February 29
A sense of purposelessness is one of life’s most limiting factors. Many people are impeded in their day-to-day walk and in their long-range achievement of major goals because they cannot overcome a sense within themselves that they have no significant, attainable purpose. People with this attitude virtually relegate themselves to defeat.
This perception of one’s ability to succeed is a total contradiction to God’s stated purpose for people who trust in Him. To have a negative opinion of oneself is to be at total variance with the opinion of the Holy One. David says in Psalm 138:8, for example, “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me because His love endures forever. He will not abandon the work of His hands.”
The Apostle Paul reiterates that concept in his letter to the believers in Rome. He declares God’s full intent to promote the interests of His people when he says, “We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, for those who are called according to His purposes,” Romans 8:28. There is no caveat here. God is not looking for a loophole. His truth is stated unequivocally by Paul in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
The Holy Bible is replete with declarations of God’s wonderful purpose for those who lay their lives at Christ’s feet. A person who feels he has no sense of direction, no sense of purpose, no sense of value needs only to give his life to Jesus and a wonderful ‘turn-around’ will occur. That one will go forward to emerge from a dark forest of meaningless doubt onto a bright path that leads to temporal fulfillment and eternal blessing.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Ask Much
February 28
Some people are quite fearful of an unknown almighty. That fear was abundantly evident in times when, in order to appease a wrathful god, they would sacrifice their children or their best and brightest citizens on a bloody altar in order to quell the wrath, to assure the appeasement they thought was needed for survival. In pagan cultures, one was sacrificed periodically, for the whole.
Even the Jews sacrificed a perfect lamb to the Lord each Passover. And, the High Priest, when discussion was being made of trying Christ and condemning Him for blasphemy, lest He stir up the wrath of Rome and the whole nation perish (John 11:49-53), stated that it would be far better that one (Jesus) be sacrificed for the nation.
But that mindset does not track with that of loving parents who would gladly perish in order to save their children—or of our loving God, who came to die for man’s sin in order that man might be redeemed from the consequence of his sin and thereby gain eternal salvation. Jesus used a graphic illustration to point up the great love our heavenly Father has for us.
In Matthew 7:9-11, He says, “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” May we come boldly before Him; may we ask much of Him, for He is the most generous and loving Father.
Some people are quite fearful of an unknown almighty. That fear was abundantly evident in times when, in order to appease a wrathful god, they would sacrifice their children or their best and brightest citizens on a bloody altar in order to quell the wrath, to assure the appeasement they thought was needed for survival. In pagan cultures, one was sacrificed periodically, for the whole.
Even the Jews sacrificed a perfect lamb to the Lord each Passover. And, the High Priest, when discussion was being made of trying Christ and condemning Him for blasphemy, lest He stir up the wrath of Rome and the whole nation perish (John 11:49-53), stated that it would be far better that one (Jesus) be sacrificed for the nation.
But that mindset does not track with that of loving parents who would gladly perish in order to save their children—or of our loving God, who came to die for man’s sin in order that man might be redeemed from the consequence of his sin and thereby gain eternal salvation. Jesus used a graphic illustration to point up the great love our heavenly Father has for us.
In Matthew 7:9-11, He says, “Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!” May we come boldly before Him; may we ask much of Him, for He is the most generous and loving Father.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Please Pray...
Please pray for Iranian Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani who has been sentenced to death because he will not recant his Christian faith and become a muslim.
As we observe the outrage of members of 'the religion of peace' venting their ire once again--this time because NATO soldiers burned korans that were being used to smuggle terrorists' messages (perhaps the offended parties should be incensed that adherents to their religion would desecrate their holy book by misusing it in such a way)--where is the hue and cry at the freedom of which this good man has been robbed for several years because he followed his conscience and his heart into faith in Christ?
Where is the indignation that his life may be required of him because he has placed his hope in the One who has captured his heart with love?
As we observe the outrage of members of 'the religion of peace' venting their ire once again--this time because NATO soldiers burned korans that were being used to smuggle terrorists' messages (perhaps the offended parties should be incensed that adherents to their religion would desecrate their holy book by misusing it in such a way)--where is the hue and cry at the freedom of which this good man has been robbed for several years because he followed his conscience and his heart into faith in Christ?
Where is the indignation that his life may be required of him because he has placed his hope in the One who has captured his heart with love?
Taken for Granted
February 27
We take so much for granted. Walk into a hospital room and see someone who cannot breathe without an oxygen tank or who is being fed through tubes and we come away feeling thankful for something as basic as the ability to inhale clean air or to eat good food. Who offers thanks for these things that we cannot live without? Few of us ever do.
We rarely lift our voice in praise and thanksgiving for the continual blessings the Lord lavishes upon us. The air we breathe, the foods we enjoy are simply ‘there.’ How infrequently we contemplate the delicate balance of our planet that enables it to sustain life at a temperature that is conducive to our comfort and to maintain weather cycles that promote the cultivation of foods for consumption for man and beast.
But these simple blessings are addressed in both Old and New Testaments. In Joel 2:23 the prophet says, “Be glad, O people of Zion; rejoice in the Lord your God for He has given you the Autumn rains in righteousness. He sends you abundant showers, both Autumn and Spring rains.” Rejoice and be glad—not that you have lavish abundance or enjoy great power, but that abundant showers come in their season!
Luke, the companion of Paul, writes in Acts 14:17, “God has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” We may not reflect much upon the joy of simply breathing fresh air or consuming wholesome food, but were we to be without them, the blessing they are would suddenly become quite apparent! Let us not take God or His gifts for granted.
We take so much for granted. Walk into a hospital room and see someone who cannot breathe without an oxygen tank or who is being fed through tubes and we come away feeling thankful for something as basic as the ability to inhale clean air or to eat good food. Who offers thanks for these things that we cannot live without? Few of us ever do.
We rarely lift our voice in praise and thanksgiving for the continual blessings the Lord lavishes upon us. The air we breathe, the foods we enjoy are simply ‘there.’ How infrequently we contemplate the delicate balance of our planet that enables it to sustain life at a temperature that is conducive to our comfort and to maintain weather cycles that promote the cultivation of foods for consumption for man and beast.
But these simple blessings are addressed in both Old and New Testaments. In Joel 2:23 the prophet says, “Be glad, O people of Zion; rejoice in the Lord your God for He has given you the Autumn rains in righteousness. He sends you abundant showers, both Autumn and Spring rains.” Rejoice and be glad—not that you have lavish abundance or enjoy great power, but that abundant showers come in their season!
Luke, the companion of Paul, writes in Acts 14:17, “God has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” We may not reflect much upon the joy of simply breathing fresh air or consuming wholesome food, but were we to be without them, the blessing they are would suddenly become quite apparent! Let us not take God or His gifts for granted.
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Who Do We Think We Are?
February 26
What has brought mankind to the point of believing he understands life better than the Lord of life? What mental gymnastics have brought even believers to the point of picking and choosing scriptures and allocating to them a finite interpretation of their veracity? In simple terms, ‘Who do we think we are?’
Have we, by our presumptions, placed ourselves on the seat of wisdom and authority? Have we, steeped in the wonders of the modern age come to the point of believing man’s achievements prove man’s ability to define truth better than our Holy God has defined it in His inerrant Word?
Have we forgotten the Biblical admonition to, “Let this mind be in you that is in Christ Jesus…”? (Philippians 2:5) Have we forgotten that it is to the degree we surrender our mind to His mind that we have the capacity to evidence wisdom? Have we forgotten that the Lord Himself said, “…Without Me, you can do nothing”? (John 15:5)
Have we forgotten that it is God who is, “…able to make all grace abound to you so that in all things, at all times, having all sufficiency, you may abound in every good work”? If we have forgotten these truths, the absence of them in our thinking will be our undoing. If we remember them, let us employ them toward the effective work of Christ’s Kingdom.
What has brought mankind to the point of believing he understands life better than the Lord of life? What mental gymnastics have brought even believers to the point of picking and choosing scriptures and allocating to them a finite interpretation of their veracity? In simple terms, ‘Who do we think we are?’
Have we, by our presumptions, placed ourselves on the seat of wisdom and authority? Have we, steeped in the wonders of the modern age come to the point of believing man’s achievements prove man’s ability to define truth better than our Holy God has defined it in His inerrant Word?
Have we forgotten the Biblical admonition to, “Let this mind be in you that is in Christ Jesus…”? (Philippians 2:5) Have we forgotten that it is to the degree we surrender our mind to His mind that we have the capacity to evidence wisdom? Have we forgotten that the Lord Himself said, “…Without Me, you can do nothing”? (John 15:5)
Have we forgotten that it is God who is, “…able to make all grace abound to you so that in all things, at all times, having all sufficiency, you may abound in every good work”? If we have forgotten these truths, the absence of them in our thinking will be our undoing. If we remember them, let us employ them toward the effective work of Christ’s Kingdom.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Available to All
February 25
Our Heavenly Father does not desire that His people be in want. He is rather like a wealthy parent who sets up a trust fund for his beloved children. The ‘kids’ may enjoy the father’s benevolence throughout their lives but don’t come into their full inheritance until a specified time.
Believers in the Living God have the assurance of such promises as are found in the most familiar passage of scripture, Psalm 23, which says in vs. 1, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” Like the shepherd who tends his flock, our Heavenly Shepherd will assure that our needs are supplied.
He reiterates this provision in Psalm 111:5, which says, “God provides food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.” His promises are yea and amen. There is no shadow of turning in Him. “What He has promised, He is able to perform,” (Romans 4:21). It isn’t just to the wealthy that He promises a full supply.
Psalm 132:15 says, “I will bless her with abundant provision; her poor will I satisfy with food.” This promise made to the people of Zion has come to fruition among believers who have put the truth of the Lord to the test. He may not supply all our wants, but our needs—above all our need for salvation—is available to all mankind through Jesus.
Our Heavenly Father does not desire that His people be in want. He is rather like a wealthy parent who sets up a trust fund for his beloved children. The ‘kids’ may enjoy the father’s benevolence throughout their lives but don’t come into their full inheritance until a specified time.
Believers in the Living God have the assurance of such promises as are found in the most familiar passage of scripture, Psalm 23, which says in vs. 1, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” Like the shepherd who tends his flock, our Heavenly Shepherd will assure that our needs are supplied.
He reiterates this provision in Psalm 111:5, which says, “God provides food for those who fear Him; He remembers His covenant forever.” His promises are yea and amen. There is no shadow of turning in Him. “What He has promised, He is able to perform,” (Romans 4:21). It isn’t just to the wealthy that He promises a full supply.
Psalm 132:15 says, “I will bless her with abundant provision; her poor will I satisfy with food.” This promise made to the people of Zion has come to fruition among believers who have put the truth of the Lord to the test. He may not supply all our wants, but our needs—above all our need for salvation—is available to all mankind through Jesus.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Blessings That Transcend Time
February 24
The treasures of time can capture our imaginations. Some people will do almost anything to secure them. A beautiful young woman might marry someone she doesn’t love because she thinks his wealth will make her happy. An executive may use cut-throat business practices in order to assure his professional advancement.
‘Trade puffs’ are the stock-in-trade of advertisers who will say anything to assure that their marketing strategies brings sales to ever higher pinnacles of profit. But believers in Christ are admonished to, “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,” Proverbs 3:5, 6.
We are not to employ the world’s tactics, nor are we to covet the world’s allurements. We are to focus on our Savior with a single eye and we are to allow Him to glorify Himself through us—however HE sees fit. The promise He gives in Philippians 4:19 tells us, “My God shall supply all your needs, according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus.”
Life’s one transcendent need—for salvation—has been bought and paid for by the shed blood of Jesus. Further, the prophet tells us in Isaiah 54:12, 13, “I will make your windows of agates and your gates of carbuncles and your borders of pleasant stones—and all your children will be taught of the Lord and great shall be their peace.” You and your offspring will have blessings that transcend time if you will put Jesus first.
The treasures of time can capture our imaginations. Some people will do almost anything to secure them. A beautiful young woman might marry someone she doesn’t love because she thinks his wealth will make her happy. An executive may use cut-throat business practices in order to assure his professional advancement.
‘Trade puffs’ are the stock-in-trade of advertisers who will say anything to assure that their marketing strategies brings sales to ever higher pinnacles of profit. But believers in Christ are admonished to, “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,” Proverbs 3:5, 6.
We are not to employ the world’s tactics, nor are we to covet the world’s allurements. We are to focus on our Savior with a single eye and we are to allow Him to glorify Himself through us—however HE sees fit. The promise He gives in Philippians 4:19 tells us, “My God shall supply all your needs, according to His riches in glory through Christ Jesus.”
Life’s one transcendent need—for salvation—has been bought and paid for by the shed blood of Jesus. Further, the prophet tells us in Isaiah 54:12, 13, “I will make your windows of agates and your gates of carbuncles and your borders of pleasant stones—and all your children will be taught of the Lord and great shall be their peace.” You and your offspring will have blessings that transcend time if you will put Jesus first.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Pray for Me
February 23
In Thessalonians 3:1, Paul says something that most of us can relate to. Here he asks the believers of Thessalonica to, “Pray for me that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified in me…” Any one of us could pray that prayer. We long to lift Jesus up in our lives but we know we must be strengthened by prayer in order to do it.
Paul acknowledges in the second verse of chapter three what many who preach the gospel of Christ have discovered and his prayer request includes that this concern as well be placed before the Lord. He says, “…that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men, for all men have not faith.”
The Apostle to the Gentiles recognizes that his encounters with unbelievers may be fraught with danger because in their determination to thwart the Gospel, they often resort to unreasonable violence. In their wicked resistance to the truth of the Lord’s plan of salvation, they see themselves as totally right in using thuggish behavior against those who share the message of salvation.
Paul establishes in his own mind and shares with us his conclusion, “The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one,” II Thessalonians 3:3. Here we see the bottom line of the matter—our security rests not with us, but with God. Like Paul, we may be assured that if we are on His mission, we will have His protection as long as it is His good pleasure to keep us in life.
In Thessalonians 3:1, Paul says something that most of us can relate to. Here he asks the believers of Thessalonica to, “Pray for me that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified in me…” Any one of us could pray that prayer. We long to lift Jesus up in our lives but we know we must be strengthened by prayer in order to do it.
Paul acknowledges in the second verse of chapter three what many who preach the gospel of Christ have discovered and his prayer request includes that this concern as well be placed before the Lord. He says, “…that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men, for all men have not faith.”
The Apostle to the Gentiles recognizes that his encounters with unbelievers may be fraught with danger because in their determination to thwart the Gospel, they often resort to unreasonable violence. In their wicked resistance to the truth of the Lord’s plan of salvation, they see themselves as totally right in using thuggish behavior against those who share the message of salvation.
Paul establishes in his own mind and shares with us his conclusion, “The Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one,” II Thessalonians 3:3. Here we see the bottom line of the matter—our security rests not with us, but with God. Like Paul, we may be assured that if we are on His mission, we will have His protection as long as it is His good pleasure to keep us in life.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Either/Or
February 22
God is an ‘either / or’ God. If something is right, it is because it complies with His unchanging standard of holiness. If something is wrong, it digresses from that standard. To have broken the law in one “jot or tittle” (tiny marks of punctuation, comparable to our period or apostrophe) is to be guilty of breaking the whole law (see Matthew 5:18 and James 2:10).
Of ourselves, we cannot measure up to the pure standard of our Holy God, but Christ complied with every nuance of Heaven’s perfect law in our behalf. When we accept His completed work, we are considered guiltless. “Though our sins be scarlet, they are washed white as snow,” Isaiah 1:18. From that point, the Holy One counts us a ‘just,’ and says of us, “The Lord loves the just…They will be protected forever…”
The verse goes on to contrast the fate of the evil ones: “…but the offspring of the wicked shall be cut off,” Psalm 37:28. He reiterates this promise in Psalm 145:20 where David states, “The Lord watches over all who love Him but the wicked He will destroy.” The world is steeped in evil, for mankind has lost his spiritual compass and cannot find his way, but those who embrace Jesus will be guarded and guided by His Holy Spirit.
There may be a struggle, for the evil one fights viciously to discourage and destroy those who are Christ’s, but the promise made long ago will stand forever—“God holds victory in store for the upright; He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones,” Proverbs 2:7, 8.
God is an ‘either / or’ God. If something is right, it is because it complies with His unchanging standard of holiness. If something is wrong, it digresses from that standard. To have broken the law in one “jot or tittle” (tiny marks of punctuation, comparable to our period or apostrophe) is to be guilty of breaking the whole law (see Matthew 5:18 and James 2:10).
Of ourselves, we cannot measure up to the pure standard of our Holy God, but Christ complied with every nuance of Heaven’s perfect law in our behalf. When we accept His completed work, we are considered guiltless. “Though our sins be scarlet, they are washed white as snow,” Isaiah 1:18. From that point, the Holy One counts us a ‘just,’ and says of us, “The Lord loves the just…They will be protected forever…”
The verse goes on to contrast the fate of the evil ones: “…but the offspring of the wicked shall be cut off,” Psalm 37:28. He reiterates this promise in Psalm 145:20 where David states, “The Lord watches over all who love Him but the wicked He will destroy.” The world is steeped in evil, for mankind has lost his spiritual compass and cannot find his way, but those who embrace Jesus will be guarded and guided by His Holy Spirit.
There may be a struggle, for the evil one fights viciously to discourage and destroy those who are Christ’s, but the promise made long ago will stand forever—“God holds victory in store for the upright; He is a shield to those whose walk is blameless, for He guards the course of the just and protects the way of His faithful ones,” Proverbs 2:7, 8.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
His Promises Are True
February 21
Life’s burdens can be extremely weighty. The burdens of sickness, poverty, war are just a few that come to mind. Even people who personally walk in health and prosperity and peace are not inured to the impact of the trials which those around them are going through. News travels fast—and it’s the bad things that make the headlines.
Yet even in a world that is fraught with distress of every sort, even in a place where sorrow and woe abound, the person of faith in Jesus Christ may rest on the assurances that have been given in His inerrant Word. David says, for example in Psalm 55:22, “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you. He’ll not let the righteous fall.”
This precious assurance is echoed through the corridors of time when the impetuous apostle states it again in I Peter 5:7, “Cast all your cares upon Jesus, for He cares for you.” He goes on to say in the next verse that we must be, “sober, vigilant, for your adversary… goes about…seeking whom he may destroy.” The person of faith is aware that his walk will at times be along a dangerous path.
Yet though the believer may have burdens to bear, he knows he need never carry them alone. He knows the One in whom he trusts is faithful to carry his burden with him. The believer knows he need never fear for, “…greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world” I John 4:4. The promises of the Almighty are true; life’s trials become light when placed upon Him.
Life’s burdens can be extremely weighty. The burdens of sickness, poverty, war are just a few that come to mind. Even people who personally walk in health and prosperity and peace are not inured to the impact of the trials which those around them are going through. News travels fast—and it’s the bad things that make the headlines.
Yet even in a world that is fraught with distress of every sort, even in a place where sorrow and woe abound, the person of faith in Jesus Christ may rest on the assurances that have been given in His inerrant Word. David says, for example in Psalm 55:22, “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you. He’ll not let the righteous fall.”
This precious assurance is echoed through the corridors of time when the impetuous apostle states it again in I Peter 5:7, “Cast all your cares upon Jesus, for He cares for you.” He goes on to say in the next verse that we must be, “sober, vigilant, for your adversary… goes about…seeking whom he may destroy.” The person of faith is aware that his walk will at times be along a dangerous path.
Yet though the believer may have burdens to bear, he knows he need never carry them alone. He knows the One in whom he trusts is faithful to carry his burden with him. The believer knows he need never fear for, “…greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world” I John 4:4. The promises of the Almighty are true; life’s trials become light when placed upon Him.
Monday, February 20, 2012
In His Arms of Love
February 20
Deuteronomy 33:27 gives believers a glorious assurance of the over-arching watch care of the Lord upon His people. It says, “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemy before you…” Refuge—place of shelter. Underneath—holding you up. The arms of the Almighty will not let you fall.
In II Samuel 22:31 the prophet says in the behalf of the Holy One, “As for God, His way is perfect. The Word of the Lord is flawless; He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.” Flawless—without spot or wrinkle. Shield—covering from the arrows of the enemy who comes to destroy the person of faith.
Will believers ever need a place of refuge? Will believers ever require strong arms to hold them up because they stumble? Will people of faith in Christ sometimes be flawed in faith, weak, defenseless? These verses suggest that they will. Otherwise, why would a shield be needed? Why would a place of refuge be sought from the arrows of adversity of the evil one?
The hope of the Christian lies not in his immunity to the trials of life but in his Lord who will shelter him from the ravages of them. Jesus said in John 16:33, “…In Me you shall have peace; in the world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world.” Why did He speak these things? So when the trials come, we will be secure; be at peace in His arms of love.
Deuteronomy 33:27 gives believers a glorious assurance of the over-arching watch care of the Lord upon His people. It says, “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. He will drive out your enemy before you…” Refuge—place of shelter. Underneath—holding you up. The arms of the Almighty will not let you fall.
In II Samuel 22:31 the prophet says in the behalf of the Holy One, “As for God, His way is perfect. The Word of the Lord is flawless; He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.” Flawless—without spot or wrinkle. Shield—covering from the arrows of the enemy who comes to destroy the person of faith.
Will believers ever need a place of refuge? Will believers ever require strong arms to hold them up because they stumble? Will people of faith in Christ sometimes be flawed in faith, weak, defenseless? These verses suggest that they will. Otherwise, why would a shield be needed? Why would a place of refuge be sought from the arrows of adversity of the evil one?
The hope of the Christian lies not in his immunity to the trials of life but in his Lord who will shelter him from the ravages of them. Jesus said in John 16:33, “…In Me you shall have peace; in the world you shall have tribulation, but be of good cheer, for I have overcome the world.” Why did He speak these things? So when the trials come, we will be secure; be at peace in His arms of love.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Because He Loves Me
February 19
A wonderful aspect of being within the fold of the faithful is the fact that we have a Shepherd who guides and protects and loves us. We know we need never forge into the unknown because Jesus says to us, as He said to Philip, “Follow Me” John 1:43. We know He will, “…lead beside still waters” Psalm 23:2.
In Psalm 61:3 David tells us that the Lord is, “…a shelter for me and a strong tower of safety from the enemy,” so our protection is assured. When it comes to His love, that amazing emotion that even frail mortals use to wrap those they care for in a cocoon of safety, we are told in I Corinthians 13:8 that it, “…never fails.”
Further words of assurance can be found in Psalms 32:7 and 91:14, 15, respectively. David, the brave shepherd who fearlessly slew the giant and the warrior king who defeated Israel’s enemies said, “You are my hiding place. You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.”
“’Because he loves Me,’ says the Lord, ‘I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he knows the power of My name; he will call upon Me and I will answer him. I will protect him in trouble; I will deliver and honor him.’” The Holy One “covers us with His feathers…” (Psalm 91:4) and assures us we may be confident “…under His wing.”
A wonderful aspect of being within the fold of the faithful is the fact that we have a Shepherd who guides and protects and loves us. We know we need never forge into the unknown because Jesus says to us, as He said to Philip, “Follow Me” John 1:43. We know He will, “…lead beside still waters” Psalm 23:2.
In Psalm 61:3 David tells us that the Lord is, “…a shelter for me and a strong tower of safety from the enemy,” so our protection is assured. When it comes to His love, that amazing emotion that even frail mortals use to wrap those they care for in a cocoon of safety, we are told in I Corinthians 13:8 that it, “…never fails.”
Further words of assurance can be found in Psalms 32:7 and 91:14, 15, respectively. David, the brave shepherd who fearlessly slew the giant and the warrior king who defeated Israel’s enemies said, “You are my hiding place. You will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.”
“’Because he loves Me,’ says the Lord, ‘I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he knows the power of My name; he will call upon Me and I will answer him. I will protect him in trouble; I will deliver and honor him.’” The Holy One “covers us with His feathers…” (Psalm 91:4) and assures us we may be confident “…under His wing.”
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Addendum to February 18
If we think the problems confronting the nations of the world can be solved through diplomacy or through 'bail-outs' or through land-for-peace deals or through war, we are wrong.
There is one solution to man's dilemma and it is offered in the Word of God that cannot fail and cannot lie. It is found in II Chronicles 7:14: "If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face, then will I hear from Heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land."
The sickness of sin pervades the globe. Men call evil good and good evil, as the Bible says they will do (Isaiah 5:20). We live in an age when, "Professing themselves to be wise, they have become fools" Romans 1:22.
If we who call ourselves people of faith in Christ will humble ourselves, repent of our complicity in the problems of the world (our neglect of prayer, our failure to witness our faith to the lost, our compromise of the Lord's high standard in order to attain the gratifications afforded by the world), then HE will do HIS part and heal our land.
REVIVE US, O, LORD, LEST WE PERISH IN THE QUAGMIRE OF THE WORLD's GOOD INTENTIONS-- IN THE QUICKSAND OF MAN's FAILED EFFORTS TO REMEDY ALL THAT IS WRONG WITHIN HIS WORLD AND WITHIN HIS OWN HEART!
There is one solution to man's dilemma and it is offered in the Word of God that cannot fail and cannot lie. It is found in II Chronicles 7:14: "If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face, then will I hear from Heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land."
The sickness of sin pervades the globe. Men call evil good and good evil, as the Bible says they will do (Isaiah 5:20). We live in an age when, "Professing themselves to be wise, they have become fools" Romans 1:22.
If we who call ourselves people of faith in Christ will humble ourselves, repent of our complicity in the problems of the world (our neglect of prayer, our failure to witness our faith to the lost, our compromise of the Lord's high standard in order to attain the gratifications afforded by the world), then HE will do HIS part and heal our land.
REVIVE US, O, LORD, LEST WE PERISH IN THE QUAGMIRE OF THE WORLD's GOOD INTENTIONS-- IN THE QUICKSAND OF MAN's FAILED EFFORTS TO REMEDY ALL THAT IS WRONG WITHIN HIS WORLD AND WITHIN HIS OWN HEART!
In Returning...
February 18
Man, who considers himself to be the master of all he surveys, trusts in the power of his knowledge and his reason. The consensus, in an age of scientific achievement that is unparalleled in the annals of mankind’s accomplishments, is that there is no problem that cannot be resolved through modernity’s enlightenment.
Yet we live in a world that is fraught with decline and failure on every hand! National economies that were once robust and thriving are plunging toward bankruptcy. Medical science, once unleashed to discover cures for all that ails mankind has been shackled by legislation that potentially places government bureaucrats in charge of man’s health and well-being.
Peace is an elusive entity that seems ever beyond the reach of those who pursue it through negotiation. In the tinder box of the Middle East, the tiny yet vibrant nation of Israel is demanded to exchange ‘land for peace’ with a bellicose people whose desire is not just for her land but for her eradication. Rather than blame the perpetrators of evil, we blame those who merely defend themselves. Where have we gone wrong in our pursuit of the ‘good life’? Perhaps the answer to that lies in the fact that we are trying to attain what is unachievable without the Prince of Peace.
At a point of perplexity in antiquity, Jehoshaphat advised the King of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the Lord,” I Kings 22:5. In an age when we have chosen to put God out of everything, when we can’t say the name of Jesus in our corporate prayers, should we be surprised that everything has gone wrong? Perhaps we must heed the counsel of the prophet in Isaiah 30:15, “In returning (to God) shall you be saved.”
Man, who considers himself to be the master of all he surveys, trusts in the power of his knowledge and his reason. The consensus, in an age of scientific achievement that is unparalleled in the annals of mankind’s accomplishments, is that there is no problem that cannot be resolved through modernity’s enlightenment.
Yet we live in a world that is fraught with decline and failure on every hand! National economies that were once robust and thriving are plunging toward bankruptcy. Medical science, once unleashed to discover cures for all that ails mankind has been shackled by legislation that potentially places government bureaucrats in charge of man’s health and well-being.
Peace is an elusive entity that seems ever beyond the reach of those who pursue it through negotiation. In the tinder box of the Middle East, the tiny yet vibrant nation of Israel is demanded to exchange ‘land for peace’ with a bellicose people whose desire is not just for her land but for her eradication. Rather than blame the perpetrators of evil, we blame those who merely defend themselves. Where have we gone wrong in our pursuit of the ‘good life’? Perhaps the answer to that lies in the fact that we are trying to attain what is unachievable without the Prince of Peace.
At a point of perplexity in antiquity, Jehoshaphat advised the King of Israel, “First seek the counsel of the Lord,” I Kings 22:5. In an age when we have chosen to put God out of everything, when we can’t say the name of Jesus in our corporate prayers, should we be surprised that everything has gone wrong? Perhaps we must heed the counsel of the prophet in Isaiah 30:15, “In returning (to God) shall you be saved.”
Friday, February 17, 2012
Press Forward
February 17
Successful people share many laudable traits. They are diligent, they are focused, they are innovative, they think ‘outside the box,’ they are undaunted by setbacks. Examples abound of people who attained the pinnacle after severe reversals. History is replete with the stories of individuals who did not allow failure to defeat them.
Abraham Lincoln, believed by many to have been America’s greatest president had a very difficult road to success and, even in the White House, bore severe criticism for his handling of the Civil War. Diligence and resilience enabled President Lincoln to proceed when many of his advisers resisted his every decision.
In the realm of science, Madam Currie, the famous French chemist, discovered radium and polonium in her laboratory after much research. In 1928, bacteriologist Alexander Fleming made the chance discovery of penicillin from a contaminated experiment when researching something else.
The Apostle Paul also had a false start in his pursuit of the will of God, but once he discovered the Living Christ he said, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” So must we forget our failures and go forward in Jesus.
Successful people share many laudable traits. They are diligent, they are focused, they are innovative, they think ‘outside the box,’ they are undaunted by setbacks. Examples abound of people who attained the pinnacle after severe reversals. History is replete with the stories of individuals who did not allow failure to defeat them.
Abraham Lincoln, believed by many to have been America’s greatest president had a very difficult road to success and, even in the White House, bore severe criticism for his handling of the Civil War. Diligence and resilience enabled President Lincoln to proceed when many of his advisers resisted his every decision.
In the realm of science, Madam Currie, the famous French chemist, discovered radium and polonium in her laboratory after much research. In 1928, bacteriologist Alexander Fleming made the chance discovery of penicillin from a contaminated experiment when researching something else.
The Apostle Paul also had a false start in his pursuit of the will of God, but once he discovered the Living Christ he said, “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” So must we forget our failures and go forward in Jesus.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Pure Milk
February 16
We can learn a lesson from babies. They are resolute in their determination to see their needs satisfied. I Peter 2:2 tells us that we must, like newborn babes, “…crave pure spiritual milk, so by it you may grow up in your salvation.” Without the milk of the word, we cannot hope to become ready for strong meat (Hebrews 5:12-14.)
The life of faith is compared in many ways to the maturing process that brings a believer from infancy to adulthood, and this analogy is perhaps one of the most graphic and therefore, one of the easiest to understand. But why should we concern ourselves with this ethereal process in the first place?
We’ve recognized our need for a Savior; we’ve discovered Jesus to be the only One who can fulfill that role in our lives; we’ve placed our surrendered lives before Him…so what else is needed? What’s wrong with simply continuing as we are? Why not just live life to the best of our ability and trust Him that the unseen realm of the spirit is secure within His loving hands?
Although we do that to a degree, we cannot negate the wise counsel of Paul in II Corinthians 5:9 which says, “We make it our goal to please Him; whether we are at home in the body or absent from it.” Paul understood the futility of striving to please God without understanding; he knew that life’s only fulfillment comes with knowing Him and maturing in Him—and that comes by drinking in the pure milk of the Word.
We can learn a lesson from babies. They are resolute in their determination to see their needs satisfied. I Peter 2:2 tells us that we must, like newborn babes, “…crave pure spiritual milk, so by it you may grow up in your salvation.” Without the milk of the word, we cannot hope to become ready for strong meat (Hebrews 5:12-14.)
The life of faith is compared in many ways to the maturing process that brings a believer from infancy to adulthood, and this analogy is perhaps one of the most graphic and therefore, one of the easiest to understand. But why should we concern ourselves with this ethereal process in the first place?
We’ve recognized our need for a Savior; we’ve discovered Jesus to be the only One who can fulfill that role in our lives; we’ve placed our surrendered lives before Him…so what else is needed? What’s wrong with simply continuing as we are? Why not just live life to the best of our ability and trust Him that the unseen realm of the spirit is secure within His loving hands?
Although we do that to a degree, we cannot negate the wise counsel of Paul in II Corinthians 5:9 which says, “We make it our goal to please Him; whether we are at home in the body or absent from it.” Paul understood the futility of striving to please God without understanding; he knew that life’s only fulfillment comes with knowing Him and maturing in Him—and that comes by drinking in the pure milk of the Word.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Fear...and Keep...
February 15
Solomon, purported to be the wisest man who ever lived, was, after all was said and done in his life, a lot like us. In spite of his great wisdom, his values and his actions were quite reflective of those of more ordinary folk. Maybe it’s because some lessons are best learned ‘the hard way.’ Maybe it’s because the proclivity to sin is universal.
Like some of us, he indulged his passions. Being a king, that was not particularly difficult for him. Satisfying “…the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life…” as stated in I John 2:16 poses relatively little difficulty when one has a kingdom at his disposal. When the subjects within that kingdom are eager to comply with one’s every desire, those desires are not hard to fulfill.
Yet despite his own folly, King Solomon bequeathed to his spiritual heirs some profound advice regarding the value of life’s true treasures. He may have evidenced gluttonous appetites; he may have used people and things for his own insatiable desire for more passion, more possessions and more power, but he understood that righteousness is the living way that the law of God requires. And he preached that way to us.
He declared two of the necessary components of walking in the living way of righteousness to us in Ecclesiastes 12:13 where he said, “Hear the conclusion of the matter: ‘Fear God and keep His commandments; this is the whole duty of man.’” Although wise Solomon neglected to apply the wisdom God gave him in his own life, we must not keep from reaping the benefits of it in ours.
Solomon, purported to be the wisest man who ever lived, was, after all was said and done in his life, a lot like us. In spite of his great wisdom, his values and his actions were quite reflective of those of more ordinary folk. Maybe it’s because some lessons are best learned ‘the hard way.’ Maybe it’s because the proclivity to sin is universal.
Like some of us, he indulged his passions. Being a king, that was not particularly difficult for him. Satisfying “…the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life…” as stated in I John 2:16 poses relatively little difficulty when one has a kingdom at his disposal. When the subjects within that kingdom are eager to comply with one’s every desire, those desires are not hard to fulfill.
Yet despite his own folly, King Solomon bequeathed to his spiritual heirs some profound advice regarding the value of life’s true treasures. He may have evidenced gluttonous appetites; he may have used people and things for his own insatiable desire for more passion, more possessions and more power, but he understood that righteousness is the living way that the law of God requires. And he preached that way to us.
He declared two of the necessary components of walking in the living way of righteousness to us in Ecclesiastes 12:13 where he said, “Hear the conclusion of the matter: ‘Fear God and keep His commandments; this is the whole duty of man.’” Although wise Solomon neglected to apply the wisdom God gave him in his own life, we must not keep from reaping the benefits of it in ours.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Seek Real Love
February 14
It is said that St. Valentine died for love. According to one tradition associated with the establishment of the holiday bearing his name, the Roman Emperor Claudius II ordered that no one in his army be allowed to marry because doing so distracted his soldiers from the business of fighting.
When St. Valentine performed marriages anyway, he was sentenced to be executed. We celebrate his commitment to the holy state of matrimony –his commitment to the concept of faithfulness to one person through a lifetime—in a period of time when the whole idea of romantic love has been turned on its head.
Divorce is statistically rampant; same-sex marriage is touted as equal to the bond between a man and a woman; having a multiplicity of lovers rather than to marry at all is totally acceptable in our ‘post-Christian society.’ But God’s word in the matter has not changed. He still says that the marriage bed is to be undefiled (Hebrews 13:4). His standard of honor in love, like St. Valentine’s, is unchanged by the winds of modernity.
In Proverbs 21:21, Solomon stated (prior to his forsaking of God’s eternal wisdom for worldly pleasure), “He who pursues righteousness and love finds life.” The admonition of the young protégé of Paul echoed that truth in II Timothy 2:22: “Flee youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with believers who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Seek real love, for “…God is love…” I John 4:16.
It is said that St. Valentine died for love. According to one tradition associated with the establishment of the holiday bearing his name, the Roman Emperor Claudius II ordered that no one in his army be allowed to marry because doing so distracted his soldiers from the business of fighting.
When St. Valentine performed marriages anyway, he was sentenced to be executed. We celebrate his commitment to the holy state of matrimony –his commitment to the concept of faithfulness to one person through a lifetime—in a period of time when the whole idea of romantic love has been turned on its head.
Divorce is statistically rampant; same-sex marriage is touted as equal to the bond between a man and a woman; having a multiplicity of lovers rather than to marry at all is totally acceptable in our ‘post-Christian society.’ But God’s word in the matter has not changed. He still says that the marriage bed is to be undefiled (Hebrews 13:4). His standard of honor in love, like St. Valentine’s, is unchanged by the winds of modernity.
In Proverbs 21:21, Solomon stated (prior to his forsaking of God’s eternal wisdom for worldly pleasure), “He who pursues righteousness and love finds life.” The admonition of the young protégé of Paul echoed that truth in II Timothy 2:22: “Flee youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with believers who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” Seek real love, for “…God is love…” I John 4:16.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Priorities
February 13
Whether or not it is our intention to do so, we all establish priorities. When we are students, our parents set them for us. Homework must be done before playing outdoors will be permitted; bedtime must be honored, no matter what amazing program may be airing on TV—and no matter how many friends may have permission to watch it.
We carry our parents effective training into adulthood where we prioritize our own lives around the values they instilled within us. Most notably, those responsibilities that involve our work, come first. Somewhere, after the enormous requirement of time that our careers impose, we allocate whatever remains to our family, social, and spiritual life.
While the Lord understands our responsibilities and it says in I Timothy 5:8, “If any provide not for his own household, he is …worse than an infidel,” yet He makes it clear that His expectation is that we will place the things of God very high on our ‘to-do’ list. Notable examples are found in Matthew 6:33 where Jesus Himself says, “Seek first God’s Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you.” If you take care of the spiritual things, the Lord will take care of your temporal needs.
Our priority must always be to serve and honor the Living God. Although we are required to assume our responsibilities regarding the demands time and life place upon us, doing so must not result in our neglect of the things of the spirit. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus said that we cannot serve two masters…we cannot serve God and money.” To the degree that worldly gain supersedes our time to fellowship with Jesus and to be established in His truth, to that degree we are robbing ourselves of the fulfillment of life’s true priority.
Whether or not it is our intention to do so, we all establish priorities. When we are students, our parents set them for us. Homework must be done before playing outdoors will be permitted; bedtime must be honored, no matter what amazing program may be airing on TV—and no matter how many friends may have permission to watch it.
We carry our parents effective training into adulthood where we prioritize our own lives around the values they instilled within us. Most notably, those responsibilities that involve our work, come first. Somewhere, after the enormous requirement of time that our careers impose, we allocate whatever remains to our family, social, and spiritual life.
While the Lord understands our responsibilities and it says in I Timothy 5:8, “If any provide not for his own household, he is …worse than an infidel,” yet He makes it clear that His expectation is that we will place the things of God very high on our ‘to-do’ list. Notable examples are found in Matthew 6:33 where Jesus Himself says, “Seek first God’s Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be added to you.” If you take care of the spiritual things, the Lord will take care of your temporal needs.
Our priority must always be to serve and honor the Living God. Although we are required to assume our responsibilities regarding the demands time and life place upon us, doing so must not result in our neglect of the things of the spirit. In Matthew 6:24 Jesus said that we cannot serve two masters…we cannot serve God and money.” To the degree that worldly gain supersedes our time to fellowship with Jesus and to be established in His truth, to that degree we are robbing ourselves of the fulfillment of life’s true priority.
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Through Thick and Thin
February 12
It’s wonderful to know that God’s intention is to be with us through thick and thin. We take great comfort in the promises He has extended. When things are going well in our lives we rejoice in the evidence of His loving hand upon us. We take joy in the beauty of His presence as much as we do in the blessings He generously supplies to us.
But what about the dark seasons of life? How do we handle the dreary rains of Autumn or the dismally cold nights of Winter? How do we convince ourselves that this One who has promised to be by our side hasn’t indeed abandoned us when the circumstances of our lives became difficult? We know He’s there for only one reason—He says He will be.
The Christ we love and serve cannot fail and cannot lie. We rest on His faithfulness. We trust His integrity. There are many assurances to that effect in the scriptures and two of the most beautiful and comforting are these: In Psalm 23 4 David says of Him, “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me…You comfort me.” The promise in Isaiah 43:2, 3 is equally assuring.
“When you pass through the flood, I will be with you; the raging water will not sweep over you. When you pass through the fiery trial, the flame will not kindle upon you, neither will the scent of smoke cling to you, for I am your God…your Savior.” The Holy One intends to abide with us through life and to give us a dwelling place with Him forever. May we let nothing of time rob us of that eternal hope.
It’s wonderful to know that God’s intention is to be with us through thick and thin. We take great comfort in the promises He has extended. When things are going well in our lives we rejoice in the evidence of His loving hand upon us. We take joy in the beauty of His presence as much as we do in the blessings He generously supplies to us.
But what about the dark seasons of life? How do we handle the dreary rains of Autumn or the dismally cold nights of Winter? How do we convince ourselves that this One who has promised to be by our side hasn’t indeed abandoned us when the circumstances of our lives became difficult? We know He’s there for only one reason—He says He will be.
The Christ we love and serve cannot fail and cannot lie. We rest on His faithfulness. We trust His integrity. There are many assurances to that effect in the scriptures and two of the most beautiful and comforting are these: In Psalm 23 4 David says of Him, “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me…You comfort me.” The promise in Isaiah 43:2, 3 is equally assuring.
“When you pass through the flood, I will be with you; the raging water will not sweep over you. When you pass through the fiery trial, the flame will not kindle upon you, neither will the scent of smoke cling to you, for I am your God…your Savior.” The Holy One intends to abide with us through life and to give us a dwelling place with Him forever. May we let nothing of time rob us of that eternal hope.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Left Behind
February 11
Have you ever been left behind? Ever been abandoned by someone who should have loved you? Perhaps you were given up at birth by parents who didn’t have the means to raise you and wanted you to have a mother and father who could lavish you with the good things they could not provide to you.
Perhaps you were abandoned by a spouse who grew tired of you. A lifetime partner who found in a ‘soul-mate’ the excitement he no longer felt in you. Instead of journeying together with him, you found yourself charting the course of your life alone. Perhaps death claimed the one who promised to love you forever. The void is gaping either way.
There are many circumstances that come in life to render our journey through this Vale of Tears a lonely one. There are more scenarios than we can fathom unless we find ourselves encountering them. But, the reality is, no matter how profoundly we may perceive ourselves to be abandoned and alone, we never are. The One who fashioned us for Himself has promised that His love and protection will never leave us, that He will always, “…go with us and give us rest.” (Exodus 33:14)
In Deuteronomy 31:6 He says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid…for the Lord your God is with you. He will never leave or forsake you.” This promise is reiterated almost verbatim in Hebrews 13:5 where Paul writes, “God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” Because He wants you to be assured that His presence and power are extended to you, He has woven that beautiful truth through His never-failing Word.
Have you ever been left behind? Ever been abandoned by someone who should have loved you? Perhaps you were given up at birth by parents who didn’t have the means to raise you and wanted you to have a mother and father who could lavish you with the good things they could not provide to you.
Perhaps you were abandoned by a spouse who grew tired of you. A lifetime partner who found in a ‘soul-mate’ the excitement he no longer felt in you. Instead of journeying together with him, you found yourself charting the course of your life alone. Perhaps death claimed the one who promised to love you forever. The void is gaping either way.
There are many circumstances that come in life to render our journey through this Vale of Tears a lonely one. There are more scenarios than we can fathom unless we find ourselves encountering them. But, the reality is, no matter how profoundly we may perceive ourselves to be abandoned and alone, we never are. The One who fashioned us for Himself has promised that His love and protection will never leave us, that He will always, “…go with us and give us rest.” (Exodus 33:14)
In Deuteronomy 31:6 He says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid…for the Lord your God is with you. He will never leave or forsake you.” This promise is reiterated almost verbatim in Hebrews 13:5 where Paul writes, “God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” Because He wants you to be assured that His presence and power are extended to you, He has woven that beautiful truth through His never-failing Word.
Friday, February 10, 2012
He's Where We Are
February 10
Men have found Christ in prison (see the account of the Philippian jailer in Acts 16:23-34, read the stories of prisoners of war who found Christ in their dungeon or the conversion of Charles Colson). Men have found the Lord in the course of their business enterprises (see Acts 8:27-38). Men have found Him in every imaginable place and under unfathomable circumstances. Why?
Because He’s ‘there.’ He’s there for man, wherever man might be. He’s there for you—wherever you are. The story was told of a young woman, dancing in a cage at a topless ‘go-go’ bar who received Christ when a man slipped a salvation tract into her cage instead of the usual money that patrons placed there.
There are stories of drunks walking past churches who felt an irresistible compulsion to enter the church and run to the altar where they laid their lives at Jesus’ feet. Why? Because He’s there. One of the Bible’s most glorious passages conveys this truth to us in a way that leaves us fully aware of His nearness to us.
Psalm 139: 7-12 says, “Where can I flee from Your …presence? If I enter heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell …or take the wings of the morning and dwell in the depth of the sea…if I hide in the darkness…(even there shall Your hand lead me).” If we are hungering for Jesus, we needn’t search for Him. He is where we are.
Men have found Christ in prison (see the account of the Philippian jailer in Acts 16:23-34, read the stories of prisoners of war who found Christ in their dungeon or the conversion of Charles Colson). Men have found the Lord in the course of their business enterprises (see Acts 8:27-38). Men have found Him in every imaginable place and under unfathomable circumstances. Why?
Because He’s ‘there.’ He’s there for man, wherever man might be. He’s there for you—wherever you are. The story was told of a young woman, dancing in a cage at a topless ‘go-go’ bar who received Christ when a man slipped a salvation tract into her cage instead of the usual money that patrons placed there.
There are stories of drunks walking past churches who felt an irresistible compulsion to enter the church and run to the altar where they laid their lives at Jesus’ feet. Why? Because He’s there. One of the Bible’s most glorious passages conveys this truth to us in a way that leaves us fully aware of His nearness to us.
Psalm 139: 7-12 says, “Where can I flee from Your …presence? If I enter heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in hell …or take the wings of the morning and dwell in the depth of the sea…if I hide in the darkness…(even there shall Your hand lead me).” If we are hungering for Jesus, we needn’t search for Him. He is where we are.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Your God Wants You Back
February 9
Many of us believed in Santa Claus when we were children—the good saint who came on Christmas Eve to lavish us with all our hearts desired, or at least all our parents could afford. His generosity did have a ‘contingency clause.’ We knew if we hadn’t been good, the deal was off.
We long ago dismissed the notion of Santa showing up with gifts. We now know who puts the presents under the tree; unfortunately, some of us have dismissed all we once believed about an all-knowing, all-seeing, all-loving God as well. We have relegated the Bible and its teaching about a Savior into the discard pile with childhood myths.
But, as Blaise Pascal stated very succinctly, “There is a God shaped vacuum in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing, but only by God, the Creator, made known through Jesus.” We may like to think that we’ve reasoned God away with our human logic, but the reality is, we’ve only put a veneer over the vacuum.
The Word of God assures us, from the beginning of His Holy Book to the end, that He is ‘findable’ if we truly look for Him. Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him…in truth.” Luke states that truth again in Acts 17:27 where he says, “Reach out to God and find Him, for He is near each one of us.” Your God wants you back.
Many of us believed in Santa Claus when we were children—the good saint who came on Christmas Eve to lavish us with all our hearts desired, or at least all our parents could afford. His generosity did have a ‘contingency clause.’ We knew if we hadn’t been good, the deal was off.
We long ago dismissed the notion of Santa showing up with gifts. We now know who puts the presents under the tree; unfortunately, some of us have dismissed all we once believed about an all-knowing, all-seeing, all-loving God as well. We have relegated the Bible and its teaching about a Savior into the discard pile with childhood myths.
But, as Blaise Pascal stated very succinctly, “There is a God shaped vacuum in the heart of every man which cannot be filled by any created thing, but only by God, the Creator, made known through Jesus.” We may like to think that we’ve reasoned God away with our human logic, but the reality is, we’ve only put a veneer over the vacuum.
The Word of God assures us, from the beginning of His Holy Book to the end, that He is ‘findable’ if we truly look for Him. Psalm 145:18 says, “The Lord is near to all who call upon Him…in truth.” Luke states that truth again in Acts 17:27 where he says, “Reach out to God and find Him, for He is near each one of us.” Your God wants you back.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
The Holy Spirit In Our Prayers
February 8
The most often-prayed prayers are those that beseech God for something. We are very quick to be on our knees when there is a matter we want the Almighty to undertake for us. Our prayers of supplication carry our deepest longings and desires before Him and we hope to find Him receptive to them, for they convey our heart to Him.
The kind of prayer that gets short shrift is the prayer of thanksgiving. We know we should have hearts filled with gratitude for the many blessings we receive daily from His hand of provision, but these, in fact, are not the cries of our hearts that come before Him most frequently.
How can we rectify this situation? How can we improve our ‘track record’ to the point where our time before the Lord is actually reflective of the appreciation we have for the blessings He lavishes upon us daily? How can He know that we recognize His mercy is renewed to us every morning (Lamentations 3:22, 23) if we don’t tell Him? Paul gives us insight into the way we can convey our thanks to our Lord and King.
In Ephesians 6:18 he says, “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests; be alert and continue to pray for all the saints.” When we employ the power of the Holy Spirit in our prayers, we will be attuned to God’s will and attuned to the needs of believers around us. The focus of our supplications will not be consumed upon ourselves but will lift others’ needs before Him—and will glorify His name.
The most often-prayed prayers are those that beseech God for something. We are very quick to be on our knees when there is a matter we want the Almighty to undertake for us. Our prayers of supplication carry our deepest longings and desires before Him and we hope to find Him receptive to them, for they convey our heart to Him.
The kind of prayer that gets short shrift is the prayer of thanksgiving. We know we should have hearts filled with gratitude for the many blessings we receive daily from His hand of provision, but these, in fact, are not the cries of our hearts that come before Him most frequently.
How can we rectify this situation? How can we improve our ‘track record’ to the point where our time before the Lord is actually reflective of the appreciation we have for the blessings He lavishes upon us daily? How can He know that we recognize His mercy is renewed to us every morning (Lamentations 3:22, 23) if we don’t tell Him? Paul gives us insight into the way we can convey our thanks to our Lord and King.
In Ephesians 6:18 he says, “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests; be alert and continue to pray for all the saints.” When we employ the power of the Holy Spirit in our prayers, we will be attuned to God’s will and attuned to the needs of believers around us. The focus of our supplications will not be consumed upon ourselves but will lift others’ needs before Him—and will glorify His name.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Be Kind, Just, and Loving
February 7
Some misguided souls use love as a weapon. They employ their arsenal against those who care most about them. The spouse who betrays the one he’s promised ‘to have and to hold from this day forward,’ dismisses that vow and tramples the integrity of his commitment under his wandering feet.
The child who knows his adoring parents will do anything for him, will pay the bill for his every need to be supplied and his every desire to be fulfilled abuses their love by his consumption of their generosity upon indulgences that do not bring joy to the hearts of his kind, undemanding parents.
These abuses of the wonderful ability to love and be loved result from our misunderstanding of what love really is. If we grasp what it is not—the supply of every whim of the object of our affection by every means available to us—we will be far better able to extend to those within our sphere of influence the heaven-sent commodity that love is intended by God to be.
In Matthew 5:44-45, Jesus said, “I tell you to love your enemies and to pray for those who persecute you so you may be sons of your Father in heaven, for He causes His sun to shine on the just and on the unjust and He sends His rain upon the righteous and the unrighteous.” He is telling us that in order to be like our heavenly Father, we must be kind and just and loving—without discrimination—even to those who oppose us.
Some misguided souls use love as a weapon. They employ their arsenal against those who care most about them. The spouse who betrays the one he’s promised ‘to have and to hold from this day forward,’ dismisses that vow and tramples the integrity of his commitment under his wandering feet.
The child who knows his adoring parents will do anything for him, will pay the bill for his every need to be supplied and his every desire to be fulfilled abuses their love by his consumption of their generosity upon indulgences that do not bring joy to the hearts of his kind, undemanding parents.
These abuses of the wonderful ability to love and be loved result from our misunderstanding of what love really is. If we grasp what it is not—the supply of every whim of the object of our affection by every means available to us—we will be far better able to extend to those within our sphere of influence the heaven-sent commodity that love is intended by God to be.
In Matthew 5:44-45, Jesus said, “I tell you to love your enemies and to pray for those who persecute you so you may be sons of your Father in heaven, for He causes His sun to shine on the just and on the unjust and He sends His rain upon the righteous and the unrighteous.” He is telling us that in order to be like our heavenly Father, we must be kind and just and loving—without discrimination—even to those who oppose us.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Effective Prayer?
February 6
Gaining the answers to our prayers can sometimes be a frustrating endeavor. Who of us, who call ourselves believers in Christ, have not experienced at some time or another the disappointment, the devastation of walking away from the Throne of Mercy and Grace without the answer for which we asked.
In James 4:3, we are given an insight as to why we may find ourselves empty handed, why our prayers sometimes seem to bounce off the ceiling. Here, the Lord’s brother shares some revealing information, “Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.”
We are not to ask anything of God simply that we may be aggrandized, but beyond the admonition as to why we don’t receive, there are some truths that suggest how we may receive. Jesus said, for example in Matthew 21:22, “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask in prayer.” Sometimes, if we are honest with ourselves, we must admit that we take our supplications before Him but we doubt that He actually hears. In John 16:24, Jesus tells us that effective prayer must be in His name.
There is a power attached to praying in the authority He has Himself given to believers. The Lord wants to answer our prayers so our joy, “will be complete.” In Romans 8:26, Paul tells us that the Holy Spirit will help us to know how to pray effectively, that He will intercede in our behalf. Applying these three basic steps may just set us on our way to the answers for which we seek. May we employ them in faith and may He glorify Himself in the answers that He supplies.
Gaining the answers to our prayers can sometimes be a frustrating endeavor. Who of us, who call ourselves believers in Christ, have not experienced at some time or another the disappointment, the devastation of walking away from the Throne of Mercy and Grace without the answer for which we asked.
In James 4:3, we are given an insight as to why we may find ourselves empty handed, why our prayers sometimes seem to bounce off the ceiling. Here, the Lord’s brother shares some revealing information, “Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.”
We are not to ask anything of God simply that we may be aggrandized, but beyond the admonition as to why we don’t receive, there are some truths that suggest how we may receive. Jesus said, for example in Matthew 21:22, “If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask in prayer.” Sometimes, if we are honest with ourselves, we must admit that we take our supplications before Him but we doubt that He actually hears. In John 16:24, Jesus tells us that effective prayer must be in His name.
There is a power attached to praying in the authority He has Himself given to believers. The Lord wants to answer our prayers so our joy, “will be complete.” In Romans 8:26, Paul tells us that the Holy Spirit will help us to know how to pray effectively, that He will intercede in our behalf. Applying these three basic steps may just set us on our way to the answers for which we seek. May we employ them in faith and may He glorify Himself in the answers that He supplies.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Seeing with the Clarity of the Wise
February 5
We apply our minds to acquiring knowledge. We select a field of study that appeals to our interest and we delve into it so we can pursue our life’s work in labor that we will enjoy. The Word tells us also to, “Study to show yourself approved of the Lord; a workman that correctly understands truth” II Timothy 2:15.
God expects us to diligently apply ourselves to the truth He has revealed to us as we would to prepare ourselves for effective, enjoyable work. We are not to handle lightly the extraordinary revelation that has been given to us. We are to apply ourselves to it in order that we may correctly discern it and use it to instruct the lost in the way. If we don’t fully grasp it ourselves, we can’t effectively share it with others.
While the Lord expects us to study to acquire knowledge, He has another, totally different method for us to acquire wisdom. In the natural realm, we believe that the intangible but readily apparent quality of wisdom is most discernible in people who have lived long lives and observed life with a keen eye. They have recognized the results of the good and bad things that can affect a life and they are focused on the good. But there is another method for becoming wise that is stated in James 1:5.
Here, the Lord’s half-brother says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” If we are wise enough to recognize our lack of wisdom, we need only to ask God for it! He will grant it. Perhaps He will open our eyes to become more aware of its application. Perhaps He will bring us to a scripture that enlightens our understanding. Whatever method He uses, the result will be that we see life with the clarity that is reserved for the wise.
We apply our minds to acquiring knowledge. We select a field of study that appeals to our interest and we delve into it so we can pursue our life’s work in labor that we will enjoy. The Word tells us also to, “Study to show yourself approved of the Lord; a workman that correctly understands truth” II Timothy 2:15.
God expects us to diligently apply ourselves to the truth He has revealed to us as we would to prepare ourselves for effective, enjoyable work. We are not to handle lightly the extraordinary revelation that has been given to us. We are to apply ourselves to it in order that we may correctly discern it and use it to instruct the lost in the way. If we don’t fully grasp it ourselves, we can’t effectively share it with others.
While the Lord expects us to study to acquire knowledge, He has another, totally different method for us to acquire wisdom. In the natural realm, we believe that the intangible but readily apparent quality of wisdom is most discernible in people who have lived long lives and observed life with a keen eye. They have recognized the results of the good and bad things that can affect a life and they are focused on the good. But there is another method for becoming wise that is stated in James 1:5.
Here, the Lord’s half-brother says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” If we are wise enough to recognize our lack of wisdom, we need only to ask God for it! He will grant it. Perhaps He will open our eyes to become more aware of its application. Perhaps He will bring us to a scripture that enlightens our understanding. Whatever method He uses, the result will be that we see life with the clarity that is reserved for the wise.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Overcome the Disconnect
February 4
Sometimes there is a ‘disconnect’ where prayer is concerned. We know it can’t be a loose connection at God’s end so there must be something amiss in the way we pray. The unfortunate truth is that often our conversations with heaven just don’t seem to be getting through.
We know that even when our prayers have been heard and God is fully intent upon answering the matter just as we desire that He do, there is sometimes a ‘delay.’ We only need to read Daniel 10:13 to discover that there can be a powerful demonic entity that complicates the receipt of an answer to a prayer.
And we have the assurance in Romans 8:26 that when we don’t know how to pray, the Holy Spirit will help us to know exactly what we should pray. Through the gift of speaking in tongues, He shall pray according to the will of God through us. More often, however, we know exactly what we want to place before the Lord, and at those times, we have a “mighty Advocate with the Father” (I John 2:1) who will help us to pray. Jesus Has given us a wonderful assurance of His interest in our success when we pray.
In numerous places He says things like, “Everyone who asks receives and he who seeks finds, and to him that knocks, the door shall be open,” Matthew 7:8. He further qualifies the receipt of our answers to prayer by saying in John 15:7, “If you remain in Me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you will and it shall be done.” We ask, and seek and will find if we are fully in Him. We will discover that when we employ the Helps He has given, there will be a bridge between ourselves and our God that will overcome any disconnect!
Sometimes there is a ‘disconnect’ where prayer is concerned. We know it can’t be a loose connection at God’s end so there must be something amiss in the way we pray. The unfortunate truth is that often our conversations with heaven just don’t seem to be getting through.
We know that even when our prayers have been heard and God is fully intent upon answering the matter just as we desire that He do, there is sometimes a ‘delay.’ We only need to read Daniel 10:13 to discover that there can be a powerful demonic entity that complicates the receipt of an answer to a prayer.
And we have the assurance in Romans 8:26 that when we don’t know how to pray, the Holy Spirit will help us to know exactly what we should pray. Through the gift of speaking in tongues, He shall pray according to the will of God through us. More often, however, we know exactly what we want to place before the Lord, and at those times, we have a “mighty Advocate with the Father” (I John 2:1) who will help us to pray. Jesus Has given us a wonderful assurance of His interest in our success when we pray.
In numerous places He says things like, “Everyone who asks receives and he who seeks finds, and to him that knocks, the door shall be open,” Matthew 7:8. He further qualifies the receipt of our answers to prayer by saying in John 15:7, “If you remain in Me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you will and it shall be done.” We ask, and seek and will find if we are fully in Him. We will discover that when we employ the Helps He has given, there will be a bridge between ourselves and our God that will overcome any disconnect!
Friday, February 3, 2012
Where Is YOUR Trust?
February 3
Prayer. It is said that the most powerful force on the earth is the power of prayer. A seasoned military man, who had led a victorious army and commanded millions of dollars worth of war materials once said, “The only true power on earth is that of the Almighty.”
We tend to put our security in the weapons in our nations' arsenals as well as in the people who control them. Our trust is misplaced. David, Israel’s mighty warrior-king said in Psalm 20:7, “Some trust in chariots and horses (the super weapons of their day) but we shall trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
One famous quip of Ronald Reagan, our most quotable president was, “If America stops being ‘one nation under God,’ America will become a nation gone under.” His words seem quite prophetic in the dire societal and military and economic times in which we find ourselves. We seem surrounded on every side by forces that signal impending doom for our nation and our way of life. Instead of capitulating to the mismanagement of corrupt politicians who are undermining America from within, and quaking at the thought of a nuclear Iran that wants nothing less than to destroy us from without, or surrendering to global companies that take the wealth they’ve earned in America and invest it in jobs overseas, let us instead, “Call unto God…who will give ear to my prayer,” Psalm 17:6, and pray that He heal our land.
Let us be like David; let us place our trust in the Living and Eternal God who "brings down one and sets up another" (Psalm 75:7). Let us recognize that temporal authorities and powers-that-be are mere, fallible men who can't even take their next breath if the Lord our God does not allow them to do so. Let us acknowledge as does the prophet in Isaiah 51:12, 13 "...who are you that you should be afraid of a man that shall die and the son of man which shall be as the grass and forget the Lord your Maker that stretched forth the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth..." Let us put our trust in Jesus alone. If He loved us enough to die for us, let us love Him enough to live for Him and trust Him for every concern of time and eternity.
Prayer. It is said that the most powerful force on the earth is the power of prayer. A seasoned military man, who had led a victorious army and commanded millions of dollars worth of war materials once said, “The only true power on earth is that of the Almighty.”
We tend to put our security in the weapons in our nations' arsenals as well as in the people who control them. Our trust is misplaced. David, Israel’s mighty warrior-king said in Psalm 20:7, “Some trust in chariots and horses (the super weapons of their day) but we shall trust in the name of the Lord our God.”
One famous quip of Ronald Reagan, our most quotable president was, “If America stops being ‘one nation under God,’ America will become a nation gone under.” His words seem quite prophetic in the dire societal and military and economic times in which we find ourselves. We seem surrounded on every side by forces that signal impending doom for our nation and our way of life. Instead of capitulating to the mismanagement of corrupt politicians who are undermining America from within, and quaking at the thought of a nuclear Iran that wants nothing less than to destroy us from without, or surrendering to global companies that take the wealth they’ve earned in America and invest it in jobs overseas, let us instead, “Call unto God…who will give ear to my prayer,” Psalm 17:6, and pray that He heal our land.
Let us be like David; let us place our trust in the Living and Eternal God who "brings down one and sets up another" (Psalm 75:7). Let us recognize that temporal authorities and powers-that-be are mere, fallible men who can't even take their next breath if the Lord our God does not allow them to do so. Let us acknowledge as does the prophet in Isaiah 51:12, 13 "...who are you that you should be afraid of a man that shall die and the son of man which shall be as the grass and forget the Lord your Maker that stretched forth the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth..." Let us put our trust in Jesus alone. If He loved us enough to die for us, let us love Him enough to live for Him and trust Him for every concern of time and eternity.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Our Strong Tower Of Safety
February 2
David, shepherd, psalmist, warrior, king, had much about which he could have allowed himself to fear. From his earliest youth, he tended his father’s sheep in an environment that was frequented by predators from which he was required to defend not only the sheep but himself. At that juncture in his life he was also called upon to fight a giant!
The ancient Philistines were sworn enemies of the people of God and their hatred of Israel was so intense that many of their descendants maintain the same animus toward God’s chosen ones today. David volunteered to fight Goliath, the imposing Philistine hero. David felled him with a single stone from his slingshot.
David became the darling of King Saul’s court until the king’s jealousy rose up because of his popularity. Then, the young man who had been anointed as Israel’s future king (see I Samuel 16:7-13), had to begin a defensive action against Saul. David refused to harm the king; he knew God would bring him to the throne in His own time. When he became King of Israel, David’s warfare against the Philistines continued, but he trusted the Lord through all his battles.
In Psalm 16:8-9 he said, “I have set the Lord always before me; He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. My heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my whole being rests secure in Him.” May we, too, find our complete refuge in our Lord who has promised He will not forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), for His name is still our strong tower of safety (Proverbs 18:10).
David, shepherd, psalmist, warrior, king, had much about which he could have allowed himself to fear. From his earliest youth, he tended his father’s sheep in an environment that was frequented by predators from which he was required to defend not only the sheep but himself. At that juncture in his life he was also called upon to fight a giant!
The ancient Philistines were sworn enemies of the people of God and their hatred of Israel was so intense that many of their descendants maintain the same animus toward God’s chosen ones today. David volunteered to fight Goliath, the imposing Philistine hero. David felled him with a single stone from his slingshot.
David became the darling of King Saul’s court until the king’s jealousy rose up because of his popularity. Then, the young man who had been anointed as Israel’s future king (see I Samuel 16:7-13), had to begin a defensive action against Saul. David refused to harm the king; he knew God would bring him to the throne in His own time. When he became King of Israel, David’s warfare against the Philistines continued, but he trusted the Lord through all his battles.
In Psalm 16:8-9 he said, “I have set the Lord always before me; He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. My heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my whole being rests secure in Him.” May we, too, find our complete refuge in our Lord who has promised He will not forsake us (Hebrews 13:5), for His name is still our strong tower of safety (Proverbs 18:10).
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Unending Praise
February 1
Our Lord and King and Almighty God is worthy of all our praise. Be honest. Do you actually praise Him very often? If you are hesitant to answer that question, even to yourself, it is probably because you rarely lift the name that is “above all names” (Philippians 2:9) in praise.
Perhaps it’s because you’re busy serving Him. It requires diligent effort to carry on the ministry of the Word to a lost and dying people. Effective ministry requires preparation and travel and competence before your audience. Whether you have an audience of one or tens of thousands, you must execute your presentation with skill that requires fluency with the message.
But, if it is your labor in the behalf of His Kingdom that is of utmost importance to Him, why do we read in Revelation 4:8, that “Holy! Holy! Holy! Holy!” is cried continually before His throne? When the veil is drawn back and we are given this glimpse of heaven, it is not the busy-ness of its inhabitants that we read about! No! It is the unending praise that is lifted to His glory that commands our attention!
Perhaps we should say as did David in Psalm 52:9, “I will praise You forever for what You have done; in Your name will I hope, for Your name is good. I will praise You in the presence of Your saints.” If we will praise Him here and now, because He inhabits our praise (Psalm 22:3), perhaps our labor for the Kingdom will be more effective as our praise itself reflects His heavenly glory.
Our Lord and King and Almighty God is worthy of all our praise. Be honest. Do you actually praise Him very often? If you are hesitant to answer that question, even to yourself, it is probably because you rarely lift the name that is “above all names” (Philippians 2:9) in praise.
Perhaps it’s because you’re busy serving Him. It requires diligent effort to carry on the ministry of the Word to a lost and dying people. Effective ministry requires preparation and travel and competence before your audience. Whether you have an audience of one or tens of thousands, you must execute your presentation with skill that requires fluency with the message.
But, if it is your labor in the behalf of His Kingdom that is of utmost importance to Him, why do we read in Revelation 4:8, that “Holy! Holy! Holy! Holy!” is cried continually before His throne? When the veil is drawn back and we are given this glimpse of heaven, it is not the busy-ness of its inhabitants that we read about! No! It is the unending praise that is lifted to His glory that commands our attention!
Perhaps we should say as did David in Psalm 52:9, “I will praise You forever for what You have done; in Your name will I hope, for Your name is good. I will praise You in the presence of Your saints.” If we will praise Him here and now, because He inhabits our praise (Psalm 22:3), perhaps our labor for the Kingdom will be more effective as our praise itself reflects His heavenly glory.
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