing as one of its tenets of faith, don’t often see prayer employed effectively when someone is wrestling with a major disease. More often than not, the surgery must be done, the medications must be applied, and the rehabilitation must be performed.
But, that’s not what the Bible says is supposed to happen! When we pray, we are told by the brother of Jesus in James 5:15-16, “The prayer of faith will heal the sick; the Lord will raise him up and if he has sinned, his sins will be forgiven…therefore, confess your sins one to another and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”
So, what shall we believe? Shall we believe what we can perceive with our senses—what we can see, and feel, and hear, and taste, and smell? If our physical senses sometimes deceive us in the natural realm, is it not possible that they can turn us from spiritual truth? Let us be among those who prefer to stand on the Word of God in spite of our perception, for our perception is subject to change. His Word will never change.
The concept of physical healing being available today by the power of the Holy Spirit at work through the prayers of the faithful is a stumbling block to the faith of many people. Some, in fact, dismiss the idea as religious hog wash. They refuse to even consider the possibility that Jesus might respond by healing someone who is sick, because of prayer.
Even Pentecostal people, the people whose denomination maintains healing as one of its tenets of faith, don’t often see prayer employed effectively when someone is wrestling with a major disease. More often than not, the surgery must be done, the medications must be applied, and the rehabilitation must be performed.
But, that’s not what the Bible says is supposed to happen! When we pray, we are told by the brother of Jesus in James 5:15-16, “The prayer of faith will heal the sick; the Lord will raise him up and if he has sinned, his sins will be forgiven…therefore, confess your sins one to another and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”
So, what shall we believe? Shall we believe what we can perceive with our senses—what we can see, and feel, and hear, and taste, and smell? If our physical senses sometimes deceive us in the natural realm, is it not possible that they can turn us from spiritual truth? Let us be among those who prefer to stand on the Word of God in spite of our perception, for our perception is subject to change. His Word will never change.
Monday, September 26, 2011
The Same Choice To Make
September 26
Jeremiah had the burdensome task of being God’s spokesman to a people who were not eager to hear from God. Jeremiah confronted the people and their leaders with the unfortunate news that there was going to be a high price extracted from them if they continued in their wanton disobedience of the One who had saved them from slavery.
It is almost beyond conceptualization that a people who had spent 400 years in bondage and then were miraculously set free from their harsh task masters by their God would not be forever grateful to Him. But this was not the case. Like all humankind, the people of the Eternal Living God were ensnared by “…the pleasures of sin for a season” Hebrews 11:25.
Unlike Moses who had resisted this temptation, they fell headlong into it. The repeated warnings Jeremiah brought to them of the punishment that awaited them at the hands of the Babylonians went unheeded. Perhaps even more unfortunate was their disdain for the promise of healing for their sin that the Lord gave them through Jeremiah.
In Jeremiah 17:14 and in Jeremiah 30:17, the weeping prophet assured them that healing and salvation would be theirs if they would but turn from the worldly ways that had so ensnared them and return to the God who’d saved them. We have that same choice to make—the same healing and salvation to gain and the same bondage to shun. What will we do with Jeremiah’s warnings? (See Book of Jeremiah)
Jeremiah had the burdensome task of being God’s spokesman to a people who were not eager to hear from God. Jeremiah confronted the people and their leaders with the unfortunate news that there was going to be a high price extracted from them if they continued in their wanton disobedience of the One who had saved them from slavery.
It is almost beyond conceptualization that a people who had spent 400 years in bondage and then were miraculously set free from their harsh task masters by their God would not be forever grateful to Him. But this was not the case. Like all humankind, the people of the Eternal Living God were ensnared by “…the pleasures of sin for a season” Hebrews 11:25.
Unlike Moses who had resisted this temptation, they fell headlong into it. The repeated warnings Jeremiah brought to them of the punishment that awaited them at the hands of the Babylonians went unheeded. Perhaps even more unfortunate was their disdain for the promise of healing for their sin that the Lord gave them through Jeremiah.
In Jeremiah 17:14 and in Jeremiah 30:17, the weeping prophet assured them that healing and salvation would be theirs if they would but turn from the worldly ways that had so ensnared them and return to the God who’d saved them. We have that same choice to make—the same healing and salvation to gain and the same bondage to shun. What will we do with Jeremiah’s warnings? (See Book of Jeremiah)
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Please note the following hotmail address...
Because the comment link does not seem to function, the following e-mail account has been set up specifically for comments regarding this blog.
Please do let me know your thoughts, questions, criticisms, etc.
Thank you for your interest in this blog.
askinghim@hotmail.com
Please do let me know your thoughts, questions, criticisms, etc.
Thank you for your interest in this blog.
askinghim@hotmail.com
Die to Live
September 25
David heartily praised God for the forgiveness of his sins, which were great. David, the young shepherd who slew a giant for his country and walked honorably before his God, succumbed to pressure and fell into sin. We could say that his plummet into wrongdoing was because his wife didn’t understand him (II Samuel 6:16).
Certainly, a lot of people would take this escape route. We’re good at deflecting blame from ourselves and placing it at someone else’s doorstep, but David didn’t do this. In Psalm 103:2, 3, he said, “Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits—He forgives all your sins…” for David knew he was powerless to overcome his proclivity to sin apart from the Lord.
However, until Christ came and actually washed sin away in His shed blood, David’s sin, mankind’s sin could only be temporarily assuaged by the blood of goats and lambs. Until Jesus, “made a more excellent way,” (I Corinthians 12:31) by the love He showed when He took our sin upon Himself, all men were “…dead in trespasses and sins” Ephesians 2:1.
But! But when He came, He washed us clean because, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree so we might die to sin and live for righteousness…” I Peter 2:24. What an amazing God we serve! What a glorious promise is ours to claim! May we joyfully lay our lives at His feet, so He may joyfully lavish us with His blessings.
David heartily praised God for the forgiveness of his sins, which were great. David, the young shepherd who slew a giant for his country and walked honorably before his God, succumbed to pressure and fell into sin. We could say that his plummet into wrongdoing was because his wife didn’t understand him (II Samuel 6:16).
Certainly, a lot of people would take this escape route. We’re good at deflecting blame from ourselves and placing it at someone else’s doorstep, but David didn’t do this. In Psalm 103:2, 3, he said, “Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits—He forgives all your sins…” for David knew he was powerless to overcome his proclivity to sin apart from the Lord.
However, until Christ came and actually washed sin away in His shed blood, David’s sin, mankind’s sin could only be temporarily assuaged by the blood of goats and lambs. Until Jesus, “made a more excellent way,” (I Corinthians 12:31) by the love He showed when He took our sin upon Himself, all men were “…dead in trespasses and sins” Ephesians 2:1.
But! But when He came, He washed us clean because, “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree so we might die to sin and live for righteousness…” I Peter 2:24. What an amazing God we serve! What a glorious promise is ours to claim! May we joyfully lay our lives at His feet, so He may joyfully lavish us with His blessings.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Sin's Removed We're Restored
Mankind suffers from the sickness of sin. It is an insidious spiritual disease that is unrecognizable to those who suffer from it. Like a physical disease that goes undetected until it has done its awful work, sin causes those held by its tentacles to be unaware of its devastating effect upon them – until it has done its awful work.
Though it may appear that there is no remedy for this affliction that holds so much of our race in its terrible grip, though it may seem we are too affected by it to be aware of it, everyone we know suffers from it, so being afflicted seems like the norm. How can we know we need a cure when the symptoms of the disease are so pervasive?
Yet, in the light of truth, in the realization of what wholeness is, we come to the realization of our need and we recognize that Jesus is the One, the only One who has the healing balm that can make us spiritually whole. We go to Him, we allow Him to administer the healing balm of Calvary to our sin, and we are made guilt-free.
As He promised in Jeremiah 33:6 and Hosea 14:4, “I will heal My people and will give them peace and security.” “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for My anger has turned away from them.” Because He loves us, He has provided that the one thing that separates us from Him — sin will be removed and we can be restored to Him.
Though it may appear that there is no remedy for this affliction that holds so much of our race in its terrible grip, though it may seem we are too affected by it to be aware of it, everyone we know suffers from it, so being afflicted seems like the norm. How can we know we need a cure when the symptoms of the disease are so pervasive?
Yet, in the light of truth, in the realization of what wholeness is, we come to the realization of our need and we recognize that Jesus is the One, the only One who has the healing balm that can make us spiritually whole. We go to Him, we allow Him to administer the healing balm of Calvary to our sin, and we are made guilt-free.
As He promised in Jeremiah 33:6 and Hosea 14:4, “I will heal My people and will give them peace and security.” “I will heal their waywardness and love them freely, for My anger has turned away from them.” Because He loves us, He has provided that the one thing that separates us from Him — sin will be removed and we can be restored to Him.
Friday, September 23, 2011
No Longer Blind To Sin
September 23
Until the light of Jesus shines upon us, until our blind eyes are opened to behold the glory of our Lord and Savior, until we perceive with our spirit the reality of all He has saved us from, until we realize that we are dead in trespasses and sin, we haven’t any conceptualization of the depth of depravity of our existence.
We blithely go about our enjoyment of our evil pursuits, we glibly disdain the holy name that is above all names, the one name that is “given under heaven whereby men might be saved” Acts 4:12, until such time as we perceive the need we never knew we had—the need for One who is holy to cleanse us from our flagrant sin and wretchedness.
Our God has always known that man would need a Savior and long before Jesus came He promised that He would supply man’s crying need. We know that our Triune God took counsel with Himself in the Heavenlies (Revelation 13:8) and ordained that the need for a righteous, holy, spotless Lamb would be supplied as the sacrifice for sin.
Then, the promise was articulated by the prophet in Isaiah 42:16: “I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them…I will not forsake them.” No longer blind to sin, no longer walking dark paths, we now walk with our precious Jesus in His light.
Until the light of Jesus shines upon us, until our blind eyes are opened to behold the glory of our Lord and Savior, until we perceive with our spirit the reality of all He has saved us from, until we realize that we are dead in trespasses and sin, we haven’t any conceptualization of the depth of depravity of our existence.
We blithely go about our enjoyment of our evil pursuits, we glibly disdain the holy name that is above all names, the one name that is “given under heaven whereby men might be saved” Acts 4:12, until such time as we perceive the need we never knew we had—the need for One who is holy to cleanse us from our flagrant sin and wretchedness.
Our God has always known that man would need a Savior and long before Jesus came He promised that He would supply man’s crying need. We know that our Triune God took counsel with Himself in the Heavenlies (Revelation 13:8) and ordained that the need for a righteous, holy, spotless Lamb would be supplied as the sacrifice for sin.
Then, the promise was articulated by the prophet in Isaiah 42:16: “I will lead the blind by ways they have not known, along unfamiliar paths I will guide them. I will turn the darkness into light before them…I will not forsake them.” No longer blind to sin, no longer walking dark paths, we now walk with our precious Jesus in His light.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
With Us Everywhere
September 22
In Psalm 139, David asked a profound question. The Psalmist had spent many years fleeing from Saul who viewed him as a threat to his reign and therefore a mortal enemy. Though David had no intention of usurping the throne, the king was threatened by the knowledge that God had selected David to eventually replace him as the leader of Israel.
David’s experience with Saul caused him to ponder the question of where he stood with the Lord. In verses 7 and 8 he asked, “Where can I flee from Your Spirit? Whither shall I go from Your presence? If I ascend into Heaven, You are there. If I make my bed in Hell, even there Your eyes see me.”
The Psalmist acknowledged the all-encompassing reach of God’s presence even further in verses 9 and 10 where he said, “If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost part of the sea, even there shall Your hand lead me and Your strong right hand will hold me.”
David recognized that there was no place that he could go that God would not be present and he realized that he should therefore in all places, “…praise Thee for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14. Like David, we know the Lord is with us everywhere, and for this, we, too should praise Him.
In Psalm 139, David asked a profound question. The Psalmist had spent many years fleeing from Saul who viewed him as a threat to his reign and therefore a mortal enemy. Though David had no intention of usurping the throne, the king was threatened by the knowledge that God had selected David to eventually replace him as the leader of Israel.
David’s experience with Saul caused him to ponder the question of where he stood with the Lord. In verses 7 and 8 he asked, “Where can I flee from Your Spirit? Whither shall I go from Your presence? If I ascend into Heaven, You are there. If I make my bed in Hell, even there Your eyes see me.”
The Psalmist acknowledged the all-encompassing reach of God’s presence even further in verses 9 and 10 where he said, “If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost part of the sea, even there shall Your hand lead me and Your strong right hand will hold me.”
David recognized that there was no place that he could go that God would not be present and he realized that he should therefore in all places, “…praise Thee for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14. Like David, we know the Lord is with us everywhere, and for this, we, too should praise Him.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Go the Distance
September 21
How far will the Lord guide you as you travel the Path of Life? How can you be sure He will supply your needs in the dry places where your spiritual thirst is acute? How can you know He will strengthen you when you’re too weak to manage the task of life under your own power? How can you hope to flourish when life’s challenges overwhelm you? Because His Word gives you the assurance you need as you ponder the answers to each of these questions that we all must face to some degree at some point in our lives.
In fact, we don’t need to peruse the entirety of Scripture to find the promises that He uses to assure His people of His presence in our lives and His power at our fingertips. Look at one verse, Isaiah 58:11 to find the peace His Word extends in answer to all these queries.
To the question of how far He will go with you on life’s path, this passage assures He will “guide you always.” That means He’ll go all the way with you. Will He still provide in the spiritual desert places? Here He says, “He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land.” What about your physical well-being? This passage assures that “He will strengthen your frame.”
When life’s challenges seem to dry out your strength and your resolve seems to wither like Autumn leaves, you may stand on the unfailing Word of God that says, “You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” In pondering His response to these great questions of life, He seems to be saying that He plans to go the distance with you.
How far will the Lord guide you as you travel the Path of Life? How can you be sure He will supply your needs in the dry places where your spiritual thirst is acute? How can you know He will strengthen you when you’re too weak to manage the task of life under your own power? How can you hope to flourish when life’s challenges overwhelm you? Because His Word gives you the assurance you need as you ponder the answers to each of these questions that we all must face to some degree at some point in our lives.
In fact, we don’t need to peruse the entirety of Scripture to find the promises that He uses to assure His people of His presence in our lives and His power at our fingertips. Look at one verse, Isaiah 58:11 to find the peace His Word extends in answer to all these queries.
To the question of how far He will go with you on life’s path, this passage assures He will “guide you always.” That means He’ll go all the way with you. Will He still provide in the spiritual desert places? Here He says, “He will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land.” What about your physical well-being? This passage assures that “He will strengthen your frame.”
When life’s challenges seem to dry out your strength and your resolve seems to wither like Autumn leaves, you may stand on the unfailing Word of God that says, “You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.” In pondering His response to these great questions of life, He seems to be saying that He plans to go the distance with you.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Still Worthy
September 20
It’s not always easy to believe. We who have put our faith in Christ want to trust Him with every fiber of our being, yet we must confess that doubts assail. Perhaps because we are frail mortals who haven’t the ability to conceptualize the faithfulness of our Immortal God, or perhaps because there is an enemy of our souls who is forever hurling doubt our way, we find ourselves wrestling with the dilemma of doubt.
God understands our quandary. He knows our frame. He who has fashioned us sees our grappling with the perplexities that tend to pull our faith down. He knows the ebb and flow of the tide of belief and He knows when we are riding a wave of assurance and confidence in Him that it can suddenly crash into a mere ripple.
The Lord does not abandon us at these points. He does not cast us off as being unworthy of His further care. His Holy Spirit may speak to our hearts as Jesus did to the frightened disciples in Mark 4:40 when the storm arose, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” At these times, we shall see as they did, that our Savior has authority over our storms.
At these times we will understand the magnitude of the encouragement we find in Proverbs 3:5, 6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” When we are at the point of doubt and discouragement, it is then He can meet us with the assurance that He is still worthy of the faith we’ve placed in Him.
It’s not always easy to believe. We who have put our faith in Christ want to trust Him with every fiber of our being, yet we must confess that doubts assail. Perhaps because we are frail mortals who haven’t the ability to conceptualize the faithfulness of our Immortal God, or perhaps because there is an enemy of our souls who is forever hurling doubt our way, we find ourselves wrestling with the dilemma of doubt.
God understands our quandary. He knows our frame. He who has fashioned us sees our grappling with the perplexities that tend to pull our faith down. He knows the ebb and flow of the tide of belief and He knows when we are riding a wave of assurance and confidence in Him that it can suddenly crash into a mere ripple.
The Lord does not abandon us at these points. He does not cast us off as being unworthy of His further care. His Holy Spirit may speak to our hearts as Jesus did to the frightened disciples in Mark 4:40 when the storm arose, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” At these times, we shall see as they did, that our Savior has authority over our storms.
At these times we will understand the magnitude of the encouragement we find in Proverbs 3:5, 6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” When we are at the point of doubt and discouragement, it is then He can meet us with the assurance that He is still worthy of the faith we’ve placed in Him.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Held Steady by His Hand
September 19
Will everything in life always go smoothly for believers in Jesus? Will life be the proverbial bowl of cherries? No and no. The reality of the ups and downs of life that Christians will encounter is clearly conveyed in the Bible.
Jesus makes no pretense of serene bliss to those who choose to be His followers. He clearly states the opposite: “If the world has persecuted Me, you may be sure it will persecute you, too,” (John 15:20). This statement alone makes the world’s opposition to Christ and to those who follow Him quite clear.
Yet, despite the persecution, in spite of the ordinary ups and downs that an ordinary day can bring into any life (believer and non-believer alike), the one who holds to Christ as Savior and Lord has an assurance that transcends the inevitable trials he will encounter and places his hope fully in the hand of the God he trusts.
In Psalm 37:23, 24, David states it thusly, “If the Lord delights in a man’s way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” Whether a believer stumbles through his own fault or because he’s pushed by one who opposes his faith, the strong hand of our Mighty God will hold him steady.
Will everything in life always go smoothly for believers in Jesus? Will life be the proverbial bowl of cherries? No and no. The reality of the ups and downs of life that Christians will encounter is clearly conveyed in the Bible.
Jesus makes no pretense of serene bliss to those who choose to be His followers. He clearly states the opposite: “If the world has persecuted Me, you may be sure it will persecute you, too,” (John 15:20). This statement alone makes the world’s opposition to Christ and to those who follow Him quite clear.
Yet, despite the persecution, in spite of the ordinary ups and downs that an ordinary day can bring into any life (believer and non-believer alike), the one who holds to Christ as Savior and Lord has an assurance that transcends the inevitable trials he will encounter and places his hope fully in the hand of the God he trusts.
In Psalm 37:23, 24, David states it thusly, “If the Lord delights in a man’s way, He makes his steps firm; though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His hand.” Whether a believer stumbles through his own fault or because he’s pushed by one who opposes his faith, the strong hand of our Mighty God will hold him steady.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
The Faithful, Strong Shepherd
September 18
The Twenty-third Psalm is most often heard a funerals, but it is actually a road map for life. It begins, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” Here David, who was himself a shepherd, affirms that all the sheep need shall be provided by the Shepherd. The Shepherd supplies rest in green, fruitful pastures that are bordered by a fresh water supply.
David understands that the drudgery of day-to-day existence can wear on even the best-tended sheep, so a time of restoration is required in order that the sheep might continue to follow the right path. When the sheep keep to the designated path, it is to the ultimate honor of the Shepherd’s name.
Though the road traveled may at times be dark and the valley fraught with danger—even the danger of death—the sheep need not fear for the Shepherd is ever near to offer the protection and comfort of His rod and staff. His protection is so sure that the sheep may enjoy the table his Shepherd sets before him, although it may be in the presence of enemies! The one who follows knows he is anointed and his cup overflows.
David here further glorifies the Lord his Shepherd by saying that His goodness and mercy shall follow him all the days of his life. There is no time constraint on the goodness of the God who leads him. David knows that because of the faithfulness of his strong Shepherd, he will dwell in His house fore ever—for all of time, he will worship at His Temple and he will dwell eternally in His Heavenly Courts.
The Twenty-third Psalm is most often heard a funerals, but it is actually a road map for life. It begins, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” Here David, who was himself a shepherd, affirms that all the sheep need shall be provided by the Shepherd. The Shepherd supplies rest in green, fruitful pastures that are bordered by a fresh water supply.
David understands that the drudgery of day-to-day existence can wear on even the best-tended sheep, so a time of restoration is required in order that the sheep might continue to follow the right path. When the sheep keep to the designated path, it is to the ultimate honor of the Shepherd’s name.
Though the road traveled may at times be dark and the valley fraught with danger—even the danger of death—the sheep need not fear for the Shepherd is ever near to offer the protection and comfort of His rod and staff. His protection is so sure that the sheep may enjoy the table his Shepherd sets before him, although it may be in the presence of enemies! The one who follows knows he is anointed and his cup overflows.
David here further glorifies the Lord his Shepherd by saying that His goodness and mercy shall follow him all the days of his life. There is no time constraint on the goodness of the God who leads him. David knows that because of the faithfulness of his strong Shepherd, he will dwell in His house fore ever—for all of time, he will worship at His Temple and he will dwell eternally in His Heavenly Courts.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Guided to His Dwelling
September 17
There has been a lot of dispute about the land that comprises the nation of Israel and the debate has exacerbated recently regarding the borders it should have. The American president, in the year of 2011, stated that the borders should revert to those of 1967. The leader of the Israelis has said that border is indefensible.
The Palestinians, who claim the land occupied by Israel, have said, along with much of the Moslem world, that Israel does not have a right to exist as a nation and that all the land currently occupied by the Jews should be occupied by Moslems. Some espousers of Islam, notably the leader of Iran, have said the Jews should be totally eradicated.
The political football—what to do with the Jews—is not new to being kicked around. Much of World War II swirled around the Nazi treatment of the Jewish people in Europe. During the brief period the Third Reich was in power under Adolph Hitler, over six million Jews and many Christians were exterminated.
How can we know God’s position in the matter of the land occupied by Israel? Exodus 15:13 says, “In Your unfailing love You have led the people You have redeemed. In Your strength You have guided them to Your holy dwelling.” If the Lord has guided His ancient people back to the land of Israel, perhaps that is just where He wants them to dwell.
There has been a lot of dispute about the land that comprises the nation of Israel and the debate has exacerbated recently regarding the borders it should have. The American president, in the year of 2011, stated that the borders should revert to those of 1967. The leader of the Israelis has said that border is indefensible.
The Palestinians, who claim the land occupied by Israel, have said, along with much of the Moslem world, that Israel does not have a right to exist as a nation and that all the land currently occupied by the Jews should be occupied by Moslems. Some espousers of Islam, notably the leader of Iran, have said the Jews should be totally eradicated.
The political football—what to do with the Jews—is not new to being kicked around. Much of World War II swirled around the Nazi treatment of the Jewish people in Europe. During the brief period the Third Reich was in power under Adolph Hitler, over six million Jews and many Christians were exterminated.
How can we know God’s position in the matter of the land occupied by Israel? Exodus 15:13 says, “In Your unfailing love You have led the people You have redeemed. In Your strength You have guided them to Your holy dwelling.” If the Lord has guided His ancient people back to the land of Israel, perhaps that is just where He wants them to dwell.
Friday, September 16, 2011
If the Lord of Creation Loves
September 16
Parents love their children. It doesn’t matter if they are extraordinarily good looking and brilliantly accomplished or if they are ordinary, in our eyes they are the epitome of perfection. We love them deeply and profoundly simply because they are ours. In this regard, we are patterned after God.
In Titus 3:5-7, Paul says, “God saved us, not because of righteous things we had done but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs of eternal life.”
Salvation, like the place of children within their parents’ hearts, is established without regard to our worthiness. Jesus Christ left His home in glory to live the righteous life we could not live and to die a propitiatory death for our sins simply because we are precious in the site of God (Philippians 2:5-8).
Whether our sins are heinous or whether they are menial in our own eyes, in His eyes they are washed away when they are covered by the blood of Jesus. Revelation 1:5 affirms that our sin is washed away in His own blood. If the Lord of Creation loves us enough to have died our behalf, shouldn’t we love Him enough to live for Him?
Parents love their children. It doesn’t matter if they are extraordinarily good looking and brilliantly accomplished or if they are ordinary, in our eyes they are the epitome of perfection. We love them deeply and profoundly simply because they are ours. In this regard, we are patterned after God.
In Titus 3:5-7, Paul says, “God saved us, not because of righteous things we had done but because of His mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs of eternal life.”
Salvation, like the place of children within their parents’ hearts, is established without regard to our worthiness. Jesus Christ left His home in glory to live the righteous life we could not live and to die a propitiatory death for our sins simply because we are precious in the site of God (Philippians 2:5-8).
Whether our sins are heinous or whether they are menial in our own eyes, in His eyes they are washed away when they are covered by the blood of Jesus. Revelation 1:5 affirms that our sin is washed away in His own blood. If the Lord of Creation loves us enough to have died our behalf, shouldn’t we love Him enough to live for Him?
Thursday, September 15, 2011
All, Never, Always
September 15
‘All’ is an overused word. Rather like, ‘never’ and ‘always.’ You always disturb me when I’m on the phone. You never pay attention to what I’m saying. All you ever do is criticize me. We tend to use these sweeping words to make our point when we’re annoyed. Doing so is the height of hyperbole.
We also exaggerate when our case is weak, when actual facts to support our position are few. We are not trying to defend our indefensible position with logic, we are trying to validate it through exaggeration.
It’s almost as though we are saying, ‘I know you’re right; I don’t have a case, but if I use an avalanche of indefensible argumentation against you, you’ll simply back down.’ We seem to think that if we’re not making sense, our opponent will simply extricate himself from a pointless exchange and we’ll win by default. But when we read words like ‘all’ in the Bible as they are expressed by the Lord through His prophets and the chroniclers of the history of Christ and the progression of His truth, we may stand on them.
As Paul says in II Corinthians 9:8, “God is able to make all grace abound toward you so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” Unlike us, frail, foolish men that we are, when God expresses something in terms that encompass a totality of time and experience, He has the power and the willingness to cause it to be a reality.
‘All’ is an overused word. Rather like, ‘never’ and ‘always.’ You always disturb me when I’m on the phone. You never pay attention to what I’m saying. All you ever do is criticize me. We tend to use these sweeping words to make our point when we’re annoyed. Doing so is the height of hyperbole.
We also exaggerate when our case is weak, when actual facts to support our position are few. We are not trying to defend our indefensible position with logic, we are trying to validate it through exaggeration.
It’s almost as though we are saying, ‘I know you’re right; I don’t have a case, but if I use an avalanche of indefensible argumentation against you, you’ll simply back down.’ We seem to think that if we’re not making sense, our opponent will simply extricate himself from a pointless exchange and we’ll win by default. But when we read words like ‘all’ in the Bible as they are expressed by the Lord through His prophets and the chroniclers of the history of Christ and the progression of His truth, we may stand on them.
As Paul says in II Corinthians 9:8, “God is able to make all grace abound toward you so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” Unlike us, frail, foolish men that we are, when God expresses something in terms that encompass a totality of time and experience, He has the power and the willingness to cause it to be a reality.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Grace Enables Us To See
September 14
God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22, 23). And He does not reserve His benevolence for only those who walk after Him in obedience and love. He does not lavish just His own who are born again, washed clean in the blood of the perfect Lamb, with the good things of life.
Jesus says in Matthew 5:45, “…He makes His sun to rise on the evil and on the good; He sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” Our Heavenly Father loves all His creation and gives to “…every man the measure of faith” Romans 12:3.
What a man does with this faith, what he chooses to believe, will determine whether he will worship false gods, commit heinous crimes in service to demonic entities, or bow before the Living Christ. Some people mistake their worldly successes or lack thereof for evidence of God’s disposition toward them.
This is an utter fallacy, for His true blessings are not measured in the temporal. Rather, they are, “From the fullness we have all received one blessing after another, grace upon grace” John 1:16. This grace will enable us to see His light shining in our darkness and will enable us to comprehend His blessings if we will but walk in that light.
God’s mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:22, 23). And He does not reserve His benevolence for only those who walk after Him in obedience and love. He does not lavish just His own who are born again, washed clean in the blood of the perfect Lamb, with the good things of life.
Jesus says in Matthew 5:45, “…He makes His sun to rise on the evil and on the good; He sends rain on the just and on the unjust.” Our Heavenly Father loves all His creation and gives to “…every man the measure of faith” Romans 12:3.
What a man does with this faith, what he chooses to believe, will determine whether he will worship false gods, commit heinous crimes in service to demonic entities, or bow before the Living Christ. Some people mistake their worldly successes or lack thereof for evidence of God’s disposition toward them.
This is an utter fallacy, for His true blessings are not measured in the temporal. Rather, they are, “From the fullness we have all received one blessing after another, grace upon grace” John 1:16. This grace will enable us to see His light shining in our darkness and will enable us to comprehend His blessings if we will but walk in that light.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
He Gave
September 13
Receiving Christ is rather like a barter agreement. You give Him everything you are and He gives you everything He is. You give Him all your sin and He gives you all His righteousness. You give Him your proclivity to death and He gives you His promise of life—for time and eternity.
It’s hardly a ‘fair trade,’ but He set it up to give you everything, and that’s what you get when you give Him your meager self. A man, who can’t even take his next breath if the Lord doesn’t enable him to do so, becomes a joint heir with Christ of all the treasure of eternity. And the deal includes the advantage of living this life with your hand in His.
In II Corinthians 8:9, Paul tells us, “You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you, through His poverty, might become rich.” Jesus, “…thought it not robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a man…and humbled Himself to the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:5-8.
And why did He do such an astounding thing? Why did He make such an amazing sacrifice? There is no explanation to account for such an action on the part of the One who made all things (John 1:3) except that given in John 3:16, “God so loved the world He gave…”
Receiving Christ is rather like a barter agreement. You give Him everything you are and He gives you everything He is. You give Him all your sin and He gives you all His righteousness. You give Him your proclivity to death and He gives you His promise of life—for time and eternity.
It’s hardly a ‘fair trade,’ but He set it up to give you everything, and that’s what you get when you give Him your meager self. A man, who can’t even take his next breath if the Lord doesn’t enable him to do so, becomes a joint heir with Christ of all the treasure of eternity. And the deal includes the advantage of living this life with your hand in His.
In II Corinthians 8:9, Paul tells us, “You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, who, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you, through His poverty, might become rich.” Jesus, “…thought it not robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a man…and humbled Himself to the death of the cross,” Philippians 2:5-8.
And why did He do such an astounding thing? Why did He make such an amazing sacrifice? There is no explanation to account for such an action on the part of the One who made all things (John 1:3) except that given in John 3:16, “God so loved the world He gave…”
Monday, September 12, 2011
Through the Lord
September 12
If we are honest with ourselves, we will acknowledge that we have some area or other within our personhood that is lacking in some measure. Perhaps we discovered as students that while we had an amazing proclivity for accuracy and mastery in some areas of study, there were others that found us totally deficient.
It was once believed that boys enjoyed a greater potential for success in math and science while girls were better with writing and reading. Whatever our natural gifts may be, it is generally concluded that resolute effort, when applied to a course of study, will result in a high level of success in performing it.
There is one area, however, where nothing we do through our own effort can result in success. We cannot, through any amount of generosity or sacrifice or righteous living, save ourselves. We are entirely unable to attain God’s high standard—perfection—by ourselves. It is only by our acceptance of Christ’s perfectly lived life in our behalf that we can attain Heaven.
Ephesians 2:8-10 makes this truth perfectly clear. It says, “It is by grace you are saved through faith—and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do the good works He wants us to do.” Of ourselves, we can do nothing of spiritual value. Through the Lord and His salvation and the strength His power in us gives, we can do all things.
If we are honest with ourselves, we will acknowledge that we have some area or other within our personhood that is lacking in some measure. Perhaps we discovered as students that while we had an amazing proclivity for accuracy and mastery in some areas of study, there were others that found us totally deficient.
It was once believed that boys enjoyed a greater potential for success in math and science while girls were better with writing and reading. Whatever our natural gifts may be, it is generally concluded that resolute effort, when applied to a course of study, will result in a high level of success in performing it.
There is one area, however, where nothing we do through our own effort can result in success. We cannot, through any amount of generosity or sacrifice or righteous living, save ourselves. We are entirely unable to attain God’s high standard—perfection—by ourselves. It is only by our acceptance of Christ’s perfectly lived life in our behalf that we can attain Heaven.
Ephesians 2:8-10 makes this truth perfectly clear. It says, “It is by grace you are saved through faith—and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do the good works He wants us to do.” Of ourselves, we can do nothing of spiritual value. Through the Lord and His salvation and the strength His power in us gives, we can do all things.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
9/11, Ten Years Later
September 11
Ten years. Long enough for newborn babies to have become fifth graders. Long enough for fifth graders to have become college sophomores. Long enough for new relationships to have been forged and for some old relationships to have dissolved into irreconcilable differences. Countless new lives have come into being and countless others have passed away.
Ten years is long enough for some old hurts to have been healed and for some scars to have become totally invisible. But some memories are beyond washing away; they are indelibly stamped upon the psyche and there is no expunging them. Such are the memories of 9/11. We cannot forget where we were, who we were with, what we thought, how we reacted, or the shock and dismay we felt at the news—graphically depicted through the media—that three thousand living, breathing people just like us were suddenly gone.
Some were gone, literally without a trace, disintegrated into nothingness by an intensity of hatred most of us cannot even fathom. Though they are whole in the hearts and memories of those who love them and though they are forever alive in God’s scheme of eternal life, there is no denying that they are gone because there is mindset of evil that was unleashed upon us and on our way of life on that fateful morning, that until then, we had been unaware existed. And there has been nothing since that time that has set it on a more moderate course. So how should we feel in light of this on-going threat?
Of course, we must be ever vigilant. We cannot allow ourselves to again be caught unaware, to again be attacked and slaughtered. But we must remember, too, that the only true counter to evil is goodness and the only force that can conquer hatred is love. May we who survived that horrible day, be ever mindful of its significance and may we always allow the One who is the Prince of Peace to reign in our hearts and minds so we can be vessels through whom His love and truth may be poured—especially upon those who are lost in the darkness of hatred and deception (Luke 6:27).
Ten years. Long enough for newborn babies to have become fifth graders. Long enough for fifth graders to have become college sophomores. Long enough for new relationships to have been forged and for some old relationships to have dissolved into irreconcilable differences. Countless new lives have come into being and countless others have passed away.
Ten years is long enough for some old hurts to have been healed and for some scars to have become totally invisible. But some memories are beyond washing away; they are indelibly stamped upon the psyche and there is no expunging them. Such are the memories of 9/11. We cannot forget where we were, who we were with, what we thought, how we reacted, or the shock and dismay we felt at the news—graphically depicted through the media—that three thousand living, breathing people just like us were suddenly gone.
Some were gone, literally without a trace, disintegrated into nothingness by an intensity of hatred most of us cannot even fathom. Though they are whole in the hearts and memories of those who love them and though they are forever alive in God’s scheme of eternal life, there is no denying that they are gone because there is mindset of evil that was unleashed upon us and on our way of life on that fateful morning, that until then, we had been unaware existed. And there has been nothing since that time that has set it on a more moderate course. So how should we feel in light of this on-going threat?
Of course, we must be ever vigilant. We cannot allow ourselves to again be caught unaware, to again be attacked and slaughtered. But we must remember, too, that the only true counter to evil is goodness and the only force that can conquer hatred is love. May we who survived that horrible day, be ever mindful of its significance and may we always allow the One who is the Prince of Peace to reign in our hearts and minds so we can be vessels through whom His love and truth may be poured—especially upon those who are lost in the darkness of hatred and deception (Luke 6:27).
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Only Then
September 10
Grace. Mercy. Compassion. These are words that we understand in only the most elemental way. We can’t know them because we hardly have the capacity to extend them but with superficiality. We can’t understand them, of course, until we need them to be applied to ourselves.
And when we do, perhaps even then, we grasp only the faintest human imitation of these godly qualities. You’re exceeding the speed limit and pulled over by an officer of the law. You would like very much for him to be benevolently disposed toward you, to extend grace to you.
You appeal to his sense of compassion and hope for his mercy—his leniency—to be extended to you as you promise to obey every traffic regulation there is forevermore! Yet each of us must come to the point where, when we see our sin for what it is, we reach out for the grace and mercy of God and are recipients of His compassion. At that point in our lives, we grasp the reality of what these attributes are.
At this juncture, the Lord makes real to us the word in Ephesians 2:6, 7, which says, “God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenlies, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His mercy to us through Jesus Christ our Lord.” When we receive His grace, mercy and compassion unto salvation, He also grants to us the unfathomable blessings of eternity! Only then do we fully understand.
Grace. Mercy. Compassion. These are words that we understand in only the most elemental way. We can’t know them because we hardly have the capacity to extend them but with superficiality. We can’t understand them, of course, until we need them to be applied to ourselves.
And when we do, perhaps even then, we grasp only the faintest human imitation of these godly qualities. You’re exceeding the speed limit and pulled over by an officer of the law. You would like very much for him to be benevolently disposed toward you, to extend grace to you.
You appeal to his sense of compassion and hope for his mercy—his leniency—to be extended to you as you promise to obey every traffic regulation there is forevermore! Yet each of us must come to the point where, when we see our sin for what it is, we reach out for the grace and mercy of God and are recipients of His compassion. At that point in our lives, we grasp the reality of what these attributes are.
At this juncture, the Lord makes real to us the word in Ephesians 2:6, 7, which says, “God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenlies, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His mercy to us through Jesus Christ our Lord.” When we receive His grace, mercy and compassion unto salvation, He also grants to us the unfathomable blessings of eternity! Only then do we fully understand.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Truly Good
September 9
One assertion in the Bible that we perhaps have most difficulty understanding fully is that found in Romans 8:28, which says, “We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Because we have such an earth-bound mindset, it is difficult for us to appropriate that truth.
Of course, it’s easy to grasp when we have a brief bout of discomfiture that the Lord speedily turns around for good. We can apply it to the problems we’ve dealt with and overcome. But what about the challenges we’ve faced that weighed us down? What about the problems we’ve endured that had no solution?
What about the people who have died in spite of our prayers? What about the world conflict that unsettles our tranquility in spite of our prayers for peace? What about the natural disasters that rock our world with regularity? Yes, even in the face of all these calamities, we must believe that the Lord is working for our good! How can this be?
Perhaps one aspect of the answer, which I do not presume to know in its entirety, might be that God’s definition of ‘good’ is not the same as ours. Perhaps it is because He, with every challenge we face, with every trial we go through, is drawing us closer to Jesus and that in being near Him, we appropriate that which is truly good in His eyes.
One assertion in the Bible that we perhaps have most difficulty understanding fully is that found in Romans 8:28, which says, “We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." Because we have such an earth-bound mindset, it is difficult for us to appropriate that truth.
Of course, it’s easy to grasp when we have a brief bout of discomfiture that the Lord speedily turns around for good. We can apply it to the problems we’ve dealt with and overcome. But what about the challenges we’ve faced that weighed us down? What about the problems we’ve endured that had no solution?
What about the people who have died in spite of our prayers? What about the world conflict that unsettles our tranquility in spite of our prayers for peace? What about the natural disasters that rock our world with regularity? Yes, even in the face of all these calamities, we must believe that the Lord is working for our good! How can this be?
Perhaps one aspect of the answer, which I do not presume to know in its entirety, might be that God’s definition of ‘good’ is not the same as ours. Perhaps it is because He, with every challenge we face, with every trial we go through, is drawing us closer to Jesus and that in being near Him, we appropriate that which is truly good in His eyes.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Apart from You I Have No Good Thing
September 8
David was a man after God’s own heart. He was abundantly blessed of God. He had been a shepherd. As a boy, it had been his lot to tend his father’s sheep while his older brothers had the more prestigious responsibility of defending the nation against its Philistine enemies.
God brought him from the sheep fold into the presence of King Saul at a time when the nation was desperate for a hero. David became that hero. When he slew Goliath, his name became renowned. When Saul discovered that David also had musical ability, his service was employed to soothe the king’s troubled spirit.
David was presented with a princess, Michal, as the first of his many wives. When Saul turned against him and oppressed him, David was shielded from harm by the favor of God and assured by the Holy One of Israel that he would one day be king. His riches increased as did his military exploits.
But, with all the blessings and all the successes that were his, David counted them as nothing compared to what he had with God. In Psalm 16:2 he said, “You are my Lord; apart from You I have no good thing.” David, a man who abounded in wealth, power and fame realized that the Lord is greater than every good thing a man may ever have.
David was a man after God’s own heart. He was abundantly blessed of God. He had been a shepherd. As a boy, it had been his lot to tend his father’s sheep while his older brothers had the more prestigious responsibility of defending the nation against its Philistine enemies.
God brought him from the sheep fold into the presence of King Saul at a time when the nation was desperate for a hero. David became that hero. When he slew Goliath, his name became renowned. When Saul discovered that David also had musical ability, his service was employed to soothe the king’s troubled spirit.
David was presented with a princess, Michal, as the first of his many wives. When Saul turned against him and oppressed him, David was shielded from harm by the favor of God and assured by the Holy One of Israel that he would one day be king. His riches increased as did his military exploits.
But, with all the blessings and all the successes that were his, David counted them as nothing compared to what he had with God. In Psalm 16:2 he said, “You are my Lord; apart from You I have no good thing.” David, a man who abounded in wealth, power and fame realized that the Lord is greater than every good thing a man may ever have.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Called by His Glory and Goodness
September 7
The erudite Christian speaker, author, missionary and evangelist of the Twentieth Century, Derik Prince, said something quite profound. Of course, he said many things that we would do well to heed, but this one is, I believe, his most memorable quote: “God will not sacrifice one moment of eternity for all of time.”
In a nutshell, Prince is saying that there is nothing that allures man, nothing that he longs to achieve, nothing that he desires to possess, that God considers to be worth one nanosecond of the glories He has prepared in Heaven for those who love Jesus and who lay their lives at His feet.
Though we suffer the loss of all things, though we attain no goal the world considers to be worthwhile, though we may be forsaken by family and friends who do not understand our commitment to the Kingdom of Christ, yet we will be most blessed of all men, for we are heir to the treasures of eternity that He desires us to possess.
The Apostle says in II Peter 1:3, “God’s 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.” Yes, Jesus gives us all we need to equip us for reigning eternally with Him—and that is far greater than any enticement that Time may hold out to us.
The erudite Christian speaker, author, missionary and evangelist of the Twentieth Century, Derik Prince, said something quite profound. Of course, he said many things that we would do well to heed, but this one is, I believe, his most memorable quote: “God will not sacrifice one moment of eternity for all of time.”
In a nutshell, Prince is saying that there is nothing that allures man, nothing that he longs to achieve, nothing that he desires to possess, that God considers to be worth one nanosecond of the glories He has prepared in Heaven for those who love Jesus and who lay their lives at His feet.
Though we suffer the loss of all things, though we attain no goal the world considers to be worthwhile, though we may be forsaken by family and friends who do not understand our commitment to the Kingdom of Christ, yet we will be most blessed of all men, for we are heir to the treasures of eternity that He desires us to possess.
The Apostle says in II Peter 1:3, “God’s 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.” Yes, Jesus gives us all we need to equip us for reigning eternally with Him—and that is far greater than any enticement that Time may hold out to us.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Hope in and Seek Him
September 6
In the ‘sweet by-and-by’ we will ‘meet on that beautiful shore,’ we will bask in the glory of the presence of our risen Savior, we will be reunited with loved ones who have gone before us, we will sing harmonies of praise to Jesus Christ, King of Glory, along with the angels, we will add our refrain to their, “Holy, Holy, Holy, Holy…”
We know that will be the portion of those who have confessed their sins and laid them at the foot of the cross; it is the inheritance of those who have accepted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. We know that He is, “…a refuge in times of trouble…” He, “…cares for those who trust in Him,” Nahum 1:7, and He will neither fail nor forsake His own in time or in eternity.
David, the sweet psalmist, stated it thusly in Psalm 31:19, “How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in You.” David also said in Psalm 27:13, “I am confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”
We needn’t wait until we attain Heaven’s shore to realize the goodness and faithfulness of our Living Lord. His assurances are for not only eternity but also for time. While we walk in flesh, we can catch glimmers of the eternal promise, for as Jeremiah says in Lamentations 3:25, “The Lord is good to those who hope in…and seek Him.”
In the ‘sweet by-and-by’ we will ‘meet on that beautiful shore,’ we will bask in the glory of the presence of our risen Savior, we will be reunited with loved ones who have gone before us, we will sing harmonies of praise to Jesus Christ, King of Glory, along with the angels, we will add our refrain to their, “Holy, Holy, Holy, Holy…”
We know that will be the portion of those who have confessed their sins and laid them at the foot of the cross; it is the inheritance of those who have accepted Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. We know that He is, “…a refuge in times of trouble…” He, “…cares for those who trust in Him,” Nahum 1:7, and He will neither fail nor forsake His own in time or in eternity.
David, the sweet psalmist, stated it thusly in Psalm 31:19, “How great is Your goodness, which You have stored up for those who fear You, which You bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in You.” David also said in Psalm 27:13, “I am confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”
We needn’t wait until we attain Heaven’s shore to realize the goodness and faithfulness of our Living Lord. His assurances are for not only eternity but also for time. While we walk in flesh, we can catch glimmers of the eternal promise, for as Jeremiah says in Lamentations 3:25, “The Lord is good to those who hope in…and seek Him.”
Monday, September 5, 2011
Affirm in the Good Times
September 5
Some of us tend to take life’s good things for granted. The old saying, ‘You don’t miss the water until the well runs dry,’ captures the attitude we all evidence which is to simply bask in the niceties of life without a thought of thanksgiving to God for them. The only blessings we think about are the ones that are somehow diverted away from us.
It is our misfortunes that turn us toward the Lord. When we suffer loss, we come before Him to present our case, our petitions, for the restoration of our lost blessings. When we perceive ourselves to have lost something precious, it is often only then that we recognize how wonderful things had been.
The fact that we come to our knees before our loving heavenly Father at these times is the one shining ray of hope that we possess when our world is turned topsy-turvy. If we would, we could tap into His benevolence at any time, we could come to Him affirming our total dependence upon Him and upon His unfailing love even when we are lavished in blessings that give us joy.
We could affirm in the good times that “The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on the work of His hands,” as Psalm 145:9 assures. Were we to abide in that attitude of thankfulness, we would be able to, “pray without ceasing,” I Thessalonians 5:17, so when the times of trouble arrive, we would already be in the presence of the One who can help and restore.
Some of us tend to take life’s good things for granted. The old saying, ‘You don’t miss the water until the well runs dry,’ captures the attitude we all evidence which is to simply bask in the niceties of life without a thought of thanksgiving to God for them. The only blessings we think about are the ones that are somehow diverted away from us.
It is our misfortunes that turn us toward the Lord. When we suffer loss, we come before Him to present our case, our petitions, for the restoration of our lost blessings. When we perceive ourselves to have lost something precious, it is often only then that we recognize how wonderful things had been.
The fact that we come to our knees before our loving heavenly Father at these times is the one shining ray of hope that we possess when our world is turned topsy-turvy. If we would, we could tap into His benevolence at any time, we could come to Him affirming our total dependence upon Him and upon His unfailing love even when we are lavished in blessings that give us joy.
We could affirm in the good times that “The Lord is good to all; He has compassion on the work of His hands,” as Psalm 145:9 assures. Were we to abide in that attitude of thankfulness, we would be able to, “pray without ceasing,” I Thessalonians 5:17, so when the times of trouble arrive, we would already be in the presence of the One who can help and restore.
Sunday, September 4, 2011
God's Methods Are Unchanging
September 4
We live in a time that many have referred to as ‘a post-Christian era.’ According to their assessment, modern man has been tried in the courtroom of their opinion and found wanting in the matter of faith in the living, eternal Christ who came to save us, to set us free from bondage to sin. Some of those observers rejoice in what they think they see.
Indeed, there have always been enemies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There have always been those who persecuted believers to one degree or another. Certainly, our day is one in which that persecution has been exacerbated in many parts of the world.
Even ‘Christian America’ has seen a decline in not only the practice of but the acceptance of Christianity. At a time when carrying a Bible to school can be offensive to fellow students and textbooks are deliberately misrepresenting the contributions of believers in Christ to our government and to our culture, other religions are given a pass in the area of ‘separation of church and state.’
How should believers combat the hostility that can be leveled against them when their faith is assailed? In I Peter 3:15, the impulsive apostle gives us some insight: “In your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” God’s method hasn’t changed. He still tenderly woos doubters to Himself.
We live in a time that many have referred to as ‘a post-Christian era.’ According to their assessment, modern man has been tried in the courtroom of their opinion and found wanting in the matter of faith in the living, eternal Christ who came to save us, to set us free from bondage to sin. Some of those observers rejoice in what they think they see.
Indeed, there have always been enemies of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. There have always been those who persecuted believers to one degree or another. Certainly, our day is one in which that persecution has been exacerbated in many parts of the world.
Even ‘Christian America’ has seen a decline in not only the practice of but the acceptance of Christianity. At a time when carrying a Bible to school can be offensive to fellow students and textbooks are deliberately misrepresenting the contributions of believers in Christ to our government and to our culture, other religions are given a pass in the area of ‘separation of church and state.’
How should believers combat the hostility that can be leveled against them when their faith is assailed? In I Peter 3:15, the impulsive apostle gives us some insight: “In your hearts, set apart Christ as Lord. Be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” God’s method hasn’t changed. He still tenderly woos doubters to Himself.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Your Mars Hill
September 3
The Apostle Paul had a driving passion—to serve his God. Prior to his conversion to Christ, he evidenced complete devotion to the faith of his fathers, to Judaism. In fact, he was so driven by his conviction that the integrity of his religious persuasion must be maintained that he persecuted early followers of Christ (Acts 9:1-31).
Once he met Jesus, Paul was determined to preach the good news to everyone who would listen to him. The Book of Acts chronicles his outreach to Jew and gentile alike, and perhaps his boldest proclamation of the truth of Christ was at Mars Hill.
Paul was deeply stirred within his spirit by the idolatry he found in Athens. This city that was the hub of culture in the Roman Empire was steeped in the worship of false gods. Rather than being intimidated by this fact, however, Paul was emboldened by it. He used their blind endeavor to appease whatever unknown god may exist (Acts 17:15-33) as a springboard to his expounding of the Gospel of Jesus to them. At Mars Hill he addressed their stab at placating whatever god they may not have thought to worship by saying, “…whom you ignorantly worship, I declare unto you.”
As he expounded the truth of the Living Christ to them, many were converted but some mocked him. Many of those not persuaded were intrigued and arranged a time to hear him again. This encourages us in our witnessing to believe that those who remain unconvinced will reconsider the matter. We must realize that the seed of truth we plant will perhaps be nurtured by another. As Paul stated clearly in I Corinthians 3:4-6, “…who is Paul? Who is Apollos? One planted, one watered, but God gave the increase.” Ministry is sometimes a joint effort that always needs God’s input.
The Apostle Paul had a driving passion—to serve his God. Prior to his conversion to Christ, he evidenced complete devotion to the faith of his fathers, to Judaism. In fact, he was so driven by his conviction that the integrity of his religious persuasion must be maintained that he persecuted early followers of Christ (Acts 9:1-31).
Once he met Jesus, Paul was determined to preach the good news to everyone who would listen to him. The Book of Acts chronicles his outreach to Jew and gentile alike, and perhaps his boldest proclamation of the truth of Christ was at Mars Hill.
Paul was deeply stirred within his spirit by the idolatry he found in Athens. This city that was the hub of culture in the Roman Empire was steeped in the worship of false gods. Rather than being intimidated by this fact, however, Paul was emboldened by it. He used their blind endeavor to appease whatever unknown god may exist (Acts 17:15-33) as a springboard to his expounding of the Gospel of Jesus to them. At Mars Hill he addressed their stab at placating whatever god they may not have thought to worship by saying, “…whom you ignorantly worship, I declare unto you.”
As he expounded the truth of the Living Christ to them, many were converted but some mocked him. Many of those not persuaded were intrigued and arranged a time to hear him again. This encourages us in our witnessing to believe that those who remain unconvinced will reconsider the matter. We must realize that the seed of truth we plant will perhaps be nurtured by another. As Paul stated clearly in I Corinthians 3:4-6, “…who is Paul? Who is Apollos? One planted, one watered, but God gave the increase.” Ministry is sometimes a joint effort that always needs God’s input.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Stunningly Attired
September 2
There is a certain way that royalty are expected to comport themselves. They dress to the hilt, their clothing is tastefully accessorized, their jewels are amazing. They reflect not only wealth but a sense of style that virtually the whole world admires and that many try to emulate, although with more modest means.
The new princess in the U.K., though a commoner until her marriage, has suddenly been elevated to iconic status. Though she has done nothing to distinguish herself (other than capture the heart of a prince), she is now one of those lofty style-setters whose every outfit will be scrutinized by the masses.
And so are believers in Christ. We have done nothing to distinguish ourselves but to capture the heart of a king—indeed, we have captured the heart of the King of kings! The Lord Jesus has looked upon us and found us worthy of His eternal love. He did not look upon our humble estate but elevated us through His propitiatory life, death and resurrection to His own royal status.
The eyes of the world focus on us because we are His. Our every move, our every word, are scrutinized—sometimes in admiration and sometimes with criticism. So how should we dress for display? Colossians 3:12 says, “As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” When we do, we are stunningly attired in the robes of Heaven.
There is a certain way that royalty are expected to comport themselves. They dress to the hilt, their clothing is tastefully accessorized, their jewels are amazing. They reflect not only wealth but a sense of style that virtually the whole world admires and that many try to emulate, although with more modest means.
The new princess in the U.K., though a commoner until her marriage, has suddenly been elevated to iconic status. Though she has done nothing to distinguish herself (other than capture the heart of a prince), she is now one of those lofty style-setters whose every outfit will be scrutinized by the masses.
And so are believers in Christ. We have done nothing to distinguish ourselves but to capture the heart of a king—indeed, we have captured the heart of the King of kings! The Lord Jesus has looked upon us and found us worthy of His eternal love. He did not look upon our humble estate but elevated us through His propitiatory life, death and resurrection to His own royal status.
The eyes of the world focus on us because we are His. Our every move, our every word, are scrutinized—sometimes in admiration and sometimes with criticism. So how should we dress for display? Colossians 3:12 says, “As God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” When we do, we are stunningly attired in the robes of Heaven.
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Immersed in the Word
September 1
We hold all the gifts that the Lord has given us in earthen vessels. Our containers are subject to cracks and leakage. We are not beyond being broken. Temptations arise that put us into the precarious position of having to react as a ‘natural man’ who is unregenerate, or as one who is totally submitted to and governed by the law of Christ.
How can we assure ourselves that when the alluring individual who finds us attractive initiates the potential for a ‘relationship’ that we will not succumb? How can we be certain that when the opportunity to conclude the deal of a lifetime presents itself that we will not compromise our values to seal it?
How can we trust ourselves, for we know who we are? We know what we have been. We know what the Lord has saved us from. We know we don’t want to go back, but when the “pleasure of sin for a season” (Hebrews 11:25) attempts to seductively draw us back, how can we not respond to the worldly temptations that have always allured us?
II Timothy 2:15 holds the key to maintaining our resolve to walk in integrity with our Lord. Here it says, “Study to show yourself approved of God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” One who studies is focused on the material before him. When we study the Word, immerse ourselves in it, it will keep us spiritually whole and able to flee temptation.
We hold all the gifts that the Lord has given us in earthen vessels. Our containers are subject to cracks and leakage. We are not beyond being broken. Temptations arise that put us into the precarious position of having to react as a ‘natural man’ who is unregenerate, or as one who is totally submitted to and governed by the law of Christ.
How can we assure ourselves that when the alluring individual who finds us attractive initiates the potential for a ‘relationship’ that we will not succumb? How can we be certain that when the opportunity to conclude the deal of a lifetime presents itself that we will not compromise our values to seal it?
How can we trust ourselves, for we know who we are? We know what we have been. We know what the Lord has saved us from. We know we don’t want to go back, but when the “pleasure of sin for a season” (Hebrews 11:25) attempts to seductively draw us back, how can we not respond to the worldly temptations that have always allured us?
II Timothy 2:15 holds the key to maintaining our resolve to walk in integrity with our Lord. Here it says, “Study to show yourself approved of God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” One who studies is focused on the material before him. When we study the Word, immerse ourselves in it, it will keep us spiritually whole and able to flee temptation.
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