Life is moving quickly, too fast sometimes, around me. I never thought I'd admit that, but somehow living in the 5th decade of life changes things. I thrive on challenges and activity. Today I was wide awake at 4:30 AM, looking forward to getting into the work of the day. But, I wonder if I'm staying sharp, keeping the edge that is necessary for effectiveness? The Bible reminds us - "Since a dull ax requires great strength, sharpen the blade. That’s the value of wisdom; it helps you succeed." (Ecclesiastes 10:10, NLT) Am I working hard and wisely, or am I just working hard?
More than a few times, I've observed people who create quite a cloud of dust around themselves. They charge at this and that, taking on a new project, starting another ministry, trying a new experience. Their lives are a blur, but when you blow away the dust, clearing the air, you don't find much of substance. They're hard working, but not wise. By contrast, I see others who seem to be moving effortlessly through life, while leaving finished projects and improved lives in their wake. Something is happening that is out of sight, under the surface, that makes them truly effective. They are sharp, with a edge of effectiveness.
So, how can we keep that edge?
Stephen Covey, who teaches leadership and life skills, observes that we need to practice renewal in four dimensions: the physical, the spiritual, the mental, and the social.
We need to take care of these physical bodies that serve as our earthly houses. The decline of strength with age is inevitable, but too often we hasten the process by foolishly ignoring the simplest tasks of maintenance. (Yes, I know I need to work at this! I probably take better care of my car than my body! Shame on me.) Because God has made our bodies so wonderfully, with amazing recuperative powers, we can go a long, long time eating junk and without regular exercise before we experience a breakdown. However, it is a proven fact that a person who eats a healthy diet and gets regular exercise can expect better health for a longer period of time. We don't have become neurotic about food or exercise to just have good health practices that help us keep the edge.
The spiritual part of us is the core of our being! Yet, so many of us drop 'soul maintenance' low on the list. There are the obvious choices that we make in staying sharp spiritually, things like regularly worshipping with others, practicing spiritual disciplines of prayer and Scripture intake, serving God and others regularly. But there are the less obvious choices that are critically important, too. Living with a forgiving attitude that refuses to drag around resentment and/or bitterness is one of them. Almost nothing saps spiritual vitality from a person like simmering resentment of another person. Jesus urges us to forgive quickly, because He knows it is our choice to do so and that we need to do it. Living with in a generous and loving way is another one of those daily choices that helps to keep the edge. If we remind ourselves of God's love, accept it for ourselves, we will love others. "First we were loved, now we love. God loved us first." (1 John 4:19, The Message) When we tend our spiritual dimension, we keep our spiritual hearing acute, our vision sharp. Don't neglect this dimension of your life.
A mind is an amazing thing. From the mysteries of our brains flow creativity, artistry, problem-solving, - all the creative gifts of God. A mind terrible thing to waste, but it happens so easily. In the evening, the TV beckons us to become passive. I've watched two hours of TV more than once and the next morning couldn't even remember what I saw. My brain simply switched off and let the flickering images and sounds pass through, decreasing my mental acuity in the process. Read books! Listen to good music. Spend some time in conversation about something other than the weather. Learn something new, just for the joy of knowledge. If you do watch TV, be aware of what you're watching and how much. Just like the physical diet, there's a time to enjoy some dessert, but not too much, and not all the time!
Social skills are not automatically gained, are they? Some are more blessed than others with natural abilities to 'connect' with people around themselves. But all of us can learn to build relationships, if we realize the importance of them. In a strange paradox, we are the most 'connected' society on earth in all of recorded history! We are wired with email, carry cell phones everywhere, and enjoy unbelievable communication technology, yet most of us don't know even our next door neighbors. We live in little cocoons, inside our homes, with media as our company. But, if we not constantly tending to the connections to people around us, especially those key people whose gifts complement ours, we quickly diminish our effectiveness for God.
All this isn't a new revelation or rocket science, is it? It's really common sense.
So as you read this in the middle of this Summer when it's more easy to lose the edge, my prayer is that God will stir you up.
Spend a few moments setting some goals. Commit them to paper. Make them specific. Share them with somebody, maybe even posting your list on the frig for your family, so they can help you stay on task.
Pray that God, the Holy Spirit, will give you insight, too. Ask Him to restore the edge so you won't just be working hard, but also working effectively.
"Live wisely . . ., and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and effective ..." (Colossians 4:5-6, NLT)
Jerry D. Scott, Pastor
Washington Assembly of God
http://www.WashingtonAG.com
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Monday, July 17, 2006
The stuff we do
The world watched, first as Hezbollah fighters kidnapped three Israeli soldiers, and then at the inevitable response of Israel's military. Now, just days later, more than 300 people are dead and $millions of property has been destroyed. Those of us sitting here in America wonder why these people do the things they do. Why would terrorists not realize that taking Israeli soldiers would provoke an attack? Why does Israel use such force in retaliation? It all seems so futile, an escalating cycle of violence that, in the end, accomplishes little or nothing except to deepen the bitterness and stoke the flames of hatred. But that is my American mind talking without all the history and emotion of the people who live there. Hezbollah, (the name means 'the party of God') does things that to most of us seem stupid, rather like sticking one's hand into a grinder! But to some militant Muslims they are heroes, resisting the hated Zionists, even in the face of overwhelming odds. War is not logical. It is a human response that, ultimately, comes from the depravity of human nature.
My point today is not to argue Middle East politics. I want us to think about the things we do. Why do we do act in ways that prove destructive to ourselves and those around us, repeating the same mistakes, again and again? The Bible explains to us that - apart from Christ- we are sinners: that we are deceived by the world systems, by the sinful nature, and by the Devil himself. In Ephesians, we read- ". . . you must no longer live as the Gentiles (godless) do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts." (Ephesians 4:17-18, NIV) It isn't just that people just go ahead and decide to sin despite the consequences. Those without the life of the Spirit do not even realize that they are doing wrong. Wrong often seems so right.
Believer, even in our minds, there can be a genuine disconnect between our actions and the consequences of those choices. If we are not actively seeking God, humbly acknowledging our need of His grace, and renewing our minds with the Holy Word - we will become deceived! We will gradually slip back into darkness. If we would live wholly and holy, we need to faithfully walk with the Spirit, enlightened to the reality by His work in us. As we respond to His leading, pray for His wisdom, we are empowered to make different choices that lead us to a godly and good life. The Bible says, "... in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.... You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully..." (Ephesians 4:22-25, NIV)
Believer, are you living 'in the truth?'
Are you inviting the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and insight so that you are continually transformed, first in your thoughts, and then in your actions?
Don't rely solely on your intuition, your gut, or your conscience in making the moral choices. Proverbs warns, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." (16:25, NIV)
Pray, too, for God, the Spirit, to open the eyes of those around you who continue to sabotage their lives with stupid and/or sinful choices. Don't just judge them, write them off, or turn away from them. Ask the Lord to open their eyes, to give them grace. Realize that those without God stumble around the darkness and then pray that you can become a person who carries the Light of Christ into their darkness.
Here's a word from the Word. Meditate on it today.
"Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking.
Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out.
Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it.
Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity,
God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you." (Romans 12:2, The Message)
My point today is not to argue Middle East politics. I want us to think about the things we do. Why do we do act in ways that prove destructive to ourselves and those around us, repeating the same mistakes, again and again? The Bible explains to us that - apart from Christ- we are sinners: that we are deceived by the world systems, by the sinful nature, and by the Devil himself. In Ephesians, we read- ". . . you must no longer live as the Gentiles (godless) do, in the futility of their thinking. They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts." (Ephesians 4:17-18, NIV) It isn't just that people just go ahead and decide to sin despite the consequences. Those without the life of the Spirit do not even realize that they are doing wrong. Wrong often seems so right.
Believer, even in our minds, there can be a genuine disconnect between our actions and the consequences of those choices. If we are not actively seeking God, humbly acknowledging our need of His grace, and renewing our minds with the Holy Word - we will become deceived! We will gradually slip back into darkness. If we would live wholly and holy, we need to faithfully walk with the Spirit, enlightened to the reality by His work in us. As we respond to His leading, pray for His wisdom, we are empowered to make different choices that lead us to a godly and good life. The Bible says, "... in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.... You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully..." (Ephesians 4:22-25, NIV)
Believer, are you living 'in the truth?'
Are you inviting the Holy Spirit to give you wisdom and insight so that you are continually transformed, first in your thoughts, and then in your actions?
Don't rely solely on your intuition, your gut, or your conscience in making the moral choices. Proverbs warns, "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death." (16:25, NIV)
Pray, too, for God, the Spirit, to open the eyes of those around you who continue to sabotage their lives with stupid and/or sinful choices. Don't just judge them, write them off, or turn away from them. Ask the Lord to open their eyes, to give them grace. Realize that those without God stumble around the darkness and then pray that you can become a person who carries the Light of Christ into their darkness.
Here's a word from the Word. Meditate on it today.
"Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking.
Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out.
Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it.
Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity,
God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you." (Romans 12:2, The Message)
Friday, July 14, 2006
Are you a critic?
One of the hazards of leadership is criticism. It doesn't matter if you're leading a Little League team or the United States of America. If you're making decisions, somebody is going to think you made them in the wrong way! Donald Rumsfield, the Defense Secretary who is a primary architect of the war in Iraq and a lightning rod for criticism, said "I am truly saddened by the thought that anyone could have the impression that I or others here are doing anything other than working urgently to see that the lives of the fighting men and women are protected and cared for in everyway humanly possible." In his public position, he knows that he will be criticized, that people without the same kind of information he has, will form conclusions about the way he carries out his responsibilities.
The fact is that leaders are human. Sometimes they do a better job than other times! Sometimes they disappoint us and sometimes they delight us. Speaking as one who leads, the most frustrating thing about the criticism that comes my way is when it comes from the critic's own frustration or failure to grasp the full dimension of issues involved. If, as a pastor, I take action that is wrong and someone points out that I've made a error in judgment, that is valuable criticism. If, on the other hand, I simply do not or cannot respond to the desires of someone and therefore they choose to become a critic, I find that that kind of criticism much harder to deal with.
Kevin Offner, in the Student Leadership Journal, published by IVP, offers the following advice to those who are ready to become a critic. Let me urge you to read his advice carefully today. It could transform your relationship with someone who you're about to make into a target of criticism.
_____________________________________
Here are five changes I believe critical people need to make.
First, we must have our spiritual eyes opened to see two truths: the heinous depth of our own sin and the amazing grace of God’s love toward us in Christ. Spiritual sight is not something we can will. God must give it. But we can cry out to Him for it. “Lord, would You open my eyes to see myself soberly and to know Your love more intimately?” We desperately need to feel the weight of our own sin and then to cast ourselves upon God’s grace. No mere head knowledge, here. “Wash your hands, you sinners. . . . Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief” (Jas. 4:8–9, NLT). When King David’s blind eyes were finally opened to his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, he didn't merely acknowledge it in some academic, emotionally removed way. He fell on his face and fasted for days (2 Sam. 12:16)!
Second, we must be deeply convinced that we can never know with certainty another person’s motives. Yes, we can see actions, and clearly sinful actions need to be confronted. But we must catch ourselves when we hurriedly, often unconsciously, make that jump from He did this to He is obviously acting from pride (or insecurity or revenge, etc.). There are so many factors beyond our knowledge that motivate another’s actions. Only God sees the heart, and only His judgment will be 100 percent accurate and fair. Now, perceptive people will hear this admonition yet still secretly think, Well, yes, but you see, I really do know why this person does what she does. Sometimes we are right. But we must remember that we may very well be wrong.
Third, when we’re bothered by another’s actions, we must pray fervently for that person and our response to him or her. What would happen if we channeled all our critical energy into a running dialogue with that person’s (and our) Creator?
Fourth, we must learn to be diplomatic and direct in confronting people one on one. No fake smiles, no repression of negative feelings, but instead, direct, tactful communication. Our goal is not to blast people or to inform them of all their hidden character flaws. Rather, our goals are God’s glory and the reconciliation of broken relationships. Recently I talked with the student I described earlier regarding her critical spirit. “I feel I need to tell you something. Yet I’m hesitant to do it for fear of losing your friendship. For the last several times I've been with you, you have spoken critically of something either the group or I have done. There’s often much truth in what you say, but I find myself frequently dragged down by your comments. We need encouragement as well as criticism. I value your friendship, and thus I thought I ought to share this with you.” I'll be honest: she didn't respond as I’d hoped. But I did feel right about being direct and honest rather than nurturing my own critical spirit.
Finally, we need to be encouragers, genuinely building others up and helping them become all God longs for them to be. I want to get excited about making others successful. I can be an encourager in others’ lives, as Barnabas was to Paul. I can trust God to provide encouragement for me as well. I have watched people melt when given a rightly timed, genuinely motivated word of affirmation or gratitude. And I know how empowered I feel when I’m around a genuine encourager.
_____________________________________
It's not always wrong to be a critic, but if you must, be a constructive critic. Always aim to build up others, to discover the Kingdom aim in a given situation.We have a BIG job to do, Believer. Let's not allow sniping at one another to destroy our effectiveness and the joy of working together in His kingdom. Got a 'beef' with someone?Figure out if it's worth discussing. If it's not, shake it off, and let it go into the "sea of forgetfulness!" If it is, then follow the steps to the best outcome.
_____________________________________
Be in worship on Sunday. Come with a prepared heart and mind, ready to hear, ready to worship, ready to receive!
The fact is that leaders are human. Sometimes they do a better job than other times! Sometimes they disappoint us and sometimes they delight us. Speaking as one who leads, the most frustrating thing about the criticism that comes my way is when it comes from the critic's own frustration or failure to grasp the full dimension of issues involved. If, as a pastor, I take action that is wrong and someone points out that I've made a error in judgment, that is valuable criticism. If, on the other hand, I simply do not or cannot respond to the desires of someone and therefore they choose to become a critic, I find that that kind of criticism much harder to deal with.
Kevin Offner, in the Student Leadership Journal, published by IVP, offers the following advice to those who are ready to become a critic. Let me urge you to read his advice carefully today. It could transform your relationship with someone who you're about to make into a target of criticism.
_____________________________________
Here are five changes I believe critical people need to make.
First, we must have our spiritual eyes opened to see two truths: the heinous depth of our own sin and the amazing grace of God’s love toward us in Christ. Spiritual sight is not something we can will. God must give it. But we can cry out to Him for it. “Lord, would You open my eyes to see myself soberly and to know Your love more intimately?” We desperately need to feel the weight of our own sin and then to cast ourselves upon God’s grace. No mere head knowledge, here. “Wash your hands, you sinners. . . . Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief” (Jas. 4:8–9, NLT). When King David’s blind eyes were finally opened to his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, he didn't merely acknowledge it in some academic, emotionally removed way. He fell on his face and fasted for days (2 Sam. 12:16)!
Second, we must be deeply convinced that we can never know with certainty another person’s motives. Yes, we can see actions, and clearly sinful actions need to be confronted. But we must catch ourselves when we hurriedly, often unconsciously, make that jump from He did this to He is obviously acting from pride (or insecurity or revenge, etc.). There are so many factors beyond our knowledge that motivate another’s actions. Only God sees the heart, and only His judgment will be 100 percent accurate and fair. Now, perceptive people will hear this admonition yet still secretly think, Well, yes, but you see, I really do know why this person does what she does. Sometimes we are right. But we must remember that we may very well be wrong.
Third, when we’re bothered by another’s actions, we must pray fervently for that person and our response to him or her. What would happen if we channeled all our critical energy into a running dialogue with that person’s (and our) Creator?
Fourth, we must learn to be diplomatic and direct in confronting people one on one. No fake smiles, no repression of negative feelings, but instead, direct, tactful communication. Our goal is not to blast people or to inform them of all their hidden character flaws. Rather, our goals are God’s glory and the reconciliation of broken relationships. Recently I talked with the student I described earlier regarding her critical spirit. “I feel I need to tell you something. Yet I’m hesitant to do it for fear of losing your friendship. For the last several times I've been with you, you have spoken critically of something either the group or I have done. There’s often much truth in what you say, but I find myself frequently dragged down by your comments. We need encouragement as well as criticism. I value your friendship, and thus I thought I ought to share this with you.” I'll be honest: she didn't respond as I’d hoped. But I did feel right about being direct and honest rather than nurturing my own critical spirit.
Finally, we need to be encouragers, genuinely building others up and helping them become all God longs for them to be. I want to get excited about making others successful. I can be an encourager in others’ lives, as Barnabas was to Paul. I can trust God to provide encouragement for me as well. I have watched people melt when given a rightly timed, genuinely motivated word of affirmation or gratitude. And I know how empowered I feel when I’m around a genuine encourager.
_____________________________________
It's not always wrong to be a critic, but if you must, be a constructive critic. Always aim to build up others, to discover the Kingdom aim in a given situation.We have a BIG job to do, Believer. Let's not allow sniping at one another to destroy our effectiveness and the joy of working together in His kingdom. Got a 'beef' with someone?Figure out if it's worth discussing. If it's not, shake it off, and let it go into the "sea of forgetfulness!" If it is, then follow the steps to the best outcome.
_____________________________________
Be in worship on Sunday. Come with a prepared heart and mind, ready to hear, ready to worship, ready to receive!
Are you a critic?
One of the hazards of leadership is criticism. It doesn't matter if you're leading a Little League team or the United States of America. If you're making decisions, somebody is going to think you made them in the wrong way! Donald Rumsfield, the Defense Secretary who is a primary architect of the war in Iraq and a lightning rod for criticism, said "I am truly saddened by the thought that anyone could have the impression that I or others here are doing anything other than working urgently to see that the lives of the fighting men and women are protected and cared for in everyway humanly possible." In his public position, he knows that he will be criticized, that people without the same kind of information he has, will form conclusions about the way he carries out his responsibilities.
The fact is that leaders are human. Sometimes they do a better job than other times! Sometimes they disappoint us and sometimes they delight us. Speaking as one who leads, the most frustrating thing about the criticism that comes my way is when it comes from the critic's own frustration or failure to grasp the full dimension of issues involved. If, as a pastor, I take action that is wrong and someone points out that I've made a error in judgment, that is valuable criticism. If, on the other hand, I simply do not or cannot respond to the desires of someone and therefore they choose to become a critic, I find that that kind of criticism much harder to deal with.
Kevin Offner, in the Student Leadership Journal, published by IVP, offers the following advice to those who are ready to become a critic. Let me urge you to read his advice carefully today. It could transform your relationship with someone who you're about to make into a target of criticism.
_____________________________________
Here are five changes I believe critical people need to make.
First, we must have our spiritual eyes opened to see two truths: the heinous depth of our own sin and the amazing grace of God’s love toward us in Christ. Spiritual sight is not something we can will. God must give it. But we can cry out to Him for it. “Lord, would You open my eyes to see myself soberly and to know Your love more intimately?” We desperately need to feel the weight of our own sin and then to cast ourselves upon God’s grace. No mere head knowledge, here. “Wash your hands, you sinners. . . . Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief” (Jas. 4:8–9, NLT). When King David’s blind eyes were finally opened to his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, he didn't merely acknowledge it in some academic, emotionally removed way. He fell on his face and fasted for days (2 Sam. 12:16)!
Second, we must be deeply convinced that we can never know with certainty another person’s motives. Yes, we can see actions, and clearly sinful actions need to be confronted. But we must catch ourselves when we hurriedly, often unconsciously, make that jump from He did this to He is obviously acting from pride (or insecurity or revenge, etc.). There are so many factors beyond our knowledge that motivate another’s actions. Only God sees the heart, and only His judgment will be 100 percent accurate and fair. Now, perceptive people will hear this admonition yet still secretly think, Well, yes, but you see, I really do know why this person does what she does. Sometimes we are right. But we must remember that we may very well be wrong.
Third, when we’re bothered by another’s actions, we must pray fervently for that person and our response to him or her. What would happen if we channeled all our critical energy into a running dialogue with that person’s (and our) Creator?
Fourth, we must learn to be diplomatic and direct in confronting people one on one. No fake smiles, no repression of negative feelings, but instead, direct, tactful communication. Our goal is not to blast people or to inform them of all their hidden character flaws. Rather, our goals are God’s glory and the reconciliation of broken relationships. Recently I talked with the student I described earlier regarding her critical spirit. “I feel I need to tell you something. Yet I’m hesitant to do it for fear of losing your friendship. For the last several times I've been with you, you have spoken critically of something either the group or I have done. There’s often much truth in what you say, but I find myself frequently dragged down by your comments. We need encouragement as well as criticism. I value your friendship, and thus I thought I ought to share this with you.” I'll be honest: she didn't respond as I’d hoped. But I did feel right about being direct and honest rather than nurturing my own critical spirit.
Finally, we need to be encouragers, genuinely building others up and helping them become all God longs for them to be. I want to get excited about making others successful. I can be an encourager in others’ lives, as Barnabas was to Paul. I can trust God to provide encouragement for me as well. I have watched people melt when given a rightly timed, genuinely motivated word of affirmation or gratitude. And I know how empowered I feel when I’m around a genuine encourager.
_____________________________________
It's not always wrong to be a critic, but if you must, be a constructive critic. Always aim to build up others, to discover the Kingdom aim in a given situation.We have a BIG job to do, Believer. Let's not allow sniping at one another to destroy our effectiveness and the joy of working together in His kingdom. Got a 'beef' with someone?Figure out if it's worth discussing. If it's not, shake it off, and let it go into the "sea of forgetfulness!" If it is, then follow the steps to the best outcome.
_____________________________________
Be in worship on Sunday. Come with a prepared heart and mind, ready to hear, ready to worship, ready to receive!
The fact is that leaders are human. Sometimes they do a better job than other times! Sometimes they disappoint us and sometimes they delight us. Speaking as one who leads, the most frustrating thing about the criticism that comes my way is when it comes from the critic's own frustration or failure to grasp the full dimension of issues involved. If, as a pastor, I take action that is wrong and someone points out that I've made a error in judgment, that is valuable criticism. If, on the other hand, I simply do not or cannot respond to the desires of someone and therefore they choose to become a critic, I find that that kind of criticism much harder to deal with.
Kevin Offner, in the Student Leadership Journal, published by IVP, offers the following advice to those who are ready to become a critic. Let me urge you to read his advice carefully today. It could transform your relationship with someone who you're about to make into a target of criticism.
_____________________________________
Here are five changes I believe critical people need to make.
First, we must have our spiritual eyes opened to see two truths: the heinous depth of our own sin and the amazing grace of God’s love toward us in Christ. Spiritual sight is not something we can will. God must give it. But we can cry out to Him for it. “Lord, would You open my eyes to see myself soberly and to know Your love more intimately?” We desperately need to feel the weight of our own sin and then to cast ourselves upon God’s grace. No mere head knowledge, here. “Wash your hands, you sinners. . . . Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief” (Jas. 4:8–9, NLT). When King David’s blind eyes were finally opened to his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah, he didn't merely acknowledge it in some academic, emotionally removed way. He fell on his face and fasted for days (2 Sam. 12:16)!
Second, we must be deeply convinced that we can never know with certainty another person’s motives. Yes, we can see actions, and clearly sinful actions need to be confronted. But we must catch ourselves when we hurriedly, often unconsciously, make that jump from He did this to He is obviously acting from pride (or insecurity or revenge, etc.). There are so many factors beyond our knowledge that motivate another’s actions. Only God sees the heart, and only His judgment will be 100 percent accurate and fair. Now, perceptive people will hear this admonition yet still secretly think, Well, yes, but you see, I really do know why this person does what she does. Sometimes we are right. But we must remember that we may very well be wrong.
Third, when we’re bothered by another’s actions, we must pray fervently for that person and our response to him or her. What would happen if we channeled all our critical energy into a running dialogue with that person’s (and our) Creator?
Fourth, we must learn to be diplomatic and direct in confronting people one on one. No fake smiles, no repression of negative feelings, but instead, direct, tactful communication. Our goal is not to blast people or to inform them of all their hidden character flaws. Rather, our goals are God’s glory and the reconciliation of broken relationships. Recently I talked with the student I described earlier regarding her critical spirit. “I feel I need to tell you something. Yet I’m hesitant to do it for fear of losing your friendship. For the last several times I've been with you, you have spoken critically of something either the group or I have done. There’s often much truth in what you say, but I find myself frequently dragged down by your comments. We need encouragement as well as criticism. I value your friendship, and thus I thought I ought to share this with you.” I'll be honest: she didn't respond as I’d hoped. But I did feel right about being direct and honest rather than nurturing my own critical spirit.
Finally, we need to be encouragers, genuinely building others up and helping them become all God longs for them to be. I want to get excited about making others successful. I can be an encourager in others’ lives, as Barnabas was to Paul. I can trust God to provide encouragement for me as well. I have watched people melt when given a rightly timed, genuinely motivated word of affirmation or gratitude. And I know how empowered I feel when I’m around a genuine encourager.
_____________________________________
It's not always wrong to be a critic, but if you must, be a constructive critic. Always aim to build up others, to discover the Kingdom aim in a given situation.We have a BIG job to do, Believer. Let's not allow sniping at one another to destroy our effectiveness and the joy of working together in His kingdom. Got a 'beef' with someone?Figure out if it's worth discussing. If it's not, shake it off, and let it go into the "sea of forgetfulness!" If it is, then follow the steps to the best outcome.
_____________________________________
Be in worship on Sunday. Come with a prepared heart and mind, ready to hear, ready to worship, ready to receive!
Thursday, July 13, 2006
The amazing power of "thanks!"
Are you aware of the power of sincere gratitude? "Thanks-living" has the capability of transforming a bad day into a good one, a difficult relationship into a rewarding one, a miserable situation into one that is tolerable. Anybody who knows me even a little, is well aware that I can be a real grump, that I live wrapped up in the world of ideas and thoughts a lot. I am not exactly "Johnnie Sunshine" some of the time because of the drive to 'get it done' and the need to see it (whatever 'it' is) done right and well. Truth is, when I am at my most focused and intense state, I don't even like me. OK, you can stop laughing at that one. I'm sure somebody's going to remind me of that statement at exactly the wrong moment.
I've learned a way to regain a grip on my brighter side. I just begin to offer up thanks. It happened 'round 3:30 AM today. I awakened feeling anxious about some projects that are waiting to be completed. There in the dark I could feel tension rising inside of me. Of course there was not much I could do at that hour, but I knew I didn't want to spend the next two hours staring into the dark at the ceiling, so I started running down a list in my mind of people for whom I am so very thankful. I named them, one by one, to the Lord, thanking Him specifically for who they were and the ways that He allowed them to enrich my life and ministry. In a matter of moments, I just know there was a smile on my face in place of the tension lines because I felt the anxiety ease. It felt so wonderful to be thanking the Lord, that I praised Him for His love, for the grace He's sovereignly given me, for the amazing trust He's shown in me by giving me access to so many good things.
Sometimes thankfulness is almost spontaneous! When some wonderful thing happens - a heart-felt "Thank you, Lord! Praise God!" bursts from my lips. And then sometimes, I have to offer what the Bible calls a 'sacrifice of praise.' In that, I give up my will, my desire for more pleasant circumstances, and begin to thank God for His goodness, for His sovereignty, for His sometimes inscrutable will! Let's not make a common mistake involving this kind of thanksgiving. God doesn't ask you and me to defy good sense by thanking Him for terrible things like war, disease, or sinful oppression. That's nuts! But, He clearly wants us to thank Him for His faithfulness, for His love, for His goodness even when it seems like He's forsaken us, or left us in the grasp of the Evil One.
David urges us to adopt thanksgiving as a lifestyle. Take a look:
"I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:1-4, NLT)
Remember, too, the importance of expressing appreciation to others. There's a genuine benefit that accrues to the one giving thanks in those situations. When we honestly express our thanks to another person (Careful there, I'm not recommending empty praise) we inevitably gain an emotional lift. Try it in a conversation today. You know how easily we slide into criticism of others. I do, so do you. When that starts to happen, turn it inside out and look for ways to speak positively and appreciatively about others. Watch the tone of the conversation change. It will amaze you. And you'll feel so much better, so much more encouraged, at the end of the conversation. I'm not recommending that we become Pollyanna's who only see the good side of life and never, ever say a cross or critical word. Speaking truthfully means that sometimes we'll have to point out failure or need for change. But, on balance, we will accomplish much more with sincere praise than with incessant criticism. (God, help me to remember that!)
So, I hope you'll take this simple little TFTD and make it a day for "thanks-living." Why not start right now with 5 minutes of praise prayer? Don't ask God for anything, just thank Him - profusely for people and situations and His goodness! Then, as you go through the day, look for opportunities to drop a word of affirmation and thanks into the lives of people - from the girl who pours your coffee to the spouse who shares you life!
And - Thank you for reading along day by day.
___________________________________
Give thanks to the Lord our God and King;
His love endures forever.
For He is good He is above all things;
His love endures forever.
Sing Praise -- Sing Praise
With a mighty hand and an outstretched arm;
His love endures forever.
For the life that's been reborn;
His love endures forever.
Sing Praise -- Sing Praise.
From the rising to the setting sun;
His love endures forever.
By the grace of God we can carry on;
His love endures forever.
Forever God Is Faithful,
Forever God Is Strong.
Forever God Is With Us Forever - Forever
Copyright - Chris Tomlin - CCLI License No. 810055
I've learned a way to regain a grip on my brighter side. I just begin to offer up thanks. It happened 'round 3:30 AM today. I awakened feeling anxious about some projects that are waiting to be completed. There in the dark I could feel tension rising inside of me. Of course there was not much I could do at that hour, but I knew I didn't want to spend the next two hours staring into the dark at the ceiling, so I started running down a list in my mind of people for whom I am so very thankful. I named them, one by one, to the Lord, thanking Him specifically for who they were and the ways that He allowed them to enrich my life and ministry. In a matter of moments, I just know there was a smile on my face in place of the tension lines because I felt the anxiety ease. It felt so wonderful to be thanking the Lord, that I praised Him for His love, for the grace He's sovereignly given me, for the amazing trust He's shown in me by giving me access to so many good things.
Sometimes thankfulness is almost spontaneous! When some wonderful thing happens - a heart-felt "Thank you, Lord! Praise God!" bursts from my lips. And then sometimes, I have to offer what the Bible calls a 'sacrifice of praise.' In that, I give up my will, my desire for more pleasant circumstances, and begin to thank God for His goodness, for His sovereignty, for His sometimes inscrutable will! Let's not make a common mistake involving this kind of thanksgiving. God doesn't ask you and me to defy good sense by thanking Him for terrible things like war, disease, or sinful oppression. That's nuts! But, He clearly wants us to thank Him for His faithfulness, for His love, for His goodness even when it seems like He's forsaken us, or left us in the grasp of the Evil One.
David urges us to adopt thanksgiving as a lifestyle. Take a look:
"I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord’s greatness; let us exalt his name together." (Psalm 34:1-4, NLT)
Remember, too, the importance of expressing appreciation to others. There's a genuine benefit that accrues to the one giving thanks in those situations. When we honestly express our thanks to another person (Careful there, I'm not recommending empty praise) we inevitably gain an emotional lift. Try it in a conversation today. You know how easily we slide into criticism of others. I do, so do you. When that starts to happen, turn it inside out and look for ways to speak positively and appreciatively about others. Watch the tone of the conversation change. It will amaze you. And you'll feel so much better, so much more encouraged, at the end of the conversation. I'm not recommending that we become Pollyanna's who only see the good side of life and never, ever say a cross or critical word. Speaking truthfully means that sometimes we'll have to point out failure or need for change. But, on balance, we will accomplish much more with sincere praise than with incessant criticism. (God, help me to remember that!)
So, I hope you'll take this simple little TFTD and make it a day for "thanks-living." Why not start right now with 5 minutes of praise prayer? Don't ask God for anything, just thank Him - profusely for people and situations and His goodness! Then, as you go through the day, look for opportunities to drop a word of affirmation and thanks into the lives of people - from the girl who pours your coffee to the spouse who shares you life!
And - Thank you for reading along day by day.
___________________________________
Give thanks to the Lord our God and King;
His love endures forever.
For He is good He is above all things;
His love endures forever.
Sing Praise -- Sing Praise
With a mighty hand and an outstretched arm;
His love endures forever.
For the life that's been reborn;
His love endures forever.
Sing Praise -- Sing Praise.
From the rising to the setting sun;
His love endures forever.
By the grace of God we can carry on;
His love endures forever.
Forever God Is Faithful,
Forever God Is Strong.
Forever God Is With Us Forever - Forever
Copyright - Chris Tomlin - CCLI License No. 810055
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Making peace
The Middle East simmers with tensions that explode into violence regularly. Terrorists seek the destruction of life and property around the globe from Afghanistan to Uganda. It isn't just nations making war! Some streets in our own country are as dangerous as a battlefield. Teenage tough guys think that the answer to difference of opinion is a bullet in someone's brain. Then, too, our churches - which ought to be oasis's of peace - are often torn up with strife, with factions struggling for control. And the American family knows little peace. Astronomical divorce rates reveal the depth of animosity that boils behind the front doors in our neighborhoods. Personal peace eludes most of us, too. Drugs, both legal and illegal, are consumed in prodigious quantities in attempts to find relief from the unending turmoil of an empty heart.
Is peace of any kind even possible or is it just a mirage? Jesus answers that question. He invites us to come to Him, to embrace His ways, and says, "You will find rest!" Isaiah makes this statement -(48:22) “There is no peace,” says God, “for the wicked.” But there is peace for the righteous! Peace comes only from a restored relationship with God. It is not a natural state of fallen humanity. It is a gift of God that must be received. Even then peace must be pursued. It will not simply break over us like sun through the clouds. We who know peace with God have to work at creating and maintaining peace among men! The Bible says that those who take up this calling of making peace will be known as "children of God."
Peace is not simply the absence of open conflict. It is a state of contentment, of rest, of wholeness. That is why true peace is only possible for the person who has come to know God. Only in God can we escape the torment of envy, of greed that keeps us fighting with ourselves and each other. Some mistakenly think that peace will be discovered in a new geographic location. "If only I could move to a small town in Montana!" This myth that peace can be found somewhere outside of ourselves is persistent. But it is just that, a myth. Peace begins within us, a work of the Spirit of God.
Believer, are you peaceful? Maybe even trying to answer that question makes you feel terrible pain for you know that you are not at peace, nor are you a peace-maker. Know this, peace is possible. I love the story of one of Jesus' most amazing miracles. The Lord and his friends were sailing across the little sea of Galilee when their small boat was caught in a storm. Jesus had fallen asleep in the back of the boat. What a testimony to the power of inner peace that picture is! His friends grew frantic as the storm increased in intensity. Finally, they scream at the sleeping Jesus, "Don't you care that we're about to die?" "Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm." (Mark 4:39, NKJV) Ah, that's rich with meaning for you and me. I've often watched the storms blowing up around me and felt the panic rising. As critics attacked, as money ran short, as health issues arose, as the sea of sin churned up it's filthy waters 'round me - I have screamed to God, "Don't you care that I'm about to be swept under? Where are You?" In His grace, time and time again, He has come to stand alongside of me and I've watched Him restore calm with just a powerful word!
Why is my memory so short? Why do I allow fear to replace peace again and again?
I am still searching for that answer.
But, this I know, peace is mine through Christ Jesus, my Lord. He has made peace for me with God, who is no longer my Judge. He is now my Father.
From my secure place in His family, I can live in peace and I am charged to seek peace.
If you're afraid today, or in turmoil, or at war - come to Jesus, the Peace-maker.
Invite Him to speak to your storms.
Once He has brought peace of mind to you, then take up the calling of becoming a peace-maker.
Here's a word from the Word to meditate on for a few moments today:
"All of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate when people say unkind things about you.
Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it. For the Scriptures say, “If you want a happy life and good days, keep your tongue from speaking evil, and keep your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living in peace with others. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil.”" (1 Peter 3:8-12, NLT)
Is peace of any kind even possible or is it just a mirage? Jesus answers that question. He invites us to come to Him, to embrace His ways, and says, "You will find rest!" Isaiah makes this statement -(48:22) “There is no peace,” says God, “for the wicked.” But there is peace for the righteous! Peace comes only from a restored relationship with God. It is not a natural state of fallen humanity. It is a gift of God that must be received. Even then peace must be pursued. It will not simply break over us like sun through the clouds. We who know peace with God have to work at creating and maintaining peace among men! The Bible says that those who take up this calling of making peace will be known as "children of God."
Peace is not simply the absence of open conflict. It is a state of contentment, of rest, of wholeness. That is why true peace is only possible for the person who has come to know God. Only in God can we escape the torment of envy, of greed that keeps us fighting with ourselves and each other. Some mistakenly think that peace will be discovered in a new geographic location. "If only I could move to a small town in Montana!" This myth that peace can be found somewhere outside of ourselves is persistent. But it is just that, a myth. Peace begins within us, a work of the Spirit of God.
Believer, are you peaceful? Maybe even trying to answer that question makes you feel terrible pain for you know that you are not at peace, nor are you a peace-maker. Know this, peace is possible. I love the story of one of Jesus' most amazing miracles. The Lord and his friends were sailing across the little sea of Galilee when their small boat was caught in a storm. Jesus had fallen asleep in the back of the boat. What a testimony to the power of inner peace that picture is! His friends grew frantic as the storm increased in intensity. Finally, they scream at the sleeping Jesus, "Don't you care that we're about to die?" "Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm." (Mark 4:39, NKJV) Ah, that's rich with meaning for you and me. I've often watched the storms blowing up around me and felt the panic rising. As critics attacked, as money ran short, as health issues arose, as the sea of sin churned up it's filthy waters 'round me - I have screamed to God, "Don't you care that I'm about to be swept under? Where are You?" In His grace, time and time again, He has come to stand alongside of me and I've watched Him restore calm with just a powerful word!
Why is my memory so short? Why do I allow fear to replace peace again and again?
I am still searching for that answer.
But, this I know, peace is mine through Christ Jesus, my Lord. He has made peace for me with God, who is no longer my Judge. He is now my Father.
From my secure place in His family, I can live in peace and I am charged to seek peace.
If you're afraid today, or in turmoil, or at war - come to Jesus, the Peace-maker.
Invite Him to speak to your storms.
Once He has brought peace of mind to you, then take up the calling of becoming a peace-maker.
Here's a word from the Word to meditate on for a few moments today:
"All of you should be of one mind, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. Don’t repay evil for evil. Don’t retaliate when people say unkind things about you.
Instead, pay them back with a blessing. That is what God wants you to do, and he will bless you for it. For the Scriptures say, “If you want a happy life and good days, keep your tongue from speaking evil, and keep your lips from telling lies. Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living in peace with others. The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil.”" (1 Peter 3:8-12, NLT)
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Picking up your junk
In the public restroom, I had this little revelation. What would life be like if each one of us were committed to picking up our own junk out of respect for others? In that restroom, which is 'shared' by everybody but 'owned' by nobody,I saw paper towels tossed in the corner, toilet paper thrown on the floor next to the commode, and urine puddled on the floor. OK, that's a little graphic, but hopefully you get my point! Not many people live that way in their own house because they feel some sense of responsibility for what is 'theirs' and they just don't want to foul their own nest!
In the world at large it seems that more and more of us live disrespectfully. We seem to be increasingly careless in the use of words and in actions that diminish life's beauty for others. We are losing our internal sense of being part of a larger whole, our grasp of our communal responsibility. That is one reason for the growth of 'big' government and all the petty laws that increasingly govern our lives. The inner discipline that would tell us where the 'boundaries' of life should be and that would cause us to give up some of our 'space' for the benefit of our neighbors is lacking. So, we look to our government to create those boundaries and to tell us where we can build our fences.
We are in love with ourselves and our own convenience! Happiness, we mistakenly believe, is found in total self-expression, greater consumption, and unfettered freedom. So we spend ridiculously, have sex with anyone we wish, get more, build bigger barns, and alienate ourselves from each other with wider and wider gaps. The paradox is that the more we insist on 'having it my way,' the less joy we find in the world. Why? Because true joy isn't found in selfishness, but in service!
Here's the most tragic thing of all, at least to me. Selfishness is the #1 problem even in the community where love is supposed to be the mark of authenticity. Yep, I'm talking about the church. Even in the church, there isn't all much 'community' because, all too often, we're trying to grab the power, gain some glory, and use Jesus for self-fulfillment instead of service. Hundreds of churches are destroyed every year, not by outside attack, but by strife on the inside. Somehow the Bible's teaching that the Church is a living organism, God's creation from individuals He brings together to do His work in a mutually beneficial way, is lost on many of us. Why? Because we bring our self-centeredness to church with us. This person says he wants only a certain kind of music used in worship. That person wants all the church's attention focused on one specific ministry. Another wants only to hear sermons about prophecy. Where that kind of attitude flourishes, you will find a church that is hampered by power plays, people trying to get other people to agree with them, to pressure those in leadership offices to do what they want done - now. The Word tells us that "where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." (James 3:16, NIV)
Jesus taught the ideal of community life and mutual benefit in a homely way. Here's the story. The disciples were fighting with each other about their relative importance. "Jesus loves me more than you." Can you imagine a group of adult men acting so silly? I can. I've seen it first hand! Yes, I have to admit that I've done it, too. Anyway, Jesus heard them arguing, so when they got to the place where dinner was served, they all reclined around the table. It was the custom of the time to provide a servant to wash the tired, dirty feet of those who visited your home. But, this group had no servant, and none of them was about to take that role voluntarily, so they ate at a table, smelling each other's stinky feet! After dinner, Jesus got up and took off his robe. He took a towel and prepared to wash feet. It was shocking!! He was the Master, but He was forgetting about His status, forgetting about public opinion, forgetting about personal advantage. When He finished the task, He said, "You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so. That is what I am. So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other’s feet. I’ve laid down a pattern for you. What I’ve done, you do. I’m only pointing out the obvious. A servant is not ranked above his master; an employee doesn’t give orders to the employer. If you understand what I’m telling you, act like it—and live a blessed life. " (John 13:13-17, The Message)
Believer, would you like to enjoy more beauty, experience more love, feel the joy?Let me encourage you to forget about yourself and to start being a servant. Pick up your junk... and while you're at it, pick up your neighbor's trash.
When you're about to say something, think about how it will sound to the ones who hear your words.
When you're ready to take action, ask yourself, "Who benefits most? Me, or We?"
When somebody trespasses onto 'your' space, steps on your toes, fails to notice your needs - pray for the Holy Spirit to change your response.
Here's a word that challenged me this morning. Let the Spirit use it to speak to you.
"If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff.
Live generously. “Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that." (Luke 6:29-32, The Message)
______________________
Lord, you've handed me a tough assignment, asking me to be a servant.
Everything in my human nature screams for soothing and I love to be stroked and served.
The 'big lie' about being served as the way to happiness is so seductive.
I cannot consistently be a servant in my own strength, or by my own resolve.
So, I pray- change my very nature, O Spirit of God.
Break the grasp of selfishness in me.
Let me see again the depth of Your suffering for me, suffering I caused by my willful rejection of God and good.
Then, convict me sternly, compelling me by the lessons of grace,and drawing me with bonds of love, into a life of Loving service;that allows Your beauty to be seen in me and in the world which I help to create by my words and actions.
For Jesus sake, I pray. Amen.
In the world at large it seems that more and more of us live disrespectfully. We seem to be increasingly careless in the use of words and in actions that diminish life's beauty for others. We are losing our internal sense of being part of a larger whole, our grasp of our communal responsibility. That is one reason for the growth of 'big' government and all the petty laws that increasingly govern our lives. The inner discipline that would tell us where the 'boundaries' of life should be and that would cause us to give up some of our 'space' for the benefit of our neighbors is lacking. So, we look to our government to create those boundaries and to tell us where we can build our fences.
We are in love with ourselves and our own convenience! Happiness, we mistakenly believe, is found in total self-expression, greater consumption, and unfettered freedom. So we spend ridiculously, have sex with anyone we wish, get more, build bigger barns, and alienate ourselves from each other with wider and wider gaps. The paradox is that the more we insist on 'having it my way,' the less joy we find in the world. Why? Because true joy isn't found in selfishness, but in service!
Here's the most tragic thing of all, at least to me. Selfishness is the #1 problem even in the community where love is supposed to be the mark of authenticity. Yep, I'm talking about the church. Even in the church, there isn't all much 'community' because, all too often, we're trying to grab the power, gain some glory, and use Jesus for self-fulfillment instead of service. Hundreds of churches are destroyed every year, not by outside attack, but by strife on the inside. Somehow the Bible's teaching that the Church is a living organism, God's creation from individuals He brings together to do His work in a mutually beneficial way, is lost on many of us. Why? Because we bring our self-centeredness to church with us. This person says he wants only a certain kind of music used in worship. That person wants all the church's attention focused on one specific ministry. Another wants only to hear sermons about prophecy. Where that kind of attitude flourishes, you will find a church that is hampered by power plays, people trying to get other people to agree with them, to pressure those in leadership offices to do what they want done - now. The Word tells us that "where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice." (James 3:16, NIV)
Jesus taught the ideal of community life and mutual benefit in a homely way. Here's the story. The disciples were fighting with each other about their relative importance. "Jesus loves me more than you." Can you imagine a group of adult men acting so silly? I can. I've seen it first hand! Yes, I have to admit that I've done it, too. Anyway, Jesus heard them arguing, so when they got to the place where dinner was served, they all reclined around the table. It was the custom of the time to provide a servant to wash the tired, dirty feet of those who visited your home. But, this group had no servant, and none of them was about to take that role voluntarily, so they ate at a table, smelling each other's stinky feet! After dinner, Jesus got up and took off his robe. He took a towel and prepared to wash feet. It was shocking!! He was the Master, but He was forgetting about His status, forgetting about public opinion, forgetting about personal advantage. When He finished the task, He said, "You address me as ‘Teacher’ and ‘Master,’ and rightly so. That is what I am. So if I, the Master and Teacher, washed your feet, you must now wash each other’s feet. I’ve laid down a pattern for you. What I’ve done, you do. I’m only pointing out the obvious. A servant is not ranked above his master; an employee doesn’t give orders to the employer. If you understand what I’m telling you, act like it—and live a blessed life. " (John 13:13-17, The Message)
Believer, would you like to enjoy more beauty, experience more love, feel the joy?Let me encourage you to forget about yourself and to start being a servant. Pick up your junk... and while you're at it, pick up your neighbor's trash.
When you're about to say something, think about how it will sound to the ones who hear your words.
When you're ready to take action, ask yourself, "Who benefits most? Me, or We?"
When somebody trespasses onto 'your' space, steps on your toes, fails to notice your needs - pray for the Holy Spirit to change your response.
Here's a word that challenged me this morning. Let the Spirit use it to speak to you.
"If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, giftwrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff.
Live generously. “Here is a simple rule of thumb for behavior: Ask yourself what you want people to do for you; then grab the initiative and do it for them! If you only love the lovable, do you expect a pat on the back? Run-of-the-mill sinners do that." (Luke 6:29-32, The Message)
______________________
Lord, you've handed me a tough assignment, asking me to be a servant.
Everything in my human nature screams for soothing and I love to be stroked and served.
The 'big lie' about being served as the way to happiness is so seductive.
I cannot consistently be a servant in my own strength, or by my own resolve.
So, I pray- change my very nature, O Spirit of God.
Break the grasp of selfishness in me.
Let me see again the depth of Your suffering for me, suffering I caused by my willful rejection of God and good.
Then, convict me sternly, compelling me by the lessons of grace,and drawing me with bonds of love, into a life of Loving service;that allows Your beauty to be seen in me and in the world which I help to create by my words and actions.
For Jesus sake, I pray. Amen.
Monday, July 10, 2006
The counsel of a good friend
In the Proverbs we are taught that "Plans go wrong for lack of advice; many counselors bring success. Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!" (Proverbs 15:22-23, NLT) I thank the Lord for my wife's good sense and advice. Too many times to count in our 31 years of marriage she has provided me with a perspective that helps me find the right balance, or she has wisely steered me away from some impetuous action that would proven regrettable. There are my trusted friends in ministry whose counsel I seek from time to time when I face a crossroads decision. I appreciate their wisdom, even when they point to a course of action that is not, at first look, appealing.
I cannot lead God's church by testing the winds of opinion and 'giving the people what they want,' but my leadership calling is enhanced by gathering men and women with good minds, those committed to Christ and His Church, and people of spiritual depth around me. They offer counsel. I am not so foolish as to think, even for one moment, that I have enough experience, or 20/20 vision in all things! By way of example, in filling two positions on our church's ministry team this Summer, I took a lead in the process of selecting candidates, but I was guided in the selections by teams who prayed with me for God's guidance and who gave their time to advise and evaluate candidates for those positions.
King David enjoyed the counsel of good friends. He nicknamed his inner circle, "the Mighty Men." Isn't that a cool moniker? The Bible says "David’s Mighty Men, ...linked arms with him as he took up his kingship..." (1 Chronicles 11:10, The Message) They were his allies, offering encouragement, surrounding him with support. In the book of the Acts which tells us the stories of the first generation of Believers, there were councils called from time to time when the Church faced thorny issues requiring wisdom. Yes, leaders like Peter and Paul were decisive and bold, but they were also willing to let God speak to them through the counsel of their friends and co-workers. In those stories we find that sometimes the debate was sharp and words pointed! Feelings got hurt, too. But, with the help of the Spirit, those early church leaders kept their eyes on the goal and built Christ's Kingdom, not their own!
Do you have a circle of advisors?
Are there people in your life that you have invited to speak truthfully to you, no matter the situation?
Are you a "Lone Ranger" trying to live self-sufficiently?
Jesus calls us into the community of the Church. That means more than coming together for worship on Sunday morning. He asks us to lay down our ego, to 'die to self,' and to become servants to one another. In obedience, we gain so much. Yet, tragically, in our time of emphasis on radical individualism, we are so quick to discard relationships with those who challenge us, who offer counsel that does not soothe us, or seem to affirm us.
Let's take that descriptive line from the experience of the Mighty Men and 'link arms!' Let's go beyond romantic notions of fellowship that only values the 'warm fuzzies' that come from the good times of fun and laughter, to build a real team that builds our character, that calls the highest and best from us in the cause of Christ.
Take this word from the Word with you today. Ask God, the Spirit, to teach you how to build a circle of counselors in your life.
"Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, NLT)
I cannot lead God's church by testing the winds of opinion and 'giving the people what they want,' but my leadership calling is enhanced by gathering men and women with good minds, those committed to Christ and His Church, and people of spiritual depth around me. They offer counsel. I am not so foolish as to think, even for one moment, that I have enough experience, or 20/20 vision in all things! By way of example, in filling two positions on our church's ministry team this Summer, I took a lead in the process of selecting candidates, but I was guided in the selections by teams who prayed with me for God's guidance and who gave their time to advise and evaluate candidates for those positions.
King David enjoyed the counsel of good friends. He nicknamed his inner circle, "the Mighty Men." Isn't that a cool moniker? The Bible says "David’s Mighty Men, ...linked arms with him as he took up his kingship..." (1 Chronicles 11:10, The Message) They were his allies, offering encouragement, surrounding him with support. In the book of the Acts which tells us the stories of the first generation of Believers, there were councils called from time to time when the Church faced thorny issues requiring wisdom. Yes, leaders like Peter and Paul were decisive and bold, but they were also willing to let God speak to them through the counsel of their friends and co-workers. In those stories we find that sometimes the debate was sharp and words pointed! Feelings got hurt, too. But, with the help of the Spirit, those early church leaders kept their eyes on the goal and built Christ's Kingdom, not their own!
Do you have a circle of advisors?
Are there people in your life that you have invited to speak truthfully to you, no matter the situation?
Are you a "Lone Ranger" trying to live self-sufficiently?
Jesus calls us into the community of the Church. That means more than coming together for worship on Sunday morning. He asks us to lay down our ego, to 'die to self,' and to become servants to one another. In obedience, we gain so much. Yet, tragically, in our time of emphasis on radical individualism, we are so quick to discard relationships with those who challenge us, who offer counsel that does not soothe us, or seem to affirm us.
Let's take that descriptive line from the experience of the Mighty Men and 'link arms!' Let's go beyond romantic notions of fellowship that only values the 'warm fuzzies' that come from the good times of fun and laughter, to build a real team that builds our character, that calls the highest and best from us in the cause of Christ.
Take this word from the Word with you today. Ask God, the Spirit, to teach you how to build a circle of counselors in your life.
"Two people can accomplish more than twice as much as one; they get a better return for their labor. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But people who are alone when they fall are in real trouble. And on a cold night, two under the same blanket can gain warmth from each other. But how can one be warm alone? A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, NLT)
Friday, June 30, 2006
What a need!
God has been so good to me. My life has been filled with good people: with abundant love, with light, and with wholeness. And yet, I know that there is a world of need around me. I do not live in a bubble! I've seen desperate poverty, and the suffering it produces, up close and personal in developing nations. I've helped men and women to the light of Christ out of deep pits of darkness. I've comforted those who are dealing with terrors of sickness, the devastation of family disintegration, and the shame of personal failures and sins of all kinds. But still I find myself, from time to time, 'rediscovering' the need of this world from time to time. Yesterday was one of those days. Christianity Today, (July, 06) contained a report on the world's sex trade industry. The World Cup, the championship soccer event being held in Germany this year, is the site of commercial sex on a grand scale. 40,000 legal prostitutes are doing business at the games. Sex huts, complete with condoms and snacks, are provided around the venue! Talk about 'casual' sex! The article told of the sex slavery that young women from poor nations are drawn into, often unwittingly, by those who profit at high rates. Two-thirds of these women suffer from Post Traumatic Stress at levels like those found in veterans of combat or state sponsored torture. What kind of depravity makes a person destroy another's life for a few bucks? It is not a particular kind of evil that does this. It is just another expression of the ordinary evil that is all around us; the sinfulness that is the natural state of every human- the result of the Fall of Adam.
Believer, God sends you and me into the world to confront evil - be it the sex trade, or the more banal evil of an abusive husband in a family we know, or the economic exploitation of person. He calls on us to stand against systems that facilitate abuse of power, to shine the light on cruelty in whatever form it is found among us, to bring hope to the hopeless, healing to the broken, and peace to the troubled soul! The question that I find myself asking is "How can I make any difference?" Can I possibly have any effect on the tide of sin that washes over humanity?' In my own strength, with my own resources, the answer is obviously, "no." Even Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, using their $billions in generous and admirable philanthropy, won't stop the flow of suffering. They might save some, but sin and suffering will exist long after Gate's money is exhausted.
So, am I defeatist? Am I suggesting that we sound retreat and run from the battle with sin and Satan? NO! We run to the battle, equipped with God-given weapons that are sufficient to push back evil and the Evil One. God calls on us to go and love; and with the power of love we break the cycle of sin and suffering. Sound silly? Take a look at what Paul writes -
"The world is unprincipled. It’s dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn’t fight fair. But we don’t live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren’t for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity." (2 Corinthians 10:3-6, The Message)
What we remember is that engaging with evil is costly. When Jesus left the Throne Room to become a Man, it was a costly choice that took Him all the way to the Cross. Love, alone, compelled Him to suffer and die for the sins of the world. Likewise, the fight for right, our commitment to serve the Kingdom of Heaven, will be costly. The Lord urged us to consider that cost before we enter the battle. He calls us to "Shoulder your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life. And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose or forfeit your own soul in the process?" (Luke 9:23-25, NLT)
Remember Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush? The Lord spoke to him and called on him to return to Egypt to deliver the people of Israel from slavery to the Promised Land. His initial response was “But why me? What makes you think that I could ever go to Pharaoh and lead the children of Israel out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11, The Message) It may sound like an excuse, but I believe it reveals the humility of Moses, which his 40 years in the desert tending sheep had produced. The answer from Heaven that came to Moses echoes down to you and me as we, too, are commissioned to lead people out of slavery to the Promise of knowing God. The Lord answered - "I will be with you!"
On our own, with our meager resources, we can do little against evil. With God, we can move mountains.
So, are you ready to sign up for the cause of Christ? See the need. I hope it makes you feel small and inadequate, so much that you will fall to your knees and say, "Who am I, Lord?" And then to rise, empowered by the Spirit, filled with Heaven's boldness, prepared to 'use powerful God-tools to smash warped philosophies!'
Soli Deo Gloria!
_____________
Believer, God sends you and me into the world to confront evil - be it the sex trade, or the more banal evil of an abusive husband in a family we know, or the economic exploitation of person. He calls on us to stand against systems that facilitate abuse of power, to shine the light on cruelty in whatever form it is found among us, to bring hope to the hopeless, healing to the broken, and peace to the troubled soul! The question that I find myself asking is "How can I make any difference?" Can I possibly have any effect on the tide of sin that washes over humanity?' In my own strength, with my own resources, the answer is obviously, "no." Even Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, using their $billions in generous and admirable philanthropy, won't stop the flow of suffering. They might save some, but sin and suffering will exist long after Gate's money is exhausted.
So, am I defeatist? Am I suggesting that we sound retreat and run from the battle with sin and Satan? NO! We run to the battle, equipped with God-given weapons that are sufficient to push back evil and the Evil One. God calls on us to go and love; and with the power of love we break the cycle of sin and suffering. Sound silly? Take a look at what Paul writes -
"The world is unprincipled. It’s dog-eat-dog out there! The world doesn’t fight fair. But we don’t live or fight our battles that way—never have and never will. The tools of our trade aren’t for marketing or manipulation, but they are for demolishing that entire massively corrupt culture. We use our powerful God-tools for smashing warped philosophies, tearing down barriers erected against the truth of God, fitting every loose thought and emotion and impulse into the structure of life shaped by Christ. Our tools are ready at hand for clearing the ground of every obstruction and building lives of obedience into maturity." (2 Corinthians 10:3-6, The Message)
What we remember is that engaging with evil is costly. When Jesus left the Throne Room to become a Man, it was a costly choice that took Him all the way to the Cross. Love, alone, compelled Him to suffer and die for the sins of the world. Likewise, the fight for right, our commitment to serve the Kingdom of Heaven, will be costly. The Lord urged us to consider that cost before we enter the battle. He calls us to "Shoulder your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life. And how do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose or forfeit your own soul in the process?" (Luke 9:23-25, NLT)
Remember Moses' encounter with God at the burning bush? The Lord spoke to him and called on him to return to Egypt to deliver the people of Israel from slavery to the Promised Land. His initial response was “But why me? What makes you think that I could ever go to Pharaoh and lead the children of Israel out of Egypt?” (Exodus 3:11, The Message) It may sound like an excuse, but I believe it reveals the humility of Moses, which his 40 years in the desert tending sheep had produced. The answer from Heaven that came to Moses echoes down to you and me as we, too, are commissioned to lead people out of slavery to the Promise of knowing God. The Lord answered - "I will be with you!"
On our own, with our meager resources, we can do little against evil. With God, we can move mountains.
So, are you ready to sign up for the cause of Christ? See the need. I hope it makes you feel small and inadequate, so much that you will fall to your knees and say, "Who am I, Lord?" And then to rise, empowered by the Spirit, filled with Heaven's boldness, prepared to 'use powerful God-tools to smash warped philosophies!'
Soli Deo Gloria!
_____________
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Feeling Inadequate?
Criticism stings! Those who serve publicly come in for a fair share of it. To be sure, there are those who support and affirm, but the voice of the critics always seems louder. Yesterday after a congregant was particularly critical of my leadership, I found a place of prayer and asked God - "Lord, why did you call me? I feel so inadequate for this work!" The thought that I could stand up in front of people week after week and teach them eternal truths awes me! That He has entrusted me with the soul care of His Bride, the church, weighs heavily on me. I know I am not smart enough, 'Christian' enough, or perfect. (Hey, I heard that amen!) I have to consciously remind myself - time and again - that the strength, the wisdom, the gifts belong to my Master and Lord. I serve at His pleasure! And... He has promised that as long as I keep my eyes on Him, He will equip me to serve skillfully and well.
Do you feel incapable of serving God, of doing effective ministry? Do your short-comings, sins, and failures taunt you from the wings of the stage of your mind whispering to you - "there's no way you're going to pull this off successfully?"
I know those voices, too. They are partially demonic in origin and partially rooted in our own fears. Ever person who responds obediently and purposefully to do God's will - be they a preacher or a plumber- will feel some level of fear. IF they do not, they are not walking in faith. Paul, himself, knew this sense of inadequacy. Of the calling to represent the Kingdom of God, he asks, "Who is equal to such a task?" and a little further on the text, "It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God." (2 Corinthians 3:5, NLT) The taunters lie, if only because they ignore the one thing that is the key to doing spiritual work effectively -- it isn't our own strength, cleverness, or skills that ultimately provide success.
The Bible says, "For in him you have been enriched in every way—in all your speaking and in all your knowledge— because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed." (1 Corinthians 1:5-7, NIV) Yes, we must recognize that the 'you' that is the subject of this verse is a collective describing the Church. But, you and I am 'in the Church' and we can claim the promise of His enabling spiritual gifts personally! Do you?
When I am on the edge of being overwhelmed by my fears and my sense of inadequacy, there is but one thing that quiets my mind... knowing that "It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6, NLT) Go back and read that again.
What strengths did God see in us that caused Him to choose us? Nothing!
But He called us, at His own initiative, because of His grace. Then He promised, "I will enrich you in every way!" Claim His strength.
Here's a Word to take with you today...
God "chose these “nobodies” to expose the hollow pretensions of the “somebodies”? That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. Everything that we have—right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start—comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. That’s why we have the saying, “If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God.”(1 Corinthians 1:28-31, The Message)
____________
Constantly Abiding
There's a peace in my heart that the world never gave,
A peace it can not take away;
Tho' the trials of life may surround like a cloud,
I've a peace that has come there to stay!
Constantly abiding, Jesus is mine;
Constantly abiding, rapture divine;
He never leaves me lonely,
Whispers, O, so kind:
"I will never leave Thee," Jesus is mine.
This treasure I have in a temple of clay,
While here on His footstool I roam;
But He's coming to take me some glorious day,
Over there to my heavenly home!
© Public Domain / CCLI License No. 810055
Do you feel incapable of serving God, of doing effective ministry? Do your short-comings, sins, and failures taunt you from the wings of the stage of your mind whispering to you - "there's no way you're going to pull this off successfully?"
I know those voices, too. They are partially demonic in origin and partially rooted in our own fears. Ever person who responds obediently and purposefully to do God's will - be they a preacher or a plumber- will feel some level of fear. IF they do not, they are not walking in faith. Paul, himself, knew this sense of inadequacy. Of the calling to represent the Kingdom of God, he asks, "Who is equal to such a task?" and a little further on the text, "It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God." (2 Corinthians 3:5, NLT) The taunters lie, if only because they ignore the one thing that is the key to doing spiritual work effectively -- it isn't our own strength, cleverness, or skills that ultimately provide success.
The Bible says, "For in him you have been enriched in every way—in all your speaking and in all your knowledge— because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed." (1 Corinthians 1:5-7, NIV) Yes, we must recognize that the 'you' that is the subject of this verse is a collective describing the Church. But, you and I am 'in the Church' and we can claim the promise of His enabling spiritual gifts personally! Do you?
When I am on the edge of being overwhelmed by my fears and my sense of inadequacy, there is but one thing that quiets my mind... knowing that "It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6, NLT) Go back and read that again.
What strengths did God see in us that caused Him to choose us? Nothing!
But He called us, at His own initiative, because of His grace. Then He promised, "I will enrich you in every way!" Claim His strength.
Here's a Word to take with you today...
God "chose these “nobodies” to expose the hollow pretensions of the “somebodies”? That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. Everything that we have—right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start—comes from God by way of Jesus Christ. That’s why we have the saying, “If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God.”(1 Corinthians 1:28-31, The Message)
____________
Constantly Abiding
There's a peace in my heart that the world never gave,
A peace it can not take away;
Tho' the trials of life may surround like a cloud,
I've a peace that has come there to stay!
Constantly abiding, Jesus is mine;
Constantly abiding, rapture divine;
He never leaves me lonely,
Whispers, O, so kind:
"I will never leave Thee," Jesus is mine.
This treasure I have in a temple of clay,
While here on His footstool I roam;
But He's coming to take me some glorious day,
Over there to my heavenly home!
© Public Domain / CCLI License No. 810055
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Running in circles?
Americans sometimes say, "I'm running around like a chicken with his head cut off!" The idiom comes from reality. In the farmyard when Farmer Jim chops the head off of a rooster in preparation for dinner, that bird will sometimes run around and flop before finally expiring. Gruesome, isn't it? But true! With so much to do and so little time in which to do it all, we may feel that we are running in circles. In those days, it is important to remember the word - "Choice!"
In the July 3, 2006 issue of U.S.News, the editors focus on taking a break in the Summer. Seems that we Americans are addicted to our work, driven rather than purposeful. A third of us (me, included!) don't take our full vacation time. Even when we do 'take off,' our wired world makes it possible for us to take the job with us via cell phones and laptop computers. Ellen Ostrow believes that many of us are unwilling to take a break because it will "challenge your grandiose notion that you are completely dispensable." Author Carl Honore observes that even when we take breaks many of us 'don't get the full pleasure because we don't take time between activities to decompress, to reflect, and to enjoy what we do." We think that vacation includes the whole city, 30 museums, and 30 monuments in 5 days! What ever happened to a week in a chair in the backyard with a couple of novels to browse between naps?
An old Christian phrase I've heard so many times is - "I want to burn out for God!" I wonder about that idea. Is that really a good goal? Did Jesus 'burn out' as He ran from appointment to appointment, pushing people to higher levels of performance, over 'take out' lunches? He was moved as He saw a world filled with people who were 'harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.' He encouraged His disciples to “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat. So they got in the boat and went off to a remote place by themselves. (Mark 6:31-33, The Message)
There are high output times in life, weeks when deadlines converge and unplanned emergencies arise. In the crunch times we must respond with everything we have, with our full energies, and focused efforts. But, we cannot sustain that pace of life indefinitely without terrible consequences- emotionally, physically, and spiritually! The stories of people who burnt out, slid into depression, and then destroyed their lives with dumb choices are all around us. The truth is that God designed us for work and rest. In the Creation He made the pattern - 6 days to work, 1 to rest! In the Law of Moses, He set times for rest and renewal, regular festivals and Holy Days that broke up the work and gave His people time to refocus on Him.
Perhaps you are thinking, "I'd like to live more purposefully, but my life drives me!" I, too, know how difficult it can be to escape the demands of life. Mine is a 'people' calling. I cannot turn off the 'machine' of people's needs at 5 PM. I cannot ignore the calls for prayer, for counsel, that come my way at all hours of the day and sometimes, the night. But, I can choose to lean on the Lord and to share the load of ministry where it is appropriate to do so. I can, and do, practice the disciplines of prayer and meditation that create spaces of renewal in the middle of busy weeks. I prioritize worship, both private and with the church gathered, because I know that without worship, I will lose my focus on Him and start to 'run around like a chicken with his cut off!'
If you have not yet scheduled some vacation (from a Latin root word meaning - to empty!) - do it today. Get out the calendar, consult with those with whom you work, and put some time aside to take a break. Take care not to over-schedule the break! Too many of will let our addiction to stimulation think that we have to be going somewhere, doing something, in order to be having fun. Think again.
Here's a word to ponder today. What is Jesus saying to you?
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-31, The Message)
In the July 3, 2006 issue of U.S.News, the editors focus on taking a break in the Summer. Seems that we Americans are addicted to our work, driven rather than purposeful. A third of us (me, included!) don't take our full vacation time. Even when we do 'take off,' our wired world makes it possible for us to take the job with us via cell phones and laptop computers. Ellen Ostrow believes that many of us are unwilling to take a break because it will "challenge your grandiose notion that you are completely dispensable." Author Carl Honore observes that even when we take breaks many of us 'don't get the full pleasure because we don't take time between activities to decompress, to reflect, and to enjoy what we do." We think that vacation includes the whole city, 30 museums, and 30 monuments in 5 days! What ever happened to a week in a chair in the backyard with a couple of novels to browse between naps?
An old Christian phrase I've heard so many times is - "I want to burn out for God!" I wonder about that idea. Is that really a good goal? Did Jesus 'burn out' as He ran from appointment to appointment, pushing people to higher levels of performance, over 'take out' lunches? He was moved as He saw a world filled with people who were 'harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.' He encouraged His disciples to “Come off by yourselves; let’s take a break and get a little rest.” For there was constant coming and going. They didn’t even have time to eat. So they got in the boat and went off to a remote place by themselves. (Mark 6:31-33, The Message)
There are high output times in life, weeks when deadlines converge and unplanned emergencies arise. In the crunch times we must respond with everything we have, with our full energies, and focused efforts. But, we cannot sustain that pace of life indefinitely without terrible consequences- emotionally, physically, and spiritually! The stories of people who burnt out, slid into depression, and then destroyed their lives with dumb choices are all around us. The truth is that God designed us for work and rest. In the Creation He made the pattern - 6 days to work, 1 to rest! In the Law of Moses, He set times for rest and renewal, regular festivals and Holy Days that broke up the work and gave His people time to refocus on Him.
Perhaps you are thinking, "I'd like to live more purposefully, but my life drives me!" I, too, know how difficult it can be to escape the demands of life. Mine is a 'people' calling. I cannot turn off the 'machine' of people's needs at 5 PM. I cannot ignore the calls for prayer, for counsel, that come my way at all hours of the day and sometimes, the night. But, I can choose to lean on the Lord and to share the load of ministry where it is appropriate to do so. I can, and do, practice the disciplines of prayer and meditation that create spaces of renewal in the middle of busy weeks. I prioritize worship, both private and with the church gathered, because I know that without worship, I will lose my focus on Him and start to 'run around like a chicken with his cut off!'
If you have not yet scheduled some vacation (from a Latin root word meaning - to empty!) - do it today. Get out the calendar, consult with those with whom you work, and put some time aside to take a break. Take care not to over-schedule the break! Too many of will let our addiction to stimulation think that we have to be going somewhere, doing something, in order to be having fun. Think again.
Here's a word to ponder today. What is Jesus saying to you?
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-31, The Message)
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Giving is an act of worship
Yesterday I received an appeal letter from a Christian organization that our church supports. Attached to that letter was a list of donors, with their contributions listed in order from most to least. What do you think I did? Probably, I did what most people would do. I looked for the church's name on the list. I wanted to see where we were on the list! The focus of our donation was no longer the work of Jesus Christ. Instead, I was concerned about the opinion of others. Had we given enough that no one would think poorly of us? How did we compare with others? Then it became perfectly clear what was going on. I quickly put the list down and asked God for forgiveness!
The appeal to human pride, both negatively with shame and positively with recognition, can be a powerful tool in the hands of those who raise funds for charitable work. However, such tactics are wrong because they completely miss the point of true giving which is as an act of worship, as a decision that flows from devotion and love. Jesus wisely taught us, "When you give a gift to someone in need, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone, don’t tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in secret, and your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you." (Matthew 6:2-4, NLT)
Jesus knew our human nature, marred by depravity, would, if given the chance, twist giving into a means of gratifying our ego needs. He knew even use our 'gifts to God' to manipulate others into empowering us to fulfill our own agenda. He also knew that the moment our gifts became public we would concerned about appearances. We would no longer be guided by His will in our expressions of worship in giving. Instead, we would be concerned about giving enough to maintain our dignity! No wonder His disciples were so amazed by His observation about the two penny donation of a poverty stricken widow. They were accustomed to the 'normal' ways of giving, where the rich made large contributions and everyone oohed and ahhed about the $million they gave to the temple fund when it was announced from the pulpit. Jesus put a whole new perspective on giving when He said of that widow's tiny offering - “I assure you this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” (Luke 21:3-4, NLT)
Giving is a privilege, an act of worship, and a spiritual discipline. The Bible teaches us to tithe, which the Old Testament explains is 10% of our increase. We don't give our tithe because God needs it. After all, He owns the world. In the poetic words of the Psalm we are told that He 'owns the cattle on a thousand hills!' We don't tithe as a form of taxation, because we are not really giving to human organizations, though they may be the means of getting God's work done. And we don't tithe to get praise for ourselves. We give of our time and our resources because it honors the God we profess to love. In our tithing, we tell Him, in a very tangible way, "Lord, you are first priority, my love, my life." When our giving has this focus, we give generously and sacrificially and we feel joy in our gift. We aren't looking around wondering who's noticed, or how we compare on a list. We are looking UP and receiving His loving acceptance. The amount of our offering is unimportant to God, for He sees whether our gift comes from the heart and whether it is, in fact, proportional to the store of goods with which we are blessed.
Believer, I hope that you do give to your church, to charitable organizations, and to those in need. Giving, especially that which is done intentionally, regularly, and sacrificially, breaks the grip of greed from you. The person who gives worshipfully trains his eyes to look away from himself. Are you a giver? Meditate on this word from the Word today. May the Spirit inspire you to greater giving of yourself, not for earthly honors, but for the love of God!
"Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, “Godly people give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will never be forgotten.” For God is the one who gives seed to the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will give you many opportunities to do good, and he will produce a great harvest of generosity in you."
(2 Corinthians 9:6-10, NLT)
The appeal to human pride, both negatively with shame and positively with recognition, can be a powerful tool in the hands of those who raise funds for charitable work. However, such tactics are wrong because they completely miss the point of true giving which is as an act of worship, as a decision that flows from devotion and love. Jesus wisely taught us, "When you give a gift to someone in need, don’t shout about it as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I assure you, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone, don’t tell your left hand what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in secret, and your Father, who knows all secrets, will reward you." (Matthew 6:2-4, NLT)
Jesus knew our human nature, marred by depravity, would, if given the chance, twist giving into a means of gratifying our ego needs. He knew even use our 'gifts to God' to manipulate others into empowering us to fulfill our own agenda. He also knew that the moment our gifts became public we would concerned about appearances. We would no longer be guided by His will in our expressions of worship in giving. Instead, we would be concerned about giving enough to maintain our dignity! No wonder His disciples were so amazed by His observation about the two penny donation of a poverty stricken widow. They were accustomed to the 'normal' ways of giving, where the rich made large contributions and everyone oohed and ahhed about the $million they gave to the temple fund when it was announced from the pulpit. Jesus put a whole new perspective on giving when He said of that widow's tiny offering - “I assure you this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” (Luke 21:3-4, NLT)
Giving is a privilege, an act of worship, and a spiritual discipline. The Bible teaches us to tithe, which the Old Testament explains is 10% of our increase. We don't give our tithe because God needs it. After all, He owns the world. In the poetic words of the Psalm we are told that He 'owns the cattle on a thousand hills!' We don't tithe as a form of taxation, because we are not really giving to human organizations, though they may be the means of getting God's work done. And we don't tithe to get praise for ourselves. We give of our time and our resources because it honors the God we profess to love. In our tithing, we tell Him, in a very tangible way, "Lord, you are first priority, my love, my life." When our giving has this focus, we give generously and sacrificially and we feel joy in our gift. We aren't looking around wondering who's noticed, or how we compare on a list. We are looking UP and receiving His loving acceptance. The amount of our offering is unimportant to God, for He sees whether our gift comes from the heart and whether it is, in fact, proportional to the store of goods with which we are blessed.
Believer, I hope that you do give to your church, to charitable organizations, and to those in need. Giving, especially that which is done intentionally, regularly, and sacrificially, breaks the grip of greed from you. The person who gives worshipfully trains his eyes to look away from himself. Are you a giver? Meditate on this word from the Word today. May the Spirit inspire you to greater giving of yourself, not for earthly honors, but for the love of God!
"Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, “Godly people give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will never be forgotten.” For God is the one who gives seed to the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will give you many opportunities to do good, and he will produce a great harvest of generosity in you."
(2 Corinthians 9:6-10, NLT)
Monday, June 26, 2006
Amply supplied!
Yesterday, the lunch that was served to me by our local diner (Ah, you gotta love those NJ diners) was good, but it was too much! After the soup, salad, and warm soft dinner roll, I was already full and my main meal was not even served yet. I ate the main course and then, there was dessert. Yes, that's all in the price of the meal. Patting my stomach I concluded that the large slice of cake needed to be boxed and taken home. My eyes said, 'eat it all!' But my better sense said, "Jerry, if you do, you'll regret it." American consumers demand these large meal portions because they perceive it as a 'value' issue, 'getting their money's worth.' So, even though it is more food than we need, or that most of us can even consume in one meal, the restaurants must serve in this way to keep us coming back.
It's hard to know what is 'enough' isn't it? How much food should we eat? How much money do we really need? How big does our house need to be? If we consume too much food from our abundant supply, we grow fat. If we spend too much money, we go broke. 'More is good' and 'bigger is better' are concepts woven into our American lifestyle, but are they really true? The Bible calls us to 'contentment.' Paul instructs us that "godliness with contentment is great gain." In The Message we read: "A devout life does bring wealth, but it’s the rich simplicity of being yourself before God. Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that’s enough." (1 Timothy 6:6-8)
When God birthed the nation of Israel, calling them out of Egypt and leading them to the Promised Land, along the way He was their complete resource. When they had a need, they asked. For their daily food He gave them "manna" - which was literally bread from His hand. Every morning He provided and they found white flakes on the ground, which they prepared as their food. The name, "manna" meant 'what is it?' They were told only to gather what they needed, not more. But were those people content? No! Some wanted MORE. The Bible says - “Do not keep any of it overnight.” But, of course, some of them didn’t listen and kept some of it until morning. By then it was full of maggots and had a terrible smell. And Moses was very angry with them. The people gathered the food morning by morning, each family according to its need." (Exodus 16:19-21, NLT) Later on in the story of Exodus, they grumbled that manna was boring, that they wanted more and different food. "... the Israelites began to crave the good things of Egypt, and the people of Israel also began to complain. “Oh, for some meat!” they exclaimed. “We remember all the fish we used to eat for free in Egypt. And we had all the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic that we wanted. But now our appetites are gone, and day after day we have nothing to eat but this manna!”" (Numbers 11:4-6, NLT) It was never enough!
Believer, He has promised to meet all of our needs and even to satisfy our desires if we are walking with Him and those desires come from a heart that is full of the Spirit. What we really need is a to have our 'want-er' made holy! Instead of constantly telling ourselves, "I need that; I want this." - we learn to say, "Yes, Lord, I joyfully receive what You've provided."
Friend, have you found the joy of contentment?
Are you willing to let God satisfy your desires, to accept what He provides each day as 'enough?'
_______________________________________
"At the moment I have all I need—more than I need!
I am generously supplied ....
And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Now glory be to God our Father forever and ever. Amen." (Philippians 4:18-20, NLT)
It's hard to know what is 'enough' isn't it? How much food should we eat? How much money do we really need? How big does our house need to be? If we consume too much food from our abundant supply, we grow fat. If we spend too much money, we go broke. 'More is good' and 'bigger is better' are concepts woven into our American lifestyle, but are they really true? The Bible calls us to 'contentment.' Paul instructs us that "godliness with contentment is great gain." In The Message we read: "A devout life does bring wealth, but it’s the rich simplicity of being yourself before God. Since we entered the world penniless and will leave it penniless, if we have bread on the table and shoes on our feet, that’s enough." (1 Timothy 6:6-8)
When God birthed the nation of Israel, calling them out of Egypt and leading them to the Promised Land, along the way He was their complete resource. When they had a need, they asked. For their daily food He gave them "manna" - which was literally bread from His hand. Every morning He provided and they found white flakes on the ground, which they prepared as their food. The name, "manna" meant 'what is it?' They were told only to gather what they needed, not more. But were those people content? No! Some wanted MORE. The Bible says - “Do not keep any of it overnight.” But, of course, some of them didn’t listen and kept some of it until morning. By then it was full of maggots and had a terrible smell. And Moses was very angry with them. The people gathered the food morning by morning, each family according to its need." (Exodus 16:19-21, NLT) Later on in the story of Exodus, they grumbled that manna was boring, that they wanted more and different food. "... the Israelites began to crave the good things of Egypt, and the people of Israel also began to complain. “Oh, for some meat!” they exclaimed. “We remember all the fish we used to eat for free in Egypt. And we had all the cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic that we wanted. But now our appetites are gone, and day after day we have nothing to eat but this manna!”" (Numbers 11:4-6, NLT) It was never enough!
Believer, He has promised to meet all of our needs and even to satisfy our desires if we are walking with Him and those desires come from a heart that is full of the Spirit. What we really need is a to have our 'want-er' made holy! Instead of constantly telling ourselves, "I need that; I want this." - we learn to say, "Yes, Lord, I joyfully receive what You've provided."
Friend, have you found the joy of contentment?
Are you willing to let God satisfy your desires, to accept what He provides each day as 'enough?'
_______________________________________
"At the moment I have all I need—more than I need!
I am generously supplied ....
And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. Now glory be to God our Father forever and ever. Amen." (Philippians 4:18-20, NLT)
Friday, June 23, 2006
A closed mind?
One of the leading magazines read by charismatic Christians has the following article title prominently displayed on this month's cover - "Keep your mind closed!" What a terrible exhortation. Sadly, many Believers will follow that advice to the letter, closing their minds and thus missing the many opportunities to learn the truth, to grow in the knowledge of Christ, and to be effective ambassadors of the Kingdom of God here on earth. The writer was predictable in the development of the article including such zingers as "once Jesus says it, that settles it." He asserts, "concerning spiritual issues, you'd better have a closed mind; you want to have rigidly fixed perceptions."
Obviously the author believes sincerely in what he writes, but he is a poor student of Christianity and history. What if Martin Luther had closed his mind in the 16th century? After all, the Church had a fixed doctrine about what the Bible said about being a Christian; a well established tradition, supported by legions of churchmen in Rome. But Luther was willing to question, to reason - to listen to God and heard the whisper of the Spirit bringing him understanding about the the work and message of Christ's Gospel. From his inspired mind came the ringing affirmation of the ancient truth - "The just will live by faith." He gave us the Reformation which is a cornerstone of the philosophy that shaped our modern Western world.
To be sure, there are ideas that come and go that we eventually reject, but not because we have walled off our minds to ALL thought! The Christian who is filled with the Holy Spirit should have a keen and questioning mind that is full of the wisdom of God. That mind is capable of hearing ideas, evaluating them, processing them with the Word's wisdom and the Spirit's discernment, and answering error with truth! Where do we get the thought that Christians should be frightened of inquiry or of reason? Is not God the Source of Knowledge? Is not Christ, Truth personified?
From the days of the Revolution, American Christianity has had a broad streak of anti-intellectualism. This development reached new heights near the end of the 19th century, as revivalism swept the country and Pentecostal fervor broke out in cities around the nation. In reaction to churches and pastors that were ready to discard the Scripture and be swept up by the new religion of science, lay preachers with a new Spirit experience, went out to convince millions that they should open their hearts and close their minds. Their sermons were white-hot with the Spirit's fiery emotion, but often barren of deep thought and careful reflection. The result was that cults grew like weeds and heresies sprang up everywhere, like the tares among the wheat.
The truth is that God has given us both a heart and a mind! We need to be capable of great passion, of being swept up by the Spirit into times of joy and moved by the Spirit to weep over our sins that break the heart of the Father. And, we must be capable of thinking, knowing what we believe, and why we believe it!
Peter exhorted the Believers - "...in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15, NIV) That word, "heart" is not used just as we might use it, as denoting the center of emotion. Rather he uses the word in the sense that from the core, the very center of our being - emotionally and intellectually - Christ must be Lord, so that we are not deceived by other gods. Don't be taken in by those who foolishly set aside the gift of thought and reason. Don't join the gullible millions whose hearts are full but whose minds are empty.
Instead, take up the challenge of the Scripture to think clearly, with a mind that is disciplined in the things of God, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, and instructed by the revelation of Holy Scripture. Meditate on this call to intellectual engagement with the lies of this world.
"We use God’s mighty weapons, not mere worldly weapons, to knock down the Devil’s strongholds. With these weapons we break down every proud argument that keeps people from knowing God. With these weapons we conquer their rebellious ideas, and we teach them to obey Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:4-5, NLT)
Obviously the author believes sincerely in what he writes, but he is a poor student of Christianity and history. What if Martin Luther had closed his mind in the 16th century? After all, the Church had a fixed doctrine about what the Bible said about being a Christian; a well established tradition, supported by legions of churchmen in Rome. But Luther was willing to question, to reason - to listen to God and heard the whisper of the Spirit bringing him understanding about the the work and message of Christ's Gospel. From his inspired mind came the ringing affirmation of the ancient truth - "The just will live by faith." He gave us the Reformation which is a cornerstone of the philosophy that shaped our modern Western world.
To be sure, there are ideas that come and go that we eventually reject, but not because we have walled off our minds to ALL thought! The Christian who is filled with the Holy Spirit should have a keen and questioning mind that is full of the wisdom of God. That mind is capable of hearing ideas, evaluating them, processing them with the Word's wisdom and the Spirit's discernment, and answering error with truth! Where do we get the thought that Christians should be frightened of inquiry or of reason? Is not God the Source of Knowledge? Is not Christ, Truth personified?
From the days of the Revolution, American Christianity has had a broad streak of anti-intellectualism. This development reached new heights near the end of the 19th century, as revivalism swept the country and Pentecostal fervor broke out in cities around the nation. In reaction to churches and pastors that were ready to discard the Scripture and be swept up by the new religion of science, lay preachers with a new Spirit experience, went out to convince millions that they should open their hearts and close their minds. Their sermons were white-hot with the Spirit's fiery emotion, but often barren of deep thought and careful reflection. The result was that cults grew like weeds and heresies sprang up everywhere, like the tares among the wheat.
The truth is that God has given us both a heart and a mind! We need to be capable of great passion, of being swept up by the Spirit into times of joy and moved by the Spirit to weep over our sins that break the heart of the Father. And, we must be capable of thinking, knowing what we believe, and why we believe it!
Peter exhorted the Believers - "...in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15, NIV) That word, "heart" is not used just as we might use it, as denoting the center of emotion. Rather he uses the word in the sense that from the core, the very center of our being - emotionally and intellectually - Christ must be Lord, so that we are not deceived by other gods. Don't be taken in by those who foolishly set aside the gift of thought and reason. Don't join the gullible millions whose hearts are full but whose minds are empty.
Instead, take up the challenge of the Scripture to think clearly, with a mind that is disciplined in the things of God, illuminated by the Holy Spirit, and instructed by the revelation of Holy Scripture. Meditate on this call to intellectual engagement with the lies of this world.
"We use God’s mighty weapons, not mere worldly weapons, to knock down the Devil’s strongholds. With these weapons we break down every proud argument that keeps people from knowing God. With these weapons we conquer their rebellious ideas, and we teach them to obey Christ." (2 Corinthians 10:4-5, NLT)
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Abuse of power
When we read a line like the title of this TFTD, most of us probably think about corrupt cops or someone like Saddam Hussein. But, think again! Power over another person, be it as a parent, as a pastor, as a supervisor - is a dangerous thing. Because of the sinful nature that you and I inherited from Adam, power is corrosive to character. In too many situations to enumerate, we see how quickly influence is turned to serve ego and to enrich the powerful at the expense of those over whom they wield influence. Lord Acton, a British historian of a century ago observed : Power tends to corrupt. Absolute power corrupts absolutely!
God is deeply concerned with the abuse of power and His Word is clear about the immorality of using the trust of leadership and/or influence for selfish gain! Amos, the shepherd from Tekoa, thundered against ancient Israel for her sins. Primary among them? Abuse of Power! He roared: "The Lord said: I will punish Israel for countless crimes, and I won’t change my mind. They sell honest people for money, and the needy are sold for the price of sandals. They smear the poor in the dirt and push aside those who are helpless. .... They lie down beside altars on clothes taken as security for loans. And they drink wine in my temple, wine bought with the money they received from fines. " (Amos 2:6-8, CEV)
Ah, friend, as I read those lines they make me want to weep. This is the description of our time! The 'have's' of our nation are too often forgetful of the responsibilities that come with their privileges. Those in power, though perhaps not on the 'take' as we might think of corruption - too often readily use their position to enrich the rich and to give favor to those who can return favor. The poor and the powerless are forgotten, or thought to be simply the victims of their own stupidity and deserving of their fate!
Pride says, "I climbed to the top of the heap, so let me enjoy the benefits that come with this position." As Amos continues in his sermon, he reminds the corrupt leaders of Israel that they had once been slaves, people without a country or power. They were not rich and powerful because they were smarter or deserving. They had experienced the grace of God! "And yes, I’m the One who delivered you from Egypt, led you safely through the wilderness for forty years And then handed you the country of the Amorites like a piece of cake on a platter." (Amos 2:10, The Message) The reasoning is: If you are who you are because of grace, then you have an obligation to use your advantages to serve those who are without.
Last week the news media reported that Bill Gates, the richest man in the world, would be stepping down from the head of Microsoft, the company he founded in his garage 30 or so years ago. What was he going to do? Build a villa in the Caribbean and take life easy? No. Find another venture to increase his store of wealth? No, again. Gates is going to devote his life to his foundation, to finding ways to improve the lives of the poorest people in Africa! His plan is to give away his $billions over the next two decades! What a beautiful thing it is to see that kind of compassionate care. When a powerful person remains filled with humility, he blesses his world by using his position to ennoble others.
Are you a 'giver' or a 'taker?'
In positions of influence and/or power, is your aim to attract praise and benefits, to bless others in the Name of Jesus Christ?
We need not be the President or a billionaire to bless others. Here's what Jesus said about it. Meditate on His words.
“... the King will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.’
“Then those.... are going to say, ‘Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?’
Then the King will say, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.’"
(Matthew 25:34-40, The Message)
God is deeply concerned with the abuse of power and His Word is clear about the immorality of using the trust of leadership and/or influence for selfish gain! Amos, the shepherd from Tekoa, thundered against ancient Israel for her sins. Primary among them? Abuse of Power! He roared: "The Lord said: I will punish Israel for countless crimes, and I won’t change my mind. They sell honest people for money, and the needy are sold for the price of sandals. They smear the poor in the dirt and push aside those who are helpless. .... They lie down beside altars on clothes taken as security for loans. And they drink wine in my temple, wine bought with the money they received from fines. " (Amos 2:6-8, CEV)
Ah, friend, as I read those lines they make me want to weep. This is the description of our time! The 'have's' of our nation are too often forgetful of the responsibilities that come with their privileges. Those in power, though perhaps not on the 'take' as we might think of corruption - too often readily use their position to enrich the rich and to give favor to those who can return favor. The poor and the powerless are forgotten, or thought to be simply the victims of their own stupidity and deserving of their fate!
Pride says, "I climbed to the top of the heap, so let me enjoy the benefits that come with this position." As Amos continues in his sermon, he reminds the corrupt leaders of Israel that they had once been slaves, people without a country or power. They were not rich and powerful because they were smarter or deserving. They had experienced the grace of God! "And yes, I’m the One who delivered you from Egypt, led you safely through the wilderness for forty years And then handed you the country of the Amorites like a piece of cake on a platter." (Amos 2:10, The Message) The reasoning is: If you are who you are because of grace, then you have an obligation to use your advantages to serve those who are without.
Last week the news media reported that Bill Gates, the richest man in the world, would be stepping down from the head of Microsoft, the company he founded in his garage 30 or so years ago. What was he going to do? Build a villa in the Caribbean and take life easy? No. Find another venture to increase his store of wealth? No, again. Gates is going to devote his life to his foundation, to finding ways to improve the lives of the poorest people in Africa! His plan is to give away his $billions over the next two decades! What a beautiful thing it is to see that kind of compassionate care. When a powerful person remains filled with humility, he blesses his world by using his position to ennoble others.
Are you a 'giver' or a 'taker?'
In positions of influence and/or power, is your aim to attract praise and benefits, to bless others in the Name of Jesus Christ?
We need not be the President or a billionaire to bless others. Here's what Jesus said about it. Meditate on His words.
“... the King will say to those on his right, ‘Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what’s coming to you in this kingdom. It’s been ready for you since the world’s foundation. And here’s why: I was hungry and you fed me, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was homeless and you gave me a room, I was shivering and you gave me clothes, I was sick and you stopped to visit, I was in prison and you came to me.’
“Then those.... are going to say, ‘Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?’
Then the King will say, ‘I’m telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.’"
(Matthew 25:34-40, The Message)
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Empathy - treating others like you want to be treated
The air in the room was thick with tension. Each side had their defense up, ready to take the advantage at any sign of weakness. And there I sat, in the middle! The issues were real; there was no doubt about that in my mind, but much of the division came from an inability and/or unwillingness of the 'combatants' to see the other guy's point of view. I'm not so naive as to believe that all conflict results from failure to see the other guy's point of view. I think I understand something of the point of view of the militant members of Islam who seek to destroy America, but I don't extend them any comfort in their hatred of the West. They are wrong and misguided in their belief that the best way to advance Islam is through terrorism! I know that many family feuds, many marriage break-ups, many church splits are completely unnecessary; resulting from people shouting so loudly at each other, that they cannot hear what the other side is saying!
Have you ever become so convinced that you know what the other person's position is you just stopping communicating? Yep! I've done it, too. Too quickly we jump to the conclusion without finishing the conversation. As the other person realizes that we are no longer listening, they become more defensive, more insistent. Do we re-connect? Not usually. The increased intensity only causes us to tighten the hatches of our mind and emotions. And, a simple misunderstanding becomes a big fight!
Jesus gives us this wisdom about human relationships -
“Do for others what you would like them to do for you." (Matthew 7:12, NLT)
The Message translation reads - "Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them."
We learned that Golden Rule in Sunday School and forgot it by Monday! Use your imagination for a moment. When you're full of anger - what do you want most from people? Understanding, tolerance, patience... are a few words that come to my mind! The last thing an angry man needs or wants is someone saying, "Calm down! Sit down! Shut up!" That only fuels the fire, doesn't it? Now imagine saying to that angry person, "Tell me about that. What's the problem?" A different outcome becomes possible, doesn't it? Some of you are reading that and thinking - "Pastor, you've lost touch with the real world. That's not how people react." Oh, I know that! I fail to extend that kind of acceptance to others all too frequently myself. But, if we are filled with the Spirit of God, we can change and become catalysts of change! Don't you believe that?
The ability to empathize, to decentralize 'self' in a way that allows for us to step into the other guy's shoes, comes from the Spirit's work. Challenged by the truth, we need FAITH to own it. If we are faithless, we will think - "I've never done that before. I cannot change, for I am who I am." Faith will lead us to pray something like this - "God, I believe that is Your way, that the Word is true. And, Lord I see that my life doesn't align to that truth. I believe You can change me. Work deeply in me." If you really want to be like Jesus, hang on 'cause the ride will be bumpy, often unpleasant, as He prunes away those characteristics of your life that resist His will.
I challenge you to make this truth practical.
Have you ever become so convinced that you know what the other person's position is you just stopping communicating? Yep! I've done it, too. Too quickly we jump to the conclusion without finishing the conversation. As the other person realizes that we are no longer listening, they become more defensive, more insistent. Do we re-connect? Not usually. The increased intensity only causes us to tighten the hatches of our mind and emotions. And, a simple misunderstanding becomes a big fight!
Jesus gives us this wisdom about human relationships -
“Do for others what you would like them to do for you." (Matthew 7:12, NLT)
The Message translation reads - "Ask yourself what you want people to do for you, then grab the initiative and do it for them."
We learned that Golden Rule in Sunday School and forgot it by Monday! Use your imagination for a moment. When you're full of anger - what do you want most from people? Understanding, tolerance, patience... are a few words that come to my mind! The last thing an angry man needs or wants is someone saying, "Calm down! Sit down! Shut up!" That only fuels the fire, doesn't it? Now imagine saying to that angry person, "Tell me about that. What's the problem?" A different outcome becomes possible, doesn't it? Some of you are reading that and thinking - "Pastor, you've lost touch with the real world. That's not how people react." Oh, I know that! I fail to extend that kind of acceptance to others all too frequently myself. But, if we are filled with the Spirit of God, we can change and become catalysts of change! Don't you believe that?
The ability to empathize, to decentralize 'self' in a way that allows for us to step into the other guy's shoes, comes from the Spirit's work. Challenged by the truth, we need FAITH to own it. If we are faithless, we will think - "I've never done that before. I cannot change, for I am who I am." Faith will lead us to pray something like this - "God, I believe that is Your way, that the Word is true. And, Lord I see that my life doesn't align to that truth. I believe You can change me. Work deeply in me." If you really want to be like Jesus, hang on 'cause the ride will be bumpy, often unpleasant, as He prunes away those characteristics of your life that resist His will.
I challenge you to make this truth practical.
- Think of a specific person whose ways you simply do not understand, with whom you consistently differ. Now, pray that Christ will teach you (no, don't pray that they are changed!) to love them, to show genuine empathy. Invite the Spirit to bring about transformation, even at the cost of dying to self.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
The world changes - we respond
Occasionally, perhaps I should write, frequently, the pace of change in my life nearly overwhelms me. I'm not talking about the normal stuff that everybody deals with in the process of growing older. We call have to deal with aching joints, a little more difficulty getting a good night's sleep, and other physical ailments not suitable for discussion in this TFTD. (smile!) The changes to which I refer are the changes in the world around us. Jerry and Karen are missionaries that spent the last four years in ministry on a remote island in the Pacific. It's not like they lived completely out of touch. They had email and they made trips to Australia. But when they settled back here in the States for this year of deputational work with their supporting churches, they were astonished at the amount of change - social and technological - that had occurred just since 2002! Those of us who live with it, don't really notice it because it happens all around us.
While I'm happy about the amazing amount of information available at the click of a button on the Internet, at the ease with which I can pay my bills online, and my TIVO; I'm trying to come to grips with things like - new attitudes towards venerable institutions like the Church, with philosophical shifts that regard 'truth' as a construct of one's experience rather than a revelation from God, with growing contempt for social responsibility and the rule of law. Perhaps I am just becoming an old geezer in love with yesterday, but I openly admit that because of these changes, I do not believe my grandchildren will live in a safer, better, or more prosperous world than the one in which I live. This isn't just about a new form of music or a different style of hair - the things that differentiated my generation. My children have grown up in a new world!
For example, a high value of our American society is autonomy. We've always valued our personal freedom, but in the past, we recognized that freedom is not limitless. Our freedom was expressed within boundaries - marriage, the rule of laws, the need for self-sacrifice for the greater good. The young adult who has grown up into the world of 2006, believes that he should be free to choose his own road without those boundaries. He believes he should be able to have sex with whomever he chooses, that he should enjoy nearly limitless civil rights, that the law should adapt to his needs, that he has the right to create 'god' in his own image! The results of this radical shift in values is becoming evident in things like a soaring birthrate of children born outside of a stable home, children who are much more likely to live in poverty and to engage in criminal behavior as they mature. Our schools are finding their task more difficult, in part, because of lack of discipline that comes with disrespect for rules and authority. That disrespect is fueled by the radical ideas of freedom held by the parents of today's students.
Sharing the gospel of Christ is more and more challenging. Where once I could make a reasonable case for the truth of Christ and His message, today that approach is seen by many as quaint. People don't think that they need to trust Jesus as Lord because He is the Truth. The bottom line for many is instead, 'how does He make me feel?' Doctrine, even for many Christians, is irrelevant. What is important is being happy, feeling comforted, 'good vibrations.'
So, how do we respond to these kinds of change?
Some retreat into yesterday's traditions. They form little communities of like-minded people who enshrine the rites and rituals that bring them comfort. They increasingly lose touch with the world, but they are comforted.
Others become militant, angry at the world. They choose a cause and focus on it as a way of protesting change and blocking out their own sense of displacement. Still others join the party! They see the changes as inevitable and irresistible.
I believe we must see ourselves as those who are commissioned by Christ to 'go into all the world and preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God.' This demands that we work to understand that world, that we are engaged with it, while not becoming compromised by it. Our hearts must be full of passion for God, fired by the Spirit. Our minds must be sharp, honed by the Word of God, with the insight given by the Spirit. Jesus said of His followers - "You are the light of the world... let your light shine...so others will praise your Father in heaven."
While I'm happy about the amazing amount of information available at the click of a button on the Internet, at the ease with which I can pay my bills online, and my TIVO; I'm trying to come to grips with things like - new attitudes towards venerable institutions like the Church, with philosophical shifts that regard 'truth' as a construct of one's experience rather than a revelation from God, with growing contempt for social responsibility and the rule of law. Perhaps I am just becoming an old geezer in love with yesterday, but I openly admit that because of these changes, I do not believe my grandchildren will live in a safer, better, or more prosperous world than the one in which I live. This isn't just about a new form of music or a different style of hair - the things that differentiated my generation. My children have grown up in a new world!
For example, a high value of our American society is autonomy. We've always valued our personal freedom, but in the past, we recognized that freedom is not limitless. Our freedom was expressed within boundaries - marriage, the rule of laws, the need for self-sacrifice for the greater good. The young adult who has grown up into the world of 2006, believes that he should be free to choose his own road without those boundaries. He believes he should be able to have sex with whomever he chooses, that he should enjoy nearly limitless civil rights, that the law should adapt to his needs, that he has the right to create 'god' in his own image! The results of this radical shift in values is becoming evident in things like a soaring birthrate of children born outside of a stable home, children who are much more likely to live in poverty and to engage in criminal behavior as they mature. Our schools are finding their task more difficult, in part, because of lack of discipline that comes with disrespect for rules and authority. That disrespect is fueled by the radical ideas of freedom held by the parents of today's students.
Sharing the gospel of Christ is more and more challenging. Where once I could make a reasonable case for the truth of Christ and His message, today that approach is seen by many as quaint. People don't think that they need to trust Jesus as Lord because He is the Truth. The bottom line for many is instead, 'how does He make me feel?' Doctrine, even for many Christians, is irrelevant. What is important is being happy, feeling comforted, 'good vibrations.'
So, how do we respond to these kinds of change?
Some retreat into yesterday's traditions. They form little communities of like-minded people who enshrine the rites and rituals that bring them comfort. They increasingly lose touch with the world, but they are comforted.
Others become militant, angry at the world. They choose a cause and focus on it as a way of protesting change and blocking out their own sense of displacement. Still others join the party! They see the changes as inevitable and irresistible.
I believe we must see ourselves as those who are commissioned by Christ to 'go into all the world and preach the Good News of the Kingdom of God.' This demands that we work to understand that world, that we are engaged with it, while not becoming compromised by it. Our hearts must be full of passion for God, fired by the Spirit. Our minds must be sharp, honed by the Word of God, with the insight given by the Spirit. Jesus said of His followers - "You are the light of the world... let your light shine...so others will praise your Father in heaven."
Monday, June 19, 2006
Building up, tearing down?
Words are a gift. I received cards from my kids for Father's Day and in them they jotted words that filled my heart with joy because they were affirming words of thanks and appreciation. Yesterday, during worship, we poured out words of praise to God in our songs and prayers. Our words blessed Heaven and brought us together in spiritual worship. The words that expressed the intent of our heart and mind became words of life! In my pastoral work, I use words to encourage and instruct in both private conversations and public preaching. You're reading along today in this TFTD, my thoughts flowing into your mind by means of words - which hopefully are edifying.
Then, there are words that carry a curse! This morning, in my email, I learned of an occasion of slanderous gossip that had caused some dear friends to be distressed, embarrassed, and faced with the need to explain and defend themselves unnecessarily. Those were destructive words. I've heard parents use words that destroy. I cringe when I hear a parent label their child as stupid, or bad, or with similar pejorative labels. On school playgrounds kids chant, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me!" But that isn't not true. Words can hurt, badly. You know that, and so do I.
What kinds of words flow from your lips? Proverbs contains some great lines about gossip. Take a look.
Proverbs 16:28 A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.
Proverbs 18:8 Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly?
Proverbs 26:20 When you run out of wood, the fire goes out; when the gossip ends, the quarrel dies down.
Paul sets a goal for each one of us in the use of our words. Romans 14:19 So let’s agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words.
How do we go from idle, death dealing gossip to encouraging words that bring life? With a genuine change of heart!
Jesus reminds us that our words don't spring from nowhere! They flow up from our inner most person, and are the revelation of the content of our heart, our thought life. A person who is mean, who spreads slanderous gossip, tells the world- "I have a heart that is empty of positive, Spirit-inspired life." This is my own experience. When I am depleted in spirit and have not renewed my strength in prayerful conversation with the Holy Spirit, I become a critical, difficult man. The overflow of my lips becomes ugly, negative, and demeaning to others. When I am filled with the Spirit, in the same situation, I am capable of encouraging, of speaking honestly, yet lovingly and with the goal of edifying others.
The answer to gossip and critical speech is not a padlock on the lips; it is confession of sin which allows the Holy Spirit to transform our mind.
Have you fallen into a pattern of gossip that destroys, that relates the worst, but seldom the best about others? Repent! Yes, friend, it's not just 'human' or 'normal,' it is a sin against God and others. Treat it as such. Pray instead that God will transform your words. Pray that it will be life, not death, that results from your conversations.
Let me leave you with a lengthy passage today for your meditation. It's packed with pithy wisdom! May God use it to challenge each one of us about the power of our words so that we will use them to build up the Kingdom.
"We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way. We can make a large horse turn around and go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a tiny rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot wants it to go, even though the winds are strong. So also, the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do.
A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is full of wickedness that can ruin your whole life. It can turn the entire course of your life into a blazing flame of destruction, for it is set on fire by hell itself. People can tame all kinds of animals and birds and reptiles and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is an uncontrollable evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it breaks out into curses against those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!
Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water?" (James 3:2-11, NLT)
Then, there are words that carry a curse! This morning, in my email, I learned of an occasion of slanderous gossip that had caused some dear friends to be distressed, embarrassed, and faced with the need to explain and defend themselves unnecessarily. Those were destructive words. I've heard parents use words that destroy. I cringe when I hear a parent label their child as stupid, or bad, or with similar pejorative labels. On school playgrounds kids chant, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me!" But that isn't not true. Words can hurt, badly. You know that, and so do I.
What kinds of words flow from your lips? Proverbs contains some great lines about gossip. Take a look.
Proverbs 16:28 A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.
Proverbs 18:8 Listening to gossip is like eating cheap candy; do you really want junk like that in your belly?
Proverbs 26:20 When you run out of wood, the fire goes out; when the gossip ends, the quarrel dies down.
Paul sets a goal for each one of us in the use of our words. Romans 14:19 So let’s agree to use all our energy in getting along with each other. Help others with encouraging words.
How do we go from idle, death dealing gossip to encouraging words that bring life? With a genuine change of heart!
Jesus reminds us that our words don't spring from nowhere! They flow up from our inner most person, and are the revelation of the content of our heart, our thought life. A person who is mean, who spreads slanderous gossip, tells the world- "I have a heart that is empty of positive, Spirit-inspired life." This is my own experience. When I am depleted in spirit and have not renewed my strength in prayerful conversation with the Holy Spirit, I become a critical, difficult man. The overflow of my lips becomes ugly, negative, and demeaning to others. When I am filled with the Spirit, in the same situation, I am capable of encouraging, of speaking honestly, yet lovingly and with the goal of edifying others.
The answer to gossip and critical speech is not a padlock on the lips; it is confession of sin which allows the Holy Spirit to transform our mind.
Have you fallen into a pattern of gossip that destroys, that relates the worst, but seldom the best about others? Repent! Yes, friend, it's not just 'human' or 'normal,' it is a sin against God and others. Treat it as such. Pray instead that God will transform your words. Pray that it will be life, not death, that results from your conversations.
Let me leave you with a lengthy passage today for your meditation. It's packed with pithy wisdom! May God use it to challenge each one of us about the power of our words so that we will use them to build up the Kingdom.
"We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way. We can make a large horse turn around and go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a tiny rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot wants it to go, even though the winds are strong. So also, the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do.
A tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is full of wickedness that can ruin your whole life. It can turn the entire course of your life into a blazing flame of destruction, for it is set on fire by hell itself. People can tame all kinds of animals and birds and reptiles and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is an uncontrollable evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it breaks out into curses against those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!
Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water?" (James 3:2-11, NLT)
Friday, June 16, 2006
We're just mud!
Sunday we mark Father's Day. For some, it will be a joyful day to celebrate a loving relationship. For others, it will be a day of sadness, recalling failure or abuse. No matter what kind of earthly father you were or what kind of father you had - you can put a different spin on the day by celebrating the Fatherhood of One who never fails! If you think you failed in the mission of fathering, remember that God gives new hearts, fresh starts, to those who ask for His renewal. If your father was absent, cruel, or abusive - you can begin the process of forgiveness with the help of God, our true Father.
The Bible says, "As parents feel for their children, God feels for those who fear him. He knows us inside and out, keeps in mind that we’re made of mud." (Psalm 103:13-14, The Message) That's rich, isn't it? He knows that you and I are just clay pots, rather fragile, easily broken. But here's another thought from the Word - "We carry this precious Message (of Christ's love and eternal life) around in the unadorned clay pots of our ordinary lives. That’s to prevent anyone from confusing God’s incomparable power with us." (2 Corinthians 4:6-7, The Message) God is investing Himself in people who are just mud, made from the same elements as the dirt! His Presence in us makes us noble, transforms us from ordinary clay pots into vessels of honor, into men and women of great value, uniquely belonging to Him, members of His great family.
One of my favorite passages in the entire Bible is the story found in the 15th chapter of Luke. It is that familiar story of a son, head-strong and rebellious, who takes advantage of his father's love, leaves home, lives wildly, and comes to the end of his resources. He is broken and alone. In his desperation, he hatches a plan. "I'll go home and ask Dad if I can just work on the farm. I know I'm not his son any longer, that he could not possibly love me after all I've done to him." So he goes home. As he comes down the road toward home, he sees a familiar figure coming to him. It's his Dad! He braces for the blast of anger -- but instead finds himself embraced, wrapped in arms of love. "And that," Jesus said, "is the true nature of our Father." He is a compassionate Father who remembers that we are just mud!
Dad - maybe you're dealing with a difficult child this year, one who is resisting your efforts at guidance, who is rebelling. I encourage you to remember he or she is just a sinner, a person made of mud; then remember compassion, a love like that love which your Father has given to you.
This Sunday, in addition to remembering your dad, celebrate the Father!
______________________________
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not;
As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, With ten thousand beside!
© 1923. Renewed 1951 Hope Publishing Company CCLI License No. 810055
The Bible says, "As parents feel for their children, God feels for those who fear him. He knows us inside and out, keeps in mind that we’re made of mud." (Psalm 103:13-14, The Message) That's rich, isn't it? He knows that you and I are just clay pots, rather fragile, easily broken. But here's another thought from the Word - "We carry this precious Message (of Christ's love and eternal life) around in the unadorned clay pots of our ordinary lives. That’s to prevent anyone from confusing God’s incomparable power with us." (2 Corinthians 4:6-7, The Message) God is investing Himself in people who are just mud, made from the same elements as the dirt! His Presence in us makes us noble, transforms us from ordinary clay pots into vessels of honor, into men and women of great value, uniquely belonging to Him, members of His great family.
One of my favorite passages in the entire Bible is the story found in the 15th chapter of Luke. It is that familiar story of a son, head-strong and rebellious, who takes advantage of his father's love, leaves home, lives wildly, and comes to the end of his resources. He is broken and alone. In his desperation, he hatches a plan. "I'll go home and ask Dad if I can just work on the farm. I know I'm not his son any longer, that he could not possibly love me after all I've done to him." So he goes home. As he comes down the road toward home, he sees a familiar figure coming to him. It's his Dad! He braces for the blast of anger -- but instead finds himself embraced, wrapped in arms of love. "And that," Jesus said, "is the true nature of our Father." He is a compassionate Father who remembers that we are just mud!
Dad - maybe you're dealing with a difficult child this year, one who is resisting your efforts at guidance, who is rebelling. I encourage you to remember he or she is just a sinner, a person made of mud; then remember compassion, a love like that love which your Father has given to you.
This Sunday, in addition to remembering your dad, celebrate the Father!
______________________________
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father,
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not;
As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided.
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, With ten thousand beside!
© 1923. Renewed 1951 Hope Publishing Company CCLI License No. 810055
Thursday, June 15, 2006
God cares about people!
There's a lot of rhetoric out there about compassion and caring, but how much is genuine? Even among 'church people' who hear so much about loving others like God loves us, how deep does the love really go? That's a question worth asking! I recently talked with a woman whose life had slid into reverse a few years ago. Her health failed, her financial situation deteriorated, her family relationships broke down - and she ended up in desperate straits. Her last resort for housing was a shelter which she described as 'hell on earth!' The government provided the dollars but the 'service' provided by government employees was not from the heart. It was just a job to them! The people being served experienced little in the way of genuine compassion. Then she was directed to a group of people with a ministry to homeless families. There she found genuine compassion, real and deep love; that came from people who were willing to get involved in a way that is costly both in terms of money and time. Their love has put her back on her feet.
Are you serving others - even those who are ungodly or unlovely - with Christ-like love?
Do you see people as persons or objects, as real sons and daughters of God or as pieces on the chess board of life to be pushed around to fit your plays?
Yesterday I was studying the prophet Amos. He opens his sermons with this startling phrase - "The LORD roars... and thunders." In the first two chapters of his book, he tells the pagan nations surrounding Israel of their impending doom, of God's imminent judgment. Here's the really interesting part. He doesn't say God's wrath is coming because they were idol-worshippers or sexually immoral or even because they were Israel's enemies! He speaks time and again (albeit in poetic symbols that are difficult for a layman to decipher) to the cruelty that these nations visited on the people around them. He speaks to their slave trading, to war atrocities, to conquest of nations for economic benefit, and to their general inhumanity. The summary of the passage is that "God cares about people, all people!" He demands that we treat others with dignity, with compassion, and respect. It's not just good social practice to do so; it is God's holy demand of us.
Didn't Jesus say the same thing? A man asked him about pleasing God -
“Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”
Jesus said, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’
This is the most important, the first on any list.
But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’
These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” " (Matthew 22:36-40, The Message)
The love of which He speaks is not expressed with words of syrupy sentiment, or a handshake at church, or even a $100 donation to the Salvation Army. It is a love that gives dignity to the poor person, that does not allow slurs to be spoken against those of another race, that does not demean the weak, or the sinful, or the broken. Our personal piety is a hollow expression of godliness without costly involvement with the world around that works to defeat evil, eliminate suffering, and establish the Kingdom of God.
Here's a thought from Amos. Ponder it! Meditate on it!
"Away with your hymns of praise!
They are only noise to my ears.
I will not listen to your music, no matter how lovely it is.
Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, a river of righteous living that will never run dry." (Amos 5:23-24, NLT)
Are you serving others - even those who are ungodly or unlovely - with Christ-like love?
Do you see people as persons or objects, as real sons and daughters of God or as pieces on the chess board of life to be pushed around to fit your plays?
Yesterday I was studying the prophet Amos. He opens his sermons with this startling phrase - "The LORD roars... and thunders." In the first two chapters of his book, he tells the pagan nations surrounding Israel of their impending doom, of God's imminent judgment. Here's the really interesting part. He doesn't say God's wrath is coming because they were idol-worshippers or sexually immoral or even because they were Israel's enemies! He speaks time and again (albeit in poetic symbols that are difficult for a layman to decipher) to the cruelty that these nations visited on the people around them. He speaks to their slave trading, to war atrocities, to conquest of nations for economic benefit, and to their general inhumanity. The summary of the passage is that "God cares about people, all people!" He demands that we treat others with dignity, with compassion, and respect. It's not just good social practice to do so; it is God's holy demand of us.
Didn't Jesus say the same thing? A man asked him about pleasing God -
“Teacher, which command in God’s Law is the most important?”
Jesus said, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and intelligence.’
This is the most important, the first on any list.
But there is a second to set alongside it: ‘Love others as well as you love yourself.’
These two commands are pegs; everything in God’s Law and the Prophets hangs from them.” " (Matthew 22:36-40, The Message)
The love of which He speaks is not expressed with words of syrupy sentiment, or a handshake at church, or even a $100 donation to the Salvation Army. It is a love that gives dignity to the poor person, that does not allow slurs to be spoken against those of another race, that does not demean the weak, or the sinful, or the broken. Our personal piety is a hollow expression of godliness without costly involvement with the world around that works to defeat evil, eliminate suffering, and establish the Kingdom of God.
Here's a thought from Amos. Ponder it! Meditate on it!
"Away with your hymns of praise!
They are only noise to my ears.
I will not listen to your music, no matter how lovely it is.
Instead, I want to see a mighty flood of justice, a river of righteous living that will never run dry." (Amos 5:23-24, NLT)
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Fearing God
We sing, "I stand in awe of You," but do we really know what that means? Back in 1989, in addition to pastoring a small church in Massachusetts, I worked a few hours each day selling office supplies. It was just a job, not bad, not exciting - just a place to sell pens, paper, poster board, etc. One Summer day a famous face walked through the doors of that little store. Meryl Streep walked up to the counter and asked for refills for her Mont Blanc pen. I was, much to my embarrassment, star-struck! I felt a kind of awe that I was meeting a woman who was, at that time, known all over the world for her work in major movies. Don't get the wrong idea. She didn't come into the store escorted by a big entourage or dressed in diamonds. She had her little kids with her and looked like she had just come in from working the yard. It was simply her presence that created the awe in me.
I don't find awe all that common in our worship of the Living Lord. Often I rush into His presence, whether privately or in corporate gatherings, noisily and often, with a list of demands. I attend to Him half-heartedly while thinking about the deadlines that are pressing in on me. A low view of God has robbed us of our awe, turning the Lord of Glory into the Divine Buddy, the Dispenser of the Doodads! When was the last time you sat in the Presence of the Lord with a crushing sense of His awesomeness? When was the last time that instead of turning up the volume of the music, you felt only like contemplating His Person in silence?
Ponder these words -
"Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise!
He is to be revered above all the gods.
The gods of other nations are merely idols,
but the Lord made the heavens!
Honor and majesty surround him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. ...
Worship the Lord in all his holy splendor.
Let all the earth tremble before him."
(Psalm 96:4-6, 9 NLT)
It is important to know that Jesus Christ loves us, that He walks with us, that the Holy Spirit comforts us. I make no case for turning God into a remote, unapproachable Person. And yet, we must balance our familiarity with the Lord with a Biblical awe - which Proverbs reminds us is the fountainhead of wisdom! (1.7) The same Jesus who held children in his arms, who extended forgiveness to an adulterous woman, and who fed hungry crowds; is also the Lord of the Revelation - whom John says appeared to him "in a robe and gold breastplate, hair a blizzard of white, Eyes pouring fire-blaze, both feet furnace-fired bronze, His voice a cataract, right hand holding the Seven Stars, His mouth a sharp-biting sword, his face a perigee sun." (Revelation 1:13-16, The Message) And how did John respond to that appearance? "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead." (Revelation 1:17, NLT) Jesus touched John and told him not to be overcome with terror! But there was real awe!
Don't lose your awe of God! Don't make Him too small. Yes, love Him as your Friend. Yes, come near to Him in full confidence of faith, but remember He is the Lord of Glory.
At your entrance into eternity, He will be your Judge, the One who, with perfect justice and complete insight, evaluates every thought, every action, every motive. He is All-Knowing, All-powerful, Present Everywhere, King and Lord above all gods!
________________
You are beautiful beyond description,
Too marvelous for words,
Too wonderful for comprehension,
Like nothing ever seen or heard.
Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom,
Who can fathom the depth of Your love?
You are beautiful beyond description,
Majesty enthroned above.
And I stand, I stand in awe of You.
I stand, I stand in awe of You.
Holy God, to whom all praise is due,
I stand in awe of You.
© 1987 People Of Destiny International (Admin. by PDI Ministries) CCLI License No. 810055
I don't find awe all that common in our worship of the Living Lord. Often I rush into His presence, whether privately or in corporate gatherings, noisily and often, with a list of demands. I attend to Him half-heartedly while thinking about the deadlines that are pressing in on me. A low view of God has robbed us of our awe, turning the Lord of Glory into the Divine Buddy, the Dispenser of the Doodads! When was the last time you sat in the Presence of the Lord with a crushing sense of His awesomeness? When was the last time that instead of turning up the volume of the music, you felt only like contemplating His Person in silence?
Ponder these words -
"Great is the Lord! He is most worthy of praise!
He is to be revered above all the gods.
The gods of other nations are merely idols,
but the Lord made the heavens!
Honor and majesty surround him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. ...
Worship the Lord in all his holy splendor.
Let all the earth tremble before him."
(Psalm 96:4-6, 9 NLT)
It is important to know that Jesus Christ loves us, that He walks with us, that the Holy Spirit comforts us. I make no case for turning God into a remote, unapproachable Person. And yet, we must balance our familiarity with the Lord with a Biblical awe - which Proverbs reminds us is the fountainhead of wisdom! (1.7) The same Jesus who held children in his arms, who extended forgiveness to an adulterous woman, and who fed hungry crowds; is also the Lord of the Revelation - whom John says appeared to him "in a robe and gold breastplate, hair a blizzard of white, Eyes pouring fire-blaze, both feet furnace-fired bronze, His voice a cataract, right hand holding the Seven Stars, His mouth a sharp-biting sword, his face a perigee sun." (Revelation 1:13-16, The Message) And how did John respond to that appearance? "When I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead." (Revelation 1:17, NLT) Jesus touched John and told him not to be overcome with terror! But there was real awe!
Don't lose your awe of God! Don't make Him too small. Yes, love Him as your Friend. Yes, come near to Him in full confidence of faith, but remember He is the Lord of Glory.
At your entrance into eternity, He will be your Judge, the One who, with perfect justice and complete insight, evaluates every thought, every action, every motive. He is All-Knowing, All-powerful, Present Everywhere, King and Lord above all gods!
________________
You are beautiful beyond description,
Too marvelous for words,
Too wonderful for comprehension,
Like nothing ever seen or heard.
Who can grasp Your infinite wisdom,
Who can fathom the depth of Your love?
You are beautiful beyond description,
Majesty enthroned above.
And I stand, I stand in awe of You.
I stand, I stand in awe of You.
Holy God, to whom all praise is due,
I stand in awe of You.
© 1987 People Of Destiny International (Admin. by PDI Ministries) CCLI License No. 810055
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