Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Born That Way
1 Corinthians 6:9-11 (New Living Translation)
9 Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, 10 or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. 11 Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
One of the arguments we hear about homosexuality (note it is just one in the list of sins Paul addresses … sin is sin) is that a person is born that way. This scripture says it is an indulged practice and is something which like other sin, one can be cleansed from. Homosexuality, along with any sin, is not beyond the power of God, through the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, to make one right.
God is omnipotent … all powerful, if one will lay their sin at the foot of the Cross.
9 Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, 10 or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God. 11 Some of you were once like that. But you were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
One of the arguments we hear about homosexuality (note it is just one in the list of sins Paul addresses … sin is sin) is that a person is born that way. This scripture says it is an indulged practice and is something which like other sin, one can be cleansed from. Homosexuality, along with any sin, is not beyond the power of God, through the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, to make one right.
God is omnipotent … all powerful, if one will lay their sin at the foot of the Cross.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
The ‘Ism’ Struggles
Galatians 3:26-29 (New Living Translation)
26 For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. 28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.
When I see, hear, encounter the ‘ism’ struggle, I am reminded that this struggle is not new. The Apostle Paul spoke out on this 2000 years ago and we are still struggling with these strongholds.
26 For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. 27 And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. 28 There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.
When I see, hear, encounter the ‘ism’ struggle, I am reminded that this struggle is not new. The Apostle Paul spoke out on this 2000 years ago and we are still struggling with these strongholds.
- Nationalism, the great immigration struggle
- Racism, who can lead, politically, athletically, corporately, even religiously
- Sexism, the glass ceiling
Monday, September 20, 2010
Thursday, September 16, 2010
The Better Judge
1 Corinthians 6:1-6 (New Living Translation)
1 When one of you has a dispute with another believer, how dare you file a lawsuit and ask a secular court to decide the matter instead of taking it to other believers! 2 Don’t you realize that someday we believers will judge the world? And since you are going to judge the world, can’t you decide even these little things among yourselves? 3 Don’t you realize that we will judge angels? So you should surely be able to resolve ordinary disputes in this life. 4 If you have legal disputes about such matters, why go to outside judges who are not respected by the church? 5 I am saying this to shame you. Isn’t there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues? 6 But instead, one believer sues another—right in front of unbelievers!
It would seem in today’s society, we have completely abandon the idea of settling legal issues among believers in the church. We have surrendered this practice to the secular courts.
Secular law may have the influence of scripture. A decision within the church would be based on the foundation of God’s Word. It would be advisable to turn back to this practice of making scripture based judgments because the day is coming when this role of judge will belong to believers in the heavens and in the earth. In that day, we will need to be wise about these matters.
1 When one of you has a dispute with another believer, how dare you file a lawsuit and ask a secular court to decide the matter instead of taking it to other believers! 2 Don’t you realize that someday we believers will judge the world? And since you are going to judge the world, can’t you decide even these little things among yourselves? 3 Don’t you realize that we will judge angels? So you should surely be able to resolve ordinary disputes in this life. 4 If you have legal disputes about such matters, why go to outside judges who are not respected by the church? 5 I am saying this to shame you. Isn’t there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues? 6 But instead, one believer sues another—right in front of unbelievers!
It would seem in today’s society, we have completely abandon the idea of settling legal issues among believers in the church. We have surrendered this practice to the secular courts.
Secular law may have the influence of scripture. A decision within the church would be based on the foundation of God’s Word. It would be advisable to turn back to this practice of making scripture based judgments because the day is coming when this role of judge will belong to believers in the heavens and in the earth. In that day, we will need to be wise about these matters.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Immorality in the Church
1st Corinthians 5
The issue is not non-believers. Paul is addressing the problem of the tolerance of immorality of those who claim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
As he often is, Paul is very direct. The issue cannot be ignored. The person must be confronted. The sin cannot be tolerated in the church or the whole church is at risk. This is where we get the phrase, “A little yeast spoils the whole loaf.”
This another place in the scriptures where we find a list. Paul groups together sexual sin, greediness, idolatry, abusiveness, drunkenness and cheating. Paul is saying sin is sin. No big sin. No little sin. Any sin has the capability of spoiling the effectiveness of the individual and/or the church.
The issue is not non-believers. Paul is addressing the problem of the tolerance of immorality of those who claim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
As he often is, Paul is very direct. The issue cannot be ignored. The person must be confronted. The sin cannot be tolerated in the church or the whole church is at risk. This is where we get the phrase, “A little yeast spoils the whole loaf.”
This another place in the scriptures where we find a list. Paul groups together sexual sin, greediness, idolatry, abusiveness, drunkenness and cheating. Paul is saying sin is sin. No big sin. No little sin. Any sin has the capability of spoiling the effectiveness of the individual and/or the church.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
A Special Relationship
1st Corinthians 4:8-21
Today’s scripture passage, while lengthy, reflects the very special relationship that existed between the Apostle Paul and the Church at Corinth. He could get real with them. Is this the relationship you have with your spiritual leader. Can he say to you what needs to be said without you walking away in a huff? Can he promise to discipline you without you having the question in your mind, “Who do you think you are?”
Click on the link and read about Paul’s relationship with the believers at Corinth. Then access for yourself the relationship you have with your pastor.
Today’s scripture passage, while lengthy, reflects the very special relationship that existed between the Apostle Paul and the Church at Corinth. He could get real with them. Is this the relationship you have with your spiritual leader. Can he say to you what needs to be said without you walking away in a huff? Can he promise to discipline you without you having the question in your mind, “Who do you think you are?”
Click on the link and read about Paul’s relationship with the believers at Corinth. Then access for yourself the relationship you have with your pastor.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Nothing to Boast About
1 Corinthians 4:6-7 (New Living Translation)
6 Dear brothers and sisters, I have used Apollos and myself to illustrate what I’ve been saying. If you pay attention to what I have quoted from the Scriptures, you won’t be proud of one of your leaders at the expense of another. 7 For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?
Thank you Father God for all the gifts you give us. The spiritual gifts all come from you … we have nothing to boast about.
Our salvation comes from you … the gift of your Son Jesus Christ. We have nothing to boast about.
6 Dear brothers and sisters, I have used Apollos and myself to illustrate what I’ve been saying. If you pay attention to what I have quoted from the Scriptures, you won’t be proud of one of your leaders at the expense of another. 7 For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift?
Thank you Father God for all the gifts you give us. The spiritual gifts all come from you … we have nothing to boast about.
Our salvation comes from you … the gift of your Son Jesus Christ. We have nothing to boast about.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Not Even My Own
1 Corinthians 4:1-5 (New Living Translation)
1 So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. 2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.
5 So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time—before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.
The judgment of others only counts in this life. Even my own evaluations of myself are limited to my today and now. Only what the Lord will say will count for eternity.
So live today as if the Lord is watching and is doing the evaluation. He is!
1 So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. 2 Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful. 3 As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. 4 My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.
5 So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time—before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.
The judgment of others only counts in this life. Even my own evaluations of myself are limited to my today and now. Only what the Lord will say will count for eternity.
So live today as if the Lord is watching and is doing the evaluation. He is!
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Keep Me Humble
1 Corinthians 3:21-23
New Living Translation
21 So don’t boast about following a particular human leader. For everything belongs to you—22 whether Paul or Apollos or Peter, or the world, or life and death, or the present and the future. Everything belongs to you, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
The Message
21-23I don't want to hear any of you bragging about yourself or anyone else. Everything is already yours as a gift—Paul, Apollos, Peter, the world, life, death, the present, the future—all of it is yours, and you are privileged to be in union with Christ, who is in union with God.
Amplified Bible
21So let no one exult proudly concerning men [boasting of having this or that man as a leader], for all things are yours, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas (Peter), or the universe or life or death, or the immediate and threatening present or the [subsequent and uncertain] future--all are yours, 23 and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's.
I was challenged by this morning’s passage. It took more than even these translations that I posted. In the end, the message is very simple.
It’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s all about Christ. When you are in Christ, you have everything you will ever need.
New Living Translation
21 So don’t boast about following a particular human leader. For everything belongs to you—22 whether Paul or Apollos or Peter, or the world, or life and death, or the present and the future. Everything belongs to you, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.
The Message
21-23I don't want to hear any of you bragging about yourself or anyone else. Everything is already yours as a gift—Paul, Apollos, Peter, the world, life, death, the present, the future—all of it is yours, and you are privileged to be in union with Christ, who is in union with God.
Amplified Bible
21So let no one exult proudly concerning men [boasting of having this or that man as a leader], for all things are yours, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas (Peter), or the universe or life or death, or the immediate and threatening present or the [subsequent and uncertain] future--all are yours, 23 and you are Christ's, and Christ is God's.
I was challenged by this morning’s passage. It took more than even these translations that I posted. In the end, the message is very simple.
It’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s all about Christ. When you are in Christ, you have everything you will ever need.
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
The Wisdom of the World
1 Corinthians 3:18-20 (New Living Translation)
18 Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, “He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness.”
20 And again, “The LORD knows the thoughts of the wise; he knows they are worthless.”
Worthless … what value is it if you gain the whole world and lose your soul? Men of great wealth … Howard Hughes, Michael Vick, Tiger Woods, John Edwards (I don’t know the status of their soul, it is not for me to judge) … examples of men who gained great worldly wealth but appear to have not made God the priority in their lives. These men make the headlines with their rise and fall.
We can point at them. These verses however, encourage us to look in the mirror. “Stop deceiving yourselves.” Where is the wisdom of the world … the worldly foolishness … in our own lives? That’s what God would have us to surrender … our own worthlessness.
18 Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world’s standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, “He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness.”
20 And again, “The LORD knows the thoughts of the wise; he knows they are worthless.”
Worthless … what value is it if you gain the whole world and lose your soul? Men of great wealth … Howard Hughes, Michael Vick, Tiger Woods, John Edwards (I don’t know the status of their soul, it is not for me to judge) … examples of men who gained great worldly wealth but appear to have not made God the priority in their lives. These men make the headlines with their rise and fall.
We can point at them. These verses however, encourage us to look in the mirror. “Stop deceiving yourselves.” Where is the wisdom of the world … the worldly foolishness … in our own lives? That’s what God would have us to surrender … our own worthlessness.
Monday, September 06, 2010
You
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (New Living Translation)
16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
We learned in English class that you can be singular … referring to a single individual … or you can be plural … referring to a specific group. This New Living Translation of these verses emphasizes the plural you.
“… all of you together…”
The temple or the church is more a reference to an organism than to a building. The temple here is an organized body of believers. The temple building may crumble, as we see in disasters or decay from aging but the temple, the organism, God will protect from destruction.
Jesus, one day soon, is coming back for His church. The church will survive until His return, regardless of Satan’s attacks and in the day of judgment, Satan is the one who will be destroyed!
16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
We learned in English class that you can be singular … referring to a single individual … or you can be plural … referring to a specific group. This New Living Translation of these verses emphasizes the plural you.
“… all of you together…”
The temple or the church is more a reference to an organism than to a building. The temple here is an organized body of believers. The temple building may crumble, as we see in disasters or decay from aging but the temple, the organism, God will protect from destruction.
Jesus, one day soon, is coming back for His church. The church will survive until His return, regardless of Satan’s attacks and in the day of judgment, Satan is the one who will be destroyed!
Thursday, September 02, 2010
He Guards You
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (New Living Translation)
16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Buildings decay … crumble … fall … but the temple of God is not buildings. It is saints. It is the saints that God has under His wings of protection. It is saints that are holy. It is saints that God has promised to never leave or forsake. God guards His saints.
Does that mean that you will never get a bump or a bruise … suffer sickness or disease? No. This means that your eternity is assured because “…the Spirit of God lives in you.”
16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? 17 God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple.
Buildings decay … crumble … fall … but the temple of God is not buildings. It is saints. It is the saints that God has under His wings of protection. It is saints that are holy. It is saints that God has promised to never leave or forsake. God guards His saints.
Does that mean that you will never get a bump or a bruise … suffer sickness or disease? No. This means that your eternity is assured because “…the Spirit of God lives in you.”
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Escape in Judgment
1 Corinthians 3:12-15 (New Living Translation)
12 Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. 13 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. 14 If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. 15 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.
No one will escape judgment day. The value of our works will be tested. Build today as with gold … not straw … so that barely escaping in judgment will not be our test score.
12 Anyone who builds on that foundation may use a variety of materials—gold, silver, jewels, wood, hay, or straw. 13 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. 14 If the work survives, that builder will receive a reward. 15 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.
No one will escape judgment day. The value of our works will be tested. Build today as with gold … not straw … so that barely escaping in judgment will not be our test score.
Monday, August 30, 2010
No Cracks
1 Corinthians 3:10-11 (New Living Translation)
10 Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ.
He was spat on … ridiculed … a crown of thorns placed on His head … beaten, He received 39 stripes … pierced in His side … nailed to the Cross, crucified.
And yet … there are no cracks in this foundation … Jesus Christ! He rose and now sits at His Father’s side on the throne.
10 Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. 11 For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ.
He was spat on … ridiculed … a crown of thorns placed on His head … beaten, He received 39 stripes … pierced in His side … nailed to the Cross, crucified.
And yet … there are no cracks in this foundation … Jesus Christ! He rose and now sits at His Father’s side on the throne.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Bottom Line
1 Corinthians 3:5-9 (New Living Translation)
5 After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. 6 I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. 7 It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. 9 For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building.
How did you come to know Jesus Christ? If you were to send me replies to this question, I am doubtful that all answers would be the same. Some may be similar … “I grew up in a Christian family”. Others may be very different … “A lady told me about Jesus as I sat on the park bench while our children played in the sandbox”.
Which of these is better? It’s not important! The only thing that really matters is that you know Jesus. So big church … small church … traditional … charismatic … it doesn’t matter. What really matters is that God is growing in your heart. That IS the bottom line!
5 After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. 6 I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. 7 It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. 9 For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building.
How did you come to know Jesus Christ? If you were to send me replies to this question, I am doubtful that all answers would be the same. Some may be similar … “I grew up in a Christian family”. Others may be very different … “A lady told me about Jesus as I sat on the park bench while our children played in the sandbox”.
Which of these is better? It’s not important! The only thing that really matters is that you know Jesus. So big church … small church … traditional … charismatic … it doesn’t matter. What really matters is that God is growing in your heart. That IS the bottom line!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Assessment
1 Corinthians 3:1-4 (New Living Translation)
1 Dear brothers and sisters, when I was with you I couldn’t talk to you as I would to spiritual people. I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though you were infants in the Christian life. 2 I had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, because you weren’t ready for anything stronger. And you still aren’t ready, 3 for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world? 4 When one of you says, “I am a follower of Paul,” and another says, “I follow Apollos,” aren’t you acting just like people of the world?
Like Paul, every pastor/preacher/minister must make an assessment of the audience he is called to address. Is this judgment? I think not. It is Holy Spirit guided assessment in order to effectively share the Goods News.
What value would there be in speaking to the spiritually mature as if they were baby Christians? What value would there be in sharing with the baby Christian in deep theological … seminary laden … terminology?
For every Christian, as you share your testimony, ask the Holy Spirit to help you consider who you are talking to and the current status of their emotions (not yours … theirs). You are not judging them. You are making a Spirit guided assessment.
1 Dear brothers and sisters, when I was with you I couldn’t talk to you as I would to spiritual people. I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though you were infants in the Christian life. 2 I had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, because you weren’t ready for anything stronger. And you still aren’t ready, 3 for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn’t that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren’t you living like people of the world? 4 When one of you says, “I am a follower of Paul,” and another says, “I follow Apollos,” aren’t you acting just like people of the world?
Like Paul, every pastor/preacher/minister must make an assessment of the audience he is called to address. Is this judgment? I think not. It is Holy Spirit guided assessment in order to effectively share the Goods News.
What value would there be in speaking to the spiritually mature as if they were baby Christians? What value would there be in sharing with the baby Christian in deep theological … seminary laden … terminology?
For every Christian, as you share your testimony, ask the Holy Spirit to help you consider who you are talking to and the current status of their emotions (not yours … theirs). You are not judging them. You are making a Spirit guided assessment.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
The Mind of Christ
1 Corinthians 2:13-16 (New Living Translation)
13 When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. 14 But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 15 Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others. 16 For, “Who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?”
But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.
What does Paul mean when he refers to someone as “spiritual” or “aren’t spiritual”? It’s not race. It’s not gender. It’s not education or position. It’s not what we wear or what we drive. When Paul says spiritual, he is referring to a mindset. Do we think like Christ? When we evaluate a situation, is it with a Christlike attitude? When we make decisions, would our decisions be the same as decisions Christ would make? Yes … WWJD … What Would Jesus Do?
Paul says those who are spiritual … think … evaluate … decide … with the mind of Christ.
13 When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths. 14 But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 15 Those who are spiritual can evaluate all things, but they themselves cannot be evaluated by others. 16 For, “Who can know the LORD’s thoughts? Who knows enough to teach him?”
But we understand these things, for we have the mind of Christ.
What does Paul mean when he refers to someone as “spiritual” or “aren’t spiritual”? It’s not race. It’s not gender. It’s not education or position. It’s not what we wear or what we drive. When Paul says spiritual, he is referring to a mindset. Do we think like Christ? When we evaluate a situation, is it with a Christlike attitude? When we make decisions, would our decisions be the same as decisions Christ would make? Yes … WWJD … What Would Jesus Do?
Paul says those who are spiritual … think … evaluate … decide … with the mind of Christ.
Monday, August 23, 2010
The Counsel of the Holy Spirit
1 Corinthians 2:9-12 (New Living Translation)
9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”
10 But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets. 11 No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. 12 And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us.
To understand God’s Word, as He intended it for us, requires the counsel of the Holy Spirit. Without His Spirit we cannot understand His thoughts. The result … improper interpretation … false teaching … the use of Scripture to promote our agenda. When you have the counsel of the Holy Spirit, not only will you understand God’s thoughts, you will also be troubled in your spirit when you encounter any such misuse of God’s Holy Word.
9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.”
10 But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets. 11 No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. 12 And we have received God’s Spirit (not the world’s spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us.
To understand God’s Word, as He intended it for us, requires the counsel of the Holy Spirit. Without His Spirit we cannot understand His thoughts. The result … improper interpretation … false teaching … the use of Scripture to promote our agenda. When you have the counsel of the Holy Spirit, not only will you understand God’s thoughts, you will also be troubled in your spirit when you encounter any such misuse of God’s Holy Word.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Plain Talk
1 Corinthians 2:1-5 (New Living Translation)
1 When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn’t use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God’s secret plan.2 For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. 3 I came to you in weakness—timid and trembling. 4 And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. 5 I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God.
Each person called by God to share the Good News is still an individual. God has made each individual unique … different talents and spiritual gifts … different ways to say things … different abilities to comprehend things. That’s why if you skipped through your TV on Sunday morning you find varying styles of preachers, pastors and evangelists. Some respond better to Charles Stanley … some to Joyce Meyer … some to Tony Evans … some to T.D. Jakes. I am not here to judge which is better or worse.
The Apostle Paul, a very learned man, chose to keep his message and preaching very plain. He could have used clever or persuasive speech but chose not to. Rather he chose the plain, relying solely on the power of the Holy Spirit.
My prayer … You rather than me LORD! You LORD!
1 When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn’t use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God’s secret plan.2 For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. 3 I came to you in weakness—timid and trembling. 4 And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. 5 I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God.
Each person called by God to share the Good News is still an individual. God has made each individual unique … different talents and spiritual gifts … different ways to say things … different abilities to comprehend things. That’s why if you skipped through your TV on Sunday morning you find varying styles of preachers, pastors and evangelists. Some respond better to Charles Stanley … some to Joyce Meyer … some to Tony Evans … some to T.D. Jakes. I am not here to judge which is better or worse.
The Apostle Paul, a very learned man, chose to keep his message and preaching very plain. He could have used clever or persuasive speech but chose not to. Rather he chose the plain, relying solely on the power of the Holy Spirit.
My prayer … You rather than me LORD! You LORD!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Proud Mary
1 Corinthians 1:26-31 (New Living Translation)
26 Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. 27 Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 28 God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. 29 As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.
30 God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin. 31 Therefore, as the Scriptures say, “If you want to boast, boast only about the LORD.”
When Tina Turner sang ‘Proud Mary’, I can’t imagine her knowingly expressing a scriptural thought. One line says, “I never saw the good side of the city till I hitched a ride on the riverboat queen.”
We can’t see the good side of life until we hitch our life to the Father through His Son Jesus Christ. It is His life, not ours, that makes things good. Therefore we have nothing to be proud about … nothing to boast about … “only about the Lord.”
26 Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. 27 Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 28 God chose things despised by the world, things counted as nothing at all, and used them to bring to nothing what the world considers important. 29 As a result, no one can ever boast in the presence of God.
30 God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin. 31 Therefore, as the Scriptures say, “If you want to boast, boast only about the LORD.”
When Tina Turner sang ‘Proud Mary’, I can’t imagine her knowingly expressing a scriptural thought. One line says, “I never saw the good side of the city till I hitched a ride on the riverboat queen.”
We can’t see the good side of life until we hitch our life to the Father through His Son Jesus Christ. It is His life, not ours, that makes things good. Therefore we have nothing to be proud about … nothing to boast about … “only about the Lord.”
Monday, August 16, 2010
Wisdom and Power
1 Corinthians 1:20-25 (New Living Translation)
20 So where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world’s brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish. 21 Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe. 22 It is foolish to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom. 23 So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say it’s all nonsense.
24 But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 This foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength.
Jews … God’s chosen people. Gentiles … everybody else.
Many seek them but only those who receive Christ in their life will attain true wisdom and power. All the world’s wisdom and power is foolishness when stacked up against what God has to offer.
The choice seems easy. Receive God’s free gift … Jesus Christ … and let Him make your education investment worth something.
20 So where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world’s brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish. 21 Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe. 22 It is foolish to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom. 23 So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say it’s all nonsense.
24 But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 This foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God’s weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength.
Jews … God’s chosen people. Gentiles … everybody else.
Many seek them but only those who receive Christ in their life will attain true wisdom and power. All the world’s wisdom and power is foolishness when stacked up against what God has to offer.
The choice seems easy. Receive God’s free gift … Jesus Christ … and let Him make your education investment worth something.
Friday, August 13, 2010
The Kiss Principle
1 Corinthians 1:18-19 (New Living Translation)
The Wisdom of God
18 The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. 19 As the Scriptures say,
“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise
and discard the intelligence of the intelligent.”
As a child, I heard Billy Graham, live in Chicago, present the gospel … very plainly … very simply. Along with hundreds of others, I responded to this simple message.
Earlier this week, I again heard the gospel explained in very basic and simple terms … another very effective presentation.
God has never required that His plan of salvation to be complicated … requiring great intelligence and wisdom. In fact, I think He would support the ‘Kiss’ principle.
Keep It Simple St____ (didn’t want to offend anyone with the last word). How simply can you articulate the gospel message?
The Wisdom of God
18 The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. 19 As the Scriptures say,
“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise
and discard the intelligence of the intelligent.”
As a child, I heard Billy Graham, live in Chicago, present the gospel … very plainly … very simply. Along with hundreds of others, I responded to this simple message.
Earlier this week, I again heard the gospel explained in very basic and simple terms … another very effective presentation.
God has never required that His plan of salvation to be complicated … requiring great intelligence and wisdom. In fact, I think He would support the ‘Kiss’ principle.
Keep It Simple St____ (didn’t want to offend anyone with the last word). How simply can you articulate the gospel message?
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Not for Your Entertainment
1 Corinthians 1:13-17 (New Living Translation)
13 Has Christ been divided into factions? Was I, Paul, crucified for you? Were any of you baptized in the name of Paul? Of course not! 14 I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15 for now no one can say they were baptized in my name. 16 (Oh yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas, but I don’t remember baptizing anyone else.) 17 For Christ didn’t send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News—and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power.
The Apostle Paul made it clear that it was not Paul that hung on the Cross. Only Jesus died for our sin and therefore it is only Jesus who is to be lifted up. No apostle … no pastor … no evangelist … no preacher … no saint … ONLY Jesus.
It doesn’t take fancy words … flashy broadcasts … worldly entertainment. The Good News doesn’t need anything which distract from the Cross. The Cross of Christ alone is the power of salvation.
13 Has Christ been divided into factions? Was I, Paul, crucified for you? Were any of you baptized in the name of Paul? Of course not! 14 I thank God that I did not baptize any of you except Crispus and Gaius, 15 for now no one can say they were baptized in my name. 16 (Oh yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas, but I don’t remember baptizing anyone else.) 17 For Christ didn’t send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News—and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power.
The Apostle Paul made it clear that it was not Paul that hung on the Cross. Only Jesus died for our sin and therefore it is only Jesus who is to be lifted up. No apostle … no pastor … no evangelist … no preacher … no saint … ONLY Jesus.
It doesn’t take fancy words … flashy broadcasts … worldly entertainment. The Good News doesn’t need anything which distract from the Cross. The Cross of Christ alone is the power of salvation.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
No Division
1 Corinthians 1:10-12 (New Living Translation)
Divisions in the Church
10 I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. 11 For some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters. 12 Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul.” Others are saying, “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or “I follow only Christ.”
Divisions rightful place is in math class … not in the Body of Christ. The church should have a focus on addition … add souls to the Kingdom. Multiplication also has a place … we should multiply our efforts to live like Christ. Even subtraction … let us take away (subtract) sin, putting off the old man. But NO division!
Divisions in the Church
10 I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. 11 For some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters. 12 Some of you are saying, “I am a follower of Paul.” Others are saying, “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Peter,” or “I follow only Christ.”
Divisions rightful place is in math class … not in the Body of Christ. The church should have a focus on addition … add souls to the Kingdom. Multiplication also has a place … we should multiply our efforts to live like Christ. Even subtraction … let us take away (subtract) sin, putting off the old man. But NO division!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Gifts For the Church
1 Corinthians 1:4-9 (New Living Translation)
Paul Gives Thanks to God
4 I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. 5 Through him, God has enriched your church in every way—with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge. 6 This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. 7 Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8 He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. 9 God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Yesterday we focused on Christ’s return in this passage. Today, take note of what you do while waiting … anticipating His return. God has “invited you into partnership with His Son” to use “the gracious gifts He has given you” to “enrich your church”. Your spiritual gift is not give to benefit you. It is given to benefit the Body of Christ. Where will you use your gift this week … today?
Paul Gives Thanks to God
4 I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. 5 Through him, God has enriched your church in every way—with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge. 6 This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. 7 Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8 He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. 9 God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Yesterday we focused on Christ’s return in this passage. Today, take note of what you do while waiting … anticipating His return. God has “invited you into partnership with His Son” to use “the gracious gifts He has given you” to “enrich your church”. Your spiritual gift is not give to benefit you. It is given to benefit the Body of Christ. Where will you use your gift this week … today?
Monday, August 09, 2010
Focus on Christ Return
1 Corinthians 1:4-9 (New Living Translation)
Paul Gives Thanks to God
4 I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. 5 Through him, God has enriched your church in every way—with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge. 6 This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. 7 Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8 He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. 9 God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Two thousand years ago, Paul spoke to the young church at Corinth using the phrase, “eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Was Paul wrong about the return of Christ? Absolutely not! Christ is coming back. It didn’t happen two thousand years ago and it didn’t happen yesterday. We don’t know the day nor the hour of Christ return. That unknown says we must be ready everyday and every hour. Christ will come again!
On a personal note, I took the summer off from posting these devotions. I needed the break but in the terms of the pilot from the movie ‘Independence Day’, “I’m back!” I have continued with my recovery challenges from last November’s surgery. I remain hopeful and I am certain that God remains faithful. Please continue to pray for me.
Paul Gives Thanks to God
4 I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. 5 Through him, God has enriched your church in every way—with all of your eloquent words and all of your knowledge. 6 This confirms that what I told you about Christ is true. 7 Now you have every spiritual gift you need as you eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. 8 He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. 9 God will do this, for he is faithful to do what he says, and he has invited you into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Two thousand years ago, Paul spoke to the young church at Corinth using the phrase, “eagerly wait for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Was Paul wrong about the return of Christ? Absolutely not! Christ is coming back. It didn’t happen two thousand years ago and it didn’t happen yesterday. We don’t know the day nor the hour of Christ return. That unknown says we must be ready everyday and every hour. Christ will come again!
On a personal note, I took the summer off from posting these devotions. I needed the break but in the terms of the pilot from the movie ‘Independence Day’, “I’m back!” I have continued with my recovery challenges from last November’s surgery. I remain hopeful and I am certain that God remains faithful. Please continue to pray for me.
Friday, May 14, 2010
IT’S NOT HARD
Acts 15:19
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Council at Jerusalem
19 “And so my judgment is that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.
James, the half-brother of Jesus and leader of the early church at Jerusalem, made it clear that those who wanted to turn their lives over to the One True God, should not be made to jump through hoops. We, the church of the 21st century must be careful to follow this 1st century teaching.
It is not hard to trust Jesus! Don’t make it any more difficult than it need be.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Council at Jerusalem
19 “And so my judgment is that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God.
James, the half-brother of Jesus and leader of the early church at Jerusalem, made it clear that those who wanted to turn their lives over to the One True God, should not be made to jump through hoops. We, the church of the 21st century must be careful to follow this 1st century teaching.
It is not hard to trust Jesus! Don’t make it any more difficult than it need be.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
HUMBLED
Daniel 4:34-37
The Holy Bible, New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
The King’s Dream Comes True
34 At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up toward heaven, and I could think normally again! Then I gave praise to the Most High God; I gave honor and glory to him who lives forever. God's rule is forever, and his kingdom continues for all time. 35 People on earth are not truly important. God does what he wants with the powers of heaven and the people on earth. No one can stop his powerful hand or question what he does.
36 At that time I could think normally again, and God gave back my great honor and power and returned the glory to my kingdom. The people who advised me and the royal family came to me for help again. I became king again and was even greater and more powerful than before. 37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, give praise and honor and glory to the King of heaven. Everything he does is right and fair, and he is able to make proud people humble.
As the emperor of Babylonia, Nebuchadnezzar enjoyed years of dazzling military and economic achievements. But like so many other influential leaders who preceded and followed him, he fell prey to the illusion that it was he who had accomplished these things. Tragically, he failed to recognize that God had allowed him to rise to power. Daniel warned Nebuchadnezzar that he would be humbled unless he acknowledged the Most High. The king refused to follow Daniel’s wise counsel. Nebuchadnezzar lost everything for seven years until God restored him. Nebuchadnezzar never forgot the truth that the Most High alone does as He pleases.
The Holy Bible, New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
The King’s Dream Comes True
34 At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up toward heaven, and I could think normally again! Then I gave praise to the Most High God; I gave honor and glory to him who lives forever. God's rule is forever, and his kingdom continues for all time. 35 People on earth are not truly important. God does what he wants with the powers of heaven and the people on earth. No one can stop his powerful hand or question what he does.
36 At that time I could think normally again, and God gave back my great honor and power and returned the glory to my kingdom. The people who advised me and the royal family came to me for help again. I became king again and was even greater and more powerful than before. 37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, give praise and honor and glory to the King of heaven. Everything he does is right and fair, and he is able to make proud people humble.
As the emperor of Babylonia, Nebuchadnezzar enjoyed years of dazzling military and economic achievements. But like so many other influential leaders who preceded and followed him, he fell prey to the illusion that it was he who had accomplished these things. Tragically, he failed to recognize that God had allowed him to rise to power. Daniel warned Nebuchadnezzar that he would be humbled unless he acknowledged the Most High. The king refused to follow Daniel’s wise counsel. Nebuchadnezzar lost everything for seven years until God restored him. Nebuchadnezzar never forgot the truth that the Most High alone does as He pleases.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
THE ANCIENT OF DAYS
Daniel 7:9-14
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Daniel’s Vision of Four Beasts
9 I watched as thrones were put in place and the Ancient One sat down to judge. His clothing was as white as snow, his hair like purest wool. He sat on a fiery throne with wheels of blazing fire, 10 and a river of fire was pouring out, flowing from his presence. Millions of angels ministered to him; many millions stood to attend him. Then the court began its session, and the books were opened.
11 I continued to watch because I could hear the little horn’s boastful speech. I kept watching until the fourth beast was killed and its body was destroyed by fire. 12 The other three beasts had their authority taken from them, but they were allowed to live a while longer.
13 As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal—it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.
The Book of Daniel underscores the temporary nature of earthly kingdoms in contrast to the everlasting kingdom that will be ushered in by a man who receives authority, glory and sovereign power (v. 13-14) from the Ancient of Days. The affairs of people and nations may appear to be independent of God’s divine control, but regardless of how people rebel against the plan and purposes of God, He remains sovereign over the kingdoms of men. God will, one day, set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. It will endure forever, bringing all other kingdoms to an end. And the One who will reign over it … none other than Jesus Christ.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Daniel’s Vision of Four Beasts
9 I watched as thrones were put in place and the Ancient One sat down to judge. His clothing was as white as snow, his hair like purest wool. He sat on a fiery throne with wheels of blazing fire, 10 and a river of fire was pouring out, flowing from his presence. Millions of angels ministered to him; many millions stood to attend him. Then the court began its session, and the books were opened.
11 I continued to watch because I could hear the little horn’s boastful speech. I kept watching until the fourth beast was killed and its body was destroyed by fire. 12 The other three beasts had their authority taken from them, but they were allowed to live a while longer.
13 As my vision continued that night, I saw someone like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence. 14 He was given authority, honor, and sovereignty over all the nations of the world, so that people of every race and nation and language would obey him. His rule is eternal—it will never end. His kingdom will never be destroyed.
The Book of Daniel underscores the temporary nature of earthly kingdoms in contrast to the everlasting kingdom that will be ushered in by a man who receives authority, glory and sovereign power (v. 13-14) from the Ancient of Days. The affairs of people and nations may appear to be independent of God’s divine control, but regardless of how people rebel against the plan and purposes of God, He remains sovereign over the kingdoms of men. God will, one day, set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed. It will endure forever, bringing all other kingdoms to an end. And the One who will reign over it … none other than Jesus Christ.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
JUDGES
Psalm 82:2-4
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Psalm of Asaph.
2 “How long will you hand down unjust decisions by favoring the wicked?
3 “Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.
4 Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.
In this week when there is a lot of focus on the nomination of a Supreme Court justice, consider what God has to say on the subject. The author of Psalm 82 describes a scene in which God chastises and challenges Israel’s judges.
Because of their role as God’s delegates and image-bearers, these men were referred to as “gods” (v. 6). Do we dare think of our Supreme Court justices that way today? Rather than defending the unjust and judging with partiality, they were accountable to defend the weak and fatherless and to protect the rights of the poor and oppressed. They were to exercise their power in a godly manner, a manner which would rescue the needy and deliver them from the domination of wicked individuals.
Will this be the debate we will hear over the nomination of our next Supreme Court justice?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Psalm of Asaph.
2 “How long will you hand down unjust decisions by favoring the wicked?
3 “Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.
4 Rescue the poor and helpless; deliver them from the grasp of evil people.
In this week when there is a lot of focus on the nomination of a Supreme Court justice, consider what God has to say on the subject. The author of Psalm 82 describes a scene in which God chastises and challenges Israel’s judges.
Because of their role as God’s delegates and image-bearers, these men were referred to as “gods” (v. 6). Do we dare think of our Supreme Court justices that way today? Rather than defending the unjust and judging with partiality, they were accountable to defend the weak and fatherless and to protect the rights of the poor and oppressed. They were to exercise their power in a godly manner, a manner which would rescue the needy and deliver them from the domination of wicked individuals.
Will this be the debate we will hear over the nomination of our next Supreme Court justice?
Friday, May 07, 2010
THE GEESE STORY
Genesis 2:18
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
18 Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.”
It’s amazing how much we can learn by observing what God has built into His creation. All of His creatures “relate” in some way to all of the others. Interpersonal relationships are a key aspect of life as a human being. From the beginning God spoke this fact. It was repeated centuries later as Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus, emphasizing that we are all members of the same body.
Geese function in relationship. They increase their flying range by flying in their “V” formation. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the pack and another goose flies the point. Geese honk from behind to encourage those in front to keep up the pace. The followers cheer the leaders on. When a goose falls out of the formation, two other geese follow it down and provide help and support. They stay until the goose either recovers or dies.
We as people are so smart that we’ve figured out ways in which to succeed in isolation and competition. Imagine what we could accomplish if we were as artless as a flock of geese.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
18 Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.”
It’s amazing how much we can learn by observing what God has built into His creation. All of His creatures “relate” in some way to all of the others. Interpersonal relationships are a key aspect of life as a human being. From the beginning God spoke this fact. It was repeated centuries later as Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus, emphasizing that we are all members of the same body.
Geese function in relationship. They increase their flying range by flying in their “V” formation. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird immediately following. When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the pack and another goose flies the point. Geese honk from behind to encourage those in front to keep up the pace. The followers cheer the leaders on. When a goose falls out of the formation, two other geese follow it down and provide help and support. They stay until the goose either recovers or dies.
We as people are so smart that we’ve figured out ways in which to succeed in isolation and competition. Imagine what we could accomplish if we were as artless as a flock of geese.
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
RELATIONSHIPS THAT TRANSFORM
Exodus 17:10-13
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Israel Defeats the Amalekites
10 So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. 11 As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. 12 Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. 13 As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.
The Bible repeatedly exhibits relationships that transform and bring about growth. Moses and Joshua, Jesus and the disciples, Paul and Barnabas, Paul and Timothy – all of these relationships provide illustrations of the manner in which mentors can help to build the future leaders. Today’s passage reveals how God affected Moses and Moses in turn affected the life of Joshua.
God inspired and empowered Moses to do great deeds on His behalf. Moses, in turn, commissioned Joshua to lead the people of Israel after his death. In each relationship instance, the life of the mentee was transformed. Think today about who has effected this same kind of transformation in your life. Are you working to pass on the wisdom of your experience to another?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Israel Defeats the Amalekites
10 So Joshua did what Moses had commanded and fought the army of Amalek. Meanwhile, Moses, Aaron, and Hur climbed to the top of a nearby hill. 11 As long as Moses held up the staff in his hand, the Israelites had the advantage. But whenever he dropped his hand, the Amalekites gained the advantage. 12 Moses’ arms soon became so tired he could no longer hold them up. So Aaron and Hur found a stone for him to sit on. Then they stood on each side of Moses, holding up his hands. So his hands held steady until sunset. 13 As a result, Joshua overwhelmed the army of Amalek in battle.
The Bible repeatedly exhibits relationships that transform and bring about growth. Moses and Joshua, Jesus and the disciples, Paul and Barnabas, Paul and Timothy – all of these relationships provide illustrations of the manner in which mentors can help to build the future leaders. Today’s passage reveals how God affected Moses and Moses in turn affected the life of Joshua.
God inspired and empowered Moses to do great deeds on His behalf. Moses, in turn, commissioned Joshua to lead the people of Israel after his death. In each relationship instance, the life of the mentee was transformed. Think today about who has effected this same kind of transformation in your life. Are you working to pass on the wisdom of your experience to another?
Monday, May 03, 2010
RELATIONSHIPS IN THE BODY OF CHRIST
Philemon 1:13-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Appeal for Onesimus
13 I wanted to keep him here with me while I am in these chains for preaching the Good News, and he would have helped me on your behalf. 14 But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent. I wanted you to help because you were willing, not because you were forced. 15 It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever. 16 He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
Read Paul’s brief letter to Onesimus on Philemon’s behalf: Philemon.
The Paul-Onesimus-Philemon relationships describe principles needed within the Body of Christ. Underlying all of these principles is Paul’s plea for this slave owner to treat his slave with human dignity and brotherly love. Having abandoned the slave mentality in our social order today, should we not in our leader-follower, employer-employee, spousal-parent-children relationships, rise to this same level of respect for our brothers and sisters (fellow human beings) in the Body of Christ.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Paul’s Appeal for Onesimus
13 I wanted to keep him here with me while I am in these chains for preaching the Good News, and he would have helped me on your behalf. 14 But I didn’t want to do anything without your consent. I wanted you to help because you were willing, not because you were forced. 15 It seems you lost Onesimus for a little while so that you could have him back forever. 16 He is no longer like a slave to you. He is more than a slave, for he is a beloved brother, especially to me. Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord.
Read Paul’s brief letter to Onesimus on Philemon’s behalf: Philemon.
The Paul-Onesimus-Philemon relationships describe principles needed within the Body of Christ. Underlying all of these principles is Paul’s plea for this slave owner to treat his slave with human dignity and brotherly love. Having abandoned the slave mentality in our social order today, should we not in our leader-follower, employer-employee, spousal-parent-children relationships, rise to this same level of respect for our brothers and sisters (fellow human beings) in the Body of Christ.
Friday, April 30, 2010
MENTORING RELATIONSHIPS
Acts 4:36
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
36 For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus.
Mentoring is an essential need in the church. Being able to spot a young person with potential and nurturing them is a key gift. Barnabas had this gift. Two men in the New Testament, both better known than Barnabas, owe their success at least in part to the mentoring relationship they had with him. We know well the Apostle Paul. He was a mentee of Barnabas. What about John Mark?
A quiet event happened on the missionary trip when Paul and Barnabas were working together to expand the church. John Mark, one of the younger team members, deserted the effort and returned home. On a later missionary journey, John Mark wanted to rejoin the team. Paul refused to take John Mark. Barnabas would not abandon John Mark, a good man who needed sponsorship, encouragement and development. Paul was now well established. Barnabas chose to travel with John Mark.
A great mentor doesn’t win just by going with winners. He or she sometimes turns losers into winners. That’s what Barnabas did with John Mark. That’s what God needs with you; a believer with the vision, discernment and commitment to take on a mentoring relationship with someone who needs encouragement.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
36 For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus.
Mentoring is an essential need in the church. Being able to spot a young person with potential and nurturing them is a key gift. Barnabas had this gift. Two men in the New Testament, both better known than Barnabas, owe their success at least in part to the mentoring relationship they had with him. We know well the Apostle Paul. He was a mentee of Barnabas. What about John Mark?
A quiet event happened on the missionary trip when Paul and Barnabas were working together to expand the church. John Mark, one of the younger team members, deserted the effort and returned home. On a later missionary journey, John Mark wanted to rejoin the team. Paul refused to take John Mark. Barnabas would not abandon John Mark, a good man who needed sponsorship, encouragement and development. Paul was now well established. Barnabas chose to travel with John Mark.
A great mentor doesn’t win just by going with winners. He or she sometimes turns losers into winners. That’s what Barnabas did with John Mark. That’s what God needs with you; a believer with the vision, discernment and commitment to take on a mentoring relationship with someone who needs encouragement.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
THE VALUE OF RELATIONSHIPS
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Advantages of Companionship
9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
There is power in relationships. Together we can do better work. Together we can help each other in difficult times.
Take a thread and see how much strength is needed to break it. It’s easily doable. Take three strands of the same thread and twist them together. The task of snapping them becomes more difficult.
Three separate individuals are as vulnerable as one individual alone. In “relationships”, we are like the twisted thread. Better work, less vulnerability.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Advantages of Companionship
9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.
There is power in relationships. Together we can do better work. Together we can help each other in difficult times.
Take a thread and see how much strength is needed to break it. It’s easily doable. Take three strands of the same thread and twist them together. The task of snapping them becomes more difficult.
Three separate individuals are as vulnerable as one individual alone. In “relationships”, we are like the twisted thread. Better work, less vulnerability.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
PRIORITY ON RELATIONSHIPS
1 Kings 19:19-21
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Call of Elisha
19 So Elijah went and found Elisha son of Shaphat plowing a field. There were twelve teams of oxen in the field, and Elisha was plowing with the twelfth team. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak across his shoulders and then walked away. 20 Elisha left the oxen standing there, ran after Elijah, and said to him, “First let me go and kiss my father and mother good-bye, and then I will go with you!”
Elijah replied, “Go on back, but think about what I have done to you.”
21 So Elisha returned to his oxen and slaughtered them. He used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the townspeople, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant.
In this passage, we see the beginning of the mentoring relationship between Elijah and Elisha. It is similar to the relationship Jesus formed with His disciples. In both cases they dropped everything and followed their mentor. Elisha and the disciples learned that following God’s will is worth infinitely more than money. Money and achievements will disappear in the end, but relationships will endure forever. This is why our Lord said we should spend earthly wealth on gaining friends so they will be with us in eternity (Luke 16:9).
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Call of Elisha
19 So Elijah went and found Elisha son of Shaphat plowing a field. There were twelve teams of oxen in the field, and Elisha was plowing with the twelfth team. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak across his shoulders and then walked away. 20 Elisha left the oxen standing there, ran after Elijah, and said to him, “First let me go and kiss my father and mother good-bye, and then I will go with you!”
Elijah replied, “Go on back, but think about what I have done to you.”
21 So Elisha returned to his oxen and slaughtered them. He used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the townspeople, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant.
In this passage, we see the beginning of the mentoring relationship between Elijah and Elisha. It is similar to the relationship Jesus formed with His disciples. In both cases they dropped everything and followed their mentor. Elisha and the disciples learned that following God’s will is worth infinitely more than money. Money and achievements will disappear in the end, but relationships will endure forever. This is why our Lord said we should spend earthly wealth on gaining friends so they will be with us in eternity (Luke 16:9).
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
SEE IN THE BEAMS
1 John 4:9-11; 20-21
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Loving One Another
9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.
20 If someone says, “I love God,” but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? 21 And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters.
The Scriptures teach us that the most important things in this life – and the next – are relationships. God demonstrated His interest … His love for humanity … most fully in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ (the vertical beam). This love shows the greatest intention of God’s will for our highest good. John tells us that those who have entered into the love of the Father through His Son should naturally express this love in their relationships with others (the horizontal beam). In fact, those who do not love the members of God’s family should seriously question whether they really love God.
When we look at the Cross, we can see in the vertical and horizontal beams, these expressions of God’s love. He first loved us. Let us now love Him back and love one another.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Loving One Another
9 God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. 10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins.
11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.
20 If someone says, “I love God,” but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see? 21 And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters.
The Scriptures teach us that the most important things in this life – and the next – are relationships. God demonstrated His interest … His love for humanity … most fully in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ (the vertical beam). This love shows the greatest intention of God’s will for our highest good. John tells us that those who have entered into the love of the Father through His Son should naturally express this love in their relationships with others (the horizontal beam). In fact, those who do not love the members of God’s family should seriously question whether they really love God.
When we look at the Cross, we can see in the vertical and horizontal beams, these expressions of God’s love. He first loved us. Let us now love Him back and love one another.
Monday, April 26, 2010
FORGIVE AND RESTORE
Hosea 2:21-23
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The LORD’s Love for Unfaithful Israel
21 “In that day, I will answer,” says the LORD. “I will answer the sky as it pleads for clouds. And the sky will answer the earth with rain. 22 Then the earth will answer the thirsty cries of the grain, the grapevines, and the olive trees. And they in turn will answer, ‘Jezreel’—‘God plants!’
23 At that time I will plant a crop of Israelites and raise them for myself. I will show love to those I called ‘Not loved.’
And to those I called ‘Not my people,’ I will say, ‘Now you are my people.’
And they will reply, ‘You are our God!’”
Read Hosea 2.
Hosea’s love for Gomer serves as a picture of God’s love for His unfaithful people. It also serves as an example for us to follow. Every believer will at some time be called on by God to seek out, forgive and restore a relationship which has been broken. Such actions require both the grace and love of God.
How must Hosea have felt when God directed him to reconcile with Gomer? Why did he do it? What relationship in your life requires such love? When God calls on you to seek reconciliation with someone who has hurt you, how will you respond? Remember, believers are acquainted with forgiveness. He first forgave us through the gift of His Son.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The LORD’s Love for Unfaithful Israel
21 “In that day, I will answer,” says the LORD. “I will answer the sky as it pleads for clouds. And the sky will answer the earth with rain. 22 Then the earth will answer the thirsty cries of the grain, the grapevines, and the olive trees. And they in turn will answer, ‘Jezreel’—‘God plants!’
23 At that time I will plant a crop of Israelites and raise them for myself. I will show love to those I called ‘Not loved.’
And to those I called ‘Not my people,’ I will say, ‘Now you are my people.’
And they will reply, ‘You are our God!’”
Read Hosea 2.
Hosea’s love for Gomer serves as a picture of God’s love for His unfaithful people. It also serves as an example for us to follow. Every believer will at some time be called on by God to seek out, forgive and restore a relationship which has been broken. Such actions require both the grace and love of God.
How must Hosea have felt when God directed him to reconcile with Gomer? Why did he do it? What relationship in your life requires such love? When God calls on you to seek reconciliation with someone who has hurt you, how will you respond? Remember, believers are acquainted with forgiveness. He first forgave us through the gift of His Son.
Friday, April 23, 2010
WORDS OF WISDOM
Proverbs 13:20
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
20 Walk with the wise and become wise;
associate with fools and get in trouble.
We have been sharing this week on the need for believers to form healthy alliances. Solomon’s words point to both the benefits and the dangers in the alliances we form. These words of wisdom, I would say, are the bottom line!
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
20 Walk with the wise and become wise;
associate with fools and get in trouble.
We have been sharing this week on the need for believers to form healthy alliances. Solomon’s words point to both the benefits and the dangers in the alliances we form. These words of wisdom, I would say, are the bottom line!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
NUTURED ALLIANCES
2 Samuel 17:15-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Hushai Warns David to Escape
15 Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, what Ahithophel had said to Absalom and the elders of Israel and what he himself had advised instead. 16 “Quick!” he told them. “Find David and urge him not to stay at the shallows of the Jordan River tonight. He must go across at once into the wilderness beyond. Otherwise he will die and his entire army with him.”
These verses come from the midst of a story that has all the intrigue of a biblical “spy novel”. Read 2nd Samuel 16:15-17:23.
We all need allies and allies must be cultivated and nurtured. This cultivation and nurturing carries the cost of time, thoughtfulness and devotion. Allies are expensive, but genuine allies are valuable because they can’t be bought.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Hushai Warns David to Escape
15 Hushai told Zadok and Abiathar, the priests, what Ahithophel had said to Absalom and the elders of Israel and what he himself had advised instead. 16 “Quick!” he told them. “Find David and urge him not to stay at the shallows of the Jordan River tonight. He must go across at once into the wilderness beyond. Otherwise he will die and his entire army with him.”
These verses come from the midst of a story that has all the intrigue of a biblical “spy novel”. Read 2nd Samuel 16:15-17:23.
We all need allies and allies must be cultivated and nurtured. This cultivation and nurturing carries the cost of time, thoughtfulness and devotion. Allies are expensive, but genuine allies are valuable because they can’t be bought.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
THE COMPANY WE KEEP
1 Samuel 30:26-31
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
David Destroys the Amalekites
26 When he arrived at Ziklag, David sent part of the plunder to the elders of Judah, who were his friends. “Here is a present for you, taken from the LORD’s enemies,” he said.
27 The gifts were sent to the people of the following towns David had visited: Bethel, Ramoth-negev, Jattir, 28 Aroer, Siphmoth, Eshtemoa, 29 Racal, the towns of the Jerahmeelites, the towns of the Kenites, 30 Hormah, Bor-ashan, Athach, 31 Hebron, and all the other places David and his men had visited.
Today’s devotion is not a test of pronouncing these towns in various parts of Israel. Rather the focus is on the building of healthy alliances.
By distributing part of the plunder of war to the elders in various parts of Israel, David wisely promoted goodwill with potential allies. He understood the importance of planning for the future and of building relationships based upon trust and mutual benefits that would serve him well in the years ahead. Believers who look for and participate in strong alliances build a store of relational resources that can be of immeasurable value in times of change or crisis.
All of us have a need for fellowship, encouragement and accountability. Given a choice, few people would opt for the years of isolation experienced by Robinson Crusoe as over against the family ties enjoyed by the Swiss Family Robinson. The body of Christ provides a network of personal and group alliances that are critical to our physical and spiritual well-being.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
David Destroys the Amalekites
26 When he arrived at Ziklag, David sent part of the plunder to the elders of Judah, who were his friends. “Here is a present for you, taken from the LORD’s enemies,” he said.
27 The gifts were sent to the people of the following towns David had visited: Bethel, Ramoth-negev, Jattir, 28 Aroer, Siphmoth, Eshtemoa, 29 Racal, the towns of the Jerahmeelites, the towns of the Kenites, 30 Hormah, Bor-ashan, Athach, 31 Hebron, and all the other places David and his men had visited.
Today’s devotion is not a test of pronouncing these towns in various parts of Israel. Rather the focus is on the building of healthy alliances.
By distributing part of the plunder of war to the elders in various parts of Israel, David wisely promoted goodwill with potential allies. He understood the importance of planning for the future and of building relationships based upon trust and mutual benefits that would serve him well in the years ahead. Believers who look for and participate in strong alliances build a store of relational resources that can be of immeasurable value in times of change or crisis.
All of us have a need for fellowship, encouragement and accountability. Given a choice, few people would opt for the years of isolation experienced by Robinson Crusoe as over against the family ties enjoyed by the Swiss Family Robinson. The body of Christ provides a network of personal and group alliances that are critical to our physical and spiritual well-being.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
PERFECT UNITY
John 17:20-23
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Prayer of Jesus
20 “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.
22 “I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. 23 I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.
The divine alliance that is manifested in the Trinity is the same healthy alliance God wants among believers. The mystery that is encapsulated in the truth that we are in Jesus, and He is in us, is really beyond our comprehension and exceeds all that we could ever have hoped or guessed. The Bible tells us that on the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus prayed not only for His disciples, but also for those who will put their faith in Him through the hearing of their message. His petition to the Father was nothing less than a request that believers, you and I, might experience unblemished communion with one another and God Himself.
Take a few minutes to meditate on the personal implications of Jesus’ high-priestly prayer on your behalf. Are you living in perfect unity or are you falling for Satan’s scheme that divides us?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Prayer of Jesus
20 “I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. 21 I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.
22 “I have given them the glory you gave me, so they may be one as we are one. 23 I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.
The divine alliance that is manifested in the Trinity is the same healthy alliance God wants among believers. The mystery that is encapsulated in the truth that we are in Jesus, and He is in us, is really beyond our comprehension and exceeds all that we could ever have hoped or guessed. The Bible tells us that on the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus prayed not only for His disciples, but also for those who will put their faith in Him through the hearing of their message. His petition to the Father was nothing less than a request that believers, you and I, might experience unblemished communion with one another and God Himself.
Take a few minutes to meditate on the personal implications of Jesus’ high-priestly prayer on your behalf. Are you living in perfect unity or are you falling for Satan’s scheme that divides us?
Monday, April 19, 2010
GOING IT ALONE
1 Samuel 22:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
David at the Cave of Adullam
1 So David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. Soon his brothers and all his other relatives joined him there. 2 Then others began coming—men who were in trouble or in debt or who were just discontented—until David was the captain of about 400 men.
3 Later David went to Mizpeh in Moab, where he asked the king, “Please allow my father and mother to live here with you until I know what God is going to do for me.” 4 So David’s parents stayed in Moab with the king during the entire time David was living in his stronghold.
5 One day the prophet Gad told David, “Leave the stronghold and return to the land of Judah.” So David went to the forest of Hereth.
A story is told of a boy who valiantly, but unsuccessfully, attempted to move a heavy log to clear a pathway to his favorite hideout. His dad stood quietly nearby, watching his son straining against the load. Finally he said, “Son, why aren’t you using all of your strength?”
Confused and a little angry, the boy responded, “Dad, I’m using every last little bit of strength I have.”
“No, son, you’re not,” his dad quietly responded. “You haven’t asked me to help.”
David possessed the foresight to know that he couldn’t go it alone. He sought to build others’ trust in him. Form healthy alliances. Encourage others to step forward and help you. God never designed us to go it alone.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
David at the Cave of Adullam
1 So David left Gath and escaped to the cave of Adullam. Soon his brothers and all his other relatives joined him there. 2 Then others began coming—men who were in trouble or in debt or who were just discontented—until David was the captain of about 400 men.
3 Later David went to Mizpeh in Moab, where he asked the king, “Please allow my father and mother to live here with you until I know what God is going to do for me.” 4 So David’s parents stayed in Moab with the king during the entire time David was living in his stronghold.
5 One day the prophet Gad told David, “Leave the stronghold and return to the land of Judah.” So David went to the forest of Hereth.
A story is told of a boy who valiantly, but unsuccessfully, attempted to move a heavy log to clear a pathway to his favorite hideout. His dad stood quietly nearby, watching his son straining against the load. Finally he said, “Son, why aren’t you using all of your strength?”
Confused and a little angry, the boy responded, “Dad, I’m using every last little bit of strength I have.”
“No, son, you’re not,” his dad quietly responded. “You haven’t asked me to help.”
David possessed the foresight to know that he couldn’t go it alone. He sought to build others’ trust in him. Form healthy alliances. Encourage others to step forward and help you. God never designed us to go it alone.
Friday, April 16, 2010
TOUGH WORK
Galatians 6:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
We Harvest What We Plant
1 Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. 2 Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. 3 If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important.
4 Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. 5 For we are each responsible for our own conduct.
Is there any tougher part of being a believer than exhortation? Friends, family, co-workers err and need correction. That can be tough work. People sin and need “exhortation”. That’s usually excruciating work. Balancing justice and grace, consequences and forgiveness, restitution and restoration can be confusing. When believers are angry at and/or disappointed in the offender, the situation becomes even tougher.
Before exhorting anyone, the believer needs to engage in self-examination. People fail, and believers are often compelled to intervene and deal with the consequences. Paul reminds us, gentle restoration handled by spiritual individuals defines the biblical approach to this very tough part of being a believer.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
We Harvest What We Plant
1 Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself. 2 Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. 3 If you think you are too important to help someone, you are only fooling yourself. You are not that important.
4 Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. 5 For we are each responsible for our own conduct.
Is there any tougher part of being a believer than exhortation? Friends, family, co-workers err and need correction. That can be tough work. People sin and need “exhortation”. That’s usually excruciating work. Balancing justice and grace, consequences and forgiveness, restitution and restoration can be confusing. When believers are angry at and/or disappointed in the offender, the situation becomes even tougher.
Before exhorting anyone, the believer needs to engage in self-examination. People fail, and believers are often compelled to intervene and deal with the consequences. Paul reminds us, gentle restoration handled by spiritual individuals defines the biblical approach to this very tough part of being a believer.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
BLESSINGS
Deuteronomy 28:1-6 (New Living Translation)
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Blessings for Obedience
“If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. 2 You will experience all these blessings if you obey the LORD your God:
3 Your towns and your fields will be blessed.
4 Your children and your crops will be blessed.
The offspring of your herds and flocks will be blessed.
5 Your fruit baskets and breadboards will be blessed.
6 Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed.
As Paul exhorted Timothy in yesterday’s devotion, today we hear Moses exhorting the nation of Israel to obedience to God’s commandments. Blessings are the product of obedience.
As God is no respecter of persons, any nation would benefit from this exhortation. And any nation, any people, any person who is not being blessed in this fashion can trace their shortcoming to a lack of obedience to God’s Word … to sin. “All have sin and come short of the glory of God … Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” I can only imagine how much more our blessings could be…
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Blessings for Obedience
“If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully keep all his commands that I am giving you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the world. 2 You will experience all these blessings if you obey the LORD your God:
3 Your towns and your fields will be blessed.
4 Your children and your crops will be blessed.
The offspring of your herds and flocks will be blessed.
5 Your fruit baskets and breadboards will be blessed.
6 Wherever you go and whatever you do, you will be blessed.
As Paul exhorted Timothy in yesterday’s devotion, today we hear Moses exhorting the nation of Israel to obedience to God’s commandments. Blessings are the product of obedience.
As God is no respecter of persons, any nation would benefit from this exhortation. And any nation, any people, any person who is not being blessed in this fashion can trace their shortcoming to a lack of obedience to God’s Word … to sin. “All have sin and come short of the glory of God … Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” I can only imagine how much more our blessings could be…
Monday, April 12, 2010
GOLDEN VESSEL
2 Timothy 2:15-21
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
An Approved Worker
15 Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 16 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. 17 This kind of talk spreads like cancer, as in the case of Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the path of truth, claiming that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred; in this way, they have turned some people away from the faith.
19 But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The LORD knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the LORD must turn away from evil.”
20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.
Exhorters are people who spur others on to higher levels of achievement. This was Paul’s role with Timothy. Paul exhorted Timothy to be a gold vessel in a great house … clean … polished … ready to be used by the Master for a noble purpose.
Is there someone you know who you might be spurred on in Kingdom work by some exhortation from you?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
An Approved Worker
15 Work hard so you can present yourself to God and receive his approval. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth. 16 Avoid worthless, foolish talk that only leads to more godless behavior. 17 This kind of talk spreads like cancer, as in the case of Hymenaeus and Philetus. 18 They have left the path of truth, claiming that the resurrection of the dead has already occurred; in this way, they have turned some people away from the faith.
19 But God’s truth stands firm like a foundation stone with this inscription: “The LORD knows those who are his,” and “All who belong to the LORD must turn away from evil.”
20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.
Exhorters are people who spur others on to higher levels of achievement. This was Paul’s role with Timothy. Paul exhorted Timothy to be a gold vessel in a great house … clean … polished … ready to be used by the Master for a noble purpose.
Is there someone you know who you might be spurred on in Kingdom work by some exhortation from you?
Friday, April 09, 2010
OUR TRUE WORTH
Hebrews 3:13
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
13 You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.
Encouragement is to believers what wind is to a sail – it moves believers forward. We need to move forward ‘every day’.
It is the beginning of the season of our national pastime … baseball. Dave Dravecky, former baseball great, wrote in his book, “Worth of a Man”, that we should validate a person’s worth before God. He wrote, “It’s easy for us to confuse our true worth with our sense of worth. While the Bible teaches that our true worth never varies, since it’s based on God and not on us, our sense or feeling of worth can vary tremendously.” The problem is our feelings don’t always align with the truth.
Believers should ‘every day’ help other believers align their feelings with the truth.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
13 You must warn each other every day, while it is still “today,” so that none of you will be deceived by sin and hardened against God.
Encouragement is to believers what wind is to a sail – it moves believers forward. We need to move forward ‘every day’.
It is the beginning of the season of our national pastime … baseball. Dave Dravecky, former baseball great, wrote in his book, “Worth of a Man”, that we should validate a person’s worth before God. He wrote, “It’s easy for us to confuse our true worth with our sense of worth. While the Bible teaches that our true worth never varies, since it’s based on God and not on us, our sense or feeling of worth can vary tremendously.” The problem is our feelings don’t always align with the truth.
Believers should ‘every day’ help other believers align their feelings with the truth.
Wednesday, April 07, 2010
MUTUAL BENEFIT
1 Samuel 18:1-4
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Saul Becomes Jealous of David
1 After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king’s son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. 2 From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn’t let him return home. 3 And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. 4 Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt.
Sometimes life leaves us bleeding and grasping for breath. Not every day is a sun shiny day. In the rough and tumble days we need reassurance from God and others so that we may remain faithful. David and Jonathan had a relationship of mutual encouragement. They covenanted to be there for each other and this relationship served each man until Jonathan’s death.
Encouragement in good times shows care and thoughtfulness. Encouragement in tough times reflects character.
Consider ways that you can encourage another. Be thankful to others who take time to invest in your life by encouraging you.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Saul Becomes Jealous of David
1 After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king’s son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. 2 From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn’t let him return home. 3 And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. 4 Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt.
Sometimes life leaves us bleeding and grasping for breath. Not every day is a sun shiny day. In the rough and tumble days we need reassurance from God and others so that we may remain faithful. David and Jonathan had a relationship of mutual encouragement. They covenanted to be there for each other and this relationship served each man until Jonathan’s death.
Encouragement in good times shows care and thoughtfulness. Encouragement in tough times reflects character.
Consider ways that you can encourage another. Be thankful to others who take time to invest in your life by encouraging you.
Tuesday, April 06, 2010
GOD – THE ULTIMATE ENCOURAGER
John 14:1-3
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Way to the Father
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.
After Israel experienced the seventy-year captivity, God spoke to them through the prophet Jeremiah about His plan to prosper them and not to harm them; to give them hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Similarly, Jesus comforted His disciples on the night He was betrayed by encouraging them not to let their hearts be troubled, but to trust in Him.
God is an encourager and He uses people for this purpose. Who has encouraged you in your past? Did you express your gratitude? Who have you encouraged lately?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Way to the Father
“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 2 There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.
After Israel experienced the seventy-year captivity, God spoke to them through the prophet Jeremiah about His plan to prosper them and not to harm them; to give them hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Similarly, Jesus comforted His disciples on the night He was betrayed by encouraging them not to let their hearts be troubled, but to trust in Him.
God is an encourager and He uses people for this purpose. Who has encouraged you in your past? Did you express your gratitude? Who have you encouraged lately?
Monday, April 05, 2010
ENCOURAGEMENT
Acts 9:27
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem
27 Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached boldly in the name of Jesus in Damascus.
No other New Testament character illustrates the ability to encourage more strongly than Barnabas, whose name means “Son of Encouragement.” The apostles were afraid of Saul. He had a reputation of zealotry and cruelty. It is no wonder they questioned his confession of faith in Jesus Christ. As a Pharisee, Saul had hunted down and prosecuted followers of Christ.
It was Barnabas who stood in the gap beside Saul, leading him to the apostles and testifying concerning his conversion and bold preaching for Christ. Barnabas encouraged the apostles to bless Saul’s ministry.
We, like Barnabas, can offer words of support to a family member, coworker or peer. A little bit of encouragement can go a long way toward motivating those around you. Look what Barnabas’ support did in the ministry of Saul (Paul).
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem
27 Then Barnabas brought him to the apostles and told them how Saul had seen the Lord on the way to Damascus and how the Lord had spoken to Saul. He also told them that Saul had preached boldly in the name of Jesus in Damascus.
No other New Testament character illustrates the ability to encourage more strongly than Barnabas, whose name means “Son of Encouragement.” The apostles were afraid of Saul. He had a reputation of zealotry and cruelty. It is no wonder they questioned his confession of faith in Jesus Christ. As a Pharisee, Saul had hunted down and prosecuted followers of Christ.
It was Barnabas who stood in the gap beside Saul, leading him to the apostles and testifying concerning his conversion and bold preaching for Christ. Barnabas encouraged the apostles to bless Saul’s ministry.
We, like Barnabas, can offer words of support to a family member, coworker or peer. A little bit of encouragement can go a long way toward motivating those around you. Look what Barnabas’ support did in the ministry of Saul (Paul).
Thursday, March 25, 2010
REDEEM THE TIME
Ephesians 5:15-17
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Living by the Spirit’s Power
15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
The Apostle Paul gave advice to the Ephesian Christians to redeem the time because of the evil day (v.16). If you wish to avoid being foolish and desire to understand the Lord’s will, you will redeem (buy, get or win back) the time (v.17).
God definitely cares about how well a person manages time. The first principle of time management is recognizing the value of time and redeeming it … buying it up and using it carefully as the priceless resource which it represents.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Living by the Spirit’s Power
15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.
The Apostle Paul gave advice to the Ephesian Christians to redeem the time because of the evil day (v.16). If you wish to avoid being foolish and desire to understand the Lord’s will, you will redeem (buy, get or win back) the time (v.17).
God definitely cares about how well a person manages time. The first principle of time management is recognizing the value of time and redeeming it … buying it up and using it carefully as the priceless resource which it represents.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
KILLING TIME
Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Time for Everything
1 For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
2 A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
3 A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
4 A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
5 A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
6 A time to search and a time to quit searching.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
7 A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
8 A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
9 What do people really get for all their hard work? 10 I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. 11 Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.
This well-known passage stresses the preciousness of time as a resource. In that light, think on this quote by Henry David Thoreau. “As if we could kill time without injuring eternity.” Time is our most precious resource, and Scripture assures us that our stewardship of the time we have been allotted is not something we should take for granted.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Time for Everything
1 For everything there is a season,
a time for every activity under heaven.
2 A time to be born and a time to die.
A time to plant and a time to harvest.
3 A time to kill and a time to heal.
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
4 A time to cry and a time to laugh.
A time to grieve and a time to dance.
5 A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones.
A time to embrace and a time to turn away.
6 A time to search and a time to quit searching.
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
7 A time to tear and a time to mend.
A time to be quiet and a time to speak.
8 A time to love and a time to hate.
A time for war and a time for peace.
9 What do people really get for all their hard work? 10 I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. 11 Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God’s work from beginning to end.
This well-known passage stresses the preciousness of time as a resource. In that light, think on this quote by Henry David Thoreau. “As if we could kill time without injuring eternity.” Time is our most precious resource, and Scripture assures us that our stewardship of the time we have been allotted is not something we should take for granted.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
ALL THE TIME NEEDED
2 Peter 3:8-9
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Day of the Lord is Coming
8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. 9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
God views all things as part of an eternal now. He has all the time He needs to provide for each of us the individual care He has promised us.
Do you believe that the Sovereign God has given you enough time to accomplish His purpose for your life? God’s plan for you has been unfolding since the beginning of earthly time. He calls you to seek out His plan for your life and act on it. What steps can you take today to begin the work God has called you to do in your family, church, personal and professional life?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Day of the Lord is Coming
8 But you must not forget this one thing, dear friends: A day is like a thousand years to the Lord, and a thousand years is like a day. 9 The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.
God views all things as part of an eternal now. He has all the time He needs to provide for each of us the individual care He has promised us.
Do you believe that the Sovereign God has given you enough time to accomplish His purpose for your life? God’s plan for you has been unfolding since the beginning of earthly time. He calls you to seek out His plan for your life and act on it. What steps can you take today to begin the work God has called you to do in your family, church, personal and professional life?
Monday, March 22, 2010
THE VALUE OF TIME
Psalm 90:10-12; 17
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Prayer of Moses
10 Seventy years are given to us!
Some even live to eighty.
But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble;
soon they disappear, and we fly away.
11 Who can comprehend the power of your anger?
Your wrath is as awesome as the fear you deserve.
12 Teach us to realize the brevity of life,
so that we may grow in wisdom…
17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval
and make our efforts successful.
Yes, make our efforts successful!
Moses essentially said, “Unless we are gripped by life’s brevity and place proper value on the time we have, no matter how long or short it is, we will never gain a wise heart.”
We can employ the skills and principles of time management, buy a new calendar (even a high priced electronic one), employ a better scheduling system … all are of little benefit until we understand the value of time. Granted, we may do a better job of scheduling time, but that doesn’t mean we’re doing a better job of spending that time. Knowing the difference defines wisdom. “Lord teach us …”
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Prayer of Moses
10 Seventy years are given to us!
Some even live to eighty.
But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble;
soon they disappear, and we fly away.
11 Who can comprehend the power of your anger?
Your wrath is as awesome as the fear you deserve.
12 Teach us to realize the brevity of life,
so that we may grow in wisdom…
17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval
and make our efforts successful.
Yes, make our efforts successful!
Moses essentially said, “Unless we are gripped by life’s brevity and place proper value on the time we have, no matter how long or short it is, we will never gain a wise heart.”
We can employ the skills and principles of time management, buy a new calendar (even a high priced electronic one), employ a better scheduling system … all are of little benefit until we understand the value of time. Granted, we may do a better job of scheduling time, but that doesn’t mean we’re doing a better job of spending that time. Knowing the difference defines wisdom. “Lord teach us …”
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
TEAM COMMITMENT
2 Samuel 23:15-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
David’s Mightiest Warriors
15 David remarked longingly to his men, “Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem.” 16 So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD.
Read 2nd Samuel 23:8-17 for the story of “David’s Mighty Men.” Because David attempted mighty things, only the mighty could keep up with him. Those who could not or would not keep pace, could not join the team.
David’s team was one of the most celebrated teams in the Old Testament. This group was the all-star team of his battle-hardened warriors.
When these three mighty men risked their lives to obtain drinking water for David during a battle, David refused to drink it. Instead he poured it onto the ground as a sacrifice to the Lord. That act of sacrifice communicated a depth of devotion and love that had to have impressed those warriors.
What priority do you place on your work for the Lord? Does He come first … ahead of job … ahead of self? Are you keeping pace? Are you all-star caliber or just a part-time (briefly on Sunday morning) player on the team?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
David’s Mightiest Warriors
15 David remarked longingly to his men, “Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem.” 16 So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the LORD.
Read 2nd Samuel 23:8-17 for the story of “David’s Mighty Men.” Because David attempted mighty things, only the mighty could keep up with him. Those who could not or would not keep pace, could not join the team.
David’s team was one of the most celebrated teams in the Old Testament. This group was the all-star team of his battle-hardened warriors.
When these three mighty men risked their lives to obtain drinking water for David during a battle, David refused to drink it. Instead he poured it onto the ground as a sacrifice to the Lord. That act of sacrifice communicated a depth of devotion and love that had to have impressed those warriors.
What priority do you place on your work for the Lord? Does He come first … ahead of job … ahead of self? Are you keeping pace? Are you all-star caliber or just a part-time (briefly on Sunday morning) player on the team?
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
PERFECT HARMONY
Ephesians 1:9-10
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Spiritual Blessings
9 God has now revealed to us his mysterious plan regarding Christ, a plan to fulfill his own good pleasure. 10 And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.
For the full context, read Ephesians 1:3-14.
When we work together … teamwork … Kingdom building … it requires the harmony we find in the Trinity.
Paul speaks first of the work of the Father in accomplishing our salvation in verses 3-6. The Father chose us before the creation of the world and sent His Son into the world so that through Him we could be adopted into His family. Second, the apostle focused on the work of the Son in verses 7-12. Christ’s blood sacrifice on our behalf paid the penalty for our sins so that we could enjoy forgiveness and lay hold of God’s purpose for our lives. Third, the work of the Holy Spirit, identified in verses 13-14, seals and guarantees our spiritual inheritance.
The Father initiated our salvation … the Son accomplished it … the Holy Spirit makes it real in our lives. The Trinity works in perfect harmony and agreement, each performing distinct roles. Wherever your team is working and whatever your role on the team, purpose to find that kind of perfect harmony.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Spiritual Blessings
9 God has now revealed to us his mysterious plan regarding Christ, a plan to fulfill his own good pleasure. 10 And this is the plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ—everything in heaven and on earth.
For the full context, read Ephesians 1:3-14.
When we work together … teamwork … Kingdom building … it requires the harmony we find in the Trinity.
Paul speaks first of the work of the Father in accomplishing our salvation in verses 3-6. The Father chose us before the creation of the world and sent His Son into the world so that through Him we could be adopted into His family. Second, the apostle focused on the work of the Son in verses 7-12. Christ’s blood sacrifice on our behalf paid the penalty for our sins so that we could enjoy forgiveness and lay hold of God’s purpose for our lives. Third, the work of the Holy Spirit, identified in verses 13-14, seals and guarantees our spiritual inheritance.
The Father initiated our salvation … the Son accomplished it … the Holy Spirit makes it real in our lives. The Trinity works in perfect harmony and agreement, each performing distinct roles. Wherever your team is working and whatever your role on the team, purpose to find that kind of perfect harmony.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
TRICKLE DOWN IMPACT
Jonah 1:7-11
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jonah Runs from the Lord
7 Then the crew cast lots to see which of them had offended the gods and caused the terrible storm. When they did this, the lots identified Jonah as the culprit. 8 “Why has this awful storm come down on us?” they demanded. “Who are you? What is your line of work? What country are you from? What is your nationality?”
9 Jonah answered, “I am a Hebrew, and I worship the LORD, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the land.”
10 The sailors were terrified when they heard this, for he had already told them he was running away from the LORD. “Oh, why did you do it?” they groaned. 11 And since the storm was getting worse all the time, they asked him, “What should we do to you to stop this storm?”
Jonah’s decision to run from the Lord put the lives of unknowing sailors in peril.
What is the impact of the decisions you make in life? Who do your decisions, good or bad, have an effect on? Your family … your church … your community … your co-workers.
Every decision you make touches the lives of others. Purpose in your heart that these decisions are pleasing to the LORD. You don’t want to stir up a storm that negatively impacts the lives of those your life touches.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jonah Runs from the Lord
7 Then the crew cast lots to see which of them had offended the gods and caused the terrible storm. When they did this, the lots identified Jonah as the culprit. 8 “Why has this awful storm come down on us?” they demanded. “Who are you? What is your line of work? What country are you from? What is your nationality?”
9 Jonah answered, “I am a Hebrew, and I worship the LORD, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the land.”
10 The sailors were terrified when they heard this, for he had already told them he was running away from the LORD. “Oh, why did you do it?” they groaned. 11 And since the storm was getting worse all the time, they asked him, “What should we do to you to stop this storm?”
Jonah’s decision to run from the Lord put the lives of unknowing sailors in peril.
What is the impact of the decisions you make in life? Who do your decisions, good or bad, have an effect on? Your family … your church … your community … your co-workers.
Every decision you make touches the lives of others. Purpose in your heart that these decisions are pleasing to the LORD. You don’t want to stir up a storm that negatively impacts the lives of those your life touches.
Monday, March 01, 2010
CHRIST’S TEAM
1 Corinthians 12:12-13, 27
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
One Body with Many Parts
12 The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. 13 Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles,[a] some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit…
27 All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it.
Read 1st Corinthians 12:12-27 for the full message God is communicating to us through the Apostle Paul.
Paul wanted to ensure us that every follower of Christ is important. Be assured that your contribution to Christ’s Team is crucial. No one has the right to act as though he or she is separate from the body nor should members of Christ’s body envy one another.
While we may wish that we (or others) were different, the bottom line is that God created each of us just as He wanted us to be and calls upon each of us to faithfully serve according to our unique calling. We are to view every member of our team as a crucial part.
How do you feel about your role on your current team or on teams with whom you have been involved in the past? How do you feel about the roles of other team members? What could you do to demonstrate that you value each member and want to strengthen his or her relationship with the rest of the team?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
One Body with Many Parts
12 The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body. So it is with the body of Christ. 13 Some of us are Jews, some are Gentiles,[a] some are slaves, and some are free. But we have all been baptized into one body by one Spirit, and we all share the same Spirit…
27 All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it.
Read 1st Corinthians 12:12-27 for the full message God is communicating to us through the Apostle Paul.
Paul wanted to ensure us that every follower of Christ is important. Be assured that your contribution to Christ’s Team is crucial. No one has the right to act as though he or she is separate from the body nor should members of Christ’s body envy one another.
While we may wish that we (or others) were different, the bottom line is that God created each of us just as He wanted us to be and calls upon each of us to faithfully serve according to our unique calling. We are to view every member of our team as a crucial part.
How do you feel about your role on your current team or on teams with whom you have been involved in the past? How do you feel about the roles of other team members? What could you do to demonstrate that you value each member and want to strengthen his or her relationship with the rest of the team?
Thursday, February 25, 2010
THE LONE RANGER
Numbers 11:16-17
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Moses Chooses Seventy Leaders
16 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Gather before me seventy men who are recognized as elders and leaders of Israel. Bring them to the Tabernacle[a] to stand there with you. 17 I will come down and talk to you there. I will take some of the Spirit that is upon you, and I will put the Spirit upon them also. They will bear the burden of the people along with you, so you will not have to carry it alone.
Even ‘The Lone Ranger’ had Tonto, his American Indian guide and companion, and Silver, his trusty horse. ‘The Lone Ranger’ was not successful alone.
God calls individuals to ministry but He does not call them to try to be Lone Rangers. Twelve disciples … Paul and Silas … the three Hebrew boys … Peter, James and John … Aquila and Priscilla … Moses, Aaron and Miriam … Moses and Seventy Leaders. Seldom do you find one called by God, going it alone.
God calls individuals but we don’t have to minister the Good News as individuals. Pray for your team … those you minister with.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Moses Chooses Seventy Leaders
16 Then the LORD said to Moses, “Gather before me seventy men who are recognized as elders and leaders of Israel. Bring them to the Tabernacle[a] to stand there with you. 17 I will come down and talk to you there. I will take some of the Spirit that is upon you, and I will put the Spirit upon them also. They will bear the burden of the people along with you, so you will not have to carry it alone.
Even ‘The Lone Ranger’ had Tonto, his American Indian guide and companion, and Silver, his trusty horse. ‘The Lone Ranger’ was not successful alone.
God calls individuals to ministry but He does not call them to try to be Lone Rangers. Twelve disciples … Paul and Silas … the three Hebrew boys … Peter, James and John … Aquila and Priscilla … Moses, Aaron and Miriam … Moses and Seventy Leaders. Seldom do you find one called by God, going it alone.
God calls individuals but we don’t have to minister the Good News as individuals. Pray for your team … those you minister with.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
ORDER
1st Corinthians 14:33, 40
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Call to Orderly Worship
33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God’s holy people.
40 But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.
According to Scripture, God has instituted authority structure in the spheres of marriage, parenting, the church and the state. While self-centeredness has led to frequent abuse of authority within these spheres, these structures have proven necessary to stem the tide of anarchy and lawlessness that would otherwise prevail in a society of fallen people.
Where is it that you need to show more respect and honor for the authority structure which God is currently using to keep the peace? Where might your self-centeredness be abusing the power given you within a defined structure, which God does not intend?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Call to Orderly Worship
33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God’s holy people.
40 But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.
According to Scripture, God has instituted authority structure in the spheres of marriage, parenting, the church and the state. While self-centeredness has led to frequent abuse of authority within these spheres, these structures have proven necessary to stem the tide of anarchy and lawlessness that would otherwise prevail in a society of fallen people.
Where is it that you need to show more respect and honor for the authority structure which God is currently using to keep the peace? Where might your self-centeredness be abusing the power given you within a defined structure, which God does not intend?
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
WORTHY TO BE PRAISED
Revelation 4:8b-11
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Worship in Heaven
Day after day and night after night they keep on saying,
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty—the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come.”
9 Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever), 10 the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever). And they lay their crowns before the throne and say,
11 “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power.
For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”
When we get to heaven, it will be all about worship. The troubles and trials of this world will be left behind. Those things that we get so concerned about; think are so important; won’t matter at all.
I think we better get ready. As you think about your worship practices here, are you getting ready to bow before the throne of the Almighty!
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Worship in Heaven
Day after day and night after night they keep on saying,
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God, the Almighty—the one who always was, who is, and who is still to come.”
9 Whenever the living beings give glory and honor and thanks to the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever), 10 the twenty-four elders fall down and worship the one sitting on the throne (the one who lives forever and ever). And they lay their crowns before the throne and say,
11 “You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power.
For you created all things, and they exist because you created what you pleased.”
When we get to heaven, it will be all about worship. The troubles and trials of this world will be left behind. Those things that we get so concerned about; think are so important; won’t matter at all.
I think we better get ready. As you think about your worship practices here, are you getting ready to bow before the throne of the Almighty!
Monday, February 22, 2010
WISE COUNCIL
Exodus 18: 5a, 14,23-24
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jethro’s Visit to Moses
5 Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, now came to visit Moses in the wilderness…
14 When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he asked, “What are you really accomplishing here? Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?”…
23 If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.”
24 Moses listened to his father-in-law’s advice and followed his suggestions.
I praise God that I always had wise ‘in-laws’ to guide me. I cannot think of a single case where advise they gave was unwise. I can think of cases where I was too immature to follow it.
That being said, we ought to be more like Moses and his father-in-law. Read Exodus 18 for the full story. It is a picture of a wonderful story … the kind of relationship that God would have ‘in-laws’ and children to have.
“In-laws’ have gotten a bad rap. Where necessary, let’s reassess these relationships.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jethro’s Visit to Moses
5 Jethro, Moses’ father-in-law, now came to visit Moses in the wilderness…
14 When Moses’ father-in-law saw all that Moses was doing for the people, he asked, “What are you really accomplishing here? Why are you trying to do all this alone while everyone stands around you from morning till evening?”…
23 If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.”
24 Moses listened to his father-in-law’s advice and followed his suggestions.
I praise God that I always had wise ‘in-laws’ to guide me. I cannot think of a single case where advise they gave was unwise. I can think of cases where I was too immature to follow it.
That being said, we ought to be more like Moses and his father-in-law. Read Exodus 18 for the full story. It is a picture of a wonderful story … the kind of relationship that God would have ‘in-laws’ and children to have.
“In-laws’ have gotten a bad rap. Where necessary, let’s reassess these relationships.
Friday, February 19, 2010
FACTS OF LIFE
Psalm 23
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
The first step toward healthy stress is to define the problem. The best definition of a problem is that a problem is something I can do something about. If I can’t do anything about it, it is not my problem. It doesn’t become my problem until I can do something about it. If I can’t do anything about it, it’s my fact of life. I have to constantly be able to recognize facts of life, accept them, live with them and not consider them problems. I can’t solve things that can’t be solved; therefore I don’t spend time thinking about them. (Fred Smith, ‘Dissecting Sense from Nonsense: Insights from a Layman’, p. 105)
Our “facts of life” are in the Shepherd’s hands.
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
The first step toward healthy stress is to define the problem. The best definition of a problem is that a problem is something I can do something about. If I can’t do anything about it, it is not my problem. It doesn’t become my problem until I can do something about it. If I can’t do anything about it, it’s my fact of life. I have to constantly be able to recognize facts of life, accept them, live with them and not consider them problems. I can’t solve things that can’t be solved; therefore I don’t spend time thinking about them. (Fred Smith, ‘Dissecting Sense from Nonsense: Insights from a Layman’, p. 105)
Our “facts of life” are in the Shepherd’s hands.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
STRESS MANAGEMENT FROM THE WORD
Philippians 4:4-9
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Words of Encouragement
4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.
Paul teaches us how to turn pressure to our advantage, an essential for anyone under pressure. Paul teaches us about stress avoidance, not stress management. He was not just an idealistic do-gooder. He was a man who worked under tremendous pressure with great success. He is well qualified to teach us today how to endure pressure without being crippled or killed by the stress that accompanies it.
Rejoice (v. 4), be gentle (v. 5), trust God (v. 5-7) and live ethically (v. 8-9) … the principles to manage stress.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Words of Encouragement
4 Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5 Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon.
6 Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. 9 Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.
Paul teaches us how to turn pressure to our advantage, an essential for anyone under pressure. Paul teaches us about stress avoidance, not stress management. He was not just an idealistic do-gooder. He was a man who worked under tremendous pressure with great success. He is well qualified to teach us today how to endure pressure without being crippled or killed by the stress that accompanies it.
Rejoice (v. 4), be gentle (v. 5), trust God (v. 5-7) and live ethically (v. 8-9) … the principles to manage stress.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
GOD’S POSITION ON HEALTHCARE
Ezekiel 47:1; 12
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The River of Healing
1 In my vision, the man brought me back to the entrance of the Temple. There I saw a stream flowing east from beneath the door of the Temple and passing to the right of the altar on its south side. …
12 Fruit trees of all kinds will grow along both sides of the river. The leaves of these trees will never turn brown and fall, and there will always be fruit on their branches. There will be a new crop every month, for they are watered by the river flowing from the Temple. The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing.”
I think God’s Word gives us direction on where He would be and what our position should be on any given issue. As clear as scripture is on abortion, it is likewise as clear on healthcare.
Pick any link … you decide.
Matthew 4:23 Matthew 9:35 Luke 6:19 Luke 9:6 Luke 9:11 John 7:23 Act 3:16 Acts 10:38
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The River of Healing
1 In my vision, the man brought me back to the entrance of the Temple. There I saw a stream flowing east from beneath the door of the Temple and passing to the right of the altar on its south side. …
12 Fruit trees of all kinds will grow along both sides of the river. The leaves of these trees will never turn brown and fall, and there will always be fruit on their branches. There will be a new crop every month, for they are watered by the river flowing from the Temple. The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing.”
I think God’s Word gives us direction on where He would be and what our position should be on any given issue. As clear as scripture is on abortion, it is likewise as clear on healthcare.
Pick any link … you decide.
Matthew 4:23 Matthew 9:35 Luke 6:19 Luke 9:6 Luke 9:11 John 7:23 Act 3:16 Acts 10:38
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
HANDLE YOUR STRESS
1 Peter 2:21-24
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.
22 He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. 23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. 24 He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed.
Jesus is the example of how we are to handle stress. First, He suffered sinlessly; His pain was not a consequence of His own sin but of the sins of others. Second, He suffered silently; instead of shouting threats of vindication or retaliation, He entrusted Himself to His Father’s will. Third, He suffered as a substitute; His grief was redemptive and brought great benefit to others.
In these verses we observe Christ’s response to stress and suffering. They give us a model to emulate. Handle your stress ... sinlessly … silently … sacrificially.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
21 For God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example, and you must follow in his steps.
22 He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. 23 He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly. 24 He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed.
Jesus is the example of how we are to handle stress. First, He suffered sinlessly; His pain was not a consequence of His own sin but of the sins of others. Second, He suffered silently; instead of shouting threats of vindication or retaliation, He entrusted Himself to His Father’s will. Third, He suffered as a substitute; His grief was redemptive and brought great benefit to others.
In these verses we observe Christ’s response to stress and suffering. They give us a model to emulate. Handle your stress ... sinlessly … silently … sacrificially.
Monday, February 15, 2010
DEALING WITH STRESS
1 Samuel 18:7-11
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Saul Becomes Jealous of David
7 This was their song:
“Saul has killed his thousands,
and David his ten thousands!”
8 This made Saul very angry. “What’s this?” he said. “They credit David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they’ll be making him their king!” 9 So from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.
10 The very next day a tormenting spirit from God overwhelmed Saul, and he began to rave in his house like a madman. David was playing the harp, as he did each day. But Saul had a spear in his hand, 11 and he suddenly hurled it at David, intending to pin him to the wall. But David escaped him twice.
Stress is the way the body responds to perceived or actual danger. Blood pressure skyrockets … muscle strength increases … we are ready to fight or fly off the handle. Stress isn’t the cause but rather the effect.
Sensing that David was a threat to his position, Saul’s blood pressure skyrocketed, his heart rate increased and his muscles tightened. Overcome with rage he hurled his spear at David.
Christians must learn how to manage stress … both their own and that of others around them. This was a shortcoming with Saul. Don’t let it be with you. Call on the Holy Spirit and use that fruit of the Spirit called self control.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Saul Becomes Jealous of David
7 This was their song:
“Saul has killed his thousands,
and David his ten thousands!”
8 This made Saul very angry. “What’s this?” he said. “They credit David with ten thousands and me with only thousands. Next they’ll be making him their king!” 9 So from that time on Saul kept a jealous eye on David.
10 The very next day a tormenting spirit from God overwhelmed Saul, and he began to rave in his house like a madman. David was playing the harp, as he did each day. But Saul had a spear in his hand, 11 and he suddenly hurled it at David, intending to pin him to the wall. But David escaped him twice.
Stress is the way the body responds to perceived or actual danger. Blood pressure skyrockets … muscle strength increases … we are ready to fight or fly off the handle. Stress isn’t the cause but rather the effect.
Sensing that David was a threat to his position, Saul’s blood pressure skyrocketed, his heart rate increased and his muscles tightened. Overcome with rage he hurled his spear at David.
Christians must learn how to manage stress … both their own and that of others around them. This was a shortcoming with Saul. Don’t let it be with you. Call on the Holy Spirit and use that fruit of the Spirit called self control.
Friday, February 12, 2010
THE PEOPLE
Genesis 41:53-57
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt
53 At last the seven years of bumper crops throughout the land of Egypt came to an end. 54 Then the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had predicted. The famine also struck all the surrounding countries, but throughout Egypt there was plenty of food. 55 Eventually, however, the famine spread throughout the land of Egypt as well. And when the people cried out to Pharaoh for food, he told them, “Go to Joseph, and do whatever he tells you.” 56 So with severe famine everywhere, Joseph opened up the storehouses and distributed grain to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe throughout the land of Egypt. 57 And people from all around came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph because the famine was severe throughout the world.
Read Genesis 39-41.
Joseph was put in charge of everything in Egypt, managing all the resources there. He was the steward that God put in place.
What God deems most important, the greatest resource is people. Yes, Joseph had charge over the storehouses and the grain. It was all in God’s plan to save the people. Joseph is an Old Testament ‘type’ of Jesus Christ. God used Joseph. God sent Jesus. What role are you playing in God’s plan? How is He using you to be a steward over His most important resource? Not buildings. Not bank accounts. Not storehouses. You must accept accountability for the people God has entrusted to your care.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Joseph Made Ruler of Egypt
53 At last the seven years of bumper crops throughout the land of Egypt came to an end. 54 Then the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had predicted. The famine also struck all the surrounding countries, but throughout Egypt there was plenty of food. 55 Eventually, however, the famine spread throughout the land of Egypt as well. And when the people cried out to Pharaoh for food, he told them, “Go to Joseph, and do whatever he tells you.” 56 So with severe famine everywhere, Joseph opened up the storehouses and distributed grain to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe throughout the land of Egypt. 57 And people from all around came to Egypt to buy grain from Joseph because the famine was severe throughout the world.
Read Genesis 39-41.
Joseph was put in charge of everything in Egypt, managing all the resources there. He was the steward that God put in place.
What God deems most important, the greatest resource is people. Yes, Joseph had charge over the storehouses and the grain. It was all in God’s plan to save the people. Joseph is an Old Testament ‘type’ of Jesus Christ. God used Joseph. God sent Jesus. What role are you playing in God’s plan? How is He using you to be a steward over His most important resource? Not buildings. Not bank accounts. Not storehouses. You must accept accountability for the people God has entrusted to your care.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
SMART
Luke 16:1-8
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Parable of the Shrewd Manager
Jesus told this story to his disciples: “There was a certain rich man who had a manager handling his affairs. One day a report came that the manager was wasting his employer’s money. 2 So the employer called him in and said, ‘What’s this I hear about you? Get your report in order, because you are going to be fired.’
3 “The manager thought to himself, ‘Now what? My boss has fired me. I don’t have the strength to dig ditches, and I’m too proud to beg. 4 Ah, I know how to ensure that I’ll have plenty of friends who will give me a home when I am fired.’
5 “So he invited each person who owed money to his employer to come and discuss the situation. He asked the first one, ‘How much do you owe him?’ 6 The man replied, ‘I owe him 800 gallons of olive oil.’ So the manager told him, ‘Take the bill and quickly change it to 400 gallons.’
7 ‘And how much do you owe my employer?’ he asked the next man. ‘I owe him 1,000 bushels of wheat,’ was the reply. ‘Here,’ the manager said, ‘take the bill and change it to 800 bushels.’
8 “The rich man had to admire the dishonest rascal for being so shrewd. And it is true that the children of this world are more shrewd in dealing with the world around them than are the children of the light.
I must admit, I have never heard a sermon based on this parable. At first glance, the message is strange … confusing.
Note, however, in verse 8 that the rich man’s admiration is of the manager’s shrewdness, NOT his dishonesty. As stewards of the resources God has placed in the hands of the children of light (believers), God admires when we handle them shrewdly … smartly, NOT dishonestly.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Parable of the Shrewd Manager
Jesus told this story to his disciples: “There was a certain rich man who had a manager handling his affairs. One day a report came that the manager was wasting his employer’s money. 2 So the employer called him in and said, ‘What’s this I hear about you? Get your report in order, because you are going to be fired.’
3 “The manager thought to himself, ‘Now what? My boss has fired me. I don’t have the strength to dig ditches, and I’m too proud to beg. 4 Ah, I know how to ensure that I’ll have plenty of friends who will give me a home when I am fired.’
5 “So he invited each person who owed money to his employer to come and discuss the situation. He asked the first one, ‘How much do you owe him?’ 6 The man replied, ‘I owe him 800 gallons of olive oil.’ So the manager told him, ‘Take the bill and quickly change it to 400 gallons.’
7 ‘And how much do you owe my employer?’ he asked the next man. ‘I owe him 1,000 bushels of wheat,’ was the reply. ‘Here,’ the manager said, ‘take the bill and change it to 800 bushels.’
8 “The rich man had to admire the dishonest rascal for being so shrewd. And it is true that the children of this world are more shrewd in dealing with the world around them than are the children of the light.
I must admit, I have never heard a sermon based on this parable. At first glance, the message is strange … confusing.
Note, however, in verse 8 that the rich man’s admiration is of the manager’s shrewdness, NOT his dishonesty. As stewards of the resources God has placed in the hands of the children of light (believers), God admires when we handle them shrewdly … smartly, NOT dishonestly.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
ACCOUNTABILITY
Genesis 1:28-30
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Account of Creation
28 Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”
29 Then God said, "Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food.30 And I have given every green plant as food for all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—everything that has life.” And that is what happened.
A steward manages the possessions of another. We are all stewards of the resources, abilities and opportunities that God has entrusted to our care, and each of us must one day give an account of the manner in which we have used them. It is humbling to realize that nothing we are or possess is really our own. The time, talent, material possessions and relationships we have been given are merely consigned to us by God for a few decades.
Have you developed a “stewardship mentality” – a growing awareness that you will one day give an account of how you have used the trusts you have been granted?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Account of Creation
28 Then God blessed them and said, “Be fruitful and multiply. Fill the earth and govern it. Reign over the fish in the sea, the birds in the sky, and all the animals that scurry along the ground.”
29 Then God said, "Look! I have given you every seed-bearing plant throughout the earth and all the fruit trees for your food.30 And I have given every green plant as food for all the wild animals, the birds in the sky, and the small animals that scurry along the ground—everything that has life.” And that is what happened.
A steward manages the possessions of another. We are all stewards of the resources, abilities and opportunities that God has entrusted to our care, and each of us must one day give an account of the manner in which we have used them. It is humbling to realize that nothing we are or possess is really our own. The time, talent, material possessions and relationships we have been given are merely consigned to us by God for a few decades.
Have you developed a “stewardship mentality” – a growing awareness that you will one day give an account of how you have used the trusts you have been granted?
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
FIRST TO LAST
Psalm 104:1; 33-35
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
1 Let all that I am praise the LORD.
O LORD my God, how great you are!
You are robed with honor and majesty.
33 I will sing to the LORD as long as I live.
I will praise my God to my last breath!
34 May all my thoughts be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the LORD.
35 Let all sinners vanish from the face of the earth;
let the wicked disappear forever.
Let all that I am praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD!
The psalmist begins his inspired poetic meditation on the wonders of God’s world, praising God Himself. He concludes the psalm in the same way. From beginning to end, from first to last, we too ought to praise the LORD. He is worthy to be praised.
Read Psalm 104 to catch a glimpse of the many reasons we ought to praise the LORD.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
1 Let all that I am praise the LORD.
O LORD my God, how great you are!
You are robed with honor and majesty.
33 I will sing to the LORD as long as I live.
I will praise my God to my last breath!
34 May all my thoughts be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the LORD.
35 Let all sinners vanish from the face of the earth;
let the wicked disappear forever.
Let all that I am praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD!
The psalmist begins his inspired poetic meditation on the wonders of God’s world, praising God Himself. He concludes the psalm in the same way. From beginning to end, from first to last, we too ought to praise the LORD. He is worthy to be praised.
Read Psalm 104 to catch a glimpse of the many reasons we ought to praise the LORD.
Monday, February 08, 2010
THE GOOD STEWARD
Matthew 25:14-16, 19-21 (selected portions)
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Parable of the Three Servants
14 … He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone. 15 He gave five bags of silver to one, … —dividing it in proportion to their abilities. He then left on his trip.
16 “The servant who received the five bags of silver began to invest the money and earned five more …
19 “After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. 20 The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of silver came forward with five more and said, ‘Master, you gave me five bags of silver to invest, and I have earned five more.’
21 “The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. …
Read Matthew 25:14-30 for the complete context.
Consider that everyone on earth has the same amount of time in every day ... exactly twenty-four hours. What differentiates people is the manner in which they exercise their gifts and talents within the available time. That’s what stewardship is about: faithfully developing and using our gifts, talents and resources within the amount of time God has allotted to us. Consider how you are investing the resources God has placed under your trust.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Parable of the Three Servants
14 … He called together his servants and entrusted his money to them while he was gone. 15 He gave five bags of silver to one, … —dividing it in proportion to their abilities. He then left on his trip.
16 “The servant who received the five bags of silver began to invest the money and earned five more …
19 “After a long time their master returned from his trip and called them to give an account of how they had used his money. 20 The servant to whom he had entrusted the five bags of silver came forward with five more and said, ‘Master, you gave me five bags of silver to invest, and I have earned five more.’
21 “The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. …
Read Matthew 25:14-30 for the complete context.
Consider that everyone on earth has the same amount of time in every day ... exactly twenty-four hours. What differentiates people is the manner in which they exercise their gifts and talents within the available time. That’s what stewardship is about: faithfully developing and using our gifts, talents and resources within the amount of time God has allotted to us. Consider how you are investing the resources God has placed under your trust.
Friday, February 05, 2010
OPPOSITION
Nehemiah 6:15-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Builders Complete the Wall
15 So on October 2 the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. 16 When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.
Read Nehemiah 4-6 for context.
Satan will oppose the plans of God. The good that God has planned for His people will come to pass but there may be struggles … bumps in the road … along the way. Nehemiah and the Jews remained focused on the task, not letting their enemies get them off track.
Stay the course, whatever the task. Don’t let the enemies of God distract you. Most of all, be confident that as God did with Nehemiah, He will be there to help.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Builders Complete the Wall
15 So on October 2 the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. 16 When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.
Read Nehemiah 4-6 for context.
Satan will oppose the plans of God. The good that God has planned for His people will come to pass but there may be struggles … bumps in the road … along the way. Nehemiah and the Jews remained focused on the task, not letting their enemies get them off track.
Stay the course, whatever the task. Don’t let the enemies of God distract you. Most of all, be confident that as God did with Nehemiah, He will be there to help.
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