If you've even been tempted by discouragement or felt like your efforts were all for nothing, this TFTD is for you! Paul's second letter written to his 'son in the faith,' Timothy, was penned when he was older, near the end of his life, while he was a prisoner of Rome for his work in the service of Jesus Christ. The overall tone is one of deep sorrow, but not defeat. After all he had done in the service of the Lord, he was in the worst prison in Rome - these jails were underground cells of cramped, miserable conditions. In addition to his physical misery, he was abandoned by many of his friends who were even embarrassed to mention his name. It is hard to begin to imagine the kinds of temptations that the evil one hurled at the old preacher in the middle of the night. "You wasted your life!" "Nobody cares what you sacrificed. They're ashamed of you." "This is how God treats those who serve Him? You expect others to serve Him, too?" If you think I'm wide of the mark, read between the lines of his letter. He is not only talking to Timothy, he's encouraging himself in the Lord.
He writes: "You’ve been a good apprentice to me, a part of my teaching, my manner of life, direction, faith, steadiness, love, patience, troubles, sufferings—suffering along with me in all the grief I had to put up ... Anyone who wants to live all out for Christ is in for a lot of trouble; there’s no getting around it. Unscrupulous con men will continue to exploit the faith. They’re as deceived as the people they lead astray. As long as they are out there, things can only get worse. But don’t let it faze you. Stick with what you learned and believed...." (2 Timothy 3:10-14, The Message)
May I loosely paraphrase it? "Hey, Tim - brace yourself. Things often go from bad to worse because evil is real and in constant opposition to good and God!" That's not exactly what we like to hear, is it? We want promises of better tomorrow's and blue skies. We want guarantees that the good guys finish out front, that good triumphs over evil -- but, in this world, on this side of eternity, that's simply not always what happens. This world is sold into the slavery of disobedience to God. Lies sell much more easily than the Truth. Slick talkers who do not concern themselves with the well-being of those that they teach will almost always gain larger audiences than those who cry out for steady, faithful, God-centered living. Those willing to exercise the greatest brutality often end up in charge - for a while, anyway. It was that kind of world that Paul worked in, tirelessly proclaiming the love of God, the possibility of becoming a saint, a light in the vast darkness. And, there in the dungeon, it appeared that evil had won!
Don't get the wrong idea. Paul wasn't giving up, nor was he admitting defeat! He was just being honest, brutally so, about the high price of resisting evil with the Good News of Christ. He had always proclaimed the Resurrection and set his hope ultimately in eternity. Remember he once wrote - "If only for this life we have hope, we are of all men most miserable.... but Christ has risen from the dead." In other words, it isn't over when they put the lid on our coffin! Now, weeks before the Romans would kill him, Paul writes to his son in the Lord:
"I can’t impress this on you too strongly. God is looking over your shoulder. Christ himself is the Judge, with the final say on everyone, living and dead. He is about to break into the open with his rule, so proclaim the Message with intensity; keep on your watch. Challenge, warn, and urge your people. Don’t ever quit. Just keep it simple. You’re going to find that there will be times when people will have no stomach for solid teaching, but will fill up on spiritual junk food—catchy opinions that tickle their fancy. They’ll turn their backs on truth and chase mirages.
But you—keep your eye on what you’re doing; accept the hard times along with the good; keep the Message alive; do a thorough job as God’s servant. You take over.
I’m about to die, my life an offering on God’s altar. This is the only race worth running. I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting—God’s applause! Depend on it, he’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming. " (2 Timothy 4:1-8, The Message)
Wow! That's quite a finish, isn't it? Yes, Demas had run off, abandoning his faith for love of the world. Everyone he counted on had left him to stand alone before the courts. Some man named, Alexander, the metalworker, and what he had done to Paul is now lost to history. Perhaps this man had been the source of trumped up charges that landed Paul in prison. But the preacher marks as a "man who did me much harm. May the Lord repay him!" But, the old man was not ashamed, afraid, or in despair. He was confident that at the end of this race, there was a Judge whose reward would more than compensate him for all he had invested in the Kingdom of God.
I don't think I'm writing to anybody in a literal dungeon, but I'm sure some of you are tired, maybe even beat up by life. Perhaps in your life, too, the bad guys appear to be ahead and the demons are whispering - "just quit being a fool and take what's coming to you." Keep your eyes on that Heavenly finish line, Believer. And you, too, will be able to claim the assurance that Paul flung in the face of his accuser's, detractors, and even the demons of Hell - "I’ve run hard right to the finish, believed all the way. All that’s left now is the shouting—God’s applause! Depend on it, he’s an honest judge. He’ll do right not only by me, but by everyone eager for his coming. "
______________
Lord, I whine far too often about the inconveniences of my life.
Forgive me.
I tend to think of discomfort as though it were real pain.
I look for smooth roads, quick fixes, and approval from the world around me.
Take me deeper in You! Lead to a commitment to the Truth,
to be so much in love with You, that inconvenience, discomfort, and yes -
even true suffering becomes as nothing compared with knowing You.
Let me be full of the beauty and character of Jesus -
as much in the tough times as when every thing is flowing my way.
And, Lord, steady me with the promise of Eternal Life
that awaits when the battle is over.
In Jesus' name I pray this... and for the glory of God.
Amen.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
Why does our church do that, anyway?
For all of my life, I have been part of a Christian church. One of the foundational facts, the assumed goal in church and ministry, was that we should 'grow it bigger!'
I think the 11th commandment is -- Thou shalt grow bigger churches.
Got Sunday School? Then you need more kids in it, so bring on the buses every Sunday morning. (Sunday School busing was the way to grow your church in the 1980's.)
Got youth group? Then find a way to get lots of kids in the room. Lots of kids equals 'successful youth program.'
Got a church building? It must be bigger, so find ways to pack more people through the doors, then trumpet the numbers - 500 in attendance on Easter Sunday! Pay no mind that it was a circus that brought them in. Everybody will get really excited. Offering will go up. Staff will be hired, buildings will be constructed... but to what purpose? That is the troubling question that is not asked often enough.
We could reframe that question this way - 'why are we trying to be bigger?'
Supposedly, I was taught that we were 'bringing people to Christ,' or 'saving the lost,' but was that actually happening?
Few will argue with the statement that as churches grew larger; actual percentages of deeply devout followers of Jesus seemed to decline! In 2007, evangelical Christianity claims about 30-40% of Americans, but there is no apparent surfeit of spiritual fruit in our land that would be correspondent to that many devout Christ-followers in a society. Published statistics show that Evangelical Christians are just as materialistic, break up their marriages in divorce, and cheat on their taxes - at the same rates as the rest of Americans. I do not know exactly why that surprises anyone. Getting more people through the doors of our churches requires that we smooth off the rough edges, make the message less challenging, and 'become relevant!' Marketing is king. That's how McDonald's got huge. Mickey D's does not serve gourmet foods that appeals to a few culinary aficionados. It serves cheeseburgers and fries that lots of people like and can afford. Many churches try to grow by becoming religious McDonald's - serving up bland sermons, music that sounds like a pop radio station, in services that are organized to move like a TV show - offering spiritual comfort 'food,' in place of sound spiritual nourishment.
I think it's time to to be focused on relentlessly is what Jesus actually commissioned us to be doing- "go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT) Of course that means we have to take the lead in that direction - obedience, I mean. "Christianity Lite" which requires little of us, that thrives on being 'at home' in the culture, needs to be replaced with a passion to become radical followers of our Lord who study His words with the intent of becoming like Him in the world. I'll be completely honest with you. I do not even really know what that last sentence might mean for me, or for you, in terms of day to day living.
What I do know is that His words are so radically opposed to what most of us consider 'normal,' that if we got serious about knowing and doing them- it will turn our lives upside down! By way of illustration, think about a couple of Jesus' statements.
Exactly how does a 21st century American person apply words like "Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal." (Matthew 6:20, NLT) "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24, NLT) Can we even begin to understand that as we leave in a consumer culture?
Or what do we do with this? "You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. So if your eye—even your good eye—causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell." (Matthew 5:27-29, NLT) I walked past Victoria's Secret in the mall recently. Seen those larger than life pictures of seductively posed models they hang in the windows? How do we implement sexual purity and wholeness in a culture that thinks about having sex with only slightly more significance than having a cup of coffee?
Churches who are trying just to be 'bigger' never ask those kinds of questions. They're too 'controversial!' They make people uncomfortable and when they get uncomfortable, they go somewhere else, taking their resources with them! So much for constructing bigger buildings, winning denominational awards, or being featured on NBC's "Dateline" as the fastest growing church in America. I'm not voting for closing our doors to anyone. Let's preach with fervor, share our whole heart with those who want to be loved, and serve everybody with the love of Jesus - and leave the 'big-ness' up to Him.
Here's what I know from the Bible.
Jesus made a lot of people who were trying to just appear respectable, very angry with His demand for transformation that went heart deep. He made a lot of people who were on the margins of society very happy for He showed them the way to recover their relationship with their Father, and thus to find life with meaning, full of joy, and with great hope. I want to be the kind of Christian who follows Him, even if it makes some people hate me. No, of course, I do not want to be a fool who just offends others in a mistaken attempt to prove my own godliness. With the help of the Spirit, I want to love radically, give totally, and wrestle with His words and how they instruct my life. If that makes me a minority in my world, so be it. I think real disciples always will be a minority, for I have it on most excellent authority. Our Master said, "You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it." (Matthew 7:13-14, NLT)
I think the 11th commandment is -- Thou shalt grow bigger churches.
Got Sunday School? Then you need more kids in it, so bring on the buses every Sunday morning. (Sunday School busing was the way to grow your church in the 1980's.)
Got youth group? Then find a way to get lots of kids in the room. Lots of kids equals 'successful youth program.'
Got a church building? It must be bigger, so find ways to pack more people through the doors, then trumpet the numbers - 500 in attendance on Easter Sunday! Pay no mind that it was a circus that brought them in. Everybody will get really excited. Offering will go up. Staff will be hired, buildings will be constructed... but to what purpose? That is the troubling question that is not asked often enough.
We could reframe that question this way - 'why are we trying to be bigger?'
Supposedly, I was taught that we were 'bringing people to Christ,' or 'saving the lost,' but was that actually happening?
Few will argue with the statement that as churches grew larger; actual percentages of deeply devout followers of Jesus seemed to decline! In 2007, evangelical Christianity claims about 30-40% of Americans, but there is no apparent surfeit of spiritual fruit in our land that would be correspondent to that many devout Christ-followers in a society. Published statistics show that Evangelical Christians are just as materialistic, break up their marriages in divorce, and cheat on their taxes - at the same rates as the rest of Americans. I do not know exactly why that surprises anyone. Getting more people through the doors of our churches requires that we smooth off the rough edges, make the message less challenging, and 'become relevant!' Marketing is king. That's how McDonald's got huge. Mickey D's does not serve gourmet foods that appeals to a few culinary aficionados. It serves cheeseburgers and fries that lots of people like and can afford. Many churches try to grow by becoming religious McDonald's - serving up bland sermons, music that sounds like a pop radio station, in services that are organized to move like a TV show - offering spiritual comfort 'food,' in place of sound spiritual nourishment.
I think it's time to to be focused on relentlessly is what Jesus actually commissioned us to be doing- "go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT) Of course that means we have to take the lead in that direction - obedience, I mean. "Christianity Lite" which requires little of us, that thrives on being 'at home' in the culture, needs to be replaced with a passion to become radical followers of our Lord who study His words with the intent of becoming like Him in the world. I'll be completely honest with you. I do not even really know what that last sentence might mean for me, or for you, in terms of day to day living.
What I do know is that His words are so radically opposed to what most of us consider 'normal,' that if we got serious about knowing and doing them- it will turn our lives upside down! By way of illustration, think about a couple of Jesus' statements.
Exactly how does a 21st century American person apply words like "Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal." (Matthew 6:20, NLT) "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24, NLT) Can we even begin to understand that as we leave in a consumer culture?
Or what do we do with this? "You have heard the commandment that says, ‘You must not commit adultery.’ But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. So if your eye—even your good eye—causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell." (Matthew 5:27-29, NLT) I walked past Victoria's Secret in the mall recently. Seen those larger than life pictures of seductively posed models they hang in the windows? How do we implement sexual purity and wholeness in a culture that thinks about having sex with only slightly more significance than having a cup of coffee?
Churches who are trying just to be 'bigger' never ask those kinds of questions. They're too 'controversial!' They make people uncomfortable and when they get uncomfortable, they go somewhere else, taking their resources with them! So much for constructing bigger buildings, winning denominational awards, or being featured on NBC's "Dateline" as the fastest growing church in America. I'm not voting for closing our doors to anyone. Let's preach with fervor, share our whole heart with those who want to be loved, and serve everybody with the love of Jesus - and leave the 'big-ness' up to Him.
Here's what I know from the Bible.
Jesus made a lot of people who were trying to just appear respectable, very angry with His demand for transformation that went heart deep. He made a lot of people who were on the margins of society very happy for He showed them the way to recover their relationship with their Father, and thus to find life with meaning, full of joy, and with great hope. I want to be the kind of Christian who follows Him, even if it makes some people hate me. No, of course, I do not want to be a fool who just offends others in a mistaken attempt to prove my own godliness. With the help of the Spirit, I want to love radically, give totally, and wrestle with His words and how they instruct my life. If that makes me a minority in my world, so be it. I think real disciples always will be a minority, for I have it on most excellent authority. Our Master said, "You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it." (Matthew 7:13-14, NLT)
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Is your heart in good shape?
I was checking my blood pressure with a little automated wrist cuff that I keep at home. My grandson asked, "What does that do Grandpa?" I explained it helped me to know if my heart was healthy. He asked if I could put the cuff on him, so I did, on his upper arm which is smaller than my wrist. As it pressurized, he said, "I hope that it shows my heart is really lovable!" He is five so his concept of heart health is about the kind of person one is, about being loving, not about blood pressure and pulse rates. I think Gavin is on to something in this! True health is deeper than physical statistics. What shape is your heart in, Believer?
Would it make any difference if we could put on a monitor that would indicate when our faith is in need of strengthening, or that our hope is lagging behind the norms, or that love is at a low state? The truth is that there is such a monitor! Jesus Christ tells us that ". . . whatever is in your heart determines what you say. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart." (Matthew 12:34-35, NLT) "What you say flows from what is in your heart." (Luke 6:45, NLT) Just listen to your daily conversation. A heart sick with sin will be shown by the words of lust, or greed, or hatred that spill out of us. A healthy heart will show in consistent words of faith, hope, and love.
Recently I was reading an article written by a physician who was lamenting the pill mentality that he claims has replaced good medicine in America, a mis-focus that is costing us $billions unnecessarily. So many of our ills would be better treated with holistic methods that involve our lifestyles. He claimed that the majority of our illnesses, particularly those of aging, would have much less impact if we ate more balanced diets with significantly lower amounts of fats and refined sugars that included more vegetables and less meat. He urged regular daily exercise to keep weight under control. Instead of spending $thousands on medicines, he claimed that most of us could change the quality of our lives with common sense adjustments to our way of life. But instead, we want indulge ourselves and then pop a pill to 'fix' the resulting malfunction.
Spiritual heart health is much the same. We grow strong in the ways of God and enjoy a depth of spiritual qualities (loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled- Galatians 5:22-23, CEV) not with some instant fix or a quick encounter with a miracle. We become healthy Believers by integrating the truth of Scripture into our minds, daily; by exercising our souls with obedience, in the little choices of each day; by trusting God for our daily bread, committing ourselves to Him. The Divine Heart Surgeon promises these results - "I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I’ll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that’s God-willed, not self-willed. I’ll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. . . . You’ll be my people! I’ll be your God! " (Ezekiel 36:26-28, The Message)
I want to be a disciple of Jesus is beautiful from the inside out, don't you? I don't want to just 'look good.' I want to 'be good,' - so help me God! I want His grace to go heart deep.
_________________
Friend, how would you feel
If your heart were made
With a window on each side?
So that all could see
Not just outward charm,
But detect if inward harm.
Jesus really knows you
For He sees inside.
How about your heart,
Is it right with God?
That's the thing that
Counts today, today.
How About Your Heart
© 1954 Renewed 1982 Gospel Quartet Music Company, Inc.
(Admin. by Integrated Copyright Group, Inc.) CCLI License No. 810055
Would it make any difference if we could put on a monitor that would indicate when our faith is in need of strengthening, or that our hope is lagging behind the norms, or that love is at a low state? The truth is that there is such a monitor! Jesus Christ tells us that ". . . whatever is in your heart determines what you say. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart." (Matthew 12:34-35, NLT) "What you say flows from what is in your heart." (Luke 6:45, NLT) Just listen to your daily conversation. A heart sick with sin will be shown by the words of lust, or greed, or hatred that spill out of us. A healthy heart will show in consistent words of faith, hope, and love.
Recently I was reading an article written by a physician who was lamenting the pill mentality that he claims has replaced good medicine in America, a mis-focus that is costing us $billions unnecessarily. So many of our ills would be better treated with holistic methods that involve our lifestyles. He claimed that the majority of our illnesses, particularly those of aging, would have much less impact if we ate more balanced diets with significantly lower amounts of fats and refined sugars that included more vegetables and less meat. He urged regular daily exercise to keep weight under control. Instead of spending $thousands on medicines, he claimed that most of us could change the quality of our lives with common sense adjustments to our way of life. But instead, we want indulge ourselves and then pop a pill to 'fix' the resulting malfunction.
Spiritual heart health is much the same. We grow strong in the ways of God and enjoy a depth of spiritual qualities (loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled- Galatians 5:22-23, CEV) not with some instant fix or a quick encounter with a miracle. We become healthy Believers by integrating the truth of Scripture into our minds, daily; by exercising our souls with obedience, in the little choices of each day; by trusting God for our daily bread, committing ourselves to Him. The Divine Heart Surgeon promises these results - "I’ll give you a new heart, put a new spirit in you. I’ll remove the stone heart from your body and replace it with a heart that’s God-willed, not self-willed. I’ll put my Spirit in you and make it possible for you to do what I tell you and live by my commands. . . . You’ll be my people! I’ll be your God! " (Ezekiel 36:26-28, The Message)
I want to be a disciple of Jesus is beautiful from the inside out, don't you? I don't want to just 'look good.' I want to 'be good,' - so help me God! I want His grace to go heart deep.
_________________
Friend, how would you feel
If your heart were made
With a window on each side?
So that all could see
Not just outward charm,
But detect if inward harm.
Jesus really knows you
For He sees inside.
How about your heart,
Is it right with God?
That's the thing that
Counts today, today.
How About Your Heart
© 1954 Renewed 1982 Gospel Quartet Music Company, Inc.
(Admin. by Integrated Copyright Group, Inc.) CCLI License No. 810055
Monday, July 09, 2007
The geographic cure
A friend, a recovering alcoholic, introduced me to the phrase - "the geographic cure." He told me it was a familiar phrase at AA meetings. When a drunk has burned everybody in town and used up all his options, he starts to believe that the solution to his problem is a new town - somewhere, anywhere, else. When I heard the phrase I realized that many of us are afflicted with this deception- convinced that a new job, another church, a start on life in another state, a new lover; will bring us happiness. But here is the flaw in that line of thought - when you get there, you are still there! Unless we deal with ourselves, until we do the work of change, allowing God to transform our mind and our actions, we will just recreate the same set of difficulties at each stop along life's road.
An ancient prophet, Jonah, decided on the geographic cure! The little book that tells his story starts with these words. "The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai: "Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me." But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the LORD." (Jonah 1:1-3, NIV) Imagine thinking that you could outrun the Spirit of God, but Jonah did and so do many people to this day! The Bible does not tell us why he did not want to obey God's will. Perhaps it was common fear. Going to preach in Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian empire, was a terror-filled proposition. The Assyrians were a cruel and powerful people. They were conquering nations all over the region by killing anybody who stood in their way. Then, too, it might be that Jonah did not want to even create the possibility for the Assyrians to come to know God. It may well be that he wanted them to been destroyed by God's wrath!
Whatever his reasons, Jonah decided that he would go in the opposite direction, as far from Nineveh as possible. Perhaps he thought, "I can preach to the people of Tarshish just as well as the people of Nineveh. Their spiritual need is just as great." But God wanted him in Nineveh! The Lord pursued him onto the ocean, caught up with him in the belly of a great fish, and brought about a change of mind over a period of three days.
Are you tempted by the sin of Jonah?
Does the way God has led you fill you with fear or dread so that you desire to run for someplace new?
David, penned this song. "I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! ... If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me." (Psalm 139: 7, 9-10, NLT) For those who are pursuing God and His will, that is a wonderful promise. "The Lord will be with me - everywhere, all the time!" For those who are trying to run away, that is a terrible threat!
Choose obedience now. Let God minister to you. His power and presence are no more real or near anywhere in the world than right where you are, right now! Center yourself in God's will. Stop reading the travel brochures that paint all those pretty pictures of some other place, some new situation. Pray for God's grace to steady you, to develop you, right where you are. Let God's Word and Spirit transform you as you follow His lead, instead of thinking that the solution is to chase the mirage that lies on the horizon. If you're tempted to run away - just pray, "Lord, keep me from the sin of Jonah. Steady me, Lord."
Here's a word from the Word to ponder. It comes from a time soon after the Israelites had left Egypt in the Exodus. God had shown Himself mighty on their behalf and brought about their deliverance. Then as they camped in the desert, scouts saw the Egyptian army approaching on the horizon. They were afraid, tempted to scatter, but Moses gave them this counsel. Let it speak to your heart today.
"Do not be afraid.
Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today.
For the Egyptians whom you see today,
you shall see again no more forever.
The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."
(Exodus 14:13-14, NKJV)
_________________________
Stand still and see His glory;
Watch as His mysteries unfold.
Bask in the sweetness of pure Living Waters,
Refreshing, reviving the soul.
All hail His infinite wisdom!
None is so mighty as He.
Master, Creator of all things enduring,
None else is so precious to me.
Stand Still and See His Glory, D. Rambo © 1977 John T. Benson Publishing Company (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc., 741 Coolsprings Blvd., Franklin TN 37067) / CCLI License No. 810055
An ancient prophet, Jonah, decided on the geographic cure! The little book that tells his story starts with these words. "The word of the LORD came to Jonah son of Amittai: "Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me." But Jonah ran away from the LORD and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the LORD." (Jonah 1:1-3, NIV) Imagine thinking that you could outrun the Spirit of God, but Jonah did and so do many people to this day! The Bible does not tell us why he did not want to obey God's will. Perhaps it was common fear. Going to preach in Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian empire, was a terror-filled proposition. The Assyrians were a cruel and powerful people. They were conquering nations all over the region by killing anybody who stood in their way. Then, too, it might be that Jonah did not want to even create the possibility for the Assyrians to come to know God. It may well be that he wanted them to been destroyed by God's wrath!
Whatever his reasons, Jonah decided that he would go in the opposite direction, as far from Nineveh as possible. Perhaps he thought, "I can preach to the people of Tarshish just as well as the people of Nineveh. Their spiritual need is just as great." But God wanted him in Nineveh! The Lord pursued him onto the ocean, caught up with him in the belly of a great fish, and brought about a change of mind over a period of three days.
Are you tempted by the sin of Jonah?
Does the way God has led you fill you with fear or dread so that you desire to run for someplace new?
David, penned this song. "I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! ... If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me." (Psalm 139: 7, 9-10, NLT) For those who are pursuing God and His will, that is a wonderful promise. "The Lord will be with me - everywhere, all the time!" For those who are trying to run away, that is a terrible threat!
Choose obedience now. Let God minister to you. His power and presence are no more real or near anywhere in the world than right where you are, right now! Center yourself in God's will. Stop reading the travel brochures that paint all those pretty pictures of some other place, some new situation. Pray for God's grace to steady you, to develop you, right where you are. Let God's Word and Spirit transform you as you follow His lead, instead of thinking that the solution is to chase the mirage that lies on the horizon. If you're tempted to run away - just pray, "Lord, keep me from the sin of Jonah. Steady me, Lord."
Here's a word from the Word to ponder. It comes from a time soon after the Israelites had left Egypt in the Exodus. God had shown Himself mighty on their behalf and brought about their deliverance. Then as they camped in the desert, scouts saw the Egyptian army approaching on the horizon. They were afraid, tempted to scatter, but Moses gave them this counsel. Let it speak to your heart today.
"Do not be afraid.
Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today.
For the Egyptians whom you see today,
you shall see again no more forever.
The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace."
(Exodus 14:13-14, NKJV)
_________________________
Stand still and see His glory;
Watch as His mysteries unfold.
Bask in the sweetness of pure Living Waters,
Refreshing, reviving the soul.
All hail His infinite wisdom!
None is so mighty as He.
Master, Creator of all things enduring,
None else is so precious to me.
Stand Still and See His Glory, D. Rambo © 1977 John T. Benson Publishing Company (Admin. by Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing, Inc., 741 Coolsprings Blvd., Franklin TN 37067) / CCLI License No. 810055
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Creative or Critic?
Criticizing the efforts of another does not require a lot of intelligence. "Look at that mess...." "How dumb is that...." Skill and creativity bring solutions to problems and beauty to chaos. I wonder why criticism comes so easily to us? Everyone I know does it, some more than others, to be sure. At a picnic yesterday, I found myself engaged in an animated discussion about politics. Each of us has an opinion about taxes, the war, the candidates - don't we? Before long I realized that not many creative solutions were being offered up! Mostly we were just criticizing those who are charged with making decisions, but we were not offering solutions that even started to address all of the concerns involved.
Let's bring this discussion to where we live - our homes, our jobs, and our local church. Are you a creative participant or a critic on the sidelines?
You can criticize the way that your wife cares for your kids or you can join her in being an active parent.
You can join the gossip about your project manager, or you can build a team that gets the job done.
You can take on a ministry assignment at your church or you can just lament the failures of the pastor to adequately meet your needs.
In Exodus there a great lesson about this tucked into a story about Moses and his father-in-law. Fathers-in-law are notorious critics - except for my father-in-law - who always encourages me, really! Jethro (yes, that really is his name) went to see Moses and Zipporah, (yes, that is really her name!) his daughter, after the Israelite people had been delivered from Egyptian slavery. The emerging nation was still somewhat chaotic and Jethro noted the inefficient way in which Moses provided leadership for the people. Moses went out and sat to settle disputes. The lines of people who needed his decision stretched to the horizons! Jethro then made this observation. "What are you really accomplishing here? Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?" ... This is not good!" (Exodus 18:13-17, NLT)
It did not require brilliance to see the problem and to realize that if this continued, there would be no nation in a very short time. But Jethro went beyond just criticizing. Next he said, "Let me tell you how to do this so that God will be in this with you. Be there for the people before God, but let the matters of concern be presented to God. Your job is to teach them the rules and instructions, to show them how to live, what to do. And then you need to keep a sharp eye out for competent men—men who fear God, men of integrity, men who are incorruptible—and appoint them as leaders over groups organized by the thousand, by the hundred, by fifty, and by ten." (Exodus 18:19-21, The Message)
Jethro's sage advice was provided at just the right moment. He took a risk in offering the advice because it could have provoked Moses, who might have said, "And who, old man, do you think you are? Did God call you to lead Israel?" However, Moses was a man of humility who listened and learned!
Often our criticism is unwarranted, based in something less than full knowledge. Even the godly and mature fall prey to making superficial judgments! Remember Samuel's search for a king for Israel? When he went to Jesse's house in Bethlehem at God's direction, he immediately judged the oldest, tallest son- the one who projected leadership and self-confidence- as the man for the job. But the Lord said, "Samuel, don’t think Eliab is the one just because he’s tall and handsome. He isn’t the one I’ve chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts." (1 Samuel 16:7, CEV) When you're ready to take aim and fire off critical words, may the Lord speak to you, too. Hold those words until you have thought it through, prayed over it, and gained insight. Then, you can become part of the solution rather than just adding to the problem.
"The wise are known for their understanding,
and pleasant words are persuasive.
Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it,
but discipline is wasted on fools.
From a wise mind comes wise speech;
the words of the wise are persuasive.
Kind words are like honey—
sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." (Proverbs 16:21-24, NLT)
Let's bring this discussion to where we live - our homes, our jobs, and our local church. Are you a creative participant or a critic on the sidelines?
You can criticize the way that your wife cares for your kids or you can join her in being an active parent.
You can join the gossip about your project manager, or you can build a team that gets the job done.
You can take on a ministry assignment at your church or you can just lament the failures of the pastor to adequately meet your needs.
In Exodus there a great lesson about this tucked into a story about Moses and his father-in-law. Fathers-in-law are notorious critics - except for my father-in-law - who always encourages me, really! Jethro (yes, that really is his name) went to see Moses and Zipporah, (yes, that is really her name!) his daughter, after the Israelite people had been delivered from Egyptian slavery. The emerging nation was still somewhat chaotic and Jethro noted the inefficient way in which Moses provided leadership for the people. Moses went out and sat to settle disputes. The lines of people who needed his decision stretched to the horizons! Jethro then made this observation. "What are you really accomplishing here? Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?" ... This is not good!" (Exodus 18:13-17, NLT)
It did not require brilliance to see the problem and to realize that if this continued, there would be no nation in a very short time. But Jethro went beyond just criticizing. Next he said, "Let me tell you how to do this so that God will be in this with you. Be there for the people before God, but let the matters of concern be presented to God. Your job is to teach them the rules and instructions, to show them how to live, what to do. And then you need to keep a sharp eye out for competent men—men who fear God, men of integrity, men who are incorruptible—and appoint them as leaders over groups organized by the thousand, by the hundred, by fifty, and by ten." (Exodus 18:19-21, The Message)
Jethro's sage advice was provided at just the right moment. He took a risk in offering the advice because it could have provoked Moses, who might have said, "And who, old man, do you think you are? Did God call you to lead Israel?" However, Moses was a man of humility who listened and learned!
Often our criticism is unwarranted, based in something less than full knowledge. Even the godly and mature fall prey to making superficial judgments! Remember Samuel's search for a king for Israel? When he went to Jesse's house in Bethlehem at God's direction, he immediately judged the oldest, tallest son- the one who projected leadership and self-confidence- as the man for the job. But the Lord said, "Samuel, don’t think Eliab is the one just because he’s tall and handsome. He isn’t the one I’ve chosen. People judge others by what they look like, but I judge people by what is in their hearts." (1 Samuel 16:7, CEV) When you're ready to take aim and fire off critical words, may the Lord speak to you, too. Hold those words until you have thought it through, prayed over it, and gained insight. Then, you can become part of the solution rather than just adding to the problem.
"The wise are known for their understanding,
and pleasant words are persuasive.
Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it,
but discipline is wasted on fools.
From a wise mind comes wise speech;
the words of the wise are persuasive.
Kind words are like honey—
sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." (Proverbs 16:21-24, NLT)
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Imperfectly living, perfectly loved
The toughest part of the life-work to which God called me is knowing when to challenge, when to comfort; when to say "I understand," and when to say, "Do better for God's sake!" I am a coach of sorts; but, I am also a healer, a counselor, too. I need 20/20 vision of what God can make of people's lives, no matter how broken they may be at the moment. If I lose that vision, I will lose the ability to challenge others to let the Spirit of God change them into the likeness of the Lord Jesus, and I will lose the greatest hope that we have - the hope of salvation by the grace of God. But, I cannot be so enthralled with the possibility of making all things perfect that I lose the ability to empathize and love people who are making a mess of life through poor and/or sinful choices; or to give comfort to those whose lives are smashed by people or problems beyond their control.
Almost everyday I deal first with the gap that exists (yes, it exists, believe me!) between who I know God calls me to be, and who I am at this moment. Though I am still an imperfect man, I am thankful that I am loved perfectly by God. This allows me to be hopeful for those who come my way who are living foolishly or hopelessly, or in great pain. I serve people who are dealing with wounds that range from having selfish and/or abusive parents, to the pain of being rejected by a spouse, to being a slave to a boss who cares only for himself, to self-hatred because they have judged themselves too something (fat, skinny, tall, short, dumb, poor - the list is a long one). Many have come to the conclusion, "I am unlovely," and are full of self-loathing. I want them all to be healed and made perfect so badly that there is always an ache just below the surface, a kind of unending prayer that today God will use me to give somebody a reason to look up and ask for His help.
Empathy alone will not bring the life of Christ to those who need Him, however. As important as love is, there is a time for truth, too. We must face ourselves in the mirror and say, "With God's help, this is going to change!" And then to the hard work of making it happen. I am not in charge of opportunities and cannot explain why some people are handed so many gifts and others seem to draw the short straw, again and again. But, I do know that each and everyone of us has choices to make every day that have rippling effects down through the rest of our lives.
-A life-destroying affair starts with a choice to stare a little too long into the eyes of another.
-Losing 50 lbs. to stave off disease starts with what chose to eat for breakfast today!
-Becoming the person God wants us to be starts with a prayer for grace to say 'yes' to Him, just for today.
None of us will get it perfectly right - not the first time, not after 50 years! Perfection waits for that moment when God welcomes us into His glorious Presence. However, if we only see our imperfections, we will give up. But God asks only that today we give ourselves to the task of building His kingdom. Tomorrow will bring us its own set of challenges and its own supply of grace. So, let's grow up in Christ! As we seek His healing, and work to defeat Evil, aiming to make this world a beautiful place, we must hold onto faith, hope, and love. Faith that connects us to the unseen, hope that allows us to possess the promises of God now, and love that makes us like Him.
Here's a word from the Word. Take it with you today. "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." (1 Corinthians 13:13, NIV)
"We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
When I was an infant at my mother’s breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good. We don’t yet see things clearly. We’re squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won’t be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We’ll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love." (1 Corinthians 13:9-13, The Message)
Almost everyday I deal first with the gap that exists (yes, it exists, believe me!) between who I know God calls me to be, and who I am at this moment. Though I am still an imperfect man, I am thankful that I am loved perfectly by God. This allows me to be hopeful for those who come my way who are living foolishly or hopelessly, or in great pain. I serve people who are dealing with wounds that range from having selfish and/or abusive parents, to the pain of being rejected by a spouse, to being a slave to a boss who cares only for himself, to self-hatred because they have judged themselves too something (fat, skinny, tall, short, dumb, poor - the list is a long one). Many have come to the conclusion, "I am unlovely," and are full of self-loathing. I want them all to be healed and made perfect so badly that there is always an ache just below the surface, a kind of unending prayer that today God will use me to give somebody a reason to look up and ask for His help.
Empathy alone will not bring the life of Christ to those who need Him, however. As important as love is, there is a time for truth, too. We must face ourselves in the mirror and say, "With God's help, this is going to change!" And then to the hard work of making it happen. I am not in charge of opportunities and cannot explain why some people are handed so many gifts and others seem to draw the short straw, again and again. But, I do know that each and everyone of us has choices to make every day that have rippling effects down through the rest of our lives.
-A life-destroying affair starts with a choice to stare a little too long into the eyes of another.
-Losing 50 lbs. to stave off disease starts with what chose to eat for breakfast today!
-Becoming the person God wants us to be starts with a prayer for grace to say 'yes' to Him, just for today.
None of us will get it perfectly right - not the first time, not after 50 years! Perfection waits for that moment when God welcomes us into His glorious Presence. However, if we only see our imperfections, we will give up. But God asks only that today we give ourselves to the task of building His kingdom. Tomorrow will bring us its own set of challenges and its own supply of grace. So, let's grow up in Christ! As we seek His healing, and work to defeat Evil, aiming to make this world a beautiful place, we must hold onto faith, hope, and love. Faith that connects us to the unseen, hope that allows us to possess the promises of God now, and love that makes us like Him.
Here's a word from the Word. Take it with you today. "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." (1 Corinthians 13:13, NIV)
"We know only a portion of the truth, and what we say about God is always incomplete. But when the Complete arrives, our incompletes will be canceled.
When I was an infant at my mother’s breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good. We don’t yet see things clearly. We’re squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won’t be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We’ll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!
But for right now, until that completeness, we have three things to do to lead us toward that consummation: Trust steadily in God, hope unswervingly, love extravagantly. And the best of the three is love." (1 Corinthians 13:9-13, The Message)
Friday, June 29, 2007
Nothing, Nada, Zip!
I tend to cry much more often these days. It usually has nothing to do with being sad! I am just so humbled by what God does around me, with me, and for me. I received a cell phone call yesterday while shopping in Wal-Mart and felt foolish when my eyes glistened with tears as I heard a young man telling me about how the Lord answered his prayer- in a way that was immediate and amazing. While I listened to his wonder, hearing him describe his search to know God, I sensed the Spirit right there with me.... yes, even in Wal-Mart! In part my emotional overflow was a reflection of my own amazement at His great grace. I often sing the words to this song - "Why me, Lord? What have I ever done to deserve even one of the pleasures I've known?" (Kris Kristofferson) I ask Him that question so many times even though I know so well that He loves me because of His grace, not because I am smart enough, 'Christian' enough, or perfect enough to deserve His favor.
The Adversary wants you and me to get so focused on being 'good enough' for God, to start to believe that our goodness is producing the blessing of God (or conversely, that our hard times are the result of His punishment) so we lose the joy of being close to our Father. The fact is that He blesses because He is good. True, we suffer when we sin, but not because God curses us, but because of the ancient law of seed and harvest. We harvest the crop we plant. If we plant rebellion, resistance to God's will, and selfishness, then we will find our lives full of misery. If we invite God to teach us to be gardeners in life that plant seeds to produce spiritual fruit, we will know a peace that supersedes the day to day circumstances of life. The Word says, "The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." (Galatians 6:8, NIV)
The key to doing spiritual work effectively isn't our own strength, cleverness, or skills. It is humble obedience and reliance on the Lord. Every day we simply present ourselves to the Lord, thanking Him for His love, and asking the Spirit to guide us, to help us say a ready 'yes, Lord!' when He speaks to us. And, He will! 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 being empowered for a life of wholeness and holiness personally! Do you?
When I am on the edge of being overwhelmed by my fears and think that because I am so human that failure is just a step away, there is but one thing that can restore serenity to my soul. It is the assurance of the Scripture that "It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6, NLT)
What strengths did God see in you and me? Nothing, nada, zip! But He called us and said, "I will enrich you in every way!" That is why we must confess our weakness and 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)
The Adversary wants you and me to get so focused on being 'good enough' for God, to start to believe that our goodness is producing the blessing of God (or conversely, that our hard times are the result of His punishment) so we lose the joy of being close to our Father. The fact is that He blesses because He is good. True, we suffer when we sin, but not because God curses us, but because of the ancient law of seed and harvest. We harvest the crop we plant. If we plant rebellion, resistance to God's will, and selfishness, then we will find our lives full of misery. If we invite God to teach us to be gardeners in life that plant seeds to produce spiritual fruit, we will know a peace that supersedes the day to day circumstances of life. The Word says, "The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." (Galatians 6:8, NIV)
The key to doing spiritual work effectively isn't our own strength, cleverness, or skills. It is humble obedience and reliance on the Lord. Every day we simply present ourselves to the Lord, thanking Him for His love, and asking the Spirit to guide us, to help us say a ready 'yes, Lord!' when He speaks to us. And, He will! 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 being empowered for a life of wholeness and holiness personally! Do you?
When I am on the edge of being overwhelmed by my fears and think that because I am so human that failure is just a step away, there is but one thing that can restore serenity to my soul. It is the assurance of the Scripture that "It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty." (Zechariah 4:6, NLT)
What strengths did God see in you and me? Nothing, nada, zip! But He called us and said, "I will enrich you in every way!" That is why we must confess our weakness and 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)
Thursday, June 28, 2007
The war of two natures
There are two distinct Jerry's - in me! Now some of you are concerned. Relax, good friend. I am not suffering from a schizophrenic illness or a dissociative personality disorder. I am a normal human being with a spiritual nature, made alive to God by the Holy Spirit, and a natural man, with an active sinful nature. The spiritual nature in me loves God, is empowered by faith, loves others, lives to serve eternal purposes, is gentle and kind. The sinful nature, with which I was born, loves the things of this present world, is prone to fear, and is resistant to the will of God.
Without receiving the life of Jesus Christ, by faith, we are incapable of overcoming our innate sinfulness. We are cut off from the power of God, a state that the Bible describes starkly as being 'dead in sin.' Don't read that to mean that without knowing Jesus we will all be social predators, rapists, murderers, and thieves. What the Bible teaches is that apart from Christ, we cannot live in faith, cannot respond to the Holy Spirit's direction, and when pressed by problems- we will revert to our instinctive self-preserving behaviors. Through Christ, we come alive to God, receiving the Spirit of God, who creates in us the possibility of living in a way that is responsive to the purposes of our Creator. When we make that choice, our lives will be characterized by the evidence of the "God-life," - "...the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." (Galatians 5:22-23, NLT)
Dear believer, know this! The sinful nature does not die easily, nor is its defeat automatic. Too many times, preachers imply that with some religious experience, or through some program, or by some ritual means a person can become instantly and eternally holy. How I would like for that to be true, but it isn't. It is a deception that leads to disillusionment and despair in the lives of many who hunger for true holiness. The truth is that the sinful nature is overcome - day by day - by learning the Truth and by 'breathing in' the life of the Spirit.
Discussing this duality, the Scripture says - "Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy." (Ephesians 4:20-24, NLT)
We can come away from a 'mountain top' experience- a spiritual retreat, a great worship service, a week's vacation - and feel so full of God that we imagine that temptation will never touch us again. "The sinful is gone, forever!" We are filled up with love, suffused with joyful peace, overflowing in faith in those times. That is a good thing. Times of refreshing are exactly that - seasons in life. But we cannot live on the mountain all of the time. God calls us to serve Him in our neighborhoods, the office where we work, amidst the trials of daily life. And, we are drained, wearied; yes, even bruised and bloodied, by the power of sin and darkness which we encounter, sometimes in intensity approaching warfare. Does that mean we did not really meet God? Not at all. All it means is that we are not home in Heaven, yet! We are not victims. We are not helpless. We are not defeated. Why? Because, in Christ, we can overcome.
Believer, put on the new nature, created to be like God today. Let the truth of God change your way of thinking. In prayer, breathe in the life of the Spirit, which renews your hope and gives vision. Take up the cross of Christ, which is the high and holy calling of all who follow Him, and suffer the death of Self gladly.
"And that about wraps it up.
God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way.
This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own.
Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon.
In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out." (Ephesians 6:10-18, The Message)
Amen
Without receiving the life of Jesus Christ, by faith, we are incapable of overcoming our innate sinfulness. We are cut off from the power of God, a state that the Bible describes starkly as being 'dead in sin.' Don't read that to mean that without knowing Jesus we will all be social predators, rapists, murderers, and thieves. What the Bible teaches is that apart from Christ, we cannot live in faith, cannot respond to the Holy Spirit's direction, and when pressed by problems- we will revert to our instinctive self-preserving behaviors. Through Christ, we come alive to God, receiving the Spirit of God, who creates in us the possibility of living in a way that is responsive to the purposes of our Creator. When we make that choice, our lives will be characterized by the evidence of the "God-life," - "...the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." (Galatians 5:22-23, NLT)
Dear believer, know this! The sinful nature does not die easily, nor is its defeat automatic. Too many times, preachers imply that with some religious experience, or through some program, or by some ritual means a person can become instantly and eternally holy. How I would like for that to be true, but it isn't. It is a deception that leads to disillusionment and despair in the lives of many who hunger for true holiness. The truth is that the sinful nature is overcome - day by day - by learning the Truth and by 'breathing in' the life of the Spirit.
Discussing this duality, the Scripture says - "Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy." (Ephesians 4:20-24, NLT)
We can come away from a 'mountain top' experience- a spiritual retreat, a great worship service, a week's vacation - and feel so full of God that we imagine that temptation will never touch us again. "The sinful is gone, forever!" We are filled up with love, suffused with joyful peace, overflowing in faith in those times. That is a good thing. Times of refreshing are exactly that - seasons in life. But we cannot live on the mountain all of the time. God calls us to serve Him in our neighborhoods, the office where we work, amidst the trials of daily life. And, we are drained, wearied; yes, even bruised and bloodied, by the power of sin and darkness which we encounter, sometimes in intensity approaching warfare. Does that mean we did not really meet God? Not at all. All it means is that we are not home in Heaven, yet! We are not victims. We are not helpless. We are not defeated. Why? Because, in Christ, we can overcome.
Believer, put on the new nature, created to be like God today. Let the truth of God change your way of thinking. In prayer, breathe in the life of the Spirit, which renews your hope and gives vision. Take up the cross of Christ, which is the high and holy calling of all who follow Him, and suffer the death of Self gladly.
"And that about wraps it up.
God is strong, and he wants you strong. So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way.
This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own.
Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon.
In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out." (Ephesians 6:10-18, The Message)
Amen
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
God still speaks!
Bev and I went to see the movie, "Evan Almighty." It's a predictable, clichéd story about a man elected to Congress whom God tells to build an ark in suburban Virginia in order to save his family from a pending flood. Humor in the movie is not sophisticated, i.e., the Biblical command to Noah is "build the ark from gopherwood." Evan Baxter notes that the the delivery truck that supplies materials for his ark is from 1-800- Go-4-Wood. Ouch! (My recommendation? Save your money and see it when the DVD is released.)
There are some good scenes with loads of cute animal shots. It is fun family entertainment - aside from the fact that kids might get a warped concept about the true nature of God. (He is Spirit and not a man who looks like Morgan Freeman.) Here's what stuck with me. Why do we have such a hard time accepting that God speaks to people today? In the middle of the movie, I leaned over to Bev and whispered, 'why do people nearly universally assume that if someone claims to hear from God, they must be mentally unhinged?' Every character in the film assumes that when Evan Baxter claims to hear God speaking, he must have lost his sanity. I understand that grandiosity and hearing voices is often a sign of mental illness, but I also read the Bible and note that the Scripture is full of accounts in which people converse with God, are told to do impossible and amazing things, and who consequentially endure censure from friends and family.
I am certain that the work of God today is greatly hindered by our cultural assumptions about the 'reality' of hearing the voice of God. I wonder how many of us actually expect God to speak, or take time to listen for His voice, when we present Him with our prayerful petitions? There is a scene in "Evan Almighty" where "God" (ala Mr. Freeman) gives a great lesson to a doubter. He asks Evan's fearful wife how she expects prayer to be answered. "If you ask for courage," He says, " shouldn't you expect situations to present themselves that require you to be brave? If you ask for patience, shouldn't you expect circumstances that demand some endurance?" Take that point, which is true, a step further. IF we ask to be used by God to do His work in the world, and that is the point of being a follower of Jesus, then shouldn't we expect Him to lead into places of service?
Yes, if someone you know claims that God stopped by for a cup of coffee at breakfast time and gave them numbers to play in the lottery, or if they are saying that God has exempted them from the moral imperatives of Scripture so they can abandon responsibility for their family, or divorce their wife to marry the younger woman at the office, or buy a Lamborghini when they cannot afford the car they have- urge them to seek help! But, if they tell you that they have been hearing the whisper of the Spirit urging them to take a new course in life - such as leaving a lucrative career to serve in a ministry to those in need, or to sell their big house and invest themselves more deeply in spiritual matters - encourage them! Many will think they are just 'having a crisis' but I believe God still speaks!
He has spoken in His Word. That is the gold standard of Truth. No, He won't create new doctrines or contradict His moral law. To claim 'new revelation or new light' is a dangerous thing that leads people over the cliff of self-destruction. Every cult on the planet started when someone claimed that God had shown them new truth! That is not the direction I am urging you to go today. I do believe He speaks to us, to guide us and direct us day by day, by the voice of the Spirit. So, pray that the Spirit will speak to you about things like how you can better show love to your family, about the places in your life where you have grown careless about His purpose, about the things you have come to love more than you love Him, about who He wants to love through you, etc.!
". . .the Holy Spirit says, Today, please listen; don’t turn a deaf ear
. . . So watch your step, friends.
Make sure there’s no evil unbelief lying around that will trip you up and throw you off course, diverting you from the living God. For as long as it’s still God’s Today, keep each other on your toes so sin doesn’t slow down your reflexes." (Hebrews 3:7-13, The Message)
There are some good scenes with loads of cute animal shots. It is fun family entertainment - aside from the fact that kids might get a warped concept about the true nature of God. (He is Spirit and not a man who looks like Morgan Freeman.) Here's what stuck with me. Why do we have such a hard time accepting that God speaks to people today? In the middle of the movie, I leaned over to Bev and whispered, 'why do people nearly universally assume that if someone claims to hear from God, they must be mentally unhinged?' Every character in the film assumes that when Evan Baxter claims to hear God speaking, he must have lost his sanity. I understand that grandiosity and hearing voices is often a sign of mental illness, but I also read the Bible and note that the Scripture is full of accounts in which people converse with God, are told to do impossible and amazing things, and who consequentially endure censure from friends and family.
I am certain that the work of God today is greatly hindered by our cultural assumptions about the 'reality' of hearing the voice of God. I wonder how many of us actually expect God to speak, or take time to listen for His voice, when we present Him with our prayerful petitions? There is a scene in "Evan Almighty" where "God" (ala Mr. Freeman) gives a great lesson to a doubter. He asks Evan's fearful wife how she expects prayer to be answered. "If you ask for courage," He says, " shouldn't you expect situations to present themselves that require you to be brave? If you ask for patience, shouldn't you expect circumstances that demand some endurance?" Take that point, which is true, a step further. IF we ask to be used by God to do His work in the world, and that is the point of being a follower of Jesus, then shouldn't we expect Him to lead into places of service?
Yes, if someone you know claims that God stopped by for a cup of coffee at breakfast time and gave them numbers to play in the lottery, or if they are saying that God has exempted them from the moral imperatives of Scripture so they can abandon responsibility for their family, or divorce their wife to marry the younger woman at the office, or buy a Lamborghini when they cannot afford the car they have- urge them to seek help! But, if they tell you that they have been hearing the whisper of the Spirit urging them to take a new course in life - such as leaving a lucrative career to serve in a ministry to those in need, or to sell their big house and invest themselves more deeply in spiritual matters - encourage them! Many will think they are just 'having a crisis' but I believe God still speaks!
He has spoken in His Word. That is the gold standard of Truth. No, He won't create new doctrines or contradict His moral law. To claim 'new revelation or new light' is a dangerous thing that leads people over the cliff of self-destruction. Every cult on the planet started when someone claimed that God had shown them new truth! That is not the direction I am urging you to go today. I do believe He speaks to us, to guide us and direct us day by day, by the voice of the Spirit. So, pray that the Spirit will speak to you about things like how you can better show love to your family, about the places in your life where you have grown careless about His purpose, about the things you have come to love more than you love Him, about who He wants to love through you, etc.!
". . .the Holy Spirit says, Today, please listen; don’t turn a deaf ear
. . . So watch your step, friends.
Make sure there’s no evil unbelief lying around that will trip you up and throw you off course, diverting you from the living God. For as long as it’s still God’s Today, keep each other on your toes so sin doesn’t slow down your reflexes." (Hebrews 3:7-13, The Message)
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Complex world; simple faith
My life is organized around my confession of faith. God, the Creator, governs the world. I can know Him because of Jesus Christ, His Son, who is my Lord and Savior. The Holy Spirit lives in me, empowering me to serve His purposes. It is a simple faith, but not an easy one! The complexity of life challenges my faith almost daily. Things like Katrina (the hurricane that devastated SE United States), cancer, and human cruelty in all its various forms, beg me to question God's power and presence. But, the choice is made - I belong to God and, by His grace, I will continue to love and serve Him for the rest of my days.
There was a time in my life when my faith involved many threads, clauses, and reservations. At that time, faith was more like a complicated contract than a simple statement! I struggled to make it 'fit' the complexity of the world around me, wrestling to explain all of the things that I observed in my daily experience within the framework of the faith I professed. Many prayers were offered up around the question - 'why?' A few of those questions have been answered over time, but most remain. What has changed is that I now enjoy a deep abiding sense of God's Presence in this world. It is not that my life has become simpler! If anything, it is even more complex now than ever. I carry a greater load of responsibility for more people and a larger organization than I have at any time in my 52 years. Decisions that I make or in which I am a participant have a direct effect on the lives of others. That is, at least partially, why I have come to a faith that is more distilled around this core truth- Jesus cares and loves me, therefore, I can love and care for others.
This simpler faith has freed me from the need to negotiate with God, to beg His favor. I am more convinced that "God is for me, not against me." I live in the confidence that nothing that comes my way is too big for Him, will surprise Him, or can overcome His gracious love. No, I am not a simpleton who lacks a grasp of the possibilities for pain or disappointment that exist all around me. I am still very much part of this world which is, in the words of Martin Luther, 'with devils filled and threatens to undo us!' But I am a subject of the King whose power has triumphed over sin, Hell, and death. So, with Paul, I set my hope in Christ Jesus. "I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day. What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." (2 Timothy 1:12-14, NIV)
Let me urge you to choose simple faith. From the Word, understand the core Truth of God's eternal nature, of the triumph of Christ, and of the Spirit's power - and place those things at the center of your life. Ask the Lord to teach you to respond in faith to the issues of your life, choosing the way of the faithful consistently. And, you will find rock-like stability in a confusing, complex world! James reminds us of the importance of simple faith.
"If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father.
He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it.
Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought.
People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves.
Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open." (James 1:5-8, The Message)
There are still many complex questions around the 'what, when, where, why, and how' of life! But, knowing Who holds the answers to those questions in His eternal mind is my rock of assurance. Do you know Him? Is He really Lord? Then, trust Him!
______________________________________
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Tho the night deepens, And tempest are wild;
Still I can trust Him I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me, And I am His child.
Under His wings, Under His wings
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, What a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort and there I am blest.
Under His Wings, Ira Sankey© Public Domain
CCLI License No. 810055
There was a time in my life when my faith involved many threads, clauses, and reservations. At that time, faith was more like a complicated contract than a simple statement! I struggled to make it 'fit' the complexity of the world around me, wrestling to explain all of the things that I observed in my daily experience within the framework of the faith I professed. Many prayers were offered up around the question - 'why?' A few of those questions have been answered over time, but most remain. What has changed is that I now enjoy a deep abiding sense of God's Presence in this world. It is not that my life has become simpler! If anything, it is even more complex now than ever. I carry a greater load of responsibility for more people and a larger organization than I have at any time in my 52 years. Decisions that I make or in which I am a participant have a direct effect on the lives of others. That is, at least partially, why I have come to a faith that is more distilled around this core truth- Jesus cares and loves me, therefore, I can love and care for others.
This simpler faith has freed me from the need to negotiate with God, to beg His favor. I am more convinced that "God is for me, not against me." I live in the confidence that nothing that comes my way is too big for Him, will surprise Him, or can overcome His gracious love. No, I am not a simpleton who lacks a grasp of the possibilities for pain or disappointment that exist all around me. I am still very much part of this world which is, in the words of Martin Luther, 'with devils filled and threatens to undo us!' But I am a subject of the King whose power has triumphed over sin, Hell, and death. So, with Paul, I set my hope in Christ Jesus. "I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day. What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us." (2 Timothy 1:12-14, NIV)
Let me urge you to choose simple faith. From the Word, understand the core Truth of God's eternal nature, of the triumph of Christ, and of the Spirit's power - and place those things at the center of your life. Ask the Lord to teach you to respond in faith to the issues of your life, choosing the way of the faithful consistently. And, you will find rock-like stability in a confusing, complex world! James reminds us of the importance of simple faith.
"If you don’t know what you’re doing, pray to the Father.
He loves to help. You’ll get his help, and won’t be condescended to when you ask for it.
Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought.
People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves.
Don’t think you’re going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open." (James 1:5-8, The Message)
There are still many complex questions around the 'what, when, where, why, and how' of life! But, knowing Who holds the answers to those questions in His eternal mind is my rock of assurance. Do you know Him? Is He really Lord? Then, trust Him!
______________________________________
Under His wings I am safely abiding,
Tho the night deepens, And tempest are wild;
Still I can trust Him I know He will keep me,
He has redeemed me, And I am His child.
Under His wings, Under His wings
Who from His love can sever?
Under His wings my soul shall abide,
Safely abide forever.
Under His wings, What a refuge in sorrow!
How the heart yearningly turns to His rest!
Often when earth has no balm for my healing,
There I find comfort and there I am blest.
Under His Wings, Ira Sankey© Public Domain
CCLI License No. 810055
Monday, June 25, 2007
God's rest or earth's temporary diversion - you choose!
Life is not always what I think it should be. Sometimes the sun shines brightly and troubles seem far away. Then, there are those days when the Curse of the earth seems like it is focused exclusively on me - when nothing goes right! On those days, temptation rises in me. A little voice whispers - "Seek relief! Buy this! Go there! Do this or that!" Instead of going to a quiet place and waiting for the Spirit to bring the true rest that God alone provides, I want a quick fix for my aching heart. Temptation is especially seductive when we are tired or under pressure, isn't it? What are you chasing today? What's always in the back of your mind- getting a new car, finding a different job, taking a vacation? Why is that thought 'stuck' there? Do you want relief from something that is weighing heavily on you?
In those moments, we need to bring to mind the experience of God's people as written in the Word. "Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled." (Romans 15:4, NLT) Consider the Israelite people and their temptation in the desert. With miraculous power God brought them out of Egypt. The trip through the wilderness, however, was hard! They were under pressure, dealing with a completely different life than they had known back in Egypt. And, they craved relief! Despite the fact that God, in great love provided all they NEEDED including daily rations which they only had to go out and pick up from the ground, a perfect food called manna, they yearned for something else. The Bible tells us that "the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat? We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick: But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes." (Numbers 11:4-6 KJV)
What a terrible state of deception. "We ate freely..." was how they remembered when actually their food was purchased with their LIVES as slaves of the Pharaoh! "Nothing but manna..." they despised the special creation of food from Heaven's kitchen! In Psalm 106:13-15 KJV we read this commentary on those actions: "They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel: But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul." God allowed Israel to be 'satisfied' with stuff other than His manna, but their choice led them to spiritual poverty! Giving in to the temptation to seek diversion rather than receive rest came at high cost to their souls.
The same spirit that led them to obsess on the gourmet delights of Egypt led them to crave the gods of Egypt and to demand the creation of the golden calf idol which caused the death and destruction of many. The same spirit also caused them to miss the promise of the Lord God and to spend years wandering, literally in circles, in the remote areas of the Sinai waiting to die!
It can be difficult to stay contented with God's Presence and provisions while we live in a world that batters us with messages of selfish pleasure and false heavens! If we are not renewed in worship that is infused with Word and Spirit, we will quickly find the ersatz 'heaven' offered in the ad for a Caribbean cruise drawing us away from the true Heaven of His Presence. Paul reminds us of the seduction of worldly wealth and pleasure and then points the way to LIFE -- "Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." (1 Timothy 6:5-7 KJV)
There is rest for your soul!
Let God meet the need you have today.
When temptation offers you a temporary diversion, a quick fix for your aching soul, turn quickly to the Spirit of God, and pray for wisdom and strength to wait for His answer.
__________________
Only in God, is my soul at rest.
In Him comes my salvation.
Only in God, is my soul at rest.
In Him comes my salvation.
He only is my Rock,
My strength and my salvation.
My stronghold, my Savior,
I shall not be afraid at all.
My stronghold, my Savior,
I shall not be moved.
Only in God is found safety,
When my enemy pursues me.
Only in God is found glory,
When I am found meek and found lowly.
Only in God,
John Michael Talbot © 1980 Birdwing Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing; Admin. by BMG Music Publishing) / BMG Songs, Inc. (Mech) (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing; Admin. by BMG Music Publishing)
CCLI License No. 810055
In those moments, we need to bring to mind the experience of God's people as written in the Word. "Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled." (Romans 15:4, NLT) Consider the Israelite people and their temptation in the desert. With miraculous power God brought them out of Egypt. The trip through the wilderness, however, was hard! They were under pressure, dealing with a completely different life than they had known back in Egypt. And, they craved relief! Despite the fact that God, in great love provided all they NEEDED including daily rations which they only had to go out and pick up from the ground, a perfect food called manna, they yearned for something else. The Bible tells us that "the children of Israel also wept again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat? We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlick: But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes." (Numbers 11:4-6 KJV)
What a terrible state of deception. "We ate freely..." was how they remembered when actually their food was purchased with their LIVES as slaves of the Pharaoh! "Nothing but manna..." they despised the special creation of food from Heaven's kitchen! In Psalm 106:13-15 KJV we read this commentary on those actions: "They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel: But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert. And he gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul." God allowed Israel to be 'satisfied' with stuff other than His manna, but their choice led them to spiritual poverty! Giving in to the temptation to seek diversion rather than receive rest came at high cost to their souls.
The same spirit that led them to obsess on the gourmet delights of Egypt led them to crave the gods of Egypt and to demand the creation of the golden calf idol which caused the death and destruction of many. The same spirit also caused them to miss the promise of the Lord God and to spend years wandering, literally in circles, in the remote areas of the Sinai waiting to die!
It can be difficult to stay contented with God's Presence and provisions while we live in a world that batters us with messages of selfish pleasure and false heavens! If we are not renewed in worship that is infused with Word and Spirit, we will quickly find the ersatz 'heaven' offered in the ad for a Caribbean cruise drawing us away from the true Heaven of His Presence. Paul reminds us of the seduction of worldly wealth and pleasure and then points the way to LIFE -- "Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." (1 Timothy 6:5-7 KJV)
There is rest for your soul!
Let God meet the need you have today.
When temptation offers you a temporary diversion, a quick fix for your aching soul, turn quickly to the Spirit of God, and pray for wisdom and strength to wait for His answer.
__________________
Only in God, is my soul at rest.
In Him comes my salvation.
Only in God, is my soul at rest.
In Him comes my salvation.
He only is my Rock,
My strength and my salvation.
My stronghold, my Savior,
I shall not be afraid at all.
My stronghold, my Savior,
I shall not be moved.
Only in God is found safety,
When my enemy pursues me.
Only in God is found glory,
When I am found meek and found lowly.
Only in God,
John Michael Talbot © 1980 Birdwing Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing; Admin. by BMG Music Publishing) / BMG Songs, Inc. (Mech) (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing; Admin. by BMG Music Publishing)
CCLI License No. 810055
Friday, June 22, 2007
Be careful - it's powerful!
I love the Truth. When I hear someone being something other than truthful - either through ignorance or willful dishonesty - it stirs up strong emotions in me. Why? Because terrible things are done under the cover of deception by those who choose to live a lie. For example, I remember the whole Watergate mess which someone has said was a 'third rate burglary turned into a first class conspiracy.' What brought down President Nixon was not just the work of a few men who broke into political offices under the cover of night. It was culture of manipulation and dishonesty that rotted his administration from the inside out. Eventually when the lies caught up to him, Nixon was forced to resign. A generation later, President Clinton nearly met the same fate. Why? Because he refused to tell the truth! Caught in a sordid infidelity, he tried to weasel his way out and forever more will be known as the President who wondered what 'is' is!
Truth is important in another sense, too; what we believe is true and thus, becomes the foundation upon which we build our lives. I know a person who is totally convinced that no one should be trusted, that everyone is a adversary against whom she must defend herself. Her whole life has a fortress mentality, is lived defensively and from behind locked doors. Her 'truth' shapes her life. By contrast I know another person who knows that God loves him, that God actively cares and provides for him. He lives joyfully, despite many difficult experiences. He loves and cares for others with a child-like openness supported by his trust in his heavenly Father.
For the Believer, there is a primary source of truth. It is the Holy Scripture that teaches Who God is, What He has done, and How we can please Him. It is powerful! That is why we are cautioned - "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly." (2 Timothy 2:15-16, NIV) Correctly handle the Word of Truth! Do you study, know, understand, and apply the truth of the Scripture to your life, Believer? God gave us the Scripture to bring us to life, godliness, and wholeness. The Psalmist says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (Psalm 119:105, NIV)
I am deeply concerned that many Believers have a superficial knowledge of the Bible - a few verses plucked from favorite passages, but no real grasp of the magnificent wisdom for life found in it. In part this is due to shallow teaching from preachers who are more concerned with drawing a crowd than creating disciples! It is also the result of poor interpretative skill regarding the Bible. John MacArthur, pastor and author, recently published a book called The Truth War. In it he creates a case (overly harsh in my opinion) for adopting a militant stand for the Truth of the Word. In one telling passage, he relates the story of a preacher who mangled the meaning and intent of the Bible to create a sermon that had no basis in Biblical truth. "A preacher preached a sermon from Mark 2, which tells about some men who brought their paralyzed friend to Jesus, lowering him through the roof so he could be healed. Mark 2.4 says, "They could not come nigh unto him for the press." (KJV) This man took that phrase as his text and ... sermonized for more than half an hour about how the press - the news media - are still keeping people from Jesus even to this day! But that verse has nothing to do with the news media. "The press" in that context is talking about the dense crowd." - The Truth War, MacArthur, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2007
It is easy (I hope!) to laugh at such an egregious mis-use of the holy text, but it is really no laughing matter. Some Believers who heard that sermon were convinced to become adversaries of the media because of a wholly dishonest presentation masquerading as the Truth! The Truth of the Bible is powerful, life-changing, pointing us to God and eternal life with Him. Let's respect it, learn it, and study it skillfully and with inspiration; for Jesus promised, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free!"
___________________________
O Lord our Lord,
How majestic is Your name.
Your words are true,
Your mercy does not change.
All Your promises are precious,
Reviving our faith.
Every one of themWill be fulfilled one day.
Oh, all Your promises
Are "Yes" and "Amen" in Jesus.
Your promises are true.
All Your promises
Are "Yes" and "Amen"
Lord Jesus,
We'll keep running after You.
All Your Promises
© 1995 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing
(Admin. by Music Services) CCLI License No. 810055
Truth is important in another sense, too; what we believe is true and thus, becomes the foundation upon which we build our lives. I know a person who is totally convinced that no one should be trusted, that everyone is a adversary against whom she must defend herself. Her whole life has a fortress mentality, is lived defensively and from behind locked doors. Her 'truth' shapes her life. By contrast I know another person who knows that God loves him, that God actively cares and provides for him. He lives joyfully, despite many difficult experiences. He loves and cares for others with a child-like openness supported by his trust in his heavenly Father.
For the Believer, there is a primary source of truth. It is the Holy Scripture that teaches Who God is, What He has done, and How we can please Him. It is powerful! That is why we are cautioned - "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly." (2 Timothy 2:15-16, NIV) Correctly handle the Word of Truth! Do you study, know, understand, and apply the truth of the Scripture to your life, Believer? God gave us the Scripture to bring us to life, godliness, and wholeness. The Psalmist says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path." (Psalm 119:105, NIV)
I am deeply concerned that many Believers have a superficial knowledge of the Bible - a few verses plucked from favorite passages, but no real grasp of the magnificent wisdom for life found in it. In part this is due to shallow teaching from preachers who are more concerned with drawing a crowd than creating disciples! It is also the result of poor interpretative skill regarding the Bible. John MacArthur, pastor and author, recently published a book called The Truth War. In it he creates a case (overly harsh in my opinion) for adopting a militant stand for the Truth of the Word. In one telling passage, he relates the story of a preacher who mangled the meaning and intent of the Bible to create a sermon that had no basis in Biblical truth. "A preacher preached a sermon from Mark 2, which tells about some men who brought their paralyzed friend to Jesus, lowering him through the roof so he could be healed. Mark 2.4 says, "They could not come nigh unto him for the press." (KJV) This man took that phrase as his text and ... sermonized for more than half an hour about how the press - the news media - are still keeping people from Jesus even to this day! But that verse has nothing to do with the news media. "The press" in that context is talking about the dense crowd." - The Truth War, MacArthur, Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2007
It is easy (I hope!) to laugh at such an egregious mis-use of the holy text, but it is really no laughing matter. Some Believers who heard that sermon were convinced to become adversaries of the media because of a wholly dishonest presentation masquerading as the Truth! The Truth of the Bible is powerful, life-changing, pointing us to God and eternal life with Him. Let's respect it, learn it, and study it skillfully and with inspiration; for Jesus promised, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free!"
___________________________
O Lord our Lord,
How majestic is Your name.
Your words are true,
Your mercy does not change.
All Your promises are precious,
Reviving our faith.
Every one of themWill be fulfilled one day.
Oh, all Your promises
Are "Yes" and "Amen" in Jesus.
Your promises are true.
All Your promises
Are "Yes" and "Amen"
Lord Jesus,
We'll keep running after You.
All Your Promises
© 1995 Mercy / Vineyard Publishing
(Admin. by Music Services) CCLI License No. 810055
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Does faithfulness matter?
Americans love BIG, RICH, and IMPORTANT, don't we? If we are not doing what we do for many people or on a world stage, the temptation is to begin to believe that it is unimportant and/or that we can slack off on from a high level of performance. Think again! George O. Wood, who serves our national church as her General Secretary, wrote an essay that helped me to think again about faithfulness. What follows is derived from a letter he sent to pastors last week.
Name the 5 wealthiest people in the world.
Name the last 5 winners of the Heisman trophy.
Name the last 5 women to hold the title - "Miss America."
Name any 10 people who have won either a Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
Name the last 10 teams to win the World Series.
I totally struck out. I can only recall a couple of those names! None of us can remember the headlines even from yesterday. These were the best in their field, but the applause soon dies, the awards tarnish, the achievements are forgotten. Certificates get buried with their owners.
Now, take a different approach.
List several teachers that helped you in your education.
Name 3 friends who were there for you in time of crisis or need.
Name 5 people from whom you learned something worthwhile.
List a few people that have made you feel special and/or appreciated.
Think of 5 people with whom you want to spend more time.
Not so hard, is it? We can rattle off those names fairly quickly. The people who make a real difference in our lives are not always those with credentials, money, or awards. They are the people who care, who show us that they love us.
From time to time, I'll admit that pride tiptoes up on me and whispers, "Who cares what you do? Who cares if you show up, do your best?" Truth is, outside of a small circle of friends and family, I am unknown! When God calls me home, I fairly certain that no flags will be lowered to half-staff. So what? Does that mean my life does not count? Not at all. God has given me a place to fill, people to love, lives to touch. He knows exactly how much I am capable of doing, and He has given me gifts of the Spirit that perfectly equip me to fulfill His will perfectly. Will I? That answer is up to me and depends, not so much on numbers, but on faithfulness.
Be faithful, friend, wherever God puts you. Grow where you're planted!
"As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do." (Ephesians 6:6-8, NLT)
Name the 5 wealthiest people in the world.
Name the last 5 winners of the Heisman trophy.
Name the last 5 women to hold the title - "Miss America."
Name any 10 people who have won either a Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
Name the last 10 teams to win the World Series.
I totally struck out. I can only recall a couple of those names! None of us can remember the headlines even from yesterday. These were the best in their field, but the applause soon dies, the awards tarnish, the achievements are forgotten. Certificates get buried with their owners.
Now, take a different approach.
List several teachers that helped you in your education.
Name 3 friends who were there for you in time of crisis or need.
Name 5 people from whom you learned something worthwhile.
List a few people that have made you feel special and/or appreciated.
Think of 5 people with whom you want to spend more time.
Not so hard, is it? We can rattle off those names fairly quickly. The people who make a real difference in our lives are not always those with credentials, money, or awards. They are the people who care, who show us that they love us.
From time to time, I'll admit that pride tiptoes up on me and whispers, "Who cares what you do? Who cares if you show up, do your best?" Truth is, outside of a small circle of friends and family, I am unknown! When God calls me home, I fairly certain that no flags will be lowered to half-staff. So what? Does that mean my life does not count? Not at all. God has given me a place to fill, people to love, lives to touch. He knows exactly how much I am capable of doing, and He has given me gifts of the Spirit that perfectly equip me to fulfill His will perfectly. Will I? That answer is up to me and depends, not so much on numbers, but on faithfulness.
Be faithful, friend, wherever God puts you. Grow where you're planted!
"As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do." (Ephesians 6:6-8, NLT)
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Our Blessed Hope
No matter how relentlessly optimistic a person may try to be, there are days when the skies are dark! When the forecast is gloomy and the news headlines are all bad, it can hard to hold onto hope. Ever have those days? Sure you have, because we all do at one time or another!
Sometimes it is the state of the world that makes us think that there is no reason for hope in the future. Some scientists point to the rise in the globe's temperature as evidence that the existence of humanity is at stake. Wars continue, fed by religious hatred, political feuds, and economic issues. Sometimes the source of discouragement is much closer to home. We experience sorrow when a family member contracts a debilitating disease, or when divorce tears up a home, or when a once secure job evaporates when the company folds. Sometimes the darkness is inside of us - a recurring depression, a sinful habit that threatens to overwhelm us, or fear of some undefined nature.
A dark mood often yields to encouragement from a friend who helps us to set it all in a better perspective. Taking a break and giving ourselves a few days to rest can be amazingly restorative for our emotions. Learning to master our emotions, using them to make our life rich but refusing to allow them to govern us, is important, too. There is a source of hope that is more effective in dealing with despair than a cheerful song, a couple days at the beach, or self-talk. What is it? God's truth!
Those who belong to Christ will be concerned about the suffering and difficulties of life. They will go through the disappointments that all people endure - war, disease, temptation - included. However, they can rise above the despair that such things bring, because they know, by faith, that they are God's own, held in His hand. John reminds us "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4, NIV)
This week I've been reading through 1 Thessalonians, the inspired letter that Paul wrote to a young church. It is short, just 5 chapters, but it is upbeat! What is the reason for the hopeful tone of the letter? Each chapter closes with a reference to the promise of Christ's return. The apostle tells us to stay hopeful because our Lord has not left us to fate. He is working out His will in us, building His kingdom through us, and will come for us in the moment chosen in the will of God, the Father. Paul does not see the return of Christ as a reason for fear or dread at all! He takes great hope from that promise. "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, NLT)
Unlike some Believers who choose to use the promise of the return of Jesus as a reason to escape life's troubles, Paul urges us to take hope from the promise and then to dig in to make a difference here on earth for God's sake! The Blessed Hope infuses us with courage, keeps us steady, and gives us reason to serve and love in Christ's name. Why? Because we know that even death itself cannot steal our reward. Our destiny is not a grave. Though our voice may fall silent here on this earth in death, we will shout with the saints when we are gathered 'round the Throne of God!
So, take hold of your hope - a hope based not on wealth, health, or sunshine - but rather on the Promise of the Lord. Pray for wisdom in dealing with the challenges, for restored perspective on current events, for the power of the Spirit to overcome the Enemy, and for faith to remain faithful! And may what Paul wrote of the Believers in the letter also be said of us: "The word has gotten around. Your lives are echoing the Master’s Word, not only in the provinces but all over the place. The news of your faith in God is out. We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message! People come up and tell us how you received us with open arms, how you deserted the dead idols of your old life so you could embrace and serve God, the true God. They marvel at how expectantly you await the arrival of his Son, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescued us from certain doom." (1 Thessalonians 1:7-10, The Message)
____________________________
A parade began at Calvary,
And the saints of all the ages fill its ranks.
O'er the sands of time they're marching
To their King's great coronation.
And this could be the dawning of that day.
O this could be the dawning
Of that grand and glorious day,
When the face of Jesus we behold.
Dreams and hopes of all the ages,
Are awaiting His returning.
And this could be the dawning of that day.
All the saints are getting restless,
O, what glorious expectation fills each face.
Dreams and hopes of all the ages
Are awaiting His returning.
And this could be the dawning of that day.
This Could Be the Dawning© 1971 William J. Gaither, Inc. ARR UBP of Gaither Copyright ManagementCCLI License No. 810055
Sometimes it is the state of the world that makes us think that there is no reason for hope in the future. Some scientists point to the rise in the globe's temperature as evidence that the existence of humanity is at stake. Wars continue, fed by religious hatred, political feuds, and economic issues. Sometimes the source of discouragement is much closer to home. We experience sorrow when a family member contracts a debilitating disease, or when divorce tears up a home, or when a once secure job evaporates when the company folds. Sometimes the darkness is inside of us - a recurring depression, a sinful habit that threatens to overwhelm us, or fear of some undefined nature.
A dark mood often yields to encouragement from a friend who helps us to set it all in a better perspective. Taking a break and giving ourselves a few days to rest can be amazingly restorative for our emotions. Learning to master our emotions, using them to make our life rich but refusing to allow them to govern us, is important, too. There is a source of hope that is more effective in dealing with despair than a cheerful song, a couple days at the beach, or self-talk. What is it? God's truth!
Those who belong to Christ will be concerned about the suffering and difficulties of life. They will go through the disappointments that all people endure - war, disease, temptation - included. However, they can rise above the despair that such things bring, because they know, by faith, that they are God's own, held in His hand. John reminds us "You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4, NIV)
This week I've been reading through 1 Thessalonians, the inspired letter that Paul wrote to a young church. It is short, just 5 chapters, but it is upbeat! What is the reason for the hopeful tone of the letter? Each chapter closes with a reference to the promise of Christ's return. The apostle tells us to stay hopeful because our Lord has not left us to fate. He is working out His will in us, building His kingdom through us, and will come for us in the moment chosen in the will of God, the Father. Paul does not see the return of Christ as a reason for fear or dread at all! He takes great hope from that promise. "For the Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Christians who have died will rise from their graves. Then, together with them, we who are still alive and remain on the earth will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Then we will be with the Lord forever. So encourage each other with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, NLT)
Unlike some Believers who choose to use the promise of the return of Jesus as a reason to escape life's troubles, Paul urges us to take hope from the promise and then to dig in to make a difference here on earth for God's sake! The Blessed Hope infuses us with courage, keeps us steady, and gives us reason to serve and love in Christ's name. Why? Because we know that even death itself cannot steal our reward. Our destiny is not a grave. Though our voice may fall silent here on this earth in death, we will shout with the saints when we are gathered 'round the Throne of God!
So, take hold of your hope - a hope based not on wealth, health, or sunshine - but rather on the Promise of the Lord. Pray for wisdom in dealing with the challenges, for restored perspective on current events, for the power of the Spirit to overcome the Enemy, and for faith to remain faithful! And may what Paul wrote of the Believers in the letter also be said of us: "The word has gotten around. Your lives are echoing the Master’s Word, not only in the provinces but all over the place. The news of your faith in God is out. We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message! People come up and tell us how you received us with open arms, how you deserted the dead idols of your old life so you could embrace and serve God, the true God. They marvel at how expectantly you await the arrival of his Son, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescued us from certain doom." (1 Thessalonians 1:7-10, The Message)
____________________________
A parade began at Calvary,
And the saints of all the ages fill its ranks.
O'er the sands of time they're marching
To their King's great coronation.
And this could be the dawning of that day.
O this could be the dawning
Of that grand and glorious day,
When the face of Jesus we behold.
Dreams and hopes of all the ages,
Are awaiting His returning.
And this could be the dawning of that day.
All the saints are getting restless,
O, what glorious expectation fills each face.
Dreams and hopes of all the ages
Are awaiting His returning.
And this could be the dawning of that day.
This Could Be the Dawning© 1971 William J. Gaither, Inc. ARR UBP of Gaither Copyright ManagementCCLI License No. 810055
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Saved and Sanctified
My mom tells an old story about a pastor's wife she knew years ago whose son was always in trouble. When challenged by church members about her son's seeming lack of Christian fruit, the dear lady sighed - "The boy is saved, but he's not sanctified yet." In case that's just a little too much 'church talk' for you, let me explain. When a person turns to Jesus Christ and, in faith, accepts His offering of grace through the Cross, that one is 'saved,' yes, rescued from the judgment of God! On the other side of that experience, there should be an ongoing transformation of character, a change of behavior, which is called 'sanctification,' becoming useful to God with a life worthy of His high calling. A theologian of a century ago, A.H. Strong, illustrates it like this: "The steamship whose machinery is broken may be brought into port and made fast to the dock. She is then safe, but not sound. Repairs may last a long time. Christ designs to make us both safe and sound. Justification gives us the first- safety; and sanctification gives us the second - soundness." -
as quoted in Revolution of Character, Navpress, 2005
Of concern to me is the apparent desire of many Believers to enjoy the benefit of God's grace through Christ without the transformation of heart and life! Some, it seems, want to be 'saved' and have the hope of Heaven on the horizon of life, but at the same time, wish to reserve the right to live their lives without constraint of the will of God. How wonderful it is to know Jesus as Savior - to find the relief of guilt through His forgiveness! Equally wonderful is the joy of letting the Spirit transform us, as we cooperate with Him, into people whose lives are marked by the 'beauty of holiness!' But many are duped by a diabolical lie believing that a holy life must be a dull, joyless, colorless life of religious acts and constant suffering. The sentiment printed on a T-shirt I saw last week reflects that deception. It read - "See no evil. Hear no evil. Speak no evil. - Have no fun!" This is nothing new! It is a repeat of the ancient deception of Eden where Eve became convinced that she could only know happiness if she discarded the Word of God. "You will be like God, knowing good and evil," the serpent whispered to her, goading her to throw away her perfect relationship with her Father Creator.
Believer, there is joy in sanctification! That disciple of Jesus, who follows Him closely, who chooses to respond quickly with obedience; lives with serenity, enjoys tremendous authority over sin and evil, and is spared the fruit of disobedience which is always bitter after the initial illusion of sweet satisfaction.
He is transparent, knowing no need to hide any part of his life from the scrutiny of others.
His worship is genuine, not needing to be forced past the guilt of his hidden deeds.
He experiences daily guidance for he hears the voice of the Spirit more clearly, and thus, lives purposefully.
His life lends light to the world where he walks, helping others to see their way out of confusion.
His integrity grows for he is not 'this way today, and that way tomorrow,' for he is consistently God's man wherever he goes.
He is trusted by the weak, sought out by the strong, and is a 'friend of sinners' without becoming a participant in their ways.
You may be thinking, "That's not me, for that person seems perfect." No, even the sanctified experience an ongoing insurgency of the sinful nature. There are moments of lapse when unholy thoughts, words, or actions break through. What then? The person who knows he belongs to God, repents, finds forgiveness, and makes no excuse for his sin. He accepts responsibility, makes restitution, and moves into a new day!
We cannot save ourselves. Becoming right with God is solely the work of Christ Jesus and we are recipients of undeserved favor. Sanctification is both God's work and ours! We must cooperate with the Holy Spirit on a daily basis in order to live a holy life. There are choices to be made - sometimes painful, sometimes difficult, sometimes provoking scorn from others - that allow the transformation to continue in us. True holiness (not its imitation - self-imposed piety!) is a thing of beauty. Invite the Lord to make you both safe and sound, won't you?
Here's a word from the Word. Think deeply and prayerfully about the application to your life today.
"But friends, you’re not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? You’re sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. So let’s not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let’s keep our eyes open and be smart. People sleep at night and get drunk at night. But not us! Since we’re creatures of Day, let’s act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation." (1 Thessalonians 5:4-8, The Message)
Amen!
Monday, June 18, 2007
The rush to judgment
Mike Nifong, the North Carolina prosecutor who was relieved of his law license last week, made a mockery of the notion of justice. A woman accused some young athletes of the crime of rape. As he rightly should have done, he began an investigation. Very soon investigators attached to the case realized that the evidence was not supporting the woman's allegations, but Mr. Nifong had already gone on the public record with harshly accusatory statements and he stubbornly chose to stick with his initial assumptions through the legal process. He made choices to withhold exculpatory evidence from the courts. Finally, justice caught up to this man who lacked the integrity to be a custodian of the law and he was officially disgraced! He failed in his role as a prosecutor because he made a premature decision about the guilt of the accused, instead of seeking the truth that the case would develop, and waiting for the judge and jury to form the judgment.
Some of the regrets in my life are centered around a tendency shared by a majority of human beings - to form a pre-mature judgment about the actions of another. More times than I want to remember, I have jumped to conclusions about what really happened or just assumed that I knew why someone was acting in a way that I thought wrong though I had no actual knowledge of their thought process. I did it with my kids when they were young! Sometimes I handed out discipline before I knew enough of the facts. Even today, I too often decide that I know the real problem, only to later I find out that my assumptions were faulty. One of the deacons who serves in the church of which I serve as pastor has warned me - "Keep your hands off the keyboard for at least 24 hours!" He knows the problems that can be created with a too-quick email response from a person who only thinks he has the facts straight. Often I find that where I thought I "knew" that the other person had some evil intent; in reality, they were afraid, or did not know of alternatives, or they were overcome by their situation. A person who is not making the right choices needs someone who will take time to listen, who will work with them, who is patient while they work their way to a place of wholeness. A rush to judgment precludes justice, shuts down dialogue, and potentially destroys relationships.
Why do we do it? Prejudice, ignorance, stupidity, arrogance; even my own fear, are several reasons I've done it. How about you?
Jesus instructs us with this warning -
"Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. "
And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?
How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye?
Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye." (Matthew 7:1-5, NLT)
Jesus is not telling us to suspend good sense, to drop all standards of right and wrong in favor of some fluffy notion of love and acceptance. We need discretion! Yes, there is a time to say to another, "We need to talk, because the choices you are making are not right. They do not please God. They are harmful to others and to yourself." However, we must be exceedingly cautious about climbing into God's seat of judgment from which we hand down our conclusions in the assumption that we have all knowledge about the motives and actions of others. And we need the heart of mercy and grace that moved God when He saw us in our need to come and save us from our sins! While He can choose destruction, He graciously offers us forgiveness and reconciliation; patiently works with us to make us like Jesus, and gives us His Spirit to live in us to work the new nature into maturity. "God is patient, because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost." (2 Peter 3:9, CEV)
May the Lord help us to be patient, too. If we must speak of judgment, let us do so, not with any sense of gloating or joy at the destruction of another, but with genuine sorrow that they refused the grace of God to their own loss. When you start to form an opinion, or voice a conclusion about another today - I pray that the Spirit will restrain you saying, "Are you sure about that? Do you have all the facts?" And I pray that we will understand the word from the Word that says, "...continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8, NLT)
Some of the regrets in my life are centered around a tendency shared by a majority of human beings - to form a pre-mature judgment about the actions of another. More times than I want to remember, I have jumped to conclusions about what really happened or just assumed that I knew why someone was acting in a way that I thought wrong though I had no actual knowledge of their thought process. I did it with my kids when they were young! Sometimes I handed out discipline before I knew enough of the facts. Even today, I too often decide that I know the real problem, only to later I find out that my assumptions were faulty. One of the deacons who serves in the church of which I serve as pastor has warned me - "Keep your hands off the keyboard for at least 24 hours!" He knows the problems that can be created with a too-quick email response from a person who only thinks he has the facts straight. Often I find that where I thought I "knew" that the other person had some evil intent; in reality, they were afraid, or did not know of alternatives, or they were overcome by their situation. A person who is not making the right choices needs someone who will take time to listen, who will work with them, who is patient while they work their way to a place of wholeness. A rush to judgment precludes justice, shuts down dialogue, and potentially destroys relationships.
Why do we do it? Prejudice, ignorance, stupidity, arrogance; even my own fear, are several reasons I've done it. How about you?
Jesus instructs us with this warning -
"Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. "
And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?
How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye?
Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye." (Matthew 7:1-5, NLT)
Jesus is not telling us to suspend good sense, to drop all standards of right and wrong in favor of some fluffy notion of love and acceptance. We need discretion! Yes, there is a time to say to another, "We need to talk, because the choices you are making are not right. They do not please God. They are harmful to others and to yourself." However, we must be exceedingly cautious about climbing into God's seat of judgment from which we hand down our conclusions in the assumption that we have all knowledge about the motives and actions of others. And we need the heart of mercy and grace that moved God when He saw us in our need to come and save us from our sins! While He can choose destruction, He graciously offers us forgiveness and reconciliation; patiently works with us to make us like Jesus, and gives us His Spirit to live in us to work the new nature into maturity. "God is patient, because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost." (2 Peter 3:9, CEV)
May the Lord help us to be patient, too. If we must speak of judgment, let us do so, not with any sense of gloating or joy at the destruction of another, but with genuine sorrow that they refused the grace of God to their own loss. When you start to form an opinion, or voice a conclusion about another today - I pray that the Spirit will restrain you saying, "Are you sure about that? Do you have all the facts?" And I pray that we will understand the word from the Word that says, "...continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins." (1 Peter 4:8, NLT)
Friday, June 15, 2007
Grand Poo-Bah or Life Coach?
On Sunday Americans will celebrate Dads. I am blessed with a good father, so Father's Day's is a happy one for me, a day of pleasant memories and ready tributes to the man whose influence shaped and molded my life. That is not the case for a good many people whose fathers were less than admirable in their character or so remote emotionally that they grew up virtual orphans. I hope you will honor your Dad, be he great or not so wonderful, for God's sake, this Sunday. After all, God saw fit to make this commandment part of the basic ten - "Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the Lord your God is giving you." (Exodus 20:12, NLT)
Now fathers, let me address you for a moment. (The rest of you can skip this TFTD! See you on Monday.)
Filling the role of Dad is not a job for cowards, is it? It's tough to know when to be a disciplinarian and when to be tender, when to wrap your arms around your kid and when to kick his butt. It's hard to know when to tell him how and when to step back and let him try it on his own.
Now fathers, let me address you for a moment. (The rest of you can skip this TFTD! See you on Monday.)
Filling the role of Dad is not a job for cowards, is it? It's tough to know when to be a disciplinarian and when to be tender, when to wrap your arms around your kid and when to kick his butt. It's hard to know when to tell him how and when to step back and let him try it on his own.
- We start out the fathering trip staring at our wife's expanding stomach wondering what in the world we've done to her and how that 'thing' inside of her body is going to change our life.
- Then they put that 7 lb. baby in our arms and we feel sheer terror, "I might break it." is our only thought in that moment.
- When he is a toddler, we start to realize that the 'baby' is really 'human,' and part of us.
- When they get on the school bus for the first time, we want to throw up because it hits us for the first time- "this child I love is going to leave me behind someday." Sometime around 7th grade, we start to wish they would leave tomorrow!
- The teenage years are amazing for fathers who stay engaged. The old line about 'herding cats' comes to mind. Despite our best efforts to provide guidance, they manage to do what they want, often rebelling just because they can. Dads spend most of those years feeling like a failure wondering where we went wrong.
- When they grow up and make the really big life choices - career, college, marriage, buying their first car - we feel pride and fear because we know that disappointment is inevitable and we don't want that adult person we still think of as 'our kid,' to have to be broken by life in the same ways we were.
Here's one thing I have learned about being a Dad that you can take for what it's worth - your kid, whether 4, 14, or 24 years of age - doesn't want a Grand Poo-Bah for a Dad; someone who is handing down edicts from some lofty height of imagined authority. They want a Life Coach, somebody who is showing them the way; modeling character, faith, and wisdom. Grand Poo-Bah Dads are kings; men who become melded with their recliners, TV remote in hand, barking out orders and sending their kids our to do the right things that they, themselves, don't do. They say really dumb things like - "You little *&%$! Who taught you to talk like that?" As they head off to their hunting camp for yet another weekend, Grand Poo-Bah Dads tell their son, "Go to church with your mother. It's important." GPB Dads lose touch with their kids, "their mother takes care of them," then cries in self-pity wondering "why doesn't he respect me?"
Life Coach Dads say, like Paul, "Follow me as I follow Christ." Watch how it's done, imitate my life. So, you're thinking, that's hard. Yep, it is. Life Coach Dads realize that values are caught, not taught. They don't have a private porn stash, or go to clubs where they can't take their son, or have a life apart from their family. Dad, live as an open book, letting your kids learn as much from your failures as they do from your successes. Let them know that Dads sometimes do not have the answer and that you need life coaches and God, too! Show them that making the God-honoring choice is costly, but right. Teach them to repent when you sin by admitting your error - to God and to them. Demonstrate that life is more than things, by making the choice to give yourself and your time to others, to the Lord.
Anybody can plant sperm and become a father in that sense. It takes guts, endurance, wisdom, and the daily help of the Spirit to be a real Dad. Few things in the world compare to the joy that a Life Coach Dad feels when he sees his son or daughter doing the right things and realizing with amazed wonder and some fear, too- "They becoming just like me!"
"Fathers, don’t exasperate your children by coming down hard on them. Take them by the hand and lead them in the way of the Master. " (Ephesians 6:4, The Message)
Happy Father's Day.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Dressed for success
I would not go so far as to say that 'clothes make the man,' as some suggest. With the right help and budget, anybody can put together a suit of clothes that looks great! But, as shallow as we might think it is, there is some truth about being dressed for success. If you've seen the recent movie hit, "Pursuit of Happyness" (sp. in context) you may remember the scene where Chris Gardiner, the man struggling to make a living, goes directly from an overnight stay in jail to an interview for a job as a stock broker. He is dressed in old work clothes, disheveled, and covered with paint. When the brokerage manager asks him, "What would you say if a man walked in here with no shirt and I hired him?" Chris replies, "He must have had on some really nice pants!" Chris' courage and determination overcame his appearance and he got the job. We react to that scene because we know how extraordinary it is that his appearance did not quickly disqualify him from consideration.
God, through Christ Jesus, has purchased a suit for your soul, clothes you can put on that will dress you for real success. Paul writes about this in his letter to the church in Colosse. Take a look. "You’re done with that old life. It’s like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you’ve stripped off and put in the fire. Now you’re dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete. . . . From now on everyone is defined by Christ, everyone is included in Christ. So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it." (Colossians 3:9-14, The Message)
When I get out of the shower in the morning, I look into my closet and dress myself according to the tasks of the day.
Day off, needing to do yardwork? Old polo shirt, work jeans, and sneakers are the uniform of the day.
Meeting at District office? Dress shirt, tie, jacket are the choice.
Conducting a funeral? Black suit, conservative tie.
Of course, inside those clothes it is the same Jerry, but each outfit prepares me to meet the obligations of the day. So it is with life. God knows that each day brings us differing challenges and tasks. So, He's prepared a whole wardrobe for us to wear that will help us do the work in a way that honors Him and displays His honor. Pull on compassion! Wear humility! Buckle on the belt of self-discipline! But never go out without putting on love! Paul reminds us that this is God's basic all-purpose, never out of style, coat.
This idea of being clothed by God, dressed for spiritual success, did not originate with Paul. Isaiah exults in God's provision for him, saying - "I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels." (Isaiah 61:10, NLT)
Strip off the old filthy clothing of the flesh, stained with sin. Throw it aside. Accept God's new suit - the righteousness of Christ. Enter the throne room of the King of Glory, confidently, dressed for the occasion, in the suit for the soul you could not afford, but which Jesus bought and paid for with His life. And, each day, suit up for His honor, wearing the wardrobe that marks you as a child of the King - love, compassion, kindness, humility, discipline, forgiveness.
God, through Christ Jesus, has purchased a suit for your soul, clothes you can put on that will dress you for real success. Paul writes about this in his letter to the church in Colosse. Take a look. "You’re done with that old life. It’s like a filthy set of ill-fitting clothes you’ve stripped off and put in the fire. Now you’re dressed in a new wardrobe. Every item of your new way of life is custom-made by the Creator, with his label on it. All the old fashions are now obsolete. . . . From now on everyone is defined by Christ, everyone is included in Christ. So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it." (Colossians 3:9-14, The Message)
When I get out of the shower in the morning, I look into my closet and dress myself according to the tasks of the day.
Day off, needing to do yardwork? Old polo shirt, work jeans, and sneakers are the uniform of the day.
Meeting at District office? Dress shirt, tie, jacket are the choice.
Conducting a funeral? Black suit, conservative tie.
Of course, inside those clothes it is the same Jerry, but each outfit prepares me to meet the obligations of the day. So it is with life. God knows that each day brings us differing challenges and tasks. So, He's prepared a whole wardrobe for us to wear that will help us do the work in a way that honors Him and displays His honor. Pull on compassion! Wear humility! Buckle on the belt of self-discipline! But never go out without putting on love! Paul reminds us that this is God's basic all-purpose, never out of style, coat.
This idea of being clothed by God, dressed for spiritual success, did not originate with Paul. Isaiah exults in God's provision for him, saying - "I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels." (Isaiah 61:10, NLT)
Strip off the old filthy clothing of the flesh, stained with sin. Throw it aside. Accept God's new suit - the righteousness of Christ. Enter the throne room of the King of Glory, confidently, dressed for the occasion, in the suit for the soul you could not afford, but which Jesus bought and paid for with His life. And, each day, suit up for His honor, wearing the wardrobe that marks you as a child of the King - love, compassion, kindness, humility, discipline, forgiveness.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
"Yeah, I know, but..."
Each one of us could add to that list, in our own way, where we know we should live differently, but don't because we think that our situation gives us special privileges or because we think that the consequences that others suffer just will not happen to us. People that seek my counsel are often 'amazed' at what is happening to them as their health deteriorates, their marriage falls apart, or their kids go wild. Even as they acknowledge the decisions that got them where they are today, they excuse themselves with the old line, "Yeah, I know, but...."
Thinking that the rules apply to everyone except ourselves is a human trait that has a long heritage!
"Yeah, I know I was speeding, but...."
"Yeah, I know I oughta quit smoking, but...."
"Yeah, I know I'm flirting with disaster, but..."
"Yeah, I know I should get my spiritual life together, but..."
Some of you will remember the country song by Tom T. Hall that said, "Me and Jesus, got our own thing goin'. Me and Jesus, got it all worked out. Me and Jesus, got our own thing goin'. We don't need anybody to tell us what it's all about." The song talks about a man who worked out the sins in his life without a preacher or a church involved. It plays right into our cultural sense of 'me-ism,' in which we learn to think that everything is about ourselves, even knowing and serving God. In that upside-down view of life, our personal comfort, our happiness, our sense of well-being trumps everything else. Loving our Lord, giving up ourselves for our family, giving time and resources back to our town and/or church are not as important as making sure we are doing what we want to do. After all, what a Friend we have in Jesus with Whom we have it all worked out.
Here's what the Lord says. "You must not have any other god but me." (Exodus 20:3, NLT) That includes self! I look into the mirror often and tell myself, "There is one God, and you are not Him!" I do not get to write the guidelines for myself, God already did that. James writes about people who brag and boast about their plans, who mistakenly believe that they are a god. He says, "Look here, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit." How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that." Otherwise you are boasting about your own plans, and all such boasting is evil. Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." (James 4:13-17, NLT)
Jesus made this statement, which to our way of understanding appears a paradox: "If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it." (Matthew 10:39, NLT) Without faith, without eyes that are open to the things of the Spirit, that statement makes no sense at all. "Give up your life?" You mean, don't make choices based on what's best in this moment, what feels good, what leads to making the most money, what feeds myself? That's exactly what He means! Our obedience allows us to find life to the full, to enjoy God's affirmation, and day to day intimacy with Him. It takes real faith to accept that and do what He says rather than what Self demands.
So you can read this and say, "Yeah, I know, but...." and give yourself an exemption. People do it all the time - and, they pay the price for their choices. "So, Jerry, you're saying I'll go to Hell if I do this?" Not at all, for I am not the judge. And, besides, the purpose of the Cross is to pay the price of saving us - completely! Making everything about Eternity is entirely the wrong line of thinking for a Christian anyway! Why are we so quick to think that what we do is all about 'going to Heaven or Hell?' It's about living a life that honors Christ Jesus, that builds the Kingdom, that lets other see His beauty, the majesty of His grace.
Here's a passage that merits meditation. It talks about the Believer on the Day when he stands before Christ to give an account. I don't think that "Yeah, I know, but..." will mean all that much before His fiery gaze, do you?
"Anyone who builds on that foundation (the salvation provided by Christ Jesus) may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person’s work has any value.
If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames. . . .
Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. . . . Everything belongs to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God." (1 Corinthians 3:12-23, NLT)
_______________________________________________
Oh that with yonder sacred throng,
we at His feet may fall!
We'll join the everlasting song,
and crown Him, Lord of all!
-public domain
Thinking that the rules apply to everyone except ourselves is a human trait that has a long heritage!
"Yeah, I know I was speeding, but...."
"Yeah, I know I oughta quit smoking, but...."
"Yeah, I know I'm flirting with disaster, but..."
"Yeah, I know I should get my spiritual life together, but..."
Some of you will remember the country song by Tom T. Hall that said, "Me and Jesus, got our own thing goin'. Me and Jesus, got it all worked out. Me and Jesus, got our own thing goin'. We don't need anybody to tell us what it's all about." The song talks about a man who worked out the sins in his life without a preacher or a church involved. It plays right into our cultural sense of 'me-ism,' in which we learn to think that everything is about ourselves, even knowing and serving God. In that upside-down view of life, our personal comfort, our happiness, our sense of well-being trumps everything else. Loving our Lord, giving up ourselves for our family, giving time and resources back to our town and/or church are not as important as making sure we are doing what we want to do. After all, what a Friend we have in Jesus with Whom we have it all worked out.
Here's what the Lord says. "You must not have any other god but me." (Exodus 20:3, NLT) That includes self! I look into the mirror often and tell myself, "There is one God, and you are not Him!" I do not get to write the guidelines for myself, God already did that. James writes about people who brag and boast about their plans, who mistakenly believe that they are a god. He says, "Look here, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we are going to a certain town and will stay there a year. We will do business there and make a profit." How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? Your life is like the morning fog—it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. What you ought to say is, "If the Lord wants us to, we will live and do this or that." Otherwise you are boasting about your own plans, and all such boasting is evil. Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." (James 4:13-17, NLT)
Jesus made this statement, which to our way of understanding appears a paradox: "If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it." (Matthew 10:39, NLT) Without faith, without eyes that are open to the things of the Spirit, that statement makes no sense at all. "Give up your life?" You mean, don't make choices based on what's best in this moment, what feels good, what leads to making the most money, what feeds myself? That's exactly what He means! Our obedience allows us to find life to the full, to enjoy God's affirmation, and day to day intimacy with Him. It takes real faith to accept that and do what He says rather than what Self demands.
So you can read this and say, "Yeah, I know, but...." and give yourself an exemption. People do it all the time - and, they pay the price for their choices. "So, Jerry, you're saying I'll go to Hell if I do this?" Not at all, for I am not the judge. And, besides, the purpose of the Cross is to pay the price of saving us - completely! Making everything about Eternity is entirely the wrong line of thinking for a Christian anyway! Why are we so quick to think that what we do is all about 'going to Heaven or Hell?' It's about living a life that honors Christ Jesus, that builds the Kingdom, that lets other see His beauty, the majesty of His grace.
Here's a passage that merits meditation. It talks about the Believer on the Day when he stands before Christ to give an account. I don't think that "Yeah, I know, but..." will mean all that much before His fiery gaze, do you?
"Anyone who builds on that foundation (the salvation provided by Christ Jesus) may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. But on the judgment day, fire will reveal what kind of work each builder has done. The fire will show if a person’s work has any value.
If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. But if the work is burned up, the builder will suffer great loss. The builder will be saved, but like someone barely escaping through a wall of flames. . . .
Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. . . . Everything belongs to you, and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God." (1 Corinthians 3:12-23, NLT)
_______________________________________________
Oh that with yonder sacred throng,
we at His feet may fall!
We'll join the everlasting song,
and crown Him, Lord of all!
-public domain
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
I'm fed up with him!
One of my old, tired jokes goes like this.
"How are you, Jerry?"
"Oh, I am wonderful," I reply.
When the inquirer responds with surprise, which most do,
I go on to say, "Yes, some think I am wonderful; others despise me!"
But, it's not just a joke. For reasons too numerous to explore here, everyone of us deals with people we like and those we find offensive. With some we have an instant sense of connection. With others an equally strong sense of rejection. I am glad for this fact: we are able to overcome our emotional feelings about others for love is a choice. I was talking to a person recently that has become a good friend, whose company I now genuinely enjoy. As we talked, I remembered a time in the past when we did not care for each other - not even a little bit! With patience, we overcame our initial feelings about each other and learned to be brothers in Christ who are on the same team.
Are you one of those people who thinks that love is primarily an emotion, something over which you have little control? Consider what the Word says - "Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony." (Colossians 3:12-14, NLT) What a radical command, so different from the way that people normally act toward those who disappoint them. How easily we work ourselves up to an angry pitch when discussing someone's failures and/or faults. "Can you believe the way she acted in that meeting today? She was so irritating. She is always doing stupid, selfish things like that! I can't believe she claims to be a Christian... " and so it goes. Our mouths are off and running and somebody's reputation gets beat up badly by the time we are finished!
What if we took the Scripture to heart and the moment that kind of conversation started, we intervened with a statement like - "We ought to take a moment to consider the kind of pressure that she is experiencing that causes her to act in that kind of way. Do you think there is something we could do to help her through this?" Or, "I remember when I was less than godly and I am sure glad that someone was patient enough to help me get through it, even when I was acting like selfish child." Or, "Let's make a different choice, and just let it slide for the sake of the Lord." Foolish, you say? In fact it is what it means to show gentleness, to make allowance for the failures of another.
The wisdom of Proverbs reminds us that "He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends." (Proverbs 17:9, NIV) Peter amplifies that by telling us that "you must sincerely love each other, because love wipes away many sins." (1 Peter 4:8, CEV)
Dr. Dan Allender wrote a book titled, Bold Love, in which he calls on Believers to become 'warriors of love.' Sounds like a contradiction in terms, doesn't it? Love and warrior just do not mix - in natural terms. But the truth is that love is an unbelievably powerful weapon in the hands of a Holy Spirit-filled individual. Our model is Christ Himself - who changed the world, who saved me, with love alone. It is not a syrupy love of romantic expectations. It is an active love that requires great wisdom, that advances - at great cost to itself - against evil.
The words of Jesus, recorded in Luke 6, tell us to "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that."
In our war of love, we cannot become predictable or simple-minded. Instead, we must be full of the wise ways of the Spirit, constantly studying those who are in need of love, seeking ways to overcome their defenses. Remember, you can only love to the extent that you are loved! God loves you and He loves me with a deep, unwavering, healing love. "Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other." (1 John 4:11, NLT) Go, warrior, and engage in the battle of love - dying to self and choosing to be a healer of the unlovely - for God's sake.
_______________________
Lord, I come to You,
Let my heart be changed, renewed;
Flowing from the grace
That I've found in You;
And Lord, I've come to know,
The weaknesses I see in me,
Will be stripped away
By the pow'r of Your love.
Hold me close,
Let Your love surround me;
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side;
And as I wait,
I'll rise up like the eagle,
And I will soar with You,
Your Spirit leads me on
In the pow'r of Your love.
The Power Of Your Love -
Bullock, Geoff
© 1992 Word Music, Inc. (Admin. by Word Music Group, Inc.) / Maranatha! Music (Admin. by Word Music Group, Inc.) CCLI License No. 810055
"How are you, Jerry?"
"Oh, I am wonderful," I reply.
When the inquirer responds with surprise, which most do,
I go on to say, "Yes, some think I am wonderful; others despise me!"
But, it's not just a joke. For reasons too numerous to explore here, everyone of us deals with people we like and those we find offensive. With some we have an instant sense of connection. With others an equally strong sense of rejection. I am glad for this fact: we are able to overcome our emotional feelings about others for love is a choice. I was talking to a person recently that has become a good friend, whose company I now genuinely enjoy. As we talked, I remembered a time in the past when we did not care for each other - not even a little bit! With patience, we overcame our initial feelings about each other and learned to be brothers in Christ who are on the same team.
Are you one of those people who thinks that love is primarily an emotion, something over which you have little control? Consider what the Word says - "Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony." (Colossians 3:12-14, NLT) What a radical command, so different from the way that people normally act toward those who disappoint them. How easily we work ourselves up to an angry pitch when discussing someone's failures and/or faults. "Can you believe the way she acted in that meeting today? She was so irritating. She is always doing stupid, selfish things like that! I can't believe she claims to be a Christian... " and so it goes. Our mouths are off and running and somebody's reputation gets beat up badly by the time we are finished!
What if we took the Scripture to heart and the moment that kind of conversation started, we intervened with a statement like - "We ought to take a moment to consider the kind of pressure that she is experiencing that causes her to act in that kind of way. Do you think there is something we could do to help her through this?" Or, "I remember when I was less than godly and I am sure glad that someone was patient enough to help me get through it, even when I was acting like selfish child." Or, "Let's make a different choice, and just let it slide for the sake of the Lord." Foolish, you say? In fact it is what it means to show gentleness, to make allowance for the failures of another.
The wisdom of Proverbs reminds us that "He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends." (Proverbs 17:9, NIV) Peter amplifies that by telling us that "you must sincerely love each other, because love wipes away many sins." (1 Peter 4:8, CEV)
Dr. Dan Allender wrote a book titled, Bold Love, in which he calls on Believers to become 'warriors of love.' Sounds like a contradiction in terms, doesn't it? Love and warrior just do not mix - in natural terms. But the truth is that love is an unbelievably powerful weapon in the hands of a Holy Spirit-filled individual. Our model is Christ Himself - who changed the world, who saved me, with love alone. It is not a syrupy love of romantic expectations. It is an active love that requires great wisdom, that advances - at great cost to itself - against evil.
The words of Jesus, recorded in Luke 6, tell us to "Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that."
In our war of love, we cannot become predictable or simple-minded. Instead, we must be full of the wise ways of the Spirit, constantly studying those who are in need of love, seeking ways to overcome their defenses. Remember, you can only love to the extent that you are loved! God loves you and He loves me with a deep, unwavering, healing love. "Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other." (1 John 4:11, NLT) Go, warrior, and engage in the battle of love - dying to self and choosing to be a healer of the unlovely - for God's sake.
_______________________
Lord, I come to You,
Let my heart be changed, renewed;
Flowing from the grace
That I've found in You;
And Lord, I've come to know,
The weaknesses I see in me,
Will be stripped away
By the pow'r of Your love.
Hold me close,
Let Your love surround me;
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side;
And as I wait,
I'll rise up like the eagle,
And I will soar with You,
Your Spirit leads me on
In the pow'r of Your love.
The Power Of Your Love -
Bullock, Geoff
© 1992 Word Music, Inc. (Admin. by Word Music Group, Inc.) / Maranatha! Music (Admin. by Word Music Group, Inc.) CCLI License No. 810055
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)