February 28
Family members are often quite readily identifiable. Shared features are so evident that there can be no mistake that they are children of the same parents or extended members of the same clan. Even strangers can identify them because of the distinguishing characteristics that they share.
Sometimes those defining features are personality traits more than physical characteristics. A wealthy family may be noted for its generosity or a missionary family may be recognized because of its life of sacrifice for the gospel of Christ’s sake.
According to I John 3:1, there may be a factor that works in reverse of those that identify the similarities in people. Here the beloved apostle says, “How great is the love of the Father toward us that we should be called the children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it does not know Him.” Anyone who does not recognize the True and Living Christ will not recognize His people either!
Though the believer in Christ is precious to the Father and co-heir with Christ of the treasures of eternity (Romans 8:17), he may be unrecognizable to the unbeliever who sees as the world sees. Those who are God’s own may be despised and maligned by people who value the things of earth, but the great love the Father has for them more than compensates for anything the world withholds.
February 29 BONUS: Imitators of Our Lord and God
One thing that thoroughly delights parents in their young children is to see themselves being emulated by the precious little ones who hold them in such lofty regard. Who hasn’t smiled to observe a child clomping through the house in his daddy’s work boots? Who hasn’t laughed out loud at the site of a little girl lugging her mother’s huge purse?
It is a well-established fact that little children delight in being just like those they love. If we care nothing for our own temporal and spiritual well-being, this knowledge should cause us to place a very high premium on how we live our lives in the eyes of the precious babies who see us as heroes. Guiding their spiritual choices is the paramount thing we have to do as we live our lives before them.
And who should we as believers in Christ emulate as we endeavor to walk the path of life that opens before us; as we strive to show the way to those with whom we traverse life’s highways and byways? Our God has a word for us in this matter that is of great eternal consequence.
In Ephesians 5:1, 2, Paul writes, “Be ye imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children. Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” We are to be imitators of the Lord who loves us enough to have given Himself for us, and in so doing, we will be imitators of our loving God.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Did You Receive Him?
February 27
We have a sharp eye for distinctions among ourselves. We take note of superficial things such as eye color, hair texture, bone structure, height, weight. We do the same kind of categorization of people by other factors such as religion, social status and wealth. We enjoy rubbing elbows with the power elite. We perceive ourselves to be advantaged when we are able to be in proximity to the resources they possess.
Whole political movements have been established upon such distinctions. The most heinous being the Nazis of the Twentieth Century whose intent was to exterminate the Jews. Though we affirm that this evil must never happen again, the reality is that there is increasing evidence of vitriolic anti-Semitism among us today.
Yet the God we serve is no respecter of persons (Colossians 3:25). He does not esteem one man above another because of the trappings of life that may or may not be his. In the one matter that transcends time and taps eternity—our eternal salvation—He places all men on an equal footing. He makes His plan of salvation available to all who will receive it.
In Galatians 3:26, 28 we are told, “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ.” The one defining distinction among men is what is done with Jesus. Whether rich or poor, servant or master…the only question God will ask on that final day when all men are judged is, ‘Did you receive HIM as Savior?’
We have a sharp eye for distinctions among ourselves. We take note of superficial things such as eye color, hair texture, bone structure, height, weight. We do the same kind of categorization of people by other factors such as religion, social status and wealth. We enjoy rubbing elbows with the power elite. We perceive ourselves to be advantaged when we are able to be in proximity to the resources they possess.
Whole political movements have been established upon such distinctions. The most heinous being the Nazis of the Twentieth Century whose intent was to exterminate the Jews. Though we affirm that this evil must never happen again, the reality is that there is increasing evidence of vitriolic anti-Semitism among us today.
Yet the God we serve is no respecter of persons (Colossians 3:25). He does not esteem one man above another because of the trappings of life that may or may not be his. In the one matter that transcends time and taps eternity—our eternal salvation—He places all men on an equal footing. He makes His plan of salvation available to all who will receive it.
In Galatians 3:26, 28 we are told, “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ.” The one defining distinction among men is what is done with Jesus. Whether rich or poor, servant or master…the only question God will ask on that final day when all men are judged is, ‘Did you receive HIM as Savior?’
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Your Daddy's Love
February 26
Paul uses certain terminology in his writings more often than others. One word that he uses to compare our condition prior to receiving Jesus as our Savior with our condition after doing so is ‘slave.’ When we are lost in our sin, we are slaves to sin, but when we have received Jesus, we becomes sons of God. Quite a transformative decision!
Another word that Paul uses in several places is one with which we are less familiar, and that is the word ‘abba.’ While we all understand the meaning of the word ‘slave,’ and far prefer our status as ‘sons’ to the image of servitude that the term ‘slave’ conveys, we cannot fully comprehend the significance of the term ‘Abba, Father.’
The word ‘Ab’ is literally translated from some Mid-Eastern languages into English as our word ‘Father.’ The same word can apply to our earthly father as well as to our Heavenly Father. God seems to have selected the term to fully convey His desire that we understand how profoundly He loves us and how fully He desires to have a relationship with us.
The word ‘Abba’ is a term of endearment, similar to our word ‘Daddy.’ By using this word instead of ‘Ab,’ Paul is telling us just how tenderly our God loves us. Romans 8:14, 15 says, “Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. You did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the spirit of sonship, whereby we may cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” Rejoice in your Daddy’s love!
Paul uses certain terminology in his writings more often than others. One word that he uses to compare our condition prior to receiving Jesus as our Savior with our condition after doing so is ‘slave.’ When we are lost in our sin, we are slaves to sin, but when we have received Jesus, we becomes sons of God. Quite a transformative decision!
Another word that Paul uses in several places is one with which we are less familiar, and that is the word ‘abba.’ While we all understand the meaning of the word ‘slave,’ and far prefer our status as ‘sons’ to the image of servitude that the term ‘slave’ conveys, we cannot fully comprehend the significance of the term ‘Abba, Father.’
The word ‘Ab’ is literally translated from some Mid-Eastern languages into English as our word ‘Father.’ The same word can apply to our earthly father as well as to our Heavenly Father. God seems to have selected the term to fully convey His desire that we understand how profoundly He loves us and how fully He desires to have a relationship with us.
The word ‘Abba’ is a term of endearment, similar to our word ‘Daddy.’ By using this word instead of ‘Ab,’ Paul is telling us just how tenderly our God loves us. Romans 8:14, 15 says, “Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. You did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the spirit of sonship, whereby we may cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” Rejoice in your Daddy’s love!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Because You Are Sons
February 25
We live in a time when many believe that there are numerous ‘paths to heaven.’ It is felt by a significant number of people that any sincere seeker of truth will gain his eternal reward. This belief flies in the face of the basic tenet of Christianity, but we elect to embrace this position anyway because it is distressing to contemplate that anyone be turned into hell for his failure to accept Jesus as Savior.
But, indeed, this contradicts John 3:3 which states clearly, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of Heaven,” and John 3:16 which presents the only plan of salvation, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”
We cannot allow our sentimental good intentions to deny a man the eternal salvation Jesus died to give him and the blessed assurance receiving Christ as Savior instills within a man’s heart in order that he not be required to confront the unpleasant alternative.
Galatians 4:6,7 presents a precious assurance that God desires all men have within their heart of hearts, “Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into your hearts that calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ You are no longer a slave but a son…and God has made you His heir.” This news is not mere doctrine; it is too good to keep to ourselves!
We live in a time when many believe that there are numerous ‘paths to heaven.’ It is felt by a significant number of people that any sincere seeker of truth will gain his eternal reward. This belief flies in the face of the basic tenet of Christianity, but we elect to embrace this position anyway because it is distressing to contemplate that anyone be turned into hell for his failure to accept Jesus as Savior.
But, indeed, this contradicts John 3:3 which states clearly, “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of Heaven,” and John 3:16 which presents the only plan of salvation, “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.”
We cannot allow our sentimental good intentions to deny a man the eternal salvation Jesus died to give him and the blessed assurance receiving Christ as Savior instills within a man’s heart in order that he not be required to confront the unpleasant alternative.
Galatians 4:6,7 presents a precious assurance that God desires all men have within their heart of hearts, “Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of His Son into your hearts that calls out, ‘Abba, Father.’ You are no longer a slave but a son…and God has made you His heir.” This news is not mere doctrine; it is too good to keep to ourselves!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Walk in the Refreshing Latter Rain
February 24
The love the Lord our God has for us is a treasure that we hold in earthen vessels. We are sometimes so preoccupied with the things of time, the things that are esteemed of earth, that we fail to recognize and appropriate the wondrous things our Savior has sacrificed Himself to attain for us.
If we will but turn our hearts and minds heavenward and allow the Spirit of God to reveal to us the bounty that is at our disposal, we will live lives that are abundant and we will walk in the refreshing latter rain that is to come before the culmination of all things that are merely temporal.
Why should we cultivate this kind of hope within our bosom? Why should we position ourselves to anticipate the extraordinary, the miraculous, in our day-to-day existence? Aren’t we setting ourselves up for disappointment when we claim the best, the most lavish of the promises that are set forth in the Bible?
In fact, we are not, for we have an assurance from God that should dispel our fear of having our hope dashed. In II Corinthians 6:18 Paul writes these words, “I will be a Father to you and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” We are beloved children of our God and it is His desire to place all His treasure in our hand.
The love the Lord our God has for us is a treasure that we hold in earthen vessels. We are sometimes so preoccupied with the things of time, the things that are esteemed of earth, that we fail to recognize and appropriate the wondrous things our Savior has sacrificed Himself to attain for us.
If we will but turn our hearts and minds heavenward and allow the Spirit of God to reveal to us the bounty that is at our disposal, we will live lives that are abundant and we will walk in the refreshing latter rain that is to come before the culmination of all things that are merely temporal.
Why should we cultivate this kind of hope within our bosom? Why should we position ourselves to anticipate the extraordinary, the miraculous, in our day-to-day existence? Aren’t we setting ourselves up for disappointment when we claim the best, the most lavish of the promises that are set forth in the Bible?
In fact, we are not, for we have an assurance from God that should dispel our fear of having our hope dashed. In II Corinthians 6:18 Paul writes these words, “I will be a Father to you and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” We are beloved children of our God and it is His desire to place all His treasure in our hand.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Efficacious for All Time
February 23
The promises of God are ‘yea and amen,’ and they are for all time. We needn’t wonder if we are the recipients of the amazing hope that is held out to the early believers. Some would negate its validity for us today, but the reality is that today—no matter when ‘today’ is—is the acceptable day of hope.
Compelling arguments are made that much of the word of promise was given exclusively to the early church, that the gifts of the Spirit such as speaking in tongues and prophecy and healing are not operative today. Many believers feel that these extraordinary gifts were necessary prior to the completion of the New Testament but are no longer required because we now have the entirety of the Bible in our hands.
There is a passage in Acts 2:38, 39 that expresses the reason for our anticipation of the efficaciousness of the entirety of the list of His promises being for us for all time. Here we are told what Peter replied when asked what steps were required to be taken to appropriate them and here is what he said:
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off—for as many as the Lord our God shall call.” That includes us—today—for all time.
The promises of God are ‘yea and amen,’ and they are for all time. We needn’t wonder if we are the recipients of the amazing hope that is held out to the early believers. Some would negate its validity for us today, but the reality is that today—no matter when ‘today’ is—is the acceptable day of hope.
Compelling arguments are made that much of the word of promise was given exclusively to the early church, that the gifts of the Spirit such as speaking in tongues and prophecy and healing are not operative today. Many believers feel that these extraordinary gifts were necessary prior to the completion of the New Testament but are no longer required because we now have the entirety of the Bible in our hands.
There is a passage in Acts 2:38, 39 that expresses the reason for our anticipation of the efficaciousness of the entirety of the list of His promises being for us for all time. Here we are told what Peter replied when asked what steps were required to be taken to appropriate them and here is what he said:
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off—for as many as the Lord our God shall call.” That includes us—today—for all time.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Substance of a Blessed Eternity
February 22
When is the acceptable time to begin to nurture a child in the faith of his fathers? The answer to that question is, “The sooner, the better.” Some parents feel that a child must chart his own spiritual journey, but this is not the way the Lord would have it to be. It is His desire that each parent of faith in Christ impart that faith to his children from a very early age.
What is the appropriate circumstance under which this instruction should proceed? ALL circumstances! Deuteronomy 11:18-21 is very clear in the matter. It says, “Fix these words of Mine in your hearts and minds…Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.
“Speak My truth when you lie down and when you rise up…so your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the Lord swore to give to you…” The Lord seems to be conveying the reality that His Word is the foundation of life to the believer. It is the foundation upon which life is to be build. It is to be the fabric of which life is constructed.
A parent’s role as teacher of truth to his children cannot be abrogated if the parent desires that his child’s life be woven of the substance that endures through time and eternity. There are many good things that a parent may impart to his offspring that will assure that he lives a full, productive, successful life, but it is only the Word of God, taught by a loving, godly parent, that will assure a blessed eternity.
When is the acceptable time to begin to nurture a child in the faith of his fathers? The answer to that question is, “The sooner, the better.” Some parents feel that a child must chart his own spiritual journey, but this is not the way the Lord would have it to be. It is His desire that each parent of faith in Christ impart that faith to his children from a very early age.
What is the appropriate circumstance under which this instruction should proceed? ALL circumstances! Deuteronomy 11:18-21 is very clear in the matter. It says, “Fix these words of Mine in your hearts and minds…Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road.
“Speak My truth when you lie down and when you rise up…so your days and the days of your children may be many in the land that the Lord swore to give to you…” The Lord seems to be conveying the reality that His Word is the foundation of life to the believer. It is the foundation upon which life is to be build. It is to be the fabric of which life is constructed.
A parent’s role as teacher of truth to his children cannot be abrogated if the parent desires that his child’s life be woven of the substance that endures through time and eternity. There are many good things that a parent may impart to his offspring that will assure that he lives a full, productive, successful life, but it is only the Word of God, taught by a loving, godly parent, that will assure a blessed eternity.
Monday, February 21, 2011
No Presumption
February 21
We are admonished through the entirety of our growing-up years to comport ourselves according to a standard of maturity expected of our age. We are admonished that it does not become us to be unruly or to ‘act like children.’ For the most part, that is a truth that we are wise to incorporate into our actions and demeanor.
So, why did Jesus say in Matthew 18:4, “Whosoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven”? There is no guile in a child. There is no presumption in a child. He will accept the veracity of everything that is lived before him by an adult he holds in high esteem.
Jesus is not suggesting that we are to be gullible and blindly accepting of whatever comes our way. Rather, the Lord is making the point that a child lives his life without a sense of his own importance. A child is willing to seek wise counsel when he does not understand. He is willing to bend his will to the greater insight of his teacher. The child is willing to submit himself to correction.
That kind of humility is essential to the believer, for we all have much to learn. If we are to be teachable—by the counselors the Lord sends into our lives or by the Holy Spirit within us as He moves upon our minds and hearts and spirits to teach us “all things” as Jesus promised He would in John 14:26—we must have the heart of a child who is eager to learn and compliant enough to be taught.
We are admonished through the entirety of our growing-up years to comport ourselves according to a standard of maturity expected of our age. We are admonished that it does not become us to be unruly or to ‘act like children.’ For the most part, that is a truth that we are wise to incorporate into our actions and demeanor.
So, why did Jesus say in Matthew 18:4, “Whosoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven”? There is no guile in a child. There is no presumption in a child. He will accept the veracity of everything that is lived before him by an adult he holds in high esteem.
Jesus is not suggesting that we are to be gullible and blindly accepting of whatever comes our way. Rather, the Lord is making the point that a child lives his life without a sense of his own importance. A child is willing to seek wise counsel when he does not understand. He is willing to bend his will to the greater insight of his teacher. The child is willing to submit himself to correction.
That kind of humility is essential to the believer, for we all have much to learn. If we are to be teachable—by the counselors the Lord sends into our lives or by the Holy Spirit within us as He moves upon our minds and hearts and spirits to teach us “all things” as Jesus promised He would in John 14:26—we must have the heart of a child who is eager to learn and compliant enough to be taught.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Discipline and Truth
February 20
Casual observation upon driving through a neighborhood can tell you exactly who invests his time and energy in maintaining his yard. One home may be surrounded by a well-manicured lawn and colorful flowers while the one next door may be overrun with weeds.
It’s not quite so easy to discern which parents are investing themselves in their children, but spending a significant amount of time with them will reveal which children’s lives are being well-tended by their parents and which are being left to be over-run with the weeds and brambles of indifference or neglect.
Perhaps one might attribute the difference to opposite but equal philosophies of parenting, but the scripture does not sustain this position. The Lord is very clear throughout His Word, of the great advantage a child has who is reared under the loving guidance and secure structure of a parent who establishes clear boundaries for him.
The advantage to the parent who disciplines his child cannot be understated. In Proverbs 29:17 he is told, “Discipline your son, and he will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul.” In I John 1:4, the beloved apostle further says of those he’s nurtured in the Word, “I have no greater joy than to know my children walk in truth.”
Casual observation upon driving through a neighborhood can tell you exactly who invests his time and energy in maintaining his yard. One home may be surrounded by a well-manicured lawn and colorful flowers while the one next door may be overrun with weeds.
It’s not quite so easy to discern which parents are investing themselves in their children, but spending a significant amount of time with them will reveal which children’s lives are being well-tended by their parents and which are being left to be over-run with the weeds and brambles of indifference or neglect.
Perhaps one might attribute the difference to opposite but equal philosophies of parenting, but the scripture does not sustain this position. The Lord is very clear throughout His Word, of the great advantage a child has who is reared under the loving guidance and secure structure of a parent who establishes clear boundaries for him.
The advantage to the parent who disciplines his child cannot be understated. In Proverbs 29:17 he is told, “Discipline your son, and he will give you peace; he will bring delight to your soul.” In I John 1:4, the beloved apostle further says of those he’s nurtured in the Word, “I have no greater joy than to know my children walk in truth.”
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Overcoming--From the Alluring to the Bellicose
February 19
One of the great truths of the Bible is found in Proverbs 22:6. Here it says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” The early grounding of a child in the truth of God is essential if we are to propagate the faith we espouse in the hearts and minds of the next generation.
There was a time when accomplishing that scriptural admonition was a relatively easy task. Parents and their children, as well as perhaps their extended families, lived in a simple, closely knit world where values were easily passed from parent to child. Virtually the only worldview an individual would encounter during his formative years was that embraced by his family, within his home.
Today’s parents do not have the advantage of a spiritual cocoon in which to nurture their offspring. The culture around us has departed from the Christian truths that were once almost universally believed in our country, indeed in the Western world in general, and there is a cacophony of other voices and other worldviews being shouted into the lives of the young and impressionable.
Ranging from the alluring voice of the moral cesspool of the entertainment industry to the bellicose sounds of the march of the Islamic ‘missionaries’ who have migrated into the West with the intention of propagating the world-wide Islamic caliphate, the clamor of the deceptive tones of the enemy have almost drowned out the wisdom of the ages. Yet, if a parent is faithful to the task Jesus has set before him, Jesus will be faithful to bring it to fruition within his child.
One of the great truths of the Bible is found in Proverbs 22:6. Here it says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” The early grounding of a child in the truth of God is essential if we are to propagate the faith we espouse in the hearts and minds of the next generation.
There was a time when accomplishing that scriptural admonition was a relatively easy task. Parents and their children, as well as perhaps their extended families, lived in a simple, closely knit world where values were easily passed from parent to child. Virtually the only worldview an individual would encounter during his formative years was that embraced by his family, within his home.
Today’s parents do not have the advantage of a spiritual cocoon in which to nurture their offspring. The culture around us has departed from the Christian truths that were once almost universally believed in our country, indeed in the Western world in general, and there is a cacophony of other voices and other worldviews being shouted into the lives of the young and impressionable.
Ranging from the alluring voice of the moral cesspool of the entertainment industry to the bellicose sounds of the march of the Islamic ‘missionaries’ who have migrated into the West with the intention of propagating the world-wide Islamic caliphate, the clamor of the deceptive tones of the enemy have almost drowned out the wisdom of the ages. Yet, if a parent is faithful to the task Jesus has set before him, Jesus will be faithful to bring it to fruition within his child.
Friday, February 18, 2011
A Full Quiver
February 18
We live in a time when children are viewed by many as a liability. We hear of couples who have several children and we wonder how they will be able to afford to keep them supplied with the things youngsters have come to expect. We wonder how they will be able to afford to put them through college.
This thinking is part of the rebellious mindset of the age and is not congruous with the heart of God. We know that demographics of whole nations are being impacted by the failure of Christian people, of educated people, to have children. In the pursuit of career goals, many have rejected the concept of having children. Entire cultures can ultimately be transformed because of this decision on the part of believers.
The Lord’s position in the matter is, as stated in Psalm 127: 3-5, “Sons are a heritage from the Lord; children are a reward from Him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who has his quiver full of them.” Why might this position still be valid in a sophisticated time when many hands are not necessary for the performance of agrarian labor that was required in Biblical days? Could it be that what was necessary then is passé today?
Perhaps it is because now, as then, the Lord’s heart was on the establishment of the next generation in His TRUTH! If believing parents do not assume the responsibility for ‘training up’ children in the path of righteousness and faith according to Proverbs 22:6, then the future will be in the hands of those who deny the true faith and rear their off-spring in the lies of the age. May we nurture ALL the children whose lives touch ours in the wisdom and admonition of our One True and Living Lord Jesus Christ.
We live in a time when children are viewed by many as a liability. We hear of couples who have several children and we wonder how they will be able to afford to keep them supplied with the things youngsters have come to expect. We wonder how they will be able to afford to put them through college.
This thinking is part of the rebellious mindset of the age and is not congruous with the heart of God. We know that demographics of whole nations are being impacted by the failure of Christian people, of educated people, to have children. In the pursuit of career goals, many have rejected the concept of having children. Entire cultures can ultimately be transformed because of this decision on the part of believers.
The Lord’s position in the matter is, as stated in Psalm 127: 3-5, “Sons are a heritage from the Lord; children are a reward from Him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who has his quiver full of them.” Why might this position still be valid in a sophisticated time when many hands are not necessary for the performance of agrarian labor that was required in Biblical days? Could it be that what was necessary then is passé today?
Perhaps it is because now, as then, the Lord’s heart was on the establishment of the next generation in His TRUTH! If believing parents do not assume the responsibility for ‘training up’ children in the path of righteousness and faith according to Proverbs 22:6, then the future will be in the hands of those who deny the true faith and rear their off-spring in the lies of the age. May we nurture ALL the children whose lives touch ours in the wisdom and admonition of our One True and Living Lord Jesus Christ.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Invite -- and Be Blessed
February 17
The individual whose heart is set on Christ cares little for the things of earth for they are fleeting and they are unsatisfying. Acquiring things, accumulating wealth can be the driving force of a life, but in the final analysis, having them can be equated to taking a big bite of cotton candy–and finding there is nothing in your mouth.
The believer in the Lord wants something more than the trappings of the world that slip like sand through his fingers. If he obtains the ‘good things’ of time, he holds them loosely. He does not count financial gain as his own but sees himself as a steward of God’s wealth and seeks His guidance in how to utilize it.
Proverbs 22:9 says, “A generous man shall himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” The less fortunate are ever on the heart of God and He is pleased when a man whom He has lavished with temporal treasure uses it to advantage those who have little. God expects the man who loves Him and understands that HE is his Source to give from his surrendered heart, not from compulsion.
We live in an age of governmental ‘redistribution of wealth,’ but this is not the way God would have giving to be accomplished. Generosity is to be up to the individual, not up to those in power who seize wealth from one to give to another. True blessedness is to, as Jesus said in Luke 14:13, 14, “…invite the poor, the crippled, the blind to your feasts and you will be blessed…you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
The individual whose heart is set on Christ cares little for the things of earth for they are fleeting and they are unsatisfying. Acquiring things, accumulating wealth can be the driving force of a life, but in the final analysis, having them can be equated to taking a big bite of cotton candy–and finding there is nothing in your mouth.
The believer in the Lord wants something more than the trappings of the world that slip like sand through his fingers. If he obtains the ‘good things’ of time, he holds them loosely. He does not count financial gain as his own but sees himself as a steward of God’s wealth and seeks His guidance in how to utilize it.
Proverbs 22:9 says, “A generous man shall himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” The less fortunate are ever on the heart of God and He is pleased when a man whom He has lavished with temporal treasure uses it to advantage those who have little. God expects the man who loves Him and understands that HE is his Source to give from his surrendered heart, not from compulsion.
We live in an age of governmental ‘redistribution of wealth,’ but this is not the way God would have giving to be accomplished. Generosity is to be up to the individual, not up to those in power who seize wealth from one to give to another. True blessedness is to, as Jesus said in Luke 14:13, 14, “…invite the poor, the crippled, the blind to your feasts and you will be blessed…you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
To Avoid Compromise, Love
February 16
We know we are admonished to, “Render to all their due. Tribute to whom tribute is due, custom to whom custom is due, fear to whom fear is due. We are to give honor to whom honor is due” Romans 13:7. The Word of God is very clear about coming forth with what is owed.
And yet, we are also told that we are to, “Owe no man anything but to love” Romans 13:8, for in loving, we will, “fulfill the law.” The Lord in His wisdom recognizes that if we will fulfill that one tenet, we will thereby fulfill all the law; we will gladly extend all that we owe, if we will but love.
If we withhold that one thing, if the law of love is not viable within us, we can hardly be depended upon to be forthcoming with anything else that we owe. We may ‘draw the line’ at different places—some may brazenly rob others of what is theirs, some may cheat in their taxes, some may file false insurance claims—but our integrity will be compromised somehow, to some degree, if we do not love.
But if we do love! Oh, then the Lord is glorified in us! We will be quick to be generous with our substance and with our prayers. There will be no good thing that we will not gladly share if we truly love Jesus above all else and comply with His law of love. In Matthew 10: 42 He says of such, “If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of My servants because he is My disciple…he will certainly not lose his reward.”
We know we are admonished to, “Render to all their due. Tribute to whom tribute is due, custom to whom custom is due, fear to whom fear is due. We are to give honor to whom honor is due” Romans 13:7. The Word of God is very clear about coming forth with what is owed.
And yet, we are also told that we are to, “Owe no man anything but to love” Romans 13:8, for in loving, we will, “fulfill the law.” The Lord in His wisdom recognizes that if we will fulfill that one tenet, we will thereby fulfill all the law; we will gladly extend all that we owe, if we will but love.
If we withhold that one thing, if the law of love is not viable within us, we can hardly be depended upon to be forthcoming with anything else that we owe. We may ‘draw the line’ at different places—some may brazenly rob others of what is theirs, some may cheat in their taxes, some may file false insurance claims—but our integrity will be compromised somehow, to some degree, if we do not love.
But if we do love! Oh, then the Lord is glorified in us! We will be quick to be generous with our substance and with our prayers. There will be no good thing that we will not gladly share if we truly love Jesus above all else and comply with His law of love. In Matthew 10: 42 He says of such, “If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of My servants because he is My disciple…he will certainly not lose his reward.”
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
An Eternal Refreshing
February 15
The Golden Rule, stated by Jesus Christ in Matthew 7:12 is, “Whatsoever you would have men do to you, do also unto them.” We are to evidence kindness, deference, honor, help—even as we would hope others would extend to us.
The reality of life on this fallen planet is that often, kindness is not reciprocated. Many times the good that is done from the hand of one who desires to serve the Lord is ill received by the intended beneficiary. We cannot control the mind or heart of the receiver. We can control only ourselves.
Our part is to manifest the love of Jesus Christ to everyone within our sphere of influence. Some have done so at great cost. Stalwart men of God have been slain on the mission field because they dared to reach out with the love of Jesus to those whose hearts have been darkened and whose understanding has been blinded by the evil one whose lies render children who were meant for love to be ensnared by hatred. Yet we know that anyone who reaches out with TRUTH will not lose his reward.
In Proverbs 11:25 we are told, “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” There is a blessing that comes to the man who honors God in truth. The reward may not be temporal. In fact, it may appear that he has lost all in the service of his Lord. But there is an eternal refreshing that comes to the one who dispels the darkness with Jesus’ glorious light.
The Golden Rule, stated by Jesus Christ in Matthew 7:12 is, “Whatsoever you would have men do to you, do also unto them.” We are to evidence kindness, deference, honor, help—even as we would hope others would extend to us.
The reality of life on this fallen planet is that often, kindness is not reciprocated. Many times the good that is done from the hand of one who desires to serve the Lord is ill received by the intended beneficiary. We cannot control the mind or heart of the receiver. We can control only ourselves.
Our part is to manifest the love of Jesus Christ to everyone within our sphere of influence. Some have done so at great cost. Stalwart men of God have been slain on the mission field because they dared to reach out with the love of Jesus to those whose hearts have been darkened and whose understanding has been blinded by the evil one whose lies render children who were meant for love to be ensnared by hatred. Yet we know that anyone who reaches out with TRUTH will not lose his reward.
In Proverbs 11:25 we are told, “A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” There is a blessing that comes to the man who honors God in truth. The reward may not be temporal. In fact, it may appear that he has lost all in the service of his Lord. But there is an eternal refreshing that comes to the one who dispels the darkness with Jesus’ glorious light.
Monday, February 14, 2011
It Never Fails
February 14
There are many legends surrounding the holiday we celebrate today. In Roman times, the feast of Lupercalia was celebrated when single young men and women drew names of partners and vowed to protect one another through the year. Often, the year culminated in the partners’ marriage.
The holiday we celebrate got its name from St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers who was beheaded during the reign of the Roman Emperor Claudius II who had banned marriage because he felt married men made poor soldiers. Valentine, a priest, performed marriages secretly. When he was discovered, he paid with his life.
Other legends swirl around the origins of the holiday, but the reality is that there is only one real source of love. The Bible tells us that “…God is love” (I John 4:8). If an individual does not love, he does not truly know God. The world has a counterfeit of love, but apart from knowing the One true and living God who is love, none of us is capable of love.
How can we ascertain the source of the love we see, to know whether it indeed flows from the heart of God? The Bible gives us some clear evidence of the love that HE manifests through His people in I Corinthians 13:4-8. Among the identifying characteristics of godly love are these: it does not boast; it is not self-seeking. It is not rude or proud. It disdains evil. And it never fails.
There are many legends surrounding the holiday we celebrate today. In Roman times, the feast of Lupercalia was celebrated when single young men and women drew names of partners and vowed to protect one another through the year. Often, the year culminated in the partners’ marriage.
The holiday we celebrate got its name from St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers who was beheaded during the reign of the Roman Emperor Claudius II who had banned marriage because he felt married men made poor soldiers. Valentine, a priest, performed marriages secretly. When he was discovered, he paid with his life.
Other legends swirl around the origins of the holiday, but the reality is that there is only one real source of love. The Bible tells us that “…God is love” (I John 4:8). If an individual does not love, he does not truly know God. The world has a counterfeit of love, but apart from knowing the One true and living God who is love, none of us is capable of love.
How can we ascertain the source of the love we see, to know whether it indeed flows from the heart of God? The Bible gives us some clear evidence of the love that HE manifests through His people in I Corinthians 13:4-8. Among the identifying characteristics of godly love are these: it does not boast; it is not self-seeking. It is not rude or proud. It disdains evil. And it never fails.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
For the Least of These
February 13
God is our Heavenly Father and our Great King. We are blessed to be part of the family of God because Jesus extended that privilege to everyone who would embrace Him as Savior and Lord (John 1:12). Because He loves us, He extends His care to us. The full force of His omnipotence is available to His child at the point of need.
We are told that we may ask anything in the name of Jesus and it shall be done (John 14:13). It is the Father’s good pleasure to honor the Son, and glory to our Triune God is lifted up when we pray in the name that is above all names (Philippians 2:9).
Yet, beyond what He is willing to do for us at the point of our need is the desire He has that we be His hand extended, that we be His heart of love manifested among the lost and dying generation that dwells in spiritual darkness around us. He has allowed us to be bearers of the Light of Jesus and He wants us to shine that glorious Light into the dark abyss of spiritual error; to dispel hatred with the power of His love.
Our Father God and King loves the lost. It is His desire that they be found in Christ. He wants the hatred that burns in their bosom to be transformed by the Light and Love they see in His children. In Matthew 25:40 He tells us this truth, “…whatever you did for the least of these … you did for Me.” May we do all for Him that His heart yearns for us to do, so all men may be His beloved children.
God is our Heavenly Father and our Great King. We are blessed to be part of the family of God because Jesus extended that privilege to everyone who would embrace Him as Savior and Lord (John 1:12). Because He loves us, He extends His care to us. The full force of His omnipotence is available to His child at the point of need.
We are told that we may ask anything in the name of Jesus and it shall be done (John 14:13). It is the Father’s good pleasure to honor the Son, and glory to our Triune God is lifted up when we pray in the name that is above all names (Philippians 2:9).
Yet, beyond what He is willing to do for us at the point of our need is the desire He has that we be His hand extended, that we be His heart of love manifested among the lost and dying generation that dwells in spiritual darkness around us. He has allowed us to be bearers of the Light of Jesus and He wants us to shine that glorious Light into the dark abyss of spiritual error; to dispel hatred with the power of His love.
Our Father God and King loves the lost. It is His desire that they be found in Christ. He wants the hatred that burns in their bosom to be transformed by the Light and Love they see in His children. In Matthew 25:40 He tells us this truth, “…whatever you did for the least of these … you did for Me.” May we do all for Him that His heart yearns for us to do, so all men may be His beloved children.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
To What Do We Cling?
February 12
We who name the name of the Lord Jesus Christ are fully aware that we are not to expect to be rewarded for the good that we do. We know that any act of kindness or generosity or compassion is what we owe to others because of what Jesus has done for us. He has given us eternal life. Should we not then share of this life’s gifts with others!
His Word compels us to reach out to help meet the needs of those within our sphere of influence. In Luke 18: 18-24, we see Jesus’ encounter with the rich, young ruler who asks Him what he must to be saved. Jesus tells him that he must keep the commandments and the young man assures Him that he has always kept them.
Jesus then suggests that he sell everything that he has and distribute the money to the poor and follow Him. It is at this point that the rich young man turns away sorrowfully, for he cannot bring himself to part with the earthly treasures that he possesses. Jesus’ assessment of him is that he treasures his wealth far more than he treasures the things of Heaven.
Certainly, that young man is not unique among the children of men. Were any one of us to be confronted with that decision, few of us would comply. We know that Proverbs 19:17 says, “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward him for what he has done,” yet we tend to cling to the things of time. Perhaps we don’t trust Him as much as we say we do!
We who name the name of the Lord Jesus Christ are fully aware that we are not to expect to be rewarded for the good that we do. We know that any act of kindness or generosity or compassion is what we owe to others because of what Jesus has done for us. He has given us eternal life. Should we not then share of this life’s gifts with others!
His Word compels us to reach out to help meet the needs of those within our sphere of influence. In Luke 18: 18-24, we see Jesus’ encounter with the rich, young ruler who asks Him what he must to be saved. Jesus tells him that he must keep the commandments and the young man assures Him that he has always kept them.
Jesus then suggests that he sell everything that he has and distribute the money to the poor and follow Him. It is at this point that the rich young man turns away sorrowfully, for he cannot bring himself to part with the earthly treasures that he possesses. Jesus’ assessment of him is that he treasures his wealth far more than he treasures the things of Heaven.
Certainly, that young man is not unique among the children of men. Were any one of us to be confronted with that decision, few of us would comply. We know that Proverbs 19:17 says, “He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward him for what he has done,” yet we tend to cling to the things of time. Perhaps we don’t trust Him as much as we say we do!
Friday, February 11, 2011
My Brother's Keeper
February 11
There’s a famous quote from Genesis that we’ve all probably repeated a time or two. Cain has just slain his brother Able and God asks him where Abel is. In Genesis 4:9 Cain responds to God’s question with a blatant lie, “I know not…” then he goes on to justify himself by adding, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
Of course, God knows precisely what has happened to Abel and tells Cain that the blood of his slain brother is crying out to Him. Our Heavenly Father cares about His people. He knows where they are at any given moment and He is aware of their needs. Sometimes He supplies their need to them from His own hand,
Sometimes, He expects us to do it. As it would have been right and good for Cain to ‘have his brother’s back’ as God had expected him to do instead of slaying him, so God desires those who call upon His name to have compassion upon people among us who are in need.
Proverbs 28:27 is very clear in the matter. It says, “He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.” God does not expect those who love Him to neglect to love his fellow man. Indeed, He places great esteem upon those who are compassionate—on those who are their brothers’ keeper.
There’s a famous quote from Genesis that we’ve all probably repeated a time or two. Cain has just slain his brother Able and God asks him where Abel is. In Genesis 4:9 Cain responds to God’s question with a blatant lie, “I know not…” then he goes on to justify himself by adding, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
Of course, God knows precisely what has happened to Abel and tells Cain that the blood of his slain brother is crying out to Him. Our Heavenly Father cares about His people. He knows where they are at any given moment and He is aware of their needs. Sometimes He supplies their need to them from His own hand,
Sometimes, He expects us to do it. As it would have been right and good for Cain to ‘have his brother’s back’ as God had expected him to do instead of slaying him, so God desires those who call upon His name to have compassion upon people among us who are in need.
Proverbs 28:27 is very clear in the matter. It says, “He who gives to the poor will lack nothing, but he who closes his eyes to them receives many curses.” God does not expect those who love Him to neglect to love his fellow man. Indeed, He places great esteem upon those who are compassionate—on those who are their brothers’ keeper.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Employ His Strength
February 10
The world esteems power. Whether it is physical prowess or financial clout or political influence, those who are focused upon this present age are enthralled by the concept of the superiority that can be achieved by these things that seem to grant great advantage to those who wield them.
It requires little but a cursory observation of those in whose hands power is held to recognize that they share their advantage among themselves. It is an almost altogether foreign concept that the ones who are high and mighty would extend themselves in any significant way to those who are not among the power elite.
This exclusivity flies in the face of Jesus who, “…though He was equal with God, made Himself of no reputation and took upon Himself the form of a man, “ Philippians 2:6, in order that He might extend to all who will believe in Him the opportunity to become the children of the Most High God.
As Psalm 41: 1, 2 declares, “Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble. The Lord will rescue and protect him and preserve his life; He will bless him and keep him from the desire of his foes.” Having regard for those of little strength allows the Mighty One to employ His strength in our behalf.
The world esteems power. Whether it is physical prowess or financial clout or political influence, those who are focused upon this present age are enthralled by the concept of the superiority that can be achieved by these things that seem to grant great advantage to those who wield them.
It requires little but a cursory observation of those in whose hands power is held to recognize that they share their advantage among themselves. It is an almost altogether foreign concept that the ones who are high and mighty would extend themselves in any significant way to those who are not among the power elite.
This exclusivity flies in the face of Jesus who, “…though He was equal with God, made Himself of no reputation and took upon Himself the form of a man, “ Philippians 2:6, in order that He might extend to all who will believe in Him the opportunity to become the children of the Most High God.
As Psalm 41: 1, 2 declares, “Blessed is he who has regard for the weak; the Lord delivers him in times of trouble. The Lord will rescue and protect him and preserve his life; He will bless him and keep him from the desire of his foes.” Having regard for those of little strength allows the Mighty One to employ His strength in our behalf.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Fulfill the Law of Kindness
February 9
We who believe in the Lordship of Jesus Christ know that we are to be like Him. Oh, that is not to say we are to delude ourselves into thinking more highly of ourselves than we should. It is simply to acknowledge that to the best of our ability—and relying upon the help of the Holy Spirit within us—we are to emulate our Savior.
Jesus has admonished us to say the kind, uplifting word rather than the critical or destructive one. We are to encourage rather than disparage. We are to fore-go the concept of revenge against those who do us ill. We are to love rather than hate. He has gone so far as to tell us that we must love even our enemies.
Does this mean our God is unaware and unconcerned about the injustices that may be perpetrated against His own people who are called by His name? No, He is fully aware and He cares. He simply wants us to leave the matters that concern us in His hand, trusting that He will make things right.
Our part is to fulfill the law of kindness; to shed the light of His love upon everyone—especially those who hate us, for they need to see it most. We are to be “…kind to the needy,” Proverbs 14:21, to, “love our enemies and do good to those who despite-fully use us,” Luke 6: 35, 36. In so doing, we bless others and allow the Lord to bless us.
We who believe in the Lordship of Jesus Christ know that we are to be like Him. Oh, that is not to say we are to delude ourselves into thinking more highly of ourselves than we should. It is simply to acknowledge that to the best of our ability—and relying upon the help of the Holy Spirit within us—we are to emulate our Savior.
Jesus has admonished us to say the kind, uplifting word rather than the critical or destructive one. We are to encourage rather than disparage. We are to fore-go the concept of revenge against those who do us ill. We are to love rather than hate. He has gone so far as to tell us that we must love even our enemies.
Does this mean our God is unaware and unconcerned about the injustices that may be perpetrated against His own people who are called by His name? No, He is fully aware and He cares. He simply wants us to leave the matters that concern us in His hand, trusting that He will make things right.
Our part is to fulfill the law of kindness; to shed the light of His love upon everyone—especially those who hate us, for they need to see it most. We are to be “…kind to the needy,” Proverbs 14:21, to, “love our enemies and do good to those who despite-fully use us,” Luke 6: 35, 36. In so doing, we bless others and allow the Lord to bless us.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Eternally Full
February 8
The mindset of those who have grown up in Twentieth Century America is focused on wealth and power. We have lived in the greatest nation that has ever existed during man’s sojourn on earth. We have enjoyed personal freedom and financial stability. We have trusted our government to maintain our freedom through its strength and to share its abundance with those less fortunate.
We have come to a troubling place in our experience, for the things we thought were unshakable have been and continue to be shaken. The integrity of those we’ve elected to represent us is questionable. It seems they not only fail to share our values but they are bent upon destroying those values and imposing the rule of godlessness upon our nation.
At such a time as this, we find the faith of our fathers also being disparaged. Where the law of God was once extolled and was once foundational to the law of the land, where once assent was given to the rightful authority of Jesus Christ over us, we find that name which is above all names (Philippians 2:9) is not even allowed to be mentioned in the public forum today!
People of faith find themselves reduced in hope and discomfited in spirit because of the aspersions that are being cast upon the Holy One whom we know to be the only Savior of the world and the only God. But we take hope from His own words in Matthew 5:3, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” Jesus will come in great power and glory and when He does, the coffers of those who believe will be eternally full!
The mindset of those who have grown up in Twentieth Century America is focused on wealth and power. We have lived in the greatest nation that has ever existed during man’s sojourn on earth. We have enjoyed personal freedom and financial stability. We have trusted our government to maintain our freedom through its strength and to share its abundance with those less fortunate.
We have come to a troubling place in our experience, for the things we thought were unshakable have been and continue to be shaken. The integrity of those we’ve elected to represent us is questionable. It seems they not only fail to share our values but they are bent upon destroying those values and imposing the rule of godlessness upon our nation.
At such a time as this, we find the faith of our fathers also being disparaged. Where the law of God was once extolled and was once foundational to the law of the land, where once assent was given to the rightful authority of Jesus Christ over us, we find that name which is above all names (Philippians 2:9) is not even allowed to be mentioned in the public forum today!
People of faith find themselves reduced in hope and discomfited in spirit because of the aspersions that are being cast upon the Holy One whom we know to be the only Savior of the world and the only God. But we take hope from His own words in Matthew 5:3, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” Jesus will come in great power and glory and when He does, the coffers of those who believe will be eternally full!
Monday, February 7, 2011
Come Before Him in the Sanctuary
February 7
We are admonished in Hebrews 10:25 that we must not, “forsake the assembling of ourselves together.” There is great importance placed upon the unity that is gained when God’s people meet together and are of one mind and one accord as they approach His throne together. There is much power in concerted prayer.
Though He certainly gives ear to the heartfelt cry of the heart of any individual in any circumstance, though the petitions lifted to heaven singly indeed touch the heart of God and compel His mercy toward the supplicant, the combined voices of those who call upon the name of Jesus will make the church into a holy place.
The power of concerted prayer will transform the heart of His people, the temple where His Holy Spirit dwells, into a flame where the fire of His presence will sear away the dross of the world and endue the believer with power from the Throne of Majesty on High.
When His people come before Him in the sanctuary with one mind and of one accord—to meet Him and to touch the hem of His garment—they shall realize the promise found in Psalm 65:4 which says, “Blessed are those who draw near to dwell in Your courts. We are filled with the good things of Your House, Your Holy Temple.”
We are admonished in Hebrews 10:25 that we must not, “forsake the assembling of ourselves together.” There is great importance placed upon the unity that is gained when God’s people meet together and are of one mind and one accord as they approach His throne together. There is much power in concerted prayer.
Though He certainly gives ear to the heartfelt cry of the heart of any individual in any circumstance, though the petitions lifted to heaven singly indeed touch the heart of God and compel His mercy toward the supplicant, the combined voices of those who call upon the name of Jesus will make the church into a holy place.
The power of concerted prayer will transform the heart of His people, the temple where His Holy Spirit dwells, into a flame where the fire of His presence will sear away the dross of the world and endue the believer with power from the Throne of Majesty on High.
When His people come before Him in the sanctuary with one mind and of one accord—to meet Him and to touch the hem of His garment—they shall realize the promise found in Psalm 65:4 which says, “Blessed are those who draw near to dwell in Your courts. We are filled with the good things of Your House, Your Holy Temple.”
Sunday, February 6, 2011
The Gifts and Calling of God
February 6
The gifts and calling of God are without repentance. We may look upon ministers of the gospel and wonder at the grace of the Holy One who continues to allow His message to be set forth by individuals who have departed from devotion to Christ and set about to aggrandize self, to overflow personal coffers, through their ministry of the Word.
We are to know a tree by its fruit; we are to refrain from support of one who does not minister the word of God in truth, but we cannot allow ourselves to succumb to the kind of negative response that might result in our own plummet into another form of sin—that of judging a man’s heart. Only God Himself can weigh a man’s motives.
If we understand the words spoken by the brother of our Lord, we gain insight into God’s heart, for James 1:17 tells us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Once a man is called to labor in God’s vineyard, he is allowed to continue to work there.
Though his heart may change toward the things of God, though he may mistake the blessings with which the Father lavishes him as gain his own resourcefulness has accrued to him, yet will the Holy One not remove him from his position. No, He will allow his recalcitrance to come to the fruition it deserves and judge it on that final day!
The gifts and calling of God are without repentance. We may look upon ministers of the gospel and wonder at the grace of the Holy One who continues to allow His message to be set forth by individuals who have departed from devotion to Christ and set about to aggrandize self, to overflow personal coffers, through their ministry of the Word.
We are to know a tree by its fruit; we are to refrain from support of one who does not minister the word of God in truth, but we cannot allow ourselves to succumb to the kind of negative response that might result in our own plummet into another form of sin—that of judging a man’s heart. Only God Himself can weigh a man’s motives.
If we understand the words spoken by the brother of our Lord, we gain insight into God’s heart, for James 1:17 tells us, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Once a man is called to labor in God’s vineyard, he is allowed to continue to work there.
Though his heart may change toward the things of God, though he may mistake the blessings with which the Father lavishes him as gain his own resourcefulness has accrued to him, yet will the Holy One not remove him from his position. No, He will allow his recalcitrance to come to the fruition it deserves and judge it on that final day!
Saturday, February 5, 2011
He Blesses and Saves...
February 5
The Jews are God’s chosen people. Sometimes it must seem to them that they were pre-ordained for sorrow and persecution. Indeed, much of history is filled with the result of hatred directed against the Jews. What culminated in the Holocaust of the Twentieth Century was preceded by much recorded vitriol.
Today, there is a resurgence of animosity against the people who were trusted by God to be the chroniclers of His truth, against the ones through whom His Deliverer was promised. It is embodied in the hatred of their moslem cousins. The conflict between the two sons of Abraham, Ishmael and Isaac, seems to have peaked in our generation.
Governments that once supported the right of Jews to occupy their ancient homeland of Palestine have withdrawn that support and instead affirm the claim of those who call themselves Palestinians to more and ever more territory from the small parcel of land that was allotted to the Jews.
But though the world may turn its back on the Jewish people, God will not. Nor will He turn Himself away from their persecutors! It is His desire that ALL come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ! Ephesians 10:12, 13 says, “There is no difference between Jew and Gentile…the Lord blesses and saves all who call upon the name of Jesus.”
The Jews are God’s chosen people. Sometimes it must seem to them that they were pre-ordained for sorrow and persecution. Indeed, much of history is filled with the result of hatred directed against the Jews. What culminated in the Holocaust of the Twentieth Century was preceded by much recorded vitriol.
Today, there is a resurgence of animosity against the people who were trusted by God to be the chroniclers of His truth, against the ones through whom His Deliverer was promised. It is embodied in the hatred of their moslem cousins. The conflict between the two sons of Abraham, Ishmael and Isaac, seems to have peaked in our generation.
Governments that once supported the right of Jews to occupy their ancient homeland of Palestine have withdrawn that support and instead affirm the claim of those who call themselves Palestinians to more and ever more territory from the small parcel of land that was allotted to the Jews.
But though the world may turn its back on the Jewish people, God will not. Nor will He turn Himself away from their persecutors! It is His desire that ALL come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ! Ephesians 10:12, 13 says, “There is no difference between Jew and Gentile…the Lord blesses and saves all who call upon the name of Jesus.”
Friday, February 4, 2011
God's Work
February 4
God’s work is not done under a bushel. He doesn’t manifest Himself in the darkness where only a few well-sighted may see. As the Word tells us, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the earth shows His handiwork…there is no speech or language that cannot hear their declaration of His majesty,” Psalm 19:1, 3
.
When we study the intricacy of a human cell through a microscope or the complexity of the heavens through a powerful telescope, we see the pattern God has woven through the entirety of creation. No one, beholding the wonder of birth can negate the unfathomable greatness of the God who gives life.
No one contemplating the potential of a newborn child can deny the amazing scope of the human capacity to achieve the “great and mighty things you do not know” that Jeremiah 33:3 declares He will reveal to the one who calls to Him. In fact, it takes a great ‘faith’ in nothing at all to deny God’s glory as it is displayed in the created world.
Anyone who has eyes to see and a mind to grasp the wonder of our God and Savior cannot but proclaim as did David 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.” May we take refuge in Him and extol His glory.
God’s work is not done under a bushel. He doesn’t manifest Himself in the darkness where only a few well-sighted may see. As the Word tells us, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the earth shows His handiwork…there is no speech or language that cannot hear their declaration of His majesty,” Psalm 19:1, 3
.
When we study the intricacy of a human cell through a microscope or the complexity of the heavens through a powerful telescope, we see the pattern God has woven through the entirety of creation. No one, beholding the wonder of birth can negate the unfathomable greatness of the God who gives life.
No one contemplating the potential of a newborn child can deny the amazing scope of the human capacity to achieve the “great and mighty things you do not know” that Jeremiah 33:3 declares He will reveal to the one who calls to Him. In fact, it takes a great ‘faith’ in nothing at all to deny God’s glory as it is displayed in the created world.
Anyone who has eyes to see and a mind to grasp the wonder of our God and Savior cannot but proclaim as did David 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.” May we take refuge in Him and extol His glory.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Blindness Caused Him to See
February 3
The Apostle Paul was a man who had had his value system turned around. He had once focused entirely upon his status among his people. He specifically concerned himself with maintaining and representing his own steadfast integrity in matters concerning the law, which was, of course, the religious law.
It was not so much that he desired to please God above all things, as it may have appeared to the observer of his life, but that Paul wanted the observers of his life to find no fault in him. He was climbing the ladder of success and he didn’t intend to slide off in his ascension because he’d faltered in any matter of compliance with the religious law.
It was not until Paul met Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-16) that he realized the insignificance of all he’d valued and the value of all he’d despised. It was the revelation of the glory of Christ that blinded him physically and caused him to see the spiritual truth he thought he understood but had never truly seen.
When he came away from the encounter with his spiritual eyes opened, he became the greatest proponent of Christ who has ever lived! He was then able to declare, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realm with every spiritual blessing in Christ,” (Ephesians 1:3), the only blessing there is.
The Apostle Paul was a man who had had his value system turned around. He had once focused entirely upon his status among his people. He specifically concerned himself with maintaining and representing his own steadfast integrity in matters concerning the law, which was, of course, the religious law.
It was not so much that he desired to please God above all things, as it may have appeared to the observer of his life, but that Paul wanted the observers of his life to find no fault in him. He was climbing the ladder of success and he didn’t intend to slide off in his ascension because he’d faltered in any matter of compliance with the religious law.
It was not until Paul met Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-16) that he realized the insignificance of all he’d valued and the value of all he’d despised. It was the revelation of the glory of Christ that blinded him physically and caused him to see the spiritual truth he thought he understood but had never truly seen.
When he came away from the encounter with his spiritual eyes opened, he became the greatest proponent of Christ who has ever lived! He was then able to declare, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realm with every spiritual blessing in Christ,” (Ephesians 1:3), the only blessing there is.
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Secure
February 2
The mighty oak is an example of one of life’s few virtually unshakable things. Others come to mind—the glorious mountain peaks that arise from the earth and stretch into the heavens; the borders of land that stop the momentum of the mighty seas. Yet even these things can be shaken under extraordinary circumstances.
An oak can be felled by the ax of a forester. A mountain can erupt into a blazing inferno because of molten lava deep within its bowels and be reduced to ash that can be scattered around the world on the wings of the wind. The relentless wash of the sea upon the shore will, with time, transform the configuration of the earth.
Realizing that even ‘unshakable’ things can be shaken, in what is a man to put his trust? He cannot find permanent security in the mighty things of earth. He cannot depend upon a hiding place in the forest or rise like the eagle to the safety of the mountain top. If his home is upon the coast, he cannot be sure that the next violent storm will not wash it into the sea.
But the Word of God is not subject to change. It cannot be shaken. When that great day comes when the Lord comes to receive His own, then will come to pass the fullness of the promise found in Jeremiah 17:7, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.” Jesus, the Living Word of God (John 1:1) is the single entity in which a man may place his trust and be secure for time and eternity
The mighty oak is an example of one of life’s few virtually unshakable things. Others come to mind—the glorious mountain peaks that arise from the earth and stretch into the heavens; the borders of land that stop the momentum of the mighty seas. Yet even these things can be shaken under extraordinary circumstances.
An oak can be felled by the ax of a forester. A mountain can erupt into a blazing inferno because of molten lava deep within its bowels and be reduced to ash that can be scattered around the world on the wings of the wind. The relentless wash of the sea upon the shore will, with time, transform the configuration of the earth.
Realizing that even ‘unshakable’ things can be shaken, in what is a man to put his trust? He cannot find permanent security in the mighty things of earth. He cannot depend upon a hiding place in the forest or rise like the eagle to the safety of the mountain top. If his home is upon the coast, he cannot be sure that the next violent storm will not wash it into the sea.
But the Word of God is not subject to change. It cannot be shaken. When that great day comes when the Lord comes to receive His own, then will come to pass the fullness of the promise found in Jeremiah 17:7, “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.” Jesus, the Living Word of God (John 1:1) is the single entity in which a man may place his trust and be secure for time and eternity
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Brush It Off As We Go
February 1
We brush shoulders with evil all the time. We may or may not realize when we are in the presence of the unholy, depending upon how much we allow ourselves to hear the whispering of the Holy Spirit within us. We know it is His job to guide and guard and teach us, so if we listen, we will hear His voice of warning when evil is near.
We can be sure the Holy Spirit will fulfill this role because it is part of what He was sent to do—to ‘teach us all things’ John 14:26. Not only does He give us the words to say when we are called upon to make defense of our faith before men (Luke 12:12) but He will also lead us into greater understanding of truth (John 16:13, 14).
Yet, there is a sense of the growing pervasiveness of evil in today’s world. How then, can a believer in Christ avoid contact with its ever-increasing presence? Perhaps we cannot entirely avert our eyes from seeing the ungodly messages of the world or stop our ears from hearing the siren call of the wicked things that allure the foolish to sin. But complete avoidance is not what we are called to do.
Psalm 1:1, 2 says, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers, but his delight is in the law of the Lord…” God makes a distinction between taking counsel with evil and brushing shoulders with it. When we walk with it, we are part of it. When it touches us in the course of our day-to-day walk, we flee from it and brush it off as we go.
We brush shoulders with evil all the time. We may or may not realize when we are in the presence of the unholy, depending upon how much we allow ourselves to hear the whispering of the Holy Spirit within us. We know it is His job to guide and guard and teach us, so if we listen, we will hear His voice of warning when evil is near.
We can be sure the Holy Spirit will fulfill this role because it is part of what He was sent to do—to ‘teach us all things’ John 14:26. Not only does He give us the words to say when we are called upon to make defense of our faith before men (Luke 12:12) but He will also lead us into greater understanding of truth (John 16:13, 14).
Yet, there is a sense of the growing pervasiveness of evil in today’s world. How then, can a believer in Christ avoid contact with its ever-increasing presence? Perhaps we cannot entirely avert our eyes from seeing the ungodly messages of the world or stop our ears from hearing the siren call of the wicked things that allure the foolish to sin. But complete avoidance is not what we are called to do.
Psalm 1:1, 2 says, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers, but his delight is in the law of the Lord…” God makes a distinction between taking counsel with evil and brushing shoulders with it. When we walk with it, we are part of it. When it touches us in the course of our day-to-day walk, we flee from it and brush it off as we go.
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